In this bulletin:
1. FIJI — Fiji, Australia push Vuvale union to boost security and shape Pacific future
2. SOL — Solomons Chief Justice fast-tracks landmark case against PM’s minority rule
3. NZ — NZ Foreign Minister Winston Peters to visit Cook Islands
4. FIJI — Fijian Media Association elects new executive
5. TONGA — Tonga Media Association elects new leadership team
6. AUST — Australia urges probe into Lebanon peacekeeper killings
7. PACNEWS BIZ — Pacific energy crisis looms amid Middle East war
8. PACNEWS BIZ — Fuel price surge hits Fiji from today
9. FIJI — Fuel risks push inflation outlook higher, RBF warns
10. PACNEWS BIZ — Aviation Security officers stop gold summugling bid at Port Moresby Airport
11. PACNEWS BIZ — From Christmas Island to Suva in One Stop: Air Kiribati
12. PACNEWS DIGEST — 2026: A Defining Year for Biodiversity Finance in the Blue Pacific
13. PACNEWS DIGEST — What the Rain Triggered
14. PACNEWS DIGEST — MHMS, Japan, and WHO bring malaria elimination closer to reality
FIJI – DIPLOMACY/SECURITY: FIJI GOVT PACNEWS 1: Wed 01 Apr 2026
Fiji, Australia push Vuvale union to boost security and shape Pacific future
SUVA, 01 APRIL 2026 (FIJI GOVT) — Fiji and Australia have reaffirmed their commitment to regional peace, security, and prosperity through the ongoing development of the Vuvale Union—a landmark initiative that strengthens bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors.
Speaking on the negotiations on the Fiji–Australia Security Treaty: The Vuvale Union meeting Tuesday, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka said the Vuvale Union embodies the “Ocean of Peace” vision declared by Pacific Leaders in 2025, emphasising Pacific-led approaches and solutions to regional challenges.
The Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka said the partnership reflects the maturity and depth of Fiji–Australia relations, grounded in shared values, trust, and mutual respect.
“The Vuvale Union is a practical expression of this vision and marks a new chapter in the relationship between Fiji and Australia. First and foremost, it is a partnership that testifies to the strength and maturity of our ties,” he said.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka also acknowledged the strong relationship between the two nations, extending gratitude to Anthony Albanese for Australia’s continued friendship and trust.
“This treaty is unique and significant. It elevates and sets the direction and tone of Fiji–Australia relations for generations to come,” he added.
He noted that the relationship between Fiji and Australia has been built over decades through shared experiences, including joint participation in global conflicts and peacekeeping missions across the Middle East, Europe, Africa, and the Pacific.
Rabuka emphasised that the Vuvale Union stands on the legacy of past leaders and citizens, whose sacrifices have enabled present and future generations to determine their own paths.
“At the heart of this Union is the concept of Vuvale—family—built on trust, loyalty, respect, understanding, and responsibility,” he said.
The Prime Minister highlighted that the initiative is not only for Fiji and Australia but is also intended to contribute meaningfully to the wider Pacific region, serving as a blueprint for unity, regionalism, and collective progress.
He also pointed to the growing range of shared challenges facing the region, including transnational organised crime, health pressures, strategic competition, and climate change.
“At its core, the Vuvale Union strengthens our sovereignty and our ability to shape a shared future. It recognises that our interests are intertwined and that we must work together to address common challenges,” he said.
Rabuka added that the Union will deepen cooperation across key sectors, including security, economic development, trade, investment, and people-to-people linkages.
He also acknowledged the ongoing negotiations, commending both Fijian and Australian delegations for their work in advancing the agreement, particularly in the area of security cooperation.
Rabuka highlighted the importance of democracy as the foundation of the partnership.
“We must uphold, protect, and promote democracy. It is the cornerstone that allows our nations to realise their full potential and navigate the challenges ahead,” he said.
Rabuka described the Vuvale Union as a monumental step for Fiji and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to advancing the partnership alongside Australia.
Australia’s Chief Negotiator and Head of the Office of the Pacific, Elizabeth Peak, welcomed the progress of discussions, describing the Vuvale Union as a reflection of the deep and enduring partnership between the two countries.
“The Vuvale Union demonstrates the strength of the Fiji–Australia relationship and our shared commitment to advancing a stable, secure, and prosperous Pacific region,” Peak said.
She noted that negotiations have been constructive and forward-looking, with both sides working collaboratively to deliver meaningful outcomes.
“Our discussions are focused on building a modern partnership that enhances regional security, strengthens economic resilience, and expands opportunities for our people. Australia highly values its partnership with Fiji, and this Union marks an important step in deepening that engagement,” she added…. PACNEWS
SOL – POLITICS/COURTS: INDEPTH SOLOMONS PACNEWS 1: Wed 01 Apr 2026
Solomons Chief Justice fast-tracks landmark case against PM’s minority rule
HONIARA, 01 APRIL 2026 (INDEPTH SOLOMONS) — Solomon Islands Chief Justice Sir Albert Palmer has underscored the significance and urgency of the case the new Coalition has filed to compel Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele to immediately convene parliament.
