By Georgina Maka’a
Solomon Islands has officially opened its second museum, the Namba Wan Haus Museum, in Tulagi, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to preserve its rich cultural and historical heritage.
Located in the former official residence of the British Solomon Islands Protectorate’s Resident Commissioner, the restored building is one of the nation’s most historically significant landmarks.
The museum’s interior has been designed by Millicent Design and Custom Keepers, blending historical character with modern exhibition spaces.
Speaking during the official opening ceremony, Minister for Culture and Tourism James Bonuga described the museum as a flagship national heritage project that reflects the government’s commitment to safeguarding the country’s history.
“It represents our commitment to preserving the stories, traditions and memories that define who we are as Solomon Islanders,” Bonuga said.
He added that for too long, many “priceless artefacts”, photographs, documents and oral histories have remained vulnerable to loss. “Today we have taken an important step towards protecting them for future generations.
“This museum will become a permanent guardian of our shared memory – a place where our children will learn about their identity, where researchers will deepen their understanding of our history, and where visitors from around the world will discover the remarkable story of the Kula people and the Central Islands,” he said.
Bonuga acknowledged the Central Islands Province’s important contribution to the nation’s history and said the museum demonstrates what can be achieved through strong partnerships between the national government, provincial authorities and development partners.
“I believe this partnership provides an excellent model for other provinces. Every province possesses unique cultural treasures deserving of protection,” he said.
The minister said the Ministry of Culture and Tourism is committed to supporting provincial governments to establish more museums, protect important heritage sites and expand cultural tourism initiatives that generate benefits for local communities.
“Our goal is to ensure that the Namba Wan Haus Museum continues to educate, inspire and serve our people and our visitors for generations to come,” he said.
Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Culture and Tourism Barney Sivoro said the opening of the museum represents more than the restoration of a historic colonial building.
“It is the first step in a much larger vision to establish Tulagi as a nationally and internationally recognized heritage destination,” Sivoro said.
He explained that the ministry plans to link the museum with Tulagi’s many historical and cultural landmarks to create a comprehensive heritage tourism experience that preserves the island’s history while supporting local economic development.
The Namba Wan Haus Museum was funded through a partnership between the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Volunteer Service Abroad (VSA), and the Government and people of New Zealand through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
The opening of the museum marks a significant investment in protecting the Solomon Islands’ cultural identity while strengthening heritage tourism as an emerging contributor to the country’s economic and social development. The project also highlights growing collaboration between the Solomon Islands Government and international partners in preserving places of historical significance for future generations.
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