The Solomon Islands Herald

https://sbherald.com

[solomonherald]

Police arrest a 47-year-old in relation to the murder incident in Honiara

The Operation Team of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) have arrested a 47-year-old male person in relation to the death of a 27-year-old male person at Borderline area in East Honiara on 26 December 2022. Supervising Director NCID Inspector Leslie Simao says, “The deceased were drinking kwaso (homebrew) along the road at Kobito 3 and Borderline area when approached by the suspect asking for a match. The boys replied they have no matches but the suspect insisted and later left.” Director Simao says, “The suspect returns with a long bush knife and approaches the boys angrily and strikes the deceased on his left neck and he falls on the ground.” Supervising Director Mr. Simao says, “His friends seek assistance from the community and the deceased was rushed to the National Referral Hospital and later pronounced dead.” Mr. Simao says, “The suspect was arrested and brought before the Honiara Central Magistrates’ Court on 27 December 2022 and now remanded at Rove Correctional Facility and will reappear in court on 10 January 2023.” He says, “I want to appeal to the relatives of the deceased to stay calm and let police deal with the investigation into the sad incident. My Condolences to the immediate family of the deceased as they mourned the death of their loved one.” Read the full article

[solomonherald]

PRC donates $1.7M to earthquake relief

The People’s Republic of China has donated $1.7m (SBD) to the government of the Solomon Islands to assist in disaster relief efforts following the recent 7.3 earthquakes in Guadalcanal. The donation was received during a ceremony organized on Sunday (4/12/2022). Supervising Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Hon. Peter Shanel Agovaka received and acknowledged the relief support from the PRC Ambassador to the Solomon Islands, His Excellency, Li Ming in the presence of Prime Minister, Hon. Manasseh Sogavare. The donation was presented to the Solomon Islands from the Red Cross Society of the People’s Republic of China. In its recent situation report, the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) reported damages to school infrastructures such as classrooms and staff houses sustained major damage on Guadalcanal. A quick survey by the CBSI sets the total cost of building damages in Honiara caused by the 7.3 magnitude earthquake at $ 1.85 million. Read the full article

[solomonherald]

Vois blo iumi hem important*

Samantha is one of eight United Nations Volunteers (UNV) working as part of the UNDP-UNV Graduate Initiative. She and three fellow UNVs work in the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission Office (SIECO) while four work for the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP). The programme incorporates volunteer-based solutions through the mobilization of volunteers to support the work of these institutions through research and awareness, communication, advocacy, procurement and event logistics. Launched in 2021, the Initiative is led by the Strengthening the Electoral Cycle in the Solomon Islands Project with financial support from the Australian Government. Young people all over the world are different because of their unique traditions, mentalities and environments in which they live and interact, but the challenges they face are similar, as they try to work out their directions, seek recognition and acceptance, strive to get employed and attempt to participate in the political process of elections.  William, Samantha, Peter and Jason are UN Volunteers, who work with the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission since the launch of the UNV Graduate initiative in 2021.  United by their belief in democracy and peace, they hold different roles and responsibilities but equally contribute to the Commission’s efforts to promote and uphold democracy within the electoral cycle and processes in the country.

Jason, Media and Public Relations Assistant Jason serves as a Media and Public Relations Assistant, writing press releases, developing social media content, and interacting with the media.  Jason’s work supporting many awareness and advocacy events for the Commission has enabled the volunteer family to inform the public about elections.  “Volunteering with United Nations is a lifetime opportunity, and the value of volunteering is essential. We are strongly committed to reinforcing the mandate,” Jason asserts. 

Samantha, Civic and Voter Awareness Assistant He added, “Our experience with the UN Volunteers program contributes not only to our career development but also helps us see the bigger picture and the future we want for our country.”  This is also true for Samantha who serves as a Civic and Voter Awareness Assistant with the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission Office.  Samantha advises electoral stakeholders about the challenges of boosting access to information and building the bridge of trust between voters and candidates.  One of the biggest highlights for her was helping the Commission organize the celebration for the International Day of Democracy on September 15. The open-air event hosted a number of tent towns where people could engage in activities to learn more about the history of Democracy Day and its connection to the Electoral Commission, the Office of the Political Parties, and electoral processes. The event hosted government and ministry officials, partners from civil society organizations, women and youth groups, and members of the people with disabilities (PWDs) community. Samantha used the opportunity to boost people’s knowledge about the Commission’s role.

“We created a space where students could have a dialogue with representatives from the Commission and the Office of the Registrar," Samantha describes. "This was a special scenario where young people interacted with the government to learn more about elections and the electoral processes taking place in the country.”  William Osifooa supports the Electoral Commission in the planning, development, and execution of procurement plans in alignment with the mandate and priorities of the Electoral Commission and the Solomon Island Government Procurement Rules and Policies.