Palmer then directed lawyers for the new Coalition who appeared before him in the High Court to submit all claims and sworn statements by the close of business Tuesday.
“This court appreciates the significance of this case,” Palmer told a packed courtroom.
“I would therefore like to see counsels give priority to this matter,” he added.
The chief justice also issued directions for the Attorney General, John Muria Jnr. who represented the Government, to file responses to the Opposition’s claims by close of business tomorrow.
The court will resume Thursday to hear further directions regarding the landmark legal challenge, which was filed last week by the newly formed coalition of 28 MPs.
This came after 12 government ministers, and seven backbenchers left the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) and joined the Opposition.
The legal action, spearheaded by Opposition Leader Matthew Wale, People First Party (PFP) Wing Leader Fredrick Kologeto, and Independent Leader Manasseh Maelanga, came after Manele refused to call parliament despite leading a minority government.
The new coalition, representing a clear majority of the 50-seat Parliament, argues that Manele is “avoiding accountability” by failing to advise the Governor-General to summon a sitting.
This delay persists despite a formal Motion of No Confidence being lodged and the government’s numbers remain at just 22.
“This legal action is about upholding the rule of law,” the coalition stated.
The legal claim names the four highest offices of the state as defendants:
* The Governor-General: For his role in officially summoning Parliament.
* The Prime Minister: For his failure to advise the Governor General to summon parliament.
*The Speaker of Parliament: Included due to his institutional role in overseeing a sitting.
*The Attorney General: Joined as the legal representative of the Crown.
Prominent Honiara lawyer Gabriel Suri, as well as private lawyers John Taupongi and James Kaboke are representing the new Coalition.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Manele has welcomed the court challenge.
He said the GNUT government recognises this action as part of the democratic process and the constitutional right of parties to seek judicial review on matters of public interest.
“The Government expresses full confidence in the independence, integrity, and impartiality of the High Court,” Manele said.
“It will adhere to all legal processes as the matter proceeds and will respect and abide by the Court’s final determination, including any further legal processes available under the law,” he added.
Manele called on all Solomon Islanders to remain calm and allow the judicial process to proceed without interference…. PACNEWS
NZ – DIPLOMACY: RNZ PACIFIC PACNEWS 1: Wed 01 Apr 2026
NZ ForeignMinister Winston Peters to visit Cook Islands
WELLINGTON, 01 APRIL 2026 (RNZ PACIFIC) — New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters will visit the Cook Islands on Wednesday for talks with Prime Minister Mark Brown.
A statement from Peters’ office said the visit follows a private meeting between him and Brown in Auckland earlier this month.
The two leaders released a joint statement after their “informal” meeting, saying they had discussed “fundamental challenges facing the New Zealand-Cook Islands relationship over the past 18 months”.
“Political dialogue between the two countries will continue in the coming weeks in order to determine whether these challenges can be resolved in the present circumstances,” the statement said.
Peters’ last visit to the Cook Islands was in February 2024.
His return to Rarotonga suggests a softening of the diplomatic back-and-forth regarding the relationship between Cook Islands and Aotearoa.
He leaves for the Cook Islands on tomorrow and returns to New Zealand on Thursday…. PACNEWS
FIJI – MEDIA: PACNEWS PACNEWS 1: Wed 01 Apr 2026
Fijian Media Association elects new executive
SUVA, 01 APRIL 2026 (PACNEWS) — The Fijian Media Association (FMA) has elected a new executive unopposed and wrapped up its Annual General Meeting (AGM) with a review of a busy two-year period and plans for the year ahead.
Members gathered in Suva to assess progress and map out priorities, with a full executive team confirmed to lead the association for the next two years.
Re-elected were President Rosi Doviverata, Vice President Fred Wesley, General Secretary Stanley Simpson, Assistant General Secretary Felix Chaudhary, Treasurer Vijay Narayan, Assistant Treasurer Stella Taoi, and Executive Members Reginald Chandar and Makereta Komai.
General Secretary Stanley Simpson highlighted key achievements over the past year.
“Fijian Media Association AGM done. Look back to a busy 2025 where we successfully implemented the first ever Women in Media annual conference with participants from seven countries, four first ever Town Halls in Savusavu, Labasa, Tavua and Ba, and brought back the FAME Journalism Awards after 17 years. Plus, many other trainings and partnerships.
Looking forward to another year ahead,” said Simpson.
