PEOPLE
The Solomon Islanders comprise diverse cultures, languages, and customs. Ninety-three percent are Melanesian, 4% Polynesian, and 1.5% Micronesian. In addition, small numbers of Europeans and Chinese are registered. About 120 vernacular languages are spoken.
Most people reside in small, widely dispersed settlements along the coasts. Sixty percent live in localities with fewer than 200 persons, and only 17% reside in urban areas.
The capital city of Honiara, situated on Guadalcanal, the largest island, has 54,600 inhabitants. The other principal towns are Gizo, Auki, and Kirakira.
Most Solomon Islanders are Christian, with the Anglican, Roman Catholic, South Seas Evangelical, and Seventh-day Adventist faiths predominating. About 5% of the population maintains traditional beliefs.
The
chief characteristics of the traditional Melanesian social structure
are:
Nationality: Noun and adjective--Solomon Islander(s).
Population (2006): 552,438.
Annual growth rate: 2.8%.
Ethnic groups (2002): Melanesian 93%, Polynesian 4%, Micronesian 1.5%, other 1.5%.
Religions: Christian 95%--more than one-third Anglican (Archdiocese of Melanesia), Roman Catholic 19%, South Sea Evangelical 17%, United Church (Methodist) 11%, Seventh-day Adventist 10%.
Languages: English (official); about 120 vernaculars, including Solomon Islands pidgin.
Education (2003): Years compulsory--none. Attendance--79.6% primary school; 14% secondary school. Adult literacy--76.6%.
Health (2003): Infant mortality rate--19/1,000. Life expectancy--62.3 yrs.
Work force (264,900, 2002): Agriculture--75%. Industry and commerce--5%. Services--20%.