William William strongly believes in effective, accountable, and transparent institutions that promote democracy. He believes that his role would be greatly enhanced with equal participation of women and men in the procurement process including vendor registration, selection of vendors, and the procuring of assets.  “Participation builds a better future,” says William.  “Even though procurement staff are the behind-the-scenes heroines and heroes, we have the power to change and build a more equal world by engaging diverse sectors of the population, including civil society organizations, the private sector, and academia in every procurement request we work on.”  UN Volunteers like Jason, Samantha, and William are highly qualified, motivated young professionals committed to serving provinces and communities in promoting peaceful elections for a peaceful Solomon Islands.  Commenting on the work of the UN Volunteers, Ms. Taeasi Sanga, one of the Commissioners of the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission, describes their engagement as a “fresh approach to electoral work” and key to “long-term involvement of youth in the country’s development.” “By opening the Commission’s doors to the youth, we are automatically getting closer to the voters. Thanks to the innovative ideas of the volunteers, we have increased our interaction with communities, which had also increased the turnout of people in the recent provincial elections.” According to Mr. Michael Burke, UNDP Chief Technical Adviser and Project Manager for Strengthening the Electoral Cycle in the Solomon Islands Project, the UN Volunteer Initiative is providing UNDP with a “unique opportunity to change public perceptions about the abilities and participation of young people in the development processes of the country.” Mr. Burke also believes that the active and visible involvement of youth in the public sphere “lays the foundation for their increased positive engagement, their social and economic integration in the communities across the country.” The UNDP Strengthening the Electoral Cycle in the Solomon Islands Project (SECSIP) supports the national authorities to conduct credible and inclusive electoral processes with the overarching objective of strengthening the link between elections and other key governance processes and institutions contributing to social cohesion and the development of a pluralistic society. SECSIP is implemented by UNDP Solomon Islands with financial support from the Australian Government. Read the full article

[solomonherald]

Police remove a dead body found underneath Fiu Bridge in Malaita Province

Officers of the Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) at Auki in Malaita Province have removed a dead body found underneath Fiu Bridge in Central Kwara’ae this morning (6 December 2022). Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Malaita Province, Superintendent Leslie Kili says, “It is confirmed that the dead body is of a male adult in his 30s or 40s.” “Police believed that it was a suspicious death because the deceased had swelled on his face and at the back of his head.” Superintendent Kili PPC Kili says, “The deceased was identified by his relatives from Fulikaomae Village in Auki Langa Langa. The deceased are currently at Kilufi Hospital morgue for a post-mortem that will form part of the police investigation.” PPC Kili says, “The deceased spent last weekend with his relatives at Kilusakwalo Village to watch the World Cup 2022. He was last seen at Kilusakwaso on the evening on 3 December 2022.  Mr. Kili says, “A death inquiry has been established, and the investigation into the suspicious incident is continuing.” “My condolences to the immediate family of the deceased during the great sadness and the loss of their loved one,” says PPC Kili. Police are appealing to anyone in and around the area who may have information related to the death and come forward to assist the police. Read the full article

[solomonherald]

Police raids kwaso in West Honiara

Officers of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) at Central Police Station confiscated kwaso (homebrew) production during a raid at the Tasahe B area last week. Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Honiara City Police, Chief Superintendent (Supt) Jimson Robo says, “The raid was carried out upon a piece of information received from the community.

Police officer during the raid in Honiara

Bucket of fermented homebrew confiscated during the raid Supt Robo says, “When the operation support team arrived at the location the suspect had already escaped and a search was conducted at the suspect’s home.” PPC Robo says, “Every confiscated item was brought to Central Police Station and called on the suspect to surrender himself to police as the case has now been established for further investigation.” “To curb crime in our community is everybody’s responsibility therefore any person brewing kwaso or selling marijuana in our communities must be reported to the police to stop such habits that can lead to bad influence,” says PPC Robo. Read the full article

[solomonherald]

Tina River Project Concrete plant ready to be commissioned

The Concrete batching plant for the Tina River Hydropower Development Project has gone through its final installation work and is expected to be in full operation by January 2023.   Manas Ranjan Samal, Hyundai Electrical Engineering (HEC) Electrical Manager confirmed that the installation of the concrete facility is almost complete and will soon begin the process of testing and commissioning.   “We are now completing the electrical works and testing will commence in the coming weeks for commissioning.”   The plant will produce different grades of concretes for various works based on the mixed design taking into consideration the concrete slump, grade, and efficiency. Mixed design is the process of finding the right proportions of cement, sand, and aggregates for concrete to achieve target strength in structures.   The concrete batching plant process flow begins from the feeding of aggregates into individual bins depending on formation size.   “These aggregates will be weighed individually as per the design set in the control panel. After weighing, they will be transferred to the mixing unit. Above the mixing unit, are weigh hoppers for cement, admixtures, and water.   “The job of the weigh hopper is to weigh and then transfer the contents into the following mixing unit. Cement is transferred to the weigh hopper employing a screw conveyor. Water is pumped up into the weigh hopper. After mixing for a specific time set by the mixing unit, the mixer will discharge the contents into a transit mixer to be transported to the construction site.”  

