PNG–Solomon Investment Push: Prime Minister James Marape will visit Honiara for the inaugural PNG–Solomon Islands Investment Conference (Aug 19–20), aiming to shift ties from government-to-government cooperation to “business-to-business” deals, with PNG already investing across 18 sectors and supporting thousands of jobs. Peacebuilding Funding: Government launched a US$3m Peacebuilding Fund Programme (Apr 2026–Apr 2028) to strengthen peace, social cohesion and decentralisation across all nine provinces, delivered with UNDP, UNICEF and UN Women. Public Finance Leadership Change: Auditor-General David Teika Dennis has resigned to become Permanent Secretary for Finance and Treasury (effective Aug 25), citing capacity gaps in public financial management; Deputy Auditor-General Vincent Misi will act. Cyclone Maila Shelter Recovery: MECDM says shelter recovery for Maila-affected communities in Western and Choiseul could cost about US$1m, with implementation projected to begin next year after planning and eligibility checks. Economic Outlook & Jobs: The World Bank warns growth will slow to 2.8% in 2026, with recovery still narrow and vulnerable, urging stronger public finance and more investment in agriculture and fisheries to create jobs. Mining Reform Watch: GREAT has created new private mineral holding companies under mining reforms, while landowner groups and opposition continue pushing for wider consultation on the Mineral Resources Bill. Infrastructure Update: Honiara City’s Hot Bread Road busbay/parking works are nearing completion after utility adjustments, with the two-lane section expected to reopen once remaining tasks finish. Development Partner Alignment: PM Wale urged development partners to align support with national priorities and deliver measurable results as Solomon Islands approaches LDC graduation.