BY JOY OFASIA
There is growing concern about the rise in HIV cases in the Solomon Islands, with 26 new cases reported as of September 30th, 2025. This has raised alarm among community leaders and health advocates, who are calling for stronger awareness and education, especially in rural areas.
As HIV cases continue to rise, the call for action grows louder. Advocates like Mr Same believe that only through joint efforts—by the government, leaders, and communities—can the spread of HIV be stopped.
In an exclusive interview with SUNDAY ISLES, William Same, Office Manager of the Solomon Islands Psychosocial Disability Association, said the lack of HIV awareness in rural communities is a serious issue.
“Most of the communities do not have radios, and because of this, it is very important that the message must be passed to the rural areas,” Mr Same said.
He explained that HIV is different from other illnesses and must be treated with serious attention.
“Sex is a natural part of life, like eating food, and people will go for it. That’s why we need to educate people about how to protect themselves and avoid getting HIV,” he said.
Mr Same stressed that community leaders and chiefs must take on an active role in helping to share this important message.
“We have to give community leaders responsibility to help spread the message to their people,” he said. “There is no cure for HIV. So, awareness and education are our best tools to protect our communities.”
He also called on the government to increase funding for HIV awareness programs.
“Our government needs to put more budget into this issue. We need to get this message out to all areas of the country,” he said. “This is not just any story—it is a specialised message that needs proper support and resources.”
Mr Same also suggested that rural clinics should have dedicated staff to share information and raise awareness about HIV.
“It is important that the message must reach all communities—not just in town, but also rural areas and clinics,” he said.