The AGM also discussed strategic plans as the association prepares to build on recent initiatives and expand its work with media professionals across Fiji
In September, the Fijian Media Association is hosting the Pacific region’s biennial media conference called the Pacific Media Summit. The media summit jointly organised with the Pacific Islands News Association is expected to host up to 200 media professionals from around the Pacific region in Savusavu from 21-25 September…. PACNEWS
TONGA – MEDIA: PACNEWS PACNEWS 1: Wed 01 Apr 2026
Tonga Media Association elects new leadership team
NUKU’ALOFA, 01 APRIL 2026 (PACNEWS) — The Media Association of Tonga (MAT) has a new executive, with Katalina Uili Tohi elected President to lead the organisation.
The new team brings together media professionals from across Tonga’s broadcasting and media sector.
Katalina Uili Tohi of Broadcom Broadcasting Letio 87.5FM takes up the role of President, with Ramanlal Vallabh of 88.6 FM Radio Nuku’alofa as Vice President.
Viola Koloamatangi Ulakai of Tonga Broadcasting has been appointed Secretary, assisted by Milika Ulupano of Kele’a Voice.
Ofakilevuka Guttenbeil-Likiliki, a media consultant and Women in Media mentor, takes on the role of Treasurer, with Tapinga Lavemaau of 88.1FM as Assistant Treasurer.
The new executive is expected to guide the association’s work in strengthening media development and collaboration across Tonga…. PACNEWS
AUST – DIPLOMACY: AAP PACNEWS 1: Wed 01 Apr 2026
Australia urges probe into Lebanon peacekeeper killings
CANBERA, 01 APRIL 2026 (AAP) — The killing of United Nations peacekeepers in southern Lebanon has been condemned by Australia as the Israeli ambassador defends his country’s ground invasion of the neighbouring nation.
Three Indonesian personnel working for the UN have been killed in Lebanon but the force which carried out the strikes is yet to be formally identified.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong condemned the killings and said the attacks were unacceptable.
“We extend our sincere condolences to their loved ones, colleagues and to Indonesia,” she said on X.
“We support Indonesia’s calls for a thorough investigation.”
Israel’s ambassador to Australia Hillel Newman claimed his country’s incursion into Lebanon was “100 percent defensive” to stop Hezbollah from launching rockets into Israel.
Israel is seeking to take control of part of Lebanon between the border and the Litani river, 30 kilometres north.
More than 1200 people have been killed since the start of the Israeli ground incursion, the Lebanese health ministry has said according to local media.
“We are in a difficult neighbourhood,” Dr Newman told the National Press Club on Tuesday.
“We have neighbours who are bent on the destruction of the state of Israel.
“I wish my neighbours were Fiji and New Zealand, my life would be totally different,” he said.
Overnight, Israel passed laws allowing the death penalty for Palestinians in the West Bank who are convicted of murdering Israelis.
In response, Senator Wong said Australia was against the death penalty in all instances, but Dr Newman said the rules would be a deterrent for “terrorists” on Israel’s borders.
He said there were safeguards written into the legislation, allowing people sentenced to death to appeal.
A small group of protesters gathered outside the venue, with one telling AAP they were “disgusted” the ambassador was being given such a platform.
“We don’t need to hear more from Israel and yet here he is on our stage,” demonstrator Peta Swarbrick said.
Dr Newman, who arrived in Canberra early in 2026, defended Israel’s killing of three journalists in Lebanon on Saturday, claiming at least two of them had links to Hezbollah, a listed terrorist group.
“Israel has never targeted a journalist just for being a journalist,” he said.
After the strike, Israel’s defence force posted an image of journalist Ali Shoeib – one of those killed – which was doctored to show him in a military uniform.
Dr Newman would not say when the war would end, only outlining his country’s main objectives for the conflict which were removing Iran’s ability to launch nuclear and conventional missiles.
He said while regime change in Iran was not Israel’s primary goal, it would likely be needed to remove the military threat.
U.S President Donald Trump has threatened to target Iran’s energy infrastructure if a deal to end the joint American and Israeli war against Iran is not reached soon.
Senator Wong confirmed more than 103 direct commercial flights carrying about 10,400 Australians have arrived home from the Middle East since 04 March.
Australians in the region should not delay their departure and should leave on commercial flights, she said.
“While there are talks to end the conflict, the situation in the Middle East remains volatile and could deteriorate rapidly,” Senator Wong said.
Australians are also being urged not to travel through Bahrain, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Kuwait, Lebanon, Palestine, Qatar, Syria, the United Arab Emirates and Yemen.
The federal government has been intensifying its calls for de-escalation.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has called for a clear timeline to end the conflict, arguing the United States has achieved most of its initial objectives…. PACNEWS
PACNEWS BIZ
PAC – IRAN CRISIS/FUEL PRICE: AAP PACNEWS BIZ: Wed 01 Apr 2026
Pacific energy crisis looms amid Middle East war
SUVA, 01 APRIL 2026 (AAP) — The war in the Middle East is threatening to derail diesel-dependent Pacific Island economies, with one country facing fuel import bills equal to three times its annual healthcare budget.
Fiji could be hit with a 115 percent increase on its annual imported fuel costs from 2025 levels, by about US$670 million (AUD$978 million), if oil holds at post-shock prices, analysis shows.
