Honiara, Solomon Islands — 11 June 2026 — The Bahomea and Malango Community Benefit Sharing Trust Association held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 11 June 2026 at the KGVI Dining Hall, attended by more than 130 community members.
The meeting marked an important milestone for the Bahomea and Malango Community Benefit Sharing Trust Fund (the Fund), confirming funding allocation for the first cycle of community sub-projects supported by the World Bank.
Participants reviewed progress since 2024, including the establishment of the Fund Management Office, onboarding of the Board of Trustees and Community Advisory Committee, and development of key operational procedures. The AGM also provided an opportunity for accountability and reflection.
In his remarks, the Board Chairman, Mr. Denson Denni, described the AGM as a “historic occasion” and highlighted the Fund’s role in ensuring fair and sustainable benefits from the Tina River Hydropower Development Project.
“The Community Benefit Sharing Fund is more than a financial mechanism—it is a long-term investment in Bahomea, Belaga, and Malango communities, helping improve livelihoods and create lasting opportunities,” he said.
While the hydro power will deliver clean and affordable electricity to the Honiara gird, the Fund is designed to provide long-term social and economic benefits to affected communities. It will support local infrastructure, human development, and livelihoods, guided by principles of transparency, inclusion, and sustainability.
Francis Kapini, the Project Manager of Community Benefit Sharing Project – Phase 2, emphasized the deliberate and structured process involved in operationalising the Fund, noting that building a strong foundation takes time and careful planning and it does not happen overnight.
Community voices were also reflected throughout at the event. Maylin Sese (Areatakiki Village in Bahomea,) expressed pride in being from one of the communities that launches “this first of its kind benefit sharing initiative for Solomon Islands.” Meanwhile, Pastor George Sovekibo (Ado Village, Belaha) emphasised the long-term impact of the Fund, stating, “the future is now - today we are discussing a Fund that will impact the future of our communities.”
The AGM concluded with an outline of the Fund’s governance structure and next steps for sub-project preparation and stakeholder engagement to ensure that the Fund continues to deliver meaningful and lasting benefits to present and future generations.
Figure 1: Community Members in attendance during the meeting.
About the Bahomea and Malango Community Benefit Sharing Trust Association
The Bahomea and Malango Community Benefit Sharing Trust Association aims to promote equitable and sustainable sharing of benefits from the Tina River Hydropower Development Project.
The Tina River Hydropower Development Project is Solomon Islands’ first large-scale renewable energy project, aimed at delivering more affordable and reliable electricity. It is supported by the Government of Solomon Islands and development partners, including the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, Green Climate Fund, Government of Australia, Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, and Korea EXIM Bank.
Figure 2: BOT Chairman Mr Denson Denni delivering his opening remarks.
Figure 5: Mr. Harry Kereseka (FMO Manager) delivering his speech during the AGM.
Figure 4: Mr Francis Kapini (CBSP 2 Project Manager) Delivering his speech during the AGM.
Figure 6: Mrs.
Pamela Naesol (BOT Member) delivering the closing remarks during the AGM.
For more information, contact:
Communications Officer: Jeanine Gadepeta email: jeanine.gadepeta@tina-hydro.com
Tina Hydropower development project
+677 25133
About Tina River Hydro Development Project (TRHDP)
The first large scale renewable energy project for the Solomon Islands delivering benefits such as more affordable electricity and improved accessibility to cleaner, more reliable energy sources for communities now and in the future. It is being implemented by the Solomon Island Government with financing and support from the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, the Asian Development Bank, the Government of Australia, the Green Climate Fund, Korea EX-IM Economic Development Cooperation Fund, and the World Bank.
Find out more on www.tina-hydro.com
A National Project of Solomon Islands | Tina River Hydropower Tina River Hydropower is a National Project of Solomon Islands and has as its objective to provide more affordable and reliable energy options to Honiara. www.tina-hydro.com |
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