Road Upgrades in Malaita: MID and SIRAP2 teams have started community consultations across Malaita’s north and east road corridors, explaining timelines, safeguards, traffic plans and local jobs ahead of works—North Road to be sealed by CCECC and East Road maintenance/regravelling by TTCL. MP Pay Rise Pushback: Transparency Solomon Islands (TSI) is demanding the revocation of the PEC-approved 6% cost-of-living adjustment for MPs, arguing it burdens taxpayers amid high food, transport and housing costs. Energy & SME Policy Agenda: The Private Sector Advisory Group (PSAG) held its first 2026 meeting, with SICCI urging urgent tabling of an SME Bill and electricity law amendments to improve reliability and cut business costs. Climate Unity for COP31: Environment Minister Wayne Ghemu, co-chairing Pacific climate talks in Sydney, urged Pacific countries to speak with one voice ahead of Pre-COP31 and COP31. US Investment & Maritime Security: PM Matthew Wale wrapped Washington meetings with DFC, MCC and US business leaders, highlighting Bina Harbour and energy/tourism opportunities, and also advanced a US Coast Guard “ship rider” patrol deal with local police. Honiara Water Woes: Residents in West Honiara report days-long water cuts despite Solomon Water repairs, with supply expected to fully return only after further reservoir refilling. Agriculture Support: Malaita’s Kwasila pig farmers association says SIART support helped restart breeding and fattening houses, while they ask for faster delivery of materials to finish remaining phases. Renewables Summit: Meridian Energy CEO Mike Roan confirmed as a keynote for the Oceania Renewable Power Summit in Auckland on 7–8 October.