This massive spike represents almost three times Fiji’s annual healthcare budget, according to Zero Carbon Analytics.
The energy and climate researchers found Vanuatu’s refined petroleum import costs could surge US$120 million (AUD$175 million), amounting to about 11 percent of GDP.
Brent crude oil prices have surpassed US$100 ($UD$146) a barrel following the U.S-Israeli invasion of Iran and subsequent disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
The conflict is squeezing economies worldwide, but pressures are particularly acute for small island countries that rely heavily on diesel for power generation.
Skyrocketing fuel costs drain foreign exchange reserves and risk pushing countries into high levels of debt, leaving them vulnerable to future shocks and more reliant on foreign aid.
With 80 percent of regional energy currently dependent on imported oil, the crisis has accelerated the push for local clean energy generation.
While reducing emissions is a factor, for these nations responsible for just 0.03 percent of global conditions, the primary driver is energy security.
Permanent Secretary for Environment and Climate Change for the Republic of Fiji Sivendra Michael said clean energy would provide cheap and reliable power.
“When our energy comes from the sun, wind and other indigenous sources of energy, nobody can cut off our supply and our exposure to oil price volatility and the implications of a war happening on the other side of the world are minimised,” Dr Michael said.
“We need our partners to back our commitment to low-carbon transition.”
Australia, a major foreign aid and security partner of many Pacific nations, is investing $75 million (US$51 million) in renewable energy for rural and remote communities across the Pacific and Timor-Leste.
Australia and the Pacific are set to play key roles in the 2026 United Nations climate talks, with the larger nation running multilateral negotiations and pre-meeting leadership events in Fiji and Tuvalu.
Zero Carbon Analytics energy transition researcher Amy Kong said small economies were already spending huge proportions of GDP on fuel imports.
“The Iran oil crisis has exposed the vulnerabilities of small island states and their dependence on diesel,” she said.
“These are the countries that can least afford the volatility of the market,” said Kong…. PACNEWS
FIJI – IRAN CRISIS/FUEL PRICE: FIJI SUN/FIJI TIMES PACNEWS BIZ: Wed 01 Apr 2026
Fuel price surge hits Fiji from today
SUVA, 01 APRIL 2026 (FIJI SUN/FIJI TIMES) — Fuel prices have surged sharply across Fiji, with motorists and households waking today to steep increases at the pump.
New prices approved by the Fijian Competition and Commission (FCCC) came into effect today, 01 April, pushing fuel costs up by as much as 75 cents (US$0.35) per litre in some categories.
On Viti Levu, petrol now sells for $2.93 (US$1.46) per litre, up from $2.44 (US$1.20), while diesel has climbed from $2.14 (US$1.07) to $2.89 (US$1.44) per litre. Kerosene recorded one of the biggest jumps, rising from $1.69 (US$0.84) to $2.40 (US$1.20) per litre.
Similar increases have been recorded across the country, including Vanua Levu, Ovalau and the outer islands, with Rotuma facing the highest prices.
The FCCC said the sharp rise was driven by global factors, including significant increases in international refined fuel prices and a stronger United States dollar.
It said kerosene and diesel prices were particularly affected, with global refined prices rising by 59.80 percent and 56.22 percent respectively.
The commission also pointed to ongoing geopolitical tensions, noting that escalating conflict in the Middle East had disrupted up to 20 percent of the world’s seaborne oil supply, pushing global prices higher.
“While prices may increase, ensuring that suppliers are able to access, and secure supply is critical to prevent shortages and maintaining economic stability.”
Despite the spike in fuel costs, LPG prices have remained largely stable, with slight decreases recorded for cylinder products.
The FCCC says it will continue monitoring fuel outlets nationwide to ensure compliance with the new maximum prices.
Meanwhile, bus operators in Fiji have raised concerns over the increase in fuel prices, warning it will have a serious impact on the industry and its ability to maintain services.
In a statement, Fiji Bus Operators Association Acting General Secretary Viren Kewal said fuel remained one of the largest operating costs for bus operators.
“Fuel is one of the main operating costs for bus operators, and the continued rise in fuel prices makes it increasingly difficult for operators to maintain normal operations and continue providing reliable service to the travelling public,” he said.
Kewal confirmed that operators had formally written to the Ministers for Finance and Transport seeking urgent intervention.
“The industry is hopeful that the Government will consider measures to assist bus operators in managing this substantial increase in operating costs,” he said.
He added that any Government support provided to the sector would ultimately benefit passengers.
“Any government assistance provided to support bus fare adjustments will ultimately be a direct benefit to travelling passengers, as it will help ensure that bus services continue to operate without placing an additional financial burden on the public.”
Kewal said the industry remained committed to providing safe, reliable and affordable transport services.
“The bus industry remains committed to providing safe, reliable, and affordable transportation services to the people of Fiji and looks forward to the Government’s support in addressing this matter.”