A local mechanic provided assistance in the installation of the generators. The plant will only be used to produce conventional concrete for small structures, access roads, and power house. In order to produce concrete for the Roller-Compacted Concrete (RCC) Dam, two more Concrete Batcher Plants of 120 m3/hr and 180m3/hr will be installed near the dam site.   The Concrete Batcher plant is an important infrastructure for the construction of the Tina River Hydropower Project because it allows the production of quality ready-mix concrete.   “It has an advanced computerized control system for the accuracy and quality of concrete production. There are various ways to mix concrete but batching by use of a batch plant is very accurate,” Mr. Samal added.   “Batching of concrete is done in fixed batches (proportions) for a fixed time. Fixed proportions of each item are individually weighed prior to addition into the mixing unit. This concrete batcher plant will help to produce the required quantity and quality of conventional concrete for project construction work,” he explains.   The operation of the batching plant and production of ready-mix concrete also follows strict quality control and test requirements to be followed at each stage. Engineering & Mechanical Division workers of HEC with assistance from a local company, Island Enterprises Limited, have recently installed generators that will provide much-needed electricity to power the plant.  

These generators will be the ones providing electricity to power the concrete plant during construction. The workers have confirmed that they will proceed with the testing of the plant after the installation of the generators and before any further Project construction in 2023.  Read the full article

[solomonherald]

RSIPF welcomes 67 new Police officers

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) has welcomed 65 new Police officers who have graduated as police constable today (2 December 2022) at Rove Police Headquarters. The graduates consist of 48 males and 17 females who were selected from different provinces. The patron of the recruit course is Honourable Patterson Oti, Speaker of the National Parliaments of Solomon Islands. The recruit course ran for 19 weeks with intensive training and mentoring from the Police Academy. Five officers were discharged during the training due to disciplinary and sickness. Five awards were awarded to outstanding officers. The awards include Academic awards, Integrity Awards, Physical Fitness Awards, Leadership Awards and Baton of Honour during the graduation ceremony. RSIPF Commissioner Mostyn Mangau in his remarks said, “There will be challenges that you will encounter in your policing career. One good example is wantokism culture where your integrity will be challenged and will make it difficult for you especially in your decision making.” Commissioner Mangau adds, “Despite the challenges you will encounter, I urge each of you to be strong, courageous and to rise above the pressures and uphold the laws of this country in a fair manner. “To be strong, courageous and to rise above the pressures and uphold the laws of this country in a fair manner. To do this, it requires personal discipline and uphold our organisation’s code of conduct at all times both on and off duty.” Mangau He said, “I trust that you will build on what you have learned in theory at the Police Academy and put into practice when executing police duties at your work post during your two years’ probation period. I expect that during your probation period you will learn as much as you can in order to become an effective police officer.”

Police Commissioners hands certificate of Attainment to Police Constable Dyer Taromunia

Graduates after the ceremony

PS of MPNSCS Karen Galokale inpects the parade

Graduates taking the Oath of Office

Graduates representative presents gift to Hon.Patterson Oti their Patron

Graduates during parade Permanent Secretary (PS) of the Ministry of Police, National Security and Correctional Services (MPNSCS) Ms. Karen Galokale in her speech says, “Over the past weeks of training, you have given your best and successfully completed many demanding hours of training. I am sure some of those hours were not pleasant as the course was quite intensive and had covered a total of 34 modules.” “I promise you that those training sessions will really work your efforts when you are out on the field. The training will set benchmarks for you. It will guide you into your career. It will provide you with the tools to become efficient in the duties that you will perform, to become an outstanding police officer.” PS Galokale Ms. Galokalo says, “Go out into our communities. Let citizens know that you are there to help them. During your probationary period, you will perform policing duties according to the laws of Solomon Islands.” She adds, “Remember that you will be held to a higher standard. As police officers, you are expected to serve and protect the citizens of our community. Our national motto is to ‘lead is to serve’ and you fully comply with the humble sense of the motto.” The patron of the recruit course is Honourable Patterson Oti, Speaker of the National Parliaments of Solomon Islands has encouraged the new graduates during the 19 weeks confinement. The patron Hon: Oti says, “The learning does not stop here, it still continues with the opportunity provided by Australia and China. It is the start of a long process as your career as a police officer.” Mr. Oti says, “The RSIPF is a discipline organisation and emphasises on employing well educated and matured officers. RSIPF is a command structured institution in which the orders govern the operation of its administration.”  The newly graduated officers will begin their 2 years’ probation period next week on stations throughout the country. Special guests attended the graduation including Hon. Speaker of Parliament Patterson Oti (who is also the Patron), the PS MPNSCS Ms. Karen Galokale, Commissioner of Correctional Service Solomon Islands (CSSI) Mr. Marktus Forau, Commander of Solomon International Assistance Force (SIAF) Mr. Heath Davies, Commander of RSIPF-AFP Policing Partnership Policing Program (RAPPP) Mr. Clinton Smith, Team Leader of Solomon Island Police Support Program (SIPSP)Mr. Warrick McKee and Team Leader China Police Liaison Team (CPLT) Commissioner Zhang Guangbao.  //End// Read the full article

