The Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification has revealed that a total of SBD 10.8 million remains unpaid from 33 bauxite shipments exported from West Rennell, raising concerns among landowners, provincial authorities, and the national government.
In a media briefing held on Tuesday, 13 May 2025, Minister Hon. Derrick Manuari and Mines Director Mrs. Krista Jacobs Tatapu presented a detailed update on the matter, including a timeline of key events surrounding the mining operations.
The mining lease was originally granted in September 2014 under the caretaker government of former Prime Minister Hon. Gordon Darcy Lilo, with the late Hon. Moses Garu as Minister for Mines.
In 2016, a Mining Agreement was signed with Asia Pacific Investment Development (APID) under the leadership of Prime Minister Hon. Manasseh Sogavare and Mines Minister Hon. David Day Pacha.
In late 2017, Hon. Bradley Tovosia took office as Minister for Mines. During his tenure, the Ministry issued a Show Cause Notice to APID, which led to the cancellation of the company’s lease in 2021 due to unresolved concerns and ongoing issues with compliance.
According to records from the Ministry, the unpaid amount is broken down as follows:
• SBD 3.45 million owed to landowners
• SBD 4.32 million to the Solomon Islands Government
• SBD 0.86 million to Renbel Province
• SBD 2.16 million under the Community Development Agreement (CDA) between the company and landowners
The Ministry assured the public that it continues to work closely with all stakeholders to bring clarity and accountability to the matter while reaffirming its commitment to strengthening oversight in the mining sector.
As frustrations grow, members of the public and affected communities are demanding that those responsible for the unpaid shipments and mishandling of the agreement be held accountable. Many believe that only through transparency and justice can trust be restored in future resource developments.
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