In another development, Fiji Opposition has questioned why fuel prices are rising now, despite earlier assurances by Government that they would remain stable at least until May.
Opposition MP Premila Kumar said even the Minister for Finance had earlier assured the public that fuel prices would remain stable at least until May.
“So why are prices rising now?” she said.
Kumar described the latest fuel price increase announced by the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) as unacceptable and said it raised serious questions.
“The fuel price increase announced by the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission is unacceptable and raises serious questions.”
She said under the FCCC’s pricing formula, Fiji uses a one-month lag system, meaning April’s prices should be based on international market conditions and exchange rates from February.
“The ongoing conflict in Iran only began in mid-March and therefore it cannot be used to justify April’s exorbitant price hike.”
Kumar said families and businesses were already under pressure from the high cost of living and questioned what relief measures were being considered.
“Families and businesses are already under pressure from high living costs. What is the government doing to provide relief? In Australia, the government reduced fuel taxes to provide relief at the pump.”
She also called on Government to review fuel taxes.
“Will Fiji’s Coalition Government review its current fuel taxes — 20 cents (US$0.10 per litre on diesel and 46 cents (US$0.23) on unleaded — to help lower costs for consumers?” …. PACNEWS
FIJI – IRAN CRISIS/FUEL PRICE: RBF PACNEWS BIZ: Wed 01 Apr 2026
Fuel risks push inflation outlook higher, RBF warns
SUVA, 01 APRIL 2026 (FIJI TIMES) — Rising global fuel prices and supply risks are expected to drive inflation higher in Fiji in the coming months, the Reserve Bank of Fiji has warned in its March 2026 Economic Review released today.
The central bank said headline inflation stood at negative 0.5 per cent in February, improving from negative 2.5 percent in January but still below the negative 0.3 percent recorded a year earlier.
It noted that deflation has largely been driven by declines in transport, food and non-alcoholic beverages, and housing and utilities.
However, the outlook is shifting.
“Rising global fuel prices and continued supply-chain disruptions are expected to filter through to domestic prices pushing inflation higher in the coming months,” the report stated.
With global fuel supply risks remaining elevated, the RBF said its inflation outlook of 2.5 to 3.0 per cent is now “upward biased”.
The bank also warned that higher fuel prices, combined with volatility in global shipping, could weaken Fiji’s external position and place pressure on foreign reserves.
Foreign reserves currently stand at around $3.5 billion (US$1.75 billion), equivalent to five months of retained imports, and are considered adequate.
However, the RBF cautioned that continued volatility in fuel markets and freight costs could see pressure on reserves emerge sooner than expected.
Despite these risks, the central bank has maintained the Overnight Policy Rate at 0.25 per cent, saying current conditions remain within comfortable levels.
The RBF said it will continue to monitor developments closely and take necessary action if required to maintain macroeconomic stability…. PACNEWS
PNG – GOLD SMMUGLING: PACNEWS/NAC PACNEWS BIZ: Wed 01 Apr 2026
Aviation Security officers stop gold summugling bid at Port Moresby Airport
PORT MORESBY, 01 APRIL 2026 (PACNEWS/NAC) — Aviation Security officers in Papua New Guinea have foiled another gold smuggling attempt at Port Moresby International Airport.
The National Airports Corporation (NAC) confirmed a female passenger bound for Hong Kong was intercepted during screening around midday Monday. She was found with gold coated in clay, packed into six plastic bundles and concealed under her bra.
The passenger allegedly tried to bribe the screening officer, but the offer was rejected. She was immediately handed over to PNG Customs for further investigation.
NAC Acting Managing Director Dominic Kaumu said the corporation is stepping up efforts with Police, PNG Customs and other agencies to tackle smuggling at the country’s airports.
“NAC is serious about addressing this. We are investigating staff who may be involved, and they will be terminated and referred to the police when identified. We are also engaging an independent security expert to support us in reviewing our security systems for continuous improvements,” he said in a statement.
Kaumu said NAC has already worked with PNG Customs to install a dedicated security screening machine at the international terminal.
He stressed that gold smuggling is a serious national issue and said NAC, as the gatekeeper of Papua New Guinea’s airports, will continue to act with urgency and work closely with partner agencies.
NAC also warned that anyone caught attempting to smuggle gold will be referred to PNG Customs and Police.
Kaumu commended Aviation Security officers for maintaining integrity, rejecting bribes and carrying out their duties professionally…. PACNEWS
KIRIBATI – AIRLINE: BPA NEWS PACNEWS BIZ: Wed 01 Apr 2026
From Christmas Island to Suva in One Stop: Air Kiribati
TARAWA,01 APRIL 2026 (BPA NEWS) — A new chapter in regional air connectivity is taking shape across the central Pacific, as Nauru Airlines introduce a revised flight schedule linking Kiribati more directly with Fiji.
