Latest News Archive May 2019

“I want to leave this legacy with you. Punctuality and dedication is very important as we deliver our services to our people. Bribe corrupts the heart.”

“Bribe Corrupts The Heart," DC Manelusi

“A successful career starts with one’s dedication, passion and commitment to his or her career,” says Deputy Commissioner of the Royal Solomon Islands Police (RSIPF) Gabriel Manelusi as he is farewelled during a parade held at Rove Police Headquarter on 30 May 2019.
SIWA says that the “We’re with you” campaign is an opportunity to assure water users that SIWA strives to provide a reliable, consistent and safe water supply.

Solomon Water Launches “We’re with You” Campaign

Solomon Water is excited to launch its “We’re with you” campaign aimed at providing improved and reliable water services to our customers.
“It is possible that the price could rise to challenge 2011 levels and move to north of the USD$4000 per ton level."

Cocoa Prices Set to Rise to 2011 Levels?

Cocoa suppliers in Solomon Islands have all but conceded that price levels in 2011, when the price hit USD$3826 per ton, is no longer possible.
The DCGA says it remains committed to delivering ongoing and prospective policy priorities in the interests of peace, national stability and economic advancement.

Government Set to Launch 100 Days Priorities on Friday

The Democratic Coalition Government for Advancement (DCGA) is set to launch its First 100 Days Policy Framework on Friday at the Heritage Park Hotel.
This year’s Careers Market was marked with the theme ‘Pathway to future Careers’, with the one-day event attracting hundreds of students from schools in and around Honiara.

Careers Market Display Pathways for Students

"As the body representing the private sector, we are focused on supporting businesses to thrive and create jobs, but at the same time we need to inspire our students, our young generation to aim high and to reach their full potential, as they are our future workforce as well as business entrepreneurs."
Pictured (from left) Tourism Solomons CEO, Josefa Tuamoto; Tourism Solomons senior marketing officer, Fiona Teama; Diveplanit director, Simon Mallender; Ministry of Culture Permanent Secretary, Andrew Nihopara, and SPUMS president, Professor David Smart.

Hosting of 2019 SPUMS Annual Conference Hailed a Major Success

Attracting delegates from as far afield as Australia, South Africa, the Middle East and the USA, the South Pacific Underwater Medicine Society’s (SPUMS) 48th Annual Scientific Meeting taking place in Honiara last week has been hailed a major success.
The statement says that the public needs to be on alert and need to be able to identify the security features of any banknote and differentiate a counterfeit note from a genuine one.

Counterfeit Notes on the Rise: CBSI Warns

The Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) has stated that counterfeiting activities has increased substantially, warning people to be vigilant.
The estimated volume also decreased by 10.6% to 2.822 million cubic meters valued at approximately SBD$2.9 Billion.

Log Exports Account for 79% of Solomon Islands Foreign Reserves

The Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) 2018 Annual Report showed that round log exports contributed a substantial portion of the country’s foreign exchange inflows.
The national team beat the Dutch third division defending champions.

Solomon Islands National Team Wins Fourth Friendly

The Solomon Islands national team have beaten their strongest opponents in Netherlands as they are victorious with a 3-2 win against AFC Amsterdam this morning.
Krishna's legacy is that Pacific Islanders can succeed in the A-League.

Roy Krishna’s Success and Lessons for Solomon Soccer

What Roy Krishna has done is staggering, consider the following statistics and accolades;
“I’m concerned about readiness in terms of our own governance, to really be on terms with China,” Mr Kenilorea said.

Solomon Islands Not Ready for China: Kenilorea

First term MP for East Are Are and former Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Peter Kenilorea Jr, says Solomon Islands are not ready for a switch in recognition to mainland China.
He says such behavior shows that they may be adapting and avoiding treated bed nets, raising the need to combat these deadly mosquitoes outdoors.

Research into Malaria in Solomon Islands Show Mosquitoes Adapting

Research into malaria in Solomon Islands has found that while there have been big reductions in the number of people becoming ill in the past 20 years, the mosquitoes that carry the infectious parasite are adapting their behavior.
Chief Justice Palmer held that the claim was an abuse of Court process and found that what was put forward by Hon. Wale’s lawyers were arguments that are not known to law.