[solomonherald]

MP RAMOFAFIA PRIORITIZES TANGIBLE DEVELOPMENT IN FATALEKA CONSTITUENCY

The Member of Parliament for Fataleka Constituency Honourable Rexon Ramofafia continues to prioritize tangible rural development as materials for projects worth SBD4.8 million are ready to be shipped to his constituency. These projects are part of the government’s ongoing support for his constituency through the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD) under the Constituency Development Program. MRD Principal Rural Development Officers Agnes Bopi Tanihorara and Director Governance Hickson George were on the ground to witness the loading of the project materials on Thursday 1st December 2022 before departing Honiara soon. Fataleka Constituency projects fall under two main sectors in terms of project and cost breakdown. For this year the Fataleka Constituency focuses mainly on two main sectors – Infrastructure (Housing scheme) and Income-generating activities. The infrastructure sector includes; housing projects (roofing Irons, Pallets of cement, Bricks, nails, steel rods, ring and tie wires, Masonite including other necessary hardware materials. The development of decent, affordable rural housing can improve the lives of those with inadequate shelter, while at the same time benefitting the local economy. It also guarantees an improvement in the standard of living of the underprivileged population in rural areas. These projects were aligned with the Fataleka Constituency Development plans and priorities for 2019-2023. Having these additional projects will further enhance the socio-economic development of the constituency which is the key objective of the CDF programme. A total of $ 4.8 million plus worth of CDF project materials will be shipped to the Fataleka constituency, thus, it was a milestone achievement by the Fataleka constituency office and the Ministry of Rural Development. MRD understands that Honourable Ramofafia travelled to his constituency on Thursday 1st December 2022 to meet with his people and also oversees the handing over of the materials to the people in the constituency. The earmarked project recipients thanked the SIG and the Peoples Republic of China (PRC) for the ongoing support toward CDF. MRD continues to make sure that all Solomon Islanders become meaningfully participated in development activities to improve their social and economic livelihood. CDF Programme is administered by the Ministry of Rural Development and is supported by the Solomon Islands Government (SIG) and the Peoples Republic of China (PRC) as a donor. Hon Rexon Ramofafia is the Minister for the Ministry of National Planning and Development Coordination (MNPDC) and is the current Member of Parliament for the Fataleka Constituency. Read the full article

[solomonherald]

MRD PS attends workshop on CDF & Anti-Money Laundering in New Zealand

The Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD) Dr. Samson Viulu has attended a regional workshop on Constituency Development Funds (CDFs) and Anti-Money Laundering in Wellington, New Zealand from 28-29 November, 2022. The meeting brought together parliamentarians along with integrity officials including Ombudsmen and Leadership Commission from the Pacific region.

MRD Permanent Secretary Dr. Samson Viulu presenting the new and first ever SICD Policy to the meeting audience. Photo courtesy of GOPAC. PS Viulu said the inclusion of Solomon Islands more especially MRD in the meeting was necessary because Solomon Islands like other Pacific Island countries are also adopting the CDF programme towards advancing its rural development aspirations.  He said the meeting ratifications will lead to a new Pacific-focused toolkit on CDFs to boost fund oversight, accountability, transparency and strengthen good governance.  PS Viulu added that CDF allocation to constituencies has since increased over the years therefore, guaranteeing standard practices are adopted is crucial while citing the first ever Solomon Islands Constituency Development (SICD) Policy that MRD is currently developing as a way forward to improve the CDF programme and rural development undertaking in the country.  “CDF is one of the very few funds that go directly to the rural people. The only programme that government through MRD is executing to decentralize development and government services in our rural areas. Yet, standard practices need strengthening to improve delivery mechanisms and boost accountability of the fund and its process,” PS Viulu, PS He added that with the reforms that MRD is undertaking and the political support from the government towards reforming the CDF programme, he is hopeful that CDF will remain one of the priority programmes of the government towards advancing rural development in our rural areas to improving social and economic livelihoods of Solomon Islanders.     PS Viulu also used the opportunity and did a presentation on the new SICD Policy which was well received by everyone in attendance.    PS Viulu had suggested during the regional workshop for an annual regional CDF conference bringing different countries to share their best practices, successful experiences and challenges in implementing the CDF program in their respective countries.  PS Viulu along with Ombudsman Fred Fakarii, Ombudsman Legal Advisor Nelson Dhitta and LCC Chairman Stevenson attended the workshop in NZ.   A biennial GOPAC Oceania General Meeting was also held during the workshop. United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) supported the two-day CDF conference and development of the CDF toolkit through the UN Pacific Regional Anti-Corruption Project (UN-PRAC), supported by the New Zealand Aid Programme. Global Organization of Parliamentarians Against Corruption (GOPAC) Oceania is assisted financially by the GOPAC Office in Qatar and the Government of Qatar.  Read the full article