Speaking to BPA News, Air Kiribati CEO Tomwa Tehumu outlined key changes designed to improve travel flexibility and convenience—particularly for passengers moving between Tarawa, Kiritimati (Christmas Island), and Suva.
Previously, flights operated on a straightforward weekly pattern: departing for Kiritimati on Mondays and returning Tuesdays. Under the new arrangement, that schedule has shifted to better align with onward international connections.
Flights will now depart on Wednesdays to Kiritimati, with a Thursday return leg offering a significant upgrade: a seamless onward connection to Suva, Fiji.
“On your way back from Christmas Island, you can now end up in Suva… it’s a one-hop flight,” Tehumu explained.
The updated service is part of a joint venture between Nauru Airlines and Air Kiribati, marking an important step in regional airline cooperation.
The partnership allows travelers from Kiritimati to access Fiji more easily—without the need for multiple connections or lengthy stopovers.
“Those interested in traveling to Fiji from Christmas Island can now fly on their own flagship,” said Tehumu, emphasizing the convenience of the new arrangement.
The move also positions the new service as a practical alternative to routes offered by Fiji Airways, which operates flights between Tarawa and Nadi.
While Fiji Airways passengers typically land in Nadi and then face a roughly three-hour journey onward to Suva, the new service offers a direct arrival into Fiji’s capital.
“This one just gets you to the door of Suva,” Tehumu noted.
By eliminating the additional ground transfer, the route is expected to appeal to both business and leisure travelers seeking a smoother journey.
The service will operate weekly, with flights arriving in Fiji around midnight on Thursdays and departing early Friday mornings for the return leg to Tarawa.
Travelers planning a trip to Suva can expect a typical one-week itinerary—departing Thursday and returning the following week, arriving back in Tarawa on Friday morning.
The Kiritimati–Suva route is set to officially launch on Wednesday, 01 April 2026, further strengthening air links across the Pacific and offering passengers greater choice in how they travel between island nations…. PACNEWS
PACNEWS In Focus
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
2026: A Defining Year for Biodiversity Finance in the Blue Pacific
By Mohseen Riaz-Ud-Dean, Ashna Kumar
SUVA, 01 APRIL 2026 (UNDP) — 2026 is a pivotal year for the planet, and unusually, the global environmental calendar makes that more than rhetorical.
A “tri-COP” year will see negotiations under the climate, biodiversity and desertification conventions unfold in close succession. For the Pacific, Fiji will host a pre-COP event in October, with Tuvalu convening a special leaders’ component at the same time, reinforcing the region’s coordinated role in shaping global environmental ambition.
For the Blue Pacific, this is more than diplomatic choreography. It is a systems moment, one that will test whether global commitments are backed by credible finance.
The entry into force of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Treaty (BBNJ) marks a historic shift in multilateral ocean governance. At the same time, governments are advancing implementation of the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, with the spotlight turning toward the 2026 UN Biodiversity Conference (CBD COP 17) in Armenia. Climate negotiations under the United Nations Climate Change Conference and land degradation commitments under the Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification will follow closely.
Taken together, these processes converge around a single, unavoidable question:
Where is the finance to implement what we have agreed?
For the Pacific, where the ocean underpins economies, cultures, food systems and identity, the answer cannot be rhetorical. It must be financial.
A Focus on Biodiversity
The BBNJ Treaty closes a decades-long governance gap across nearly two-thirds of the world’s ocean space. It establishes legally binding provisions for high seas marine protected areas, environmental impact assessments, equitable benefit sharing, and capacity building.
For Pacific Island Countries, among the most ocean-dependent nations on Earth, this aligns directly with long-standing calls for stronger stewardship of interconnected marine ecosystems.
But governance reform alone will not deliver resilience. Implementation requires sustained and predictable financing aligned with national priorities.
A Growing Imperative: Financing Biodiversity at Scale
While the Pacific has shown leadership in protecting its natural heritage, current financing levels remain under-resourced. National budgets are constrained. External flows are fragmented. Project-based grants rarely match the time horizons required for ecosystem resilience.
Globally, the biodiversity finance gap runs into hundreds of billions annually. In the Pacific, the gap is not abstract; it is visible in underfunded protected areas, limited marine research capacity, and continued reliance on short-term external support.
If 2026 is to be remembered as more than another negotiation cycle, financial architecture must evolve from aspiration to delivery.
BIOFIN: Translating Momentum into Investment Readiness
This is where the Pacific Biodiversity Finance (BIOFIN) Umbrella Programme becomes critical.
Supported by the Global Environment Facility and facilitated by the UN Development Programme (UNDP), the BIOFIN umbrella programme is anchored in 13 Pacific Island Countries. It supports governments to assess expenditure, identify financing gaps, and design practical, country-owned finance solutions aligned with national biodiversity strategies and the Global Biodiversity Framework.
Globally, BIOFIN has generated more than 150 finance solutions across over 40 countries, ranging from green taxation and incentive-based conservation to public-private partnerships and biodiversity trust funds.