Wale Loses Eligibility Case Against Sogavare

Chief Justice Sir Albert Palmer has ruled against the High Court challenge brought on by Opposition MP Mathew Wale.
The national team has four more games to play before they fly to Singapore for an international friendly.

Solomon Islands Wins Two Friendlies in Netherlands Tour

The Solomon Islands national soccer team has won two games out of three against club sides in Netherlands.
Mr Morrison has stepped up his focus on the region, appointing Alex Hawke into Cabinet as Minister for the Pacific and International Development.

Australian PM To Visit Solomon Islands in First Overseas Trip

Australia’s newly elected Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, will make his first overseas trip to the Solomon Islands next week.
Loloata Island Resort a 20 minute drive on the Magi highway from Port Moresby.

SINPF Buys 15% Shares in PNG Based Loloata Island Resort

The Solomon Islands National Provident (SINPF) Board has purchased its’ 15% shares in Loloata Island Resort Limited on Tuesday 14th May 2018 at the Lamana Hotel, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. The SINPF bought its shares for K12 million (approx. SBD$30 million) from funds generated from its’ Bank South Pacific equity investment returns.
The side lined up for their first ever game on European soil.

Narrow Defeat in First International Friendly for Solomon Islands

Solomon Islands slip to a narrow defeat in opening game of their Netherlands tour.
Counting for the HTC elections took place at the multipurpose hall.

Honiara City Council Election Results Out

The Honiara city council has completed counting last night, results for the 11 wards were released progressively online.
Jaro Local is in good company, previous winners of this award include major island music stars Common Kings, J Boog and Fiji.

Jaro Local Scoops Best International Pacific Artist of the Year

The fast-rising Music star from the Solomon Islands, Jaro Local, has won the prestigious “Best International Pacific Artist of the Year” award at the Pacific Music Awards in Auckland, New Zealand.
PPC Toaki warns: “Rape is a serious offence which carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. It is an inhumane act which must not be accepted in our communities.”

20 Year Old Arrested for Rape

A 20-year-old man has been remanded at the Lata Correctional Service Solomon Islands Centre in Temotu Province on a charge of alleged rape and will appear in the Lata Magistrates Court on 29 May 2019.
The Solomon Islands Urban Water Supply and Sanitation Sector Project will support Solomon Water to rehabilitate and expand water production and treatment systems across Honiara, Auki, Gizo, Noro and Tulagi; develop a new water supply system in Munda; and connect an additional 40,000 homes in Honiara.

World Bank Grants US$15 Million for Water and Sanitation Projects

Thousands of communities across the Solomon Islands will benefit from improved access to quality water and sanitation services, following approval of a grant for US$15 million (SBD$122 million) by the World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors, as part of a joint project with the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
When people have a good flow of trustworthy information that is accessible they are less inclined to panic.

Can We Counter Fake News?

The fake news that a tsunami warning was issued for Honiara caused panic and confusion as people fled for safety mid-morning yesterday.
The 2015 Pacific Games opened in spectacular style in Port Moresby, PNG.

Solomon Islands Games Officials in PNG to Learn

A fact finding mission led by Solomon Islands Sports Minister Christopher Laore is in Port Moresby to talk with state official and other bodies on the hosting of the 2023 Pacific Games.
It is understood from various sources that most of the petitions involves allegations of collusion between electoral officials and their preferred candidates.

High Court Rejects Petition Against Sogavare

The High Court has rejected a petition filed against Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare.
 Hon. Jeremiah Manele, Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade [centre] at the Solomon Islands Embassy in Brussels, with Trade Commissioner Mr Joseph Ma’ahanua and Ambassador Mose.

Foreign Minister Attends ACP - EU Joint Meetings in Brussels

The Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade Hon. Jeremiah Manele (MP) is leading a Solomon Islands delegation to the 109th Session of the African, Caribbean and Pacific ( ACP) Council of Ministers and the 44th Session of the ACP-European Union (EU) Joint Council of Ministers meeting in Brussels, Kingdom of Belgium from 20-24 May 2019.
The Honiara Central Market where news of a tsunami threat was said to have started causing panic.

