ONLY three national sport federations have registered with the Solomon Islands National Sports Council (SINSC) to date.
SINSC Chief Executive Officer Alison Burchell stated that the total number of national associations of sport yet to register is challenging to determine.
“This is because some associations are operational and should register, some appear to have become defunct, some are very new and just beginning the process, while others are new and seeking to establish themselves,” she said.
Ms Burchell said the registration process enables SINSC to identify federations that are fully operational and comply with basic governance requirements.
The Solomon Islands National Sports Council Act mandates that all national sport federations register with the SINSC.
“This aligns with the principles of good governance. Once a national association of sport has submitted the necessary updated information. For example, the certificate from Companies Haus is not required annually if it has already been provided. The SINSC Board reviews and approves the registration. A registration fee of $100 is then paid,” she explained.
The registration checklist includes the following documents:
- Latest signed version of the Constitution.
- Minutes of the AGM of the last elections.
- Copy of the latest Annual Report.
- Copy of audited financial statements.
- Copy of the approved 2025 budget.
- Copy of the four-year development/strategic plan.
- Copy of the 2025 work plan.
- Plan to expand operations to five provinces.
- Copy of written confirmation (dated 2025) of membership with the relevant International Federation.
Ms Burchell noted that once registered, national associations of sport gain access to support provided by the SINSC, including the use of facilities and other resources.
Associations were reminded on 17 December 2024 to complete their registration for 2025.
The SINCS oversees 15 national sports associations, including the Solomon Islands Basketball Federation, Solomon Islands Outrigger and Canoe Federation, Solomon Islands Chess Federation, and Solomon Islands Volleyball Federation. These associations operate within national, regional, and global categories.
Football is the national sport of Solomon Islands and is played year-round through various competitions and leagues. Other popular sports include futsal and beach soccer.
By EDDIE OSIFELO
Solomon Star, Honiara