[solomonherald]

Partners launch ground-breaking project supporting education for deaf youth

On 31 August, partners came together at San Isidro Care Centre and School for the Deaf to celebrate the launch of the Iumi Tugeda Helpem Solomon Islands Def Comuniti project, which will help improve access to quality education for deaf children across Solomon Islands. The project will increase the number of sign language trainers and provide deaf language training courses for communities across several provinces including in remote communities, where the greatest proportion of young deaf and hearing-impaired people live. This will help increase opportunities for deaf youth to participate in learning and engage with their communities. The project will also provide professional development for teachers on deaf language and inclusive education. Additionally, participants can receive a Certificate of Teaching and Learning from the Australian Catholic University (ACU), a qualification recognised by the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD). The Catholic Education Office, Archdiocese of Honiara, which operates San Isidro Care Centre and School for the Deaf, is delivering the project in partnership with the ACU. Australia and New Zealand are providing funding under the Education Sector Support Program (ESSP) NGO Grants Program, which is implemented in partnership MEHRD. At the project launch, Dr Franco Rodie, Permanent Secretary MEHRD, said that “Deaf students must be given equal opportunity to attend schools as their peers. It is a formal education that will enhance the ability of students who are deaf or cannot hear well to communicate and give them the skills and confidence to lead productive lives and to support their families.” Ms Kate Bradlow, Deputy High Commissioner at the New Zealand High Commission, said that “everyone, regardless of your different abilities, has the right to be heard, learn, and thrive. ESSP recognises that it takes a whole community to educate a child and every part of our society, whether government, NGO, the Church or local community, has a role to play in growing Solomon Islands’ future leaders.” Ms Samantha Vallance, First Secretary Education at the Australian High Commission, said that the project would complement other ESSP support to MEHRD to help mainstream inclusive education approaches and practices in areas such as teacher professional development and curriculum development. The San Isidro Care Centre and School for the Deaf was established in 2008 as a live-in Rural Training Centre that teaches deaf and hard-of-hearing youth vocational training and life skills, as well as sign language. According to the Solomon Islands National Statistics Office (2015 Disability Health Survey) 6.1% of the population is functionally impacted by some form of hearing impairment. However, these are likely to be conservative estimates due to data reliability challenges, which the project also aims to improve upon. The ESSP 2020-2023 is a partnership between the governments of Solomon Islands, Australia and New Zealand to improve access to quality basic education for all children in Solomon Islands. The ESSP includes direct budget support for MEHRD to deliver annual work program activities aligned with the National Education Action Plan; technical advisory support to enable capacity development and skills transfer; and grants to non-government organisations to strengthen early childhood care and education, improve learning outcomes for disadvantaged children and community support for children’s learning. Read the full article

[solomonherald]

Wale calls on police to dig deeper into Win Win's boss case

OPPOSITION Leader Hon Matthew Wale has called on police to thoroughly investigate the use of an alleged replica firearm by Win Win Company’s managing director to threaten a community at Central Guadalcanal. In a statement today, Hon Wale said apart from the intimidation charge as reported in the media, police should also investigate allegations whether the firearm is a replica or not. Hon Wale adds in fact replica guns are illegal under Firearms and Ammunition (Amendment) Act 2000. Hon Wale said the whole report sounds fishy given that the Win Win Company arranged for the RSIPF high-ranking officials to visit the company days after the Win Win boss was arrested. The Opposition Office is reliably informed that Win Win Company arranged for the RSIPF top officials to visit the company after the their boss was arrested to try and nullify any negative reports about the company after the incident. The Opposition Leader said this is the same company that was implicated in trying to smuggle gold that was disguised as soil out of the country. The matter was surprisingly only resolved ‘administratively’ by the Government. “Fishy dealings create distrust & RSIPF should keep a healthy distance from such organisations and not give them any appearance of credibility. This is poor judgment on the part of RSIPF,” he said. The Opposition Leader also adds the allegations of threat and intimidation are serious and claims to investigate whether the firearms were replica as reported or not must also be determined,” the Opposition Leader said. Hon Wale said allegations that there is also a split in the RSIPF on the Win Win investigations are also of grave concern. He said RSIPF must carry out its investigation without fear or favour and that police must avoid any political interference or whatsoever. “I must salute the police officers that are carrying out their mandated duties and I urge them to continue to clamp down on such cases out there,” he said. The Opposition Office is also informed that as part of the investigations, police are also trying to investigate whether the alleged replica guns are from the replica guns shipment, which was reportedly smuggled into the country in recent months. ENDS// Read the full article

[solomonherald]

SICCI and Meta partner on a new scholarship program to increase local businesses’ digital capability