No Tsunami Threat or Warning Issued for Solomon Islands

There is panic in Honiara, particularly around the central market and china town area, after news spread of a tsunami warning that was said to have been issued.
CBSI Governor, Mr Denton Rarawa, at the launch of the report at the Mendana Kitano Hotel.

Economy to Grow By 3.7%: CBSI

The Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) projects the economy to grow by 3.7% in 2019.
“PRT officers will continue to be deployed to the border until the Solomon Islands – Papua New Guinea Border Strategy which is a national strategy is finalized for permanent presence of armed officers at the border,” says AC Uiga.

RSIPF Deploys Officers to Border With PNG

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) continues to deploy some of its officers from Honiara to assist officers in the Western and Choiseul Provinces to provide security at the border with Papua New Guinea.
The High Court of Solomon Islands.

Twenty-Nine Election Petitions Filed

At the close of the 30-day period for filing of petitions the High Court of Solomon Islands has confirmed that 29 petitions were filed.
Erin Elizabeth McKee the new US Ambassador to PNG, the Solomon Islands and the Republic of Vanuatu.

New US Envoy to PNG, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu

President of the United States, Donald J. Trump, announced his intent to nominate Erin Elizabeth McKee of California to be Ambassador to PNG, the Solomon Islands and the Republic of Vanuatu.
Hon. Kenilorea Jr. says that the mumbling of a few in the minority can never drown out the shouts of change exclaimed by the majority.

Kenilorea Jr. Refutes Corruption Allegations

A petition has been lodged against the Member of Parliament for East Are Are, Hon. MP Peter Kenilorea Jr.
The Prime Minister is said to be given 60 days to switch recognition, failing that a motion of no confidence will be tabled, and he will be removed.

Sogavare Pressured to Switch Recognition

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare is said to be under increased pressure from MPs, said to be from both sides of the house, to switch recognition from longtime ally Taiwan to China.
“This is indeed a prestigious honour and I would like to express my extreme gratitude for being given this amazing opportunity,” Mr Tuamoto said.

Tourism Solomons CEO Invited to Join PATA Board

Strong recognition for the Solomon Islands on the international tourism stage and huge kudos for Tourism Solomons with CEO, Josefa ‘Jo’ Tuamoto invited to join the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) executive board.
RSIPF Assistant Commissioner for National Capital and Crime Prevention, Simpson Pogeava.

RSIPF Commends Public Behavior During High Court Hearing

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) wishes to thank the general public especially in Honiara for their good behavior during its operation for the High Court hearing of the case between Hon. Matthew Wale and Hon. Manasseh Sogavare on Friday.
The petitions will test the efficacy of the new Act. Aside from losing one’s seat, there are serious penalties for major offences such as election bribery and fraudulent voting.

Election Petitions Close Monday

Petitions against winning candidates at the recent national general elections will close on Monday 20th May 2019.
The squad has started their training session, under the watchful eye of coach Rijsbergen and his assistant Patrick Miniti.

Solomon Islands National Soccer Team Arrive in Netherlands

The Solomon Islands national soccer team landed in Amsterdam yesterday ahead of their three-week training camp.
“As responsible people in our community at Burns Creek it is important we understand the need to change the way we think, the way we do business according to law and at the same time derive financial benefit from what we do,” DC Manelusi told the participants at the workshop.

RSIPF Supports “Change Mindset” Workshop at Burns Creek

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) fully supports the one-week ‘Change of Mindset’ workshop which has been held at Burns Creek East of Honiara from 13 – 17 May 2019 as part of the National Crime Prevention Strategy.
As Australia’s flagship technical and vocational education and training (TVET) program, APTC has trained over 13,000 Pacific women and men, including more than 480 Kiribati citizens, since its commencement in 2007.

17 APTC Students Graduate in Kiribati

Seventeen i-Kiribati students graduated in eight different technical and vocational programs from the Australia Pacific Training Coalition (APTC) in a graduation ceremony held at the Kiribati Institute of Technology (KIT) on Wednesday 15 May 2019.
Anglican Operated Schools to Ban Sale of Certain Processed Food

Anglican Operated Schools to Ban Sale of Certain Processed Food

Schools operated by the Anglican Church of Melanesia (ACOM) will soon ban the sale of some processed food – mainly those with high sugary content, high salt content and greasy food - to their students.
The study provides data from women, men, youth and people with disability, primarily in rural settings, across all provinces. The findings and recommendations will inform policy priorities and future justice sector programmes.