For the Pacific, BIOFIN is the structured entry point for biodiversity investment.
The Pacific: Investment Ready
Global narratives often describe the Pacific as highly vulnerable to climate and environmental shocks. That vulnerability is real. But it is equally a region of global ecological significance and strategic ocean stewardship.
By aligning BBNJ implementation with national biodiversity finance frameworks, Pacific Island Countries can present a compelling proposition:
*A unified Blue Continent narrative
*Governance reforms backed by international legal instruments
* Indigenous stewardship models with global relevance
*Structured, evidence-based finance pipelines ready for scale
If the narrative is to shift, the Pacific should be recognised not only for its vulnerability, but as a strategic destination for long-term biodiversity investment, public and private alike.
Scaling up BIOFIN now is foundational to ensuring the region enters 2026 investment-ready, with systems capable of attracting and deploying sustained capital flows.
A Delivery Test in Armenia
The 2026 UN Biodiversity Conference (CBD COP 17) will not simply review ambition. It will measure financial and implementation credibility.
For the Pacific, arriving in Armenia with strengthened biodiversity finance plans, aligned BBNJ priorities, and investable pipelines transforms the conversation.
It shifts the narrative from vulnerability to viability. From commitment to execution. From political momentum to financial delivery.
The question in 2026 will not be whether the ocean matters. That is settled.
The question will be whether the systems to finance its protection are strong enough to match its value.
For the Blue Pacific, BIOFIN offers a clear answer and a strategic entry point for partners ready to invest in the world’s largest ocean continent…. PACNEWS
Mohseen Riaz-Ud-Dean (PhD) is UNDP BIOFIN Environmental Finance Specialist for the Pacific Region
Ashna Kumar is Communications Associate, UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji
PACNEWS In Focus
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Predictability in uncertain times…and the space to decide
By Shreya Rajpuriya
HONIARA, 01 APRIL 2026 (UNDP)—Cyclone season, from November to April, in the Solomon Islands needs no introduction. It floods farms, slows traffic and disrupts market days. Income pauses while expenses do not.
For four TrigaCash policyholders, the rain did what it always does, it disrupted livelihoods; what changed was what followed.
TrigaCash is the first-ever climate risk parametric insurance in the Solomon Islands that provides swift and automatic payouts via M-SELEN mobile wallet when predefined weather thresholds, such as heavy rainfall or high wind speed, are triggered based on global satellite data, without the need for claim assessments.
During the January 2026 rainfall event in Guadalcanal (including Honiara), 35 of 66 policyholders received payouts of SBD 200–400. The amounts are modest, but the efficiency and predictability are invaluable.
Alice Ala’ama, 44, who received SBD 200, was unaware that the payout had arrived until someone told her. Despite needing assistance to access the funds in her mobile wallet, once she withdrew SBD$170(US$21), she did not hesitate. She bought seeds to replant her garden. Originally from Malaita, her vegetable garden in Tenaru where she grows cucumber and tomatoes, is not on land she owns, but the harvest provides income for her household.
She also set aside part of the money to cover transport costs for her son, who travels daily to attend university. Upon receiving the payout, Alice was both surprised and excited, describing her recovery as a quick decision made possible with money that was neither borrowed nor requested. She said, “Me Hapi tumass, Selen from TrigaCash helpm me for paym things blo Son blo me lo skul.” (I am really happy, money from TrigaCash helped me to pay for my son’s school expenses.)
Through the Pacific Insurance and Climate Adaptation Programme (PICAP), the UN Capital Development Fund (UNCDF), UN Development Programme (UNDP) and UN University (UNU) Institute for Environment and Human Security, together with the Central Bank of Solomon Islands, Trans Pacific Assurance Limited, Solomon Islands National Provident Fund, M-SELEN and World Vision Solomon Islands, are strengthening the climate and disaster risk financing in the country.
By deploying parametric microinsurance solutions, the programme is building household financial resilience while strengthening digital inclusion and last-mile access to formal services.
For another policyholder, Alice Houanhiau, 49, the significance of the product lay in its structure. A former educator who works closely with women’s groups, she also maintains gardens in Weather Coast and Aruligu.
“If rainfall reaches a certain level, the payout comes,” she explained. “You do not have to wait for someone to assess your loss.”
When she received her payout, within 13 days of experiencing the rainfall, she bought rice to send to her sister in the province. She also began encouraging other women in her network to enroll. In her view, the product offers more than individual protection, it creates the possibility of collective preparedness, transforming individual resilience into a community response. If several members of a group are enrolled, payouts can be combined, resources mobilized and recovery can be accelerated.
In East Honiara, Samson Totoo experienced both crop damage and lost sales. He sells handicrafts in town, and heavy rain makes travel almost impossible. During the recent event, flooding disrupted access to his garden and limited his ability to reach his shop due to flooded roads. He received two payouts of SBD$200(US$24) each.
