Solomon Islands and Oceania Rugby sign historic hosting agreement

The Solomon Islands Government and the Oceania Rugby last Friday signed a historic agreement to enable Solomon Islands to host the 2024 Oceania 7s Rugby Championship in Honiara in December.

Oceania Rugby Manager Frank Puletua and Supervising Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Stanley Waleanisia signed the agreement in the presence of Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele and President of the Solomon Islands Rugby Union Federation (SIRUF), Hon. George Temahua witnessed by officials from both sides.

This is the first time for Solomon Islands to host the championship apart from Fiji and Samoa. The championship is scheduled to take place from December 7-8.

The hosting agreement is a result of the hard work and close collaboration between Oceania Rugby and SIRUF to bring the games for the first time to Solomon Islands.

The Solomon Islands Government is a proud partner in hosting the championship following its successful hosting of the Pacific Games in 2023.

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele described the signing ceremony as “a momentous occasion for Solomon Islands, SIRUF and all rugby loving people of the country”.

“I am overwhelmed with gratitude that Oceania Rugby has seen it fit for Solomon Islands to host Oceania Rugby Sevens Championship 2024. We hosted the recent Pacific Games last year and to host another prestigious event like the Oceania Rugby Sevens Championship is indeed a blessing,” Manele said.

“The Solomon Islands Government is deeply humbled to be partners with Oceania Rugby to host this event here and will do all that it can to make sure that this is a successful and memorable event. Solomon Islands is proud to be part of the Oceania family of countries and we have some of the world powerhouses of Rugby 7s in Oceania,” Manele added.

Oceania Rugby Manager Frank Puletua said Oceania Rugby is proud to partner with the Solomon Islands Government and SIRUF to ensure rugby development and hosting of such events is spread across the Pacific.

“We are proud to partner with the Solomon Islands Government and SIRUF to ensure that the game of rugby is spread around our beautiful islands,” he said.

SIRUF President, Hon. George Temahua conveyed his gratitude to the Government for the unwavering support and commitment in making the event a reality.

“Your vision and leadership have been instrumental in creating an opportunity that will benefit not just our athletes but our entire region,” he said.

“This tournament will foster a sense of unity, pride and excitement among our people. It will bring together fans, families, and visitors from across the Pacific region. It is a celebration of sportsmanship, resilience and the power of community and togetherness,” he added.

The Hosting Agreement also gave Solomon Islands the first right of refusal to host the 2025 and 2026 Oceania Rugby Sevens Championship.

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Oceania Rugby Manager Frank Puletua and Supervising PS Stanley Waleanisia sign the host agreement in the presence of PM Manele and SIRUF President Hon. George Temahua

Oceania Rugby Manager Frank Puletua, SIRUF Manager Hon. George Temahua, PM Manele and Supervising PS Stanley Waleanisia with copies of the host agreement

PM Manele congratulates Oceania Rugby Manager Frank Puletua on the signing ceremony

SIRUF President Hon. George Temahua, Oceania Rugby Manager Frank Puletua, PM Manele and Supervising PS Stanley Waleanisia at the signing ceremony