Solomon Ports farewells Chairman
Solomon Ports this week formally farewelled its outgoing Board Chairman, Mr. Mike Wate, during a ceremony held at the Honiara Port Headquarters.
The small but significant event was organized on Thursday 18 by the Board of Directors, Executive, and Management of Solomon Ports to acknowledge and recognize Mr. Wate’s outstanding contributions and leadership over the years.
Mr. Wate first joined Solomon Ports in 2017 as Interim CEO, before serving as a Board Director and Deputy Chairman from December 2018 to 2021. He was later appointed Chairman in May 2023, a role he held until this year.
He is succeeded by Mr. Moses Virivolomo, who is no stranger to Solomon Ports, having served as a Board Director for the past 5 years , and was recently appointed as Chairman effective on 4th August 2025.
Speaking at the farewell event, incoming Chairman Mr. Virivolomo thanked Mr. Wate for his leadership and invaluable service.
“During your time here at SIPA, you have made tough decisions, guided the organization through both good and challenging times, and been instrumental in the success of many major projects,” he said.
“We have witnessed a steady climb in success and port development under your chairmanship, and I want to sincerely thank you for your experience and expertise in guiding us.”
In response, Mr. Wate expressed his gratitude for the recognition, saying he was humbled by the farewell and thankful for the opportunity to work alongside the Board over the past eight years.
“I trust the current and incoming Board members will continue the good work of driving the port forward at the Board level. I wish Solomon Ports continued success in the years to come,” he said.
Meanwhile, Solomon Ports CEO, Mr. George Rausi, also presented gifts to Mr. Wate as a token of appreciation. He extended his thanks and acknowledged Mr. Wate’s wealth of experience and knowledge over the past decade, wishing him every success in his future endeavors.