The National Sports Council (NSC) this month, June, 2026 announced a medal incentive programme for Solomon Islands athletes competing at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow as well as the volunteer sport coaches and officials.
The announcement was made by National Sports Council (NSC) Board Chair Joe Sika during a media conference held at the National Stadium in Honiara. Present at the event were the Minister for Home Affairs, Hon. Father Manasseh Maelanga, Ministry of Home Affairs, Permanent Secretary Jeffery Sade Deve, Ministry of Home Affairs and National Sports Council staff, and members of the mainstream media.
Chair Sika described the initiative as a significant milestone, noting that it is the first time incentive awards have been announced before a major multi-sport event.
He said the decision was made deliberately to allow athletes, coaches and officials to focus on preparation and performance, knowing their achievements will be recognised.
“We want our athletes and coaches to know from the start that when they achieve success for Solomon Islands, their efforts and sacrifices will be recognised,” said Sika.
Under the incentive programme:
• Gold Medal – SBD $12,500 per athlete
• Silver Medal – SBD $10,000 per athlete
• Bronze Medal – SBD $7,500 per athlete
Athletes who break a Commonwealth Games record will receive an additional SBD $5,000, while those who establish a new Oceania record will receive an additional SBD $3,000. This is either standalone if the athlete does not win a medal or, if they do, in addition to the medal.
The incentive programme also recognises the contribution of volunteer coaches and sport managers travelling with the team. For each sport that wins one or more medals, the coach or sport manager will receive a total incentive of SBD $6,000, regardless of the number of athletes or medals won within that sport.
Chair Sika said the initiative acknowledges not only the athletes standing on the podium, but also the wider support team behind every achievement.
“When somebody wins a medal, there is always a coach, manager and support team behind that performance. This incentive recognises their contribution and sacrifices as well,” said Sika.
Chair Sika further stressed that Solomon Islands sport must continue to move towards a high-performance culture, where athletes are selected and compete on merit.
He said the country’s focus should be on achieving international standards and qualifying athletes capable of competing strongly on the world stage.
Minister for Home Affairs, Hon. Father Manasseh Maelanga, welcomed the announcement and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to supporting sports development and athlete performance.
He said the incentive programme demonstrates the Government’s and NSC’s recognition of the sacrifices athletes make while representing Solomon Islands internationally.
“The Solomon Islands Government is proud to stand behind our athletes as they prepare to represent our country at the Commonwealth Games,” said Minister Maelanga.
He encouraged all Solomon Islanders to support Team Solomon as they prepare for Glasgow and strive to achieve strong results for the nation.
“The Government has invested in these athletes, in their preparation, and in the infrastructure that supports them. That investment must translate into results. The Pacific Games showed us what is possible. The Commonwealth Games is the next step, 73 nations and territories, and Solomon Islands will be among them, ready to compete.”
The Commonwealth Games will be held in Glasgow, Scotland, from 23 July to 2 August 2026.
