Government grant funding supports the upgrade of Parangiju Mountain Lodge, strengthening tourism development in Guadalcanal
Honiara, Solomon Islands, Sunday 18 January 2026 – Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele officially opened the upgraded Parangiju Mountain Lodge on Friday in Central Guadalcanal as part of efforts to boost tourism development.
The Prime Minister was chief guest at the opening ceremony, which marked the completion of new bungalows, additional rooms, and expanded services at the lodge. The development was supported through grant funding approved under the Government of Solomon Islands’ 2025 Budget Support Programme and administered through the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
Speaking at the event, Prime Minister Manele said the investment reflects the Government’s strategic focus on strengthening tourism as a key pillar of economic growth, job creation, and private-sector development.
“The Government recognises tourism as a powerful driver for inclusive growth. Through the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, we are supporting local operators to expand quality accommodation, improve services and develop tourism products that will attract more visitors to our country,” the Prime Minister said.
He congratulated the owners and management of Parangiju Mountain Lodge for their vision and commitment, describing the upgraded facility as an example of sustainable, nature-based tourism that highlights the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Guadalcanal.
“One of the constraints to tourism growth in Solomon Islands has been limited room inventory. The expansion of Parangiju Mountain Lodge directly addresses this challenge and contributes to our long-term ambition of reaching 100,000 visitors by 2035,” Prime Minister Manele said.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged the Ministry of Culture and Tourism for its role in supporting local operators through grant assistance, training, and technical guidance, enabling Solomon Islanders to participate in, take ownership of, and benefit from the tourism industry.
He encouraged the lodge to continue working closely with surrounding communities to ensure tourism development remains inclusive, environmentally responsible, and culturally grounded, while creating new livelihood opportunities for local people.
Prime Minister Manele further called on local entrepreneurs and investors to explore opportunities in nature-based and cultural tourism, noting that the success of Parangiju Mountain Lodge demonstrates the potential of strong partnerships between government, communities, and the private sector.
The opening ceremony was attended by the Minister for Culture and Tourism, Choylin Yim Douglas, the Premier of Guadalcanal Province, William Atu, senior government officials, tourism stakeholders, community leaders, and family members of the lodge owners.
SOURCE : OPMC Media Release