Yesterday, on 7th October, the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Meta (the parent company of platforms including Facebook and Instagram) launched a new pilot ‘Lokol Bisnis Digital Marketing Scholarship Program’. The program targets representatives of SICCI member businesses across Solomon Islands who want to improve their online presence through social media platforms to reach new customers locally and globally. It builds on the partnership between SICCI and Meta, which last year delivered a ‘Boost with Facebook’ training workshop in Honiara for more than 80 local business communications and marketing professionals, and the ‘Influen-shell’ social media campaign, which showcased Solomon Islands businesses that have been using digital platforms to grow and stay resilient, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Lokol Bisnis Digital Marketing Scholarship Program will support up to 50 representatives from SICCI member businesses, with the aim of helping them grow into tomorrow’s digital marketing and communications leaders. The first of its kind in the Pacific Islands, the Meta-led program will help build local digital capability for small businesses. The program includes dedicated training sessions with Meta experts and participants will have the opportunity to gain a professional certification in digital marketing through Meta’s Blueprint program. SICCI Chief Executive Officer, Natalina Hong, says “As a membership-driven organization and private sector representative in the Solomon Islands, SICCI is pleased to continue this partnership with Meta, to help support the capacity of local business and encourage diversity of leadership in a growing digital marketing environment.” Solomon Alufooa, Owner of Legacy Press and a training participant, says, "In this virtual age, I've seen  digital marketing has replaced most traditional marketing tactics because it's designed to reach today's consumers’ needs both locally and internationally. Therefore, as aspiring business leaders, we need to consider digital marketing as a tool to leverage our brand to the market. I anticipate establishing my business presence on Meta platforms, to help understand digital marketing fundamentals, and create content, ads, and leads to sales and marketing.” A spokesperson from ACLAR, also taking part in the training, says, "We really appreciate being awarded the Lokol Bisnis Digital Marketing Scholarship to participate in the Lokol Bisnis Digital Marketing Scholarship Program. We believe this opportunity will help improve our knowledge in this aspect of business operations and activities, enhancing our online presence to promote and deliver our products and services more effectively.” Nick McDonnell, Meta’s Head of Policy for New Zealand and the Pacific Islands, says, “Across the Solomon Islands and the wider Pacific, there are fantastic opportunities to grow the digital economy and help to boost resilience, innovation, and economic growth. This is even more important as Pacific nations begin to welcome back tourists following the pandemic lockdowns. We are delighted to continue working with SICCI to support and encourage Solomon Islands businesses to harness digital platforms to grow and reach new audiences.” Read the full article

[solomonherald]

Consultation on SICD Policy underway in Auki

A delegation from the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD) is in Auki, Malaita Province to conduct consultation with its stakeholders on the first-ever Solomon Islands Constituency Development (SICD) Policy. Led by Consultation team leader and MRD Principal Project Planning Officer George Balairamo, the team arrived in Auki on Monday ahead of the two-days consultation which commenced on Wednesday 14th September, 2022. Permanent Secretary for the Ministry Dr. Samson Viulu also accompanied the team to provide technical support and guidance during the consultation process. Included in the team is Dr. Paul P. Bosawai who currently manages the Sape Medical Clinic and Sape farm in the Guadalcanal Plain. He was invited by the Ministry to share his experience and knowledge about how he started Sape Farm to be one of the leading commercial farms in the Solomon Islands. PS Dr. Viulu said that Dr. Paul’s experience will set the participants some sense of direction as to why this SICD Policy came about and how it will change our perception of rural development in the 50 constituencies. The Permanent Secretary said his team is looking forward to the consultation tomorrow to ensure they gather needed information for the formulation of the SICD Policy Framework. The purpose of the consultations is to enable MRD to gather invaluable inputs and recommendations from its stakeholders to assist them (MRD) in the formulation and design of the SICD policy framework. Participants Rep Eddie Bibimauri making his remarks. The policy framework will set the bases for the MRD internal task force to develop the drafting instructions for the proposed review of the CDF Act 2013. It will also further enhance the planning, coordination, implementation, and management of the CDF. “Vision of the CD policy is to achieve safe, clean, healthy, friendly, peaceful and vibrant rural communities all throughout the Solomon Islands by 2035,” PS Viulu said. PS Viulu said that views from the wider public including from rural folks will be gathered from these consultations and a policy working draft will be distributed to all the relevant stakeholders for their invaluable input. Other main features of the policy are identification of main thematic focus areas, allocation of financial resources, constituency governance, improved and more focused delivery mechanisms, and proper coordination, planning, and sustenance of income generating projects. PS Viulu further stated that the CD policy is intended to guide how development can be sustainably implemented and harnessed throughout all constituencies in collaboration with relevant line ministries and other stakeholders. “The new development policy will make more emphasis on the productive and resource sectors including essential services to address the issues and challenges faced daily by rural dwellers thereby activating an additional percentage of the productive population to contribute to the national revenue and consequently grow our local and national economy.” The two-days consultation will end Thursday 15th September, 2022. Read the full article

[solomonherald]

