Honiara, Solomon Islands – 15 May 2025
The illegal prospecting activities on the Balasuna River have drawn national attention as one of the many unlawful operations that has happened across the Solomon Islands. These incidents are occurring largely due to a lack of inspection, monitoring, and proper policing by the Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification (MMERE).
Speaking in Parliament today, the Minister of Mines, Hon. Derrick Manuari addressed the issue directly. He explained that the ministry currently lacks the manpower necessary to conduct effective inspections and monitor mining sites and operations. This gap in oversight has allowed companies and groups to engage in illegal activities with little to no accountability.
Minister Manuari’s statement shows a critical shortfall in the enforcement of mining regulations, which has resulted in the unchecked exploitation of natural resources. The situation on the Balasuna River stands as a clear example of how limited institutional capacity can enable illegal operations to persist.
Minister Derrick Manuari assured Parliament that the Ministry of Mines, Energy, and Rural Electrification is fully aware of these issues and is actively working to address them. He highlighted that ongoing legislative reforms within the ministry are aimed at tackling challenges both big and small. These reforms, he said, will strengthen regulatory oversight and enforcement.
The minister also emphasized the importance of collaboration with other ministry stakeholders and the office of the Prime Minister to ensure effective and sustainable management of the country’s mineral resources.
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