Rather than immediately withdrawing the cash, he used the balance in his mobile wallet to assist family members with mobile top-ups. For him, enrolling in TrigaCash was an exercise in foresight.
“Rain will always come,” Totoo said. “This is a way to prepare.”
John Aron Ho’asi, 54, a retired teacher and stay-at-home father, grows vegetables and raises livestock primarily for his household. The rain damaged the crops, which was his only source of subsistence. When the payout arrived, he used the funds to purchase green netting to protect his garden from future heat and weather perils. The payout did not restore losses but helped reduce future risks.
Across the four households, the decisions were different, but what was consistent was the ability to act with agency and speed due to quick access to funds. None described the amounts as life-changing, but all found them useful and timely.
Parametric insurance does not stop the rain; it does not eliminate losses. What it offers is predictability, adaptability and a dignified recovery in a setting where weather hazards are increasingly frequent and disruptive.
Automatic payouts reduce delays and lessen the need to negotiate for survival during already stressful moments, without relying on external aid which often comes late or sometimes never. It provides financial independence to cope with the reality of living in one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change in the world.
As climate impacts are expected to intensify in the Solomons, preparedness is rarely dramatic and hence, resilience is built through predictable systems. More often, it takes the form of small, timely decisions made quietly at home. For these policyholders, the difference was not only the payout itself, but the space it created to make recovery decisions on their own terms. …. PACNEWS
Shreya Rajpuriya, UNCDF Climate Disaster Risk Insurance Analyst in the Solomon Islands.
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
MHMS, Japan, and WHO bring malaria elimination closer to reality
HONIARA, 01 APRIL 2026 (WHO) — Malaria is a major cause of outpatient visits and hospital admissions in Solomon Islands, burdening primary health care, causing thousands of lost workdays, and impacting the gross domestic product.
The Japan–Solomon Islands Malaria Reduction Project is a joint collaboration between the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS), the Government of Japan, and WHO to advance modern malaria control strategies combining real-time digital surveillance, improved Plasmodium vivax case management, targeted indoor residual spraying, and locally driven operational research.
The Ambassador of Japan and the WHO Representative joined MHMS representatives in Pao and Vura communities, and Lunga Health Clinic to observe how these modern control strategies are helping to protect families from malaria.
Indoor residual spraying involves applying a long-lasting insecticide to the inside walls and roofs of homes, thereby killing mosquitoes and other pests. The project was responsible for spraying 800 households this year, and plans are underway to expand to all malaria hotspots in Guadalcanal (Zones 1 and 6) and Honiara. Early results show a promising decline in the most lethal form of malaria (Plasmodium falciparum) from 44 percent in 2023 to 31 percent in February 2026.
Plasmodium vivax is a type of malaria that hides in the liver. Treating it requires Primaquine, a drug that penetrates the liver. However, the drug can rarely cause a serious health problem called hemolytic crisis if people are missing an enzyme (G6PD). To address this problem, G6PD testing has been made available at all project sites to ensure safe and effective treatment. Revised treatment protocols endorsed nationally are helping reduce relapse-driven transmission.
Reacting to positive feedback from health workers and communities, Keiichi Higuchi, Ambassador of Japan to Solomon Islands said: “I wanted to thank you for giving me this positive feedback. That resources are put to good use in Guadalcanal, or even across the greater Solomon Islands, because seeing this firsthand, I’m convinced this serve as a good practice that can lead to wider use both in Solomon Islands and the rest of the Pacific.”
The project has transformed malaria reporting by shifting from paper-based systems to digital platforms using DHIS2, supported by solar power systems and Starlink satellite connectivity in remote health facilities. Forty computer tablets have been deployed to enable rapid, reliable data collection, which is essential for identifying transmission hotspots.
“Before this project, it took so long to get data, which meant we couldn’t respond to malaria hotspots. This project has given us real-time data and helped us to target and control hotspots,” said Dr Albino Bobogare, National Vector-Borne Disease Control Program Director, Ministry of Health and Medical Services.
Nurse Wilson Bala is thankful to the Government of Japan for the support, which has now enabled them to provide care to the community for extended periods, thanks to the facility’s solar power. He said that even deliveries at night are now possible because of an uninterrupted electricity supply. He added that he can safely look after patients even in the dark, whereas before, he needed to use his mobile phone’s torchlight.
Building Evidence for Long-Term Impact
The project includes a research partnership between the Solomon Islands National University and the University of Kyoto to evaluate the combined effect of long-lasting insecticidal nets and targeted indoor residual spraying. Interim findings are expected in mid-2026 and will help guide future strategies and funding proposals.
“Japan’s support ushered in modern surveillance, strengthened treatment safety, and reached households with targeted vector control,” said Dr Howard Sobel, WHO Representative in Solomon Islands.
“WHO is proud to be the implementing partner in this important work to build sustainable systems that will protect families. Together, we can make malaria elimination a reality…. PACNEWS