Thank you PNG/SI Community Association for donation of Laundry items to NRH

In a brief handing-over event this week, the National Referral Hospital (NRH) Executive Management receives with hearts filled with thanks, important laundry items donated by the Papua New Guinea/Solomon Islands (PNG/SI) Community Association.The Association comprised of Papua New Guinea Nationals living and working in Solomon Islands including those married here and their children and even Solomon Islanders born and raised in Papua New Guinea. The items donated include 100-bed sheets or linens and pillowcases, 20 door mats, and 2 cartons of bleach and other washing detergents. In delivering the items, the Chairman of the PNG/SI Community Association Mr. Carson Korowa said the association is delighted and pleased to be making the donation to NRH.   “The funds used to purchase the items is partly from the overall funds mobilized through our recent fundraising to mark our 47th Independence Anniversary, on the 16th of September 2022. Thus the donation is by way of sharing the joy of our country’s important national event, with the people of Solomon Islands”, explained Mr. Korawa.  He also acknowledged the deep ties that exist between the people of PNG and Solomon Islands describing it as transcending beyond the diplomatic relationship and expressed hearty thanks to the Management and staff of NRH for the important services provided that members of the PNG-SI community also benefits from.  In response, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NRH Dr. George Malefoasi, expressed sincere appreciation and thanks to the president and all members of the PNG community in the Solomon Islands for the donation.  “We truly appreciate this donation that is also delivered in a time as the demand for these items have recently increased due to increased patient presentations at the emergency department from the flu outbreak and other diseases”,Dr. Malefoasi He added, with every one patient there is at the most 1 to 2 caregivers, so the exact number of people the hospital is taking care of doubles the total admissions at the hospital. “So thank you very much for the donation which we truly appreciate and receive with hearts that are filled with thanks. Thank you PNG/SI Community Association for donation of Laundry items to NRH Read the full article

[solomonherald]

Gov’t bring development right down to rural Temotu Pele 

Most wanted developments have reached the shores of Lomlom people in the Reef Islands of Temotu Pele Constituency (TPC) from the National Government through their Member of Parliament and Minister for the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD) Honourable Duddley Kopu. This followed a successful historic groundbreaking ceremony to commence construction work on the 17 kilometers Lomlom Coastal Ring-Road held on Monday 11th July at Nyialo village in the Reef Islands of Temotu Province. The occasion proved the close collaboration and firm partnership between the National Government through the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID), Temotu Pele Constituency of the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD), Temotu Provincial Government (TPG), Landowners, and communities in the reef Islands. Speaking during the event Acting Prime Minister and Minister for the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) Manasseh Maelanga hailed Member of Parliament for Temotu Pele Hon. Duddley Kopu and his constituency for the remarkable achievement. “The Lomlom Ring Road has been a dream for the people of this constituency for a long time and I am glad to inform you all that it was through the vision of your MP that this dream is going to be realized today,” Hon. Mealanga said. He further echoed that the DCGA government recognizes the need to support remote parts of our country and through its policies encourages resource owners to support the government by allowing their resources for such infrastructure development to make life easier and boost economic development through sectors like agriculture, fisheries, and tourism. Hon. Maelanga further stressed that Temotu Pele Constituency is one of the luckiest constituencies in the country. “This was because of the working together of the landowners, the provincial government, and your hardworking MP,” he further added. The road once completed will directly pass through ten villages, settlements, and schools. Villagers from neighboring islands of Pileni, Nifiloli, and Fenualo Islands will also use the road to access the Manuopo Area Health Center, Lomlom Airstrip, and Balipa Community High School, and Nyialo Fisheries Centre. Meanwhile, Hon. Kopu, MP said the rehabilitation of Lomlom Ring Road is aligned with the current National Transport Plan of MID.  “The Government is willing to develop our rural areas and is willing to collaborate with landowners on priority community projects such as roads and other infrastructure,” he said.  Hon. Kopu then called on communities and people of his constituency to render much-needed support for the project. Rehabilitation work on the Lomlom Coastal Ring-Road in the Reef Islands is one of the national government’s major road infrastructure projects for this year. The project is co-financed by MID and Temotu Pele Constituency under the Constituency Development Fund, a program administered by the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD). The contract was awarded to AJ Enterprise Ltd on 4th November 2021 through the Central Tender Board (CTB), however, due to the threat posed by COVID-19 in the country, the project was delayed. Other major ongoing projects that are also supported by the government through the partnership agreement between Temotu Pele Constituency, and Temotu Provincial Government include Manuopo Area Health Centre, Nyialo Fishery Centre, and Water Supply.  “These projects demonstrated strong partnership between our rural people, the relevant government ministries, constituency, the Temotu Provincial Government, and the Temotu Pele landowners,” Hon. Kopu added. The ground-breaking ceremony was attended by the Acting Prime Minister and MID Minister as the guest of honor Hon. Maelanga, Minister of MRD Hon. Dudley Kopu, MP for Temotu Nende Comins Aston Mewa, MID Permanent Secretary Stephen Maesiola, MRD Permanent Secretary Dr. Samson Viulu, Temotu Provincial Premier Clay Forau, and TPG Executive, government officials, chiefs, and communities within the Pele constituency. The event was held under the theme, “Togetherness brings Development for Reef Islands”. Read the full article

[solomonherald]

Major road contracting agreement signed

The Minister of National Planning and Development Coordinate and Supervising Minister of Finance and Treasury, Hon. Rex Ramofafia, formally concluded the contracting agreement process with the international contractor, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation or CCECC, today, 31st May, 2022, to commence the construction of major road work in Honiara and Guadalcanal. An international tender process for the first phase of the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project (LMCP) was supervised under the Asian Development Bank or ADB and a contract has recently been awarded to CCECC. The contractor is currently mobilising with initial activities is expected to commence within the next 2-3 months – works include improvements to road drainage, longer lasting asphalt surfacing, together with road signs, markings, bus-shelters & street lighting, and are expected to be completed in time before the 2023 South Pacific Game. The major component of the first phase will involve a major improvement to roads around Honiara that includes improving and extending the existing 4-lane road, from the central market through to White River (approximately 5 km), as well as the 2-lane road from the Airport to Mberande (approximately 30 km). At the handover ceremony, Minister Rex revealed that the DCGA Government has recognises the provision and improvement of National transport infrastructure is crucial in promoting corresponding improvements to the social and economic development of the Solomon Islands and identified the need for action to be taken in respect of major roads, wharves & port facilities within both the main urban centres and outlying rural areas. Minister further revealed that to facilitate this comment the Government have arranged financing amounting to approximately USD 170 million, with assistance from the ADB, for improvements to selected infrastructure, that include roads & wharves in and around Honiara as well as in the provinces of Makira and Rennell & Bellona. The second phase of the LMCP project will include 2 domestic wharfs in these provinces and the rehabilitation of the international Wharf in Honiara. Minister Rex finally expressed his gratitude and confirm that the impact of the project, once complete, will be to contribute to a more efficient, safer and sustainable transport system that will improve access to education, health and social service facilities as well as offering increased opportunities to local businesses and general improvement in the overall wellbeing of the people of the Solomon Islands. The Minister also conveyed to the contractor the DCGA Government stand to complete the West Honiara main road, from Central Market to White River by the 4th quarter 2023. In respond to the Minister’s statement, CCECC country Manager, Mr. Huang Pengfei also recognized the importance of the project as the country prepares to host the 2023 Pacific Game. Mr. Huang revealed that CCECC operates in the country for almost 6 years, with its established plants, equipment, machines, expertise and familiar with the Government rules and regulation. Huang also confirmed that they will utilize local resources and will strictly implement the project to ensure that they deliver a high-quality infrastructure and on time as requested by the Government. Both the Minister Rex and Mr. Huang thank the ADB for the high-level management of the design and oversees the procurement of the project. END// GCU PRESS RELEASE Read the full article

[solomonherald]

The decision to fully reopen the Solomon Islands border on 01 July 2022 welcomed

Dereveke: “after more than two years isolated from the rest of the world, this is wonderful news”  Tourism Solomons has welcomed Solomon Islands Prime Minister, Manasseh Sogavare’s announcement the country’s border will fully reopen on 1 July 2022. This easing of restrictions means that from that date, foreign nationals can once again enter the country. However, health precautions will still apply with all incoming travelers required to have a negative PCR test within 72 hours before arrival, in addition to a negative RAT test within 12 hours of arrival. Only those people that have completed a full course of vaccinations will be allowed to enter the country from overseas, with the exception of children unable to be vaccinated. The current quarantine period for international travelers is 14 days but this will be dropped to six days on 01 June and then three days post that date with international visitors required to quarantine in Honiara. A negative RAT test will be required on day three post-arrival before they can be released. Tourism Solomons Acting CEO, Head of Corporate Services, Dagnal said after more than two years isolated from the rest of the world, this is wonderful news and he, his team, and the local tourism industry are more than ready to start welcoming international visitors. “Our tourism sector has taken the front foot and is well ahead of other segments of the population in terms of COVID-readiness,” Mr. Dereveke said. “More than 80 percent of business operators, hoteliers, and resorts have undergone ‘Tourism Minimum Standards Extra-Care’ training and implemented COVID-safe protocols in preparation for the border reopening. “All we need are our international guests to start arriving.” Mr. Dereveke and his team have for the past two years been kept busy along with their counterparts at Solomon Airlines and the Ministry of Culture & Tourism driving the domestic-oriented ‘Iumi Tugeda Holiday Packages’. The program has played a vital role in helping to raise much-needed revenue and job opportunities for the country’s severely-impacted tourism industry. “Now it’s time to move on,” Mr. Dereveke said. “We have a big job on our hands, but our tourism industry has survived numerous crises over the years, and we have always emerged, and will always emerge, in better shape.” Read the full article