New Study Shines Light on Justice Sector

Initial findings from a national survey of access to justice show that citizens commonly rely on traditional authorities to resolve disputes and want stronger links to the formal justice system.
It has been estimated that savings of up to 75 percent can be made in the shipping and port industries just by using existing technology and doing things a little bit differently.

IMO Helps Cut Maritime Emissions in the Solomon Islands

A new IMO video puts the spotlight on how an IMO/EU initiative is helping cut maritime emissions in the Solomon Islands as part of a global project to help tackle climate change.
Two Men Convicted for Illegally Crossing the SI-PNG Border

Two Men Convicted for Illegally Crossing the SI-PNG Border

The Provincial Police Commander (PPC), Choiseul Province Superintendent Vincent Eria welcomes the court decision by the Taro Magistrates Court which convicted two men, 42 and 44 years old, for illegal border crossing on 13 May 2019.
Mr Oti has had a long and distinguished career as a public servant, politician and most recently diplomat, serving as Solomon Islands High Commissioner to Fiji.

Patteson Oti Elected Speaker

The Speaker of the 11th Parliament is Patteson Oti.
The two candidates are former Speaker Ajilon Nasiu from Rennell and Bellona Province and former MP and Diplomat Patteson Oti from Temotu Province.

Election of Speaker Underway

Members of Parliament of the 11th Parliament have been officially sworn in - they are now in the process of electing the Speaker of Parliament for the 11th Parliament.

Tsunami Warning for PNG and the Solomon Islands Lifted

A tsunami warning has been lifted for Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands after a powerful earthquake struck off the coast of the island of New Britain.
Partnership for Cleaner, Healthier Marketplace

Partnership for Cleaner, Healthier Marketplace

Notice anything different at the Central Market lately? Thanks to a joint effort between the Honiara City Council and the Honiara Central Market Vendors Association, market vendors are now enjoying a cleaner and a healthy working environment.
The Police operation is in addition to the normal security at the National Parliament House for meetings of Parliament members.

Business as Usual in Honiara: RSIPF

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) wishes to advice the general public especially in Honiara that its “business as usual” this week as the first meeting of the 11th Parliament convenes today and the High Court continues with the hearing of the case between Hon. Matthew Wale and Hon. Manasseh Sogavare on 17 May 2019.
The offshore quake struck 45km northeast of the New Britain capital, Kokopo, at 12.58 UTC, and was 10 km deep.

Tsunami Alert After 7.5-Magnitude Earthquake off PNG

A powerful 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Papua New Guinea’s New Britain island on Tuesday, prompting fears of “hazardous” tsunami waves for coasts within 1,000 km of the quake's epicenter.
"It shows if you work hard dreams do come true."

Fijian Roy Krishna Officially the A-League's Best Player

The Wellington Phoenix striker has been awarded the Johnny Warren Medal for the competition's player of the 2018/19 season.
The team treating the 34-year-old patient at the hospital in Honiara, Solomon Islands. From left: nurse Meltus, Dr Andrew Soma, the patient, Wendy Spencer, Beth Hua and nurse Stephen.

Canberra Hospital Team Donates Oncology Unit to Solomon Islands

Dr Nalini Pati remembers seeing a young woman at the National Referral Hospital in Honiara having difficulty breathing because her lymph node had swollen to such a size it was restricting her airway.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres with Climate Change Minister James Shaw ...“It is absolutely crucial to have the leadership of the youth."

"Be Noisy As Possible on Climate Change," UN Secretary General's Message to Youths

Older generations are failing to address climate change and they need the world’s youth to lead the way, says United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres.
Local mechanic resources are very thin and hard to increase for Solomon Airlines.

Airlines CEO on the Challenges of Maintaining Small Fleet

Those who think recruiting maintenance staff in North America or Europe is hard might try doing it for a small carrier on a chain of Southwest Pacific Islands. Lovely beaches and a nice climate do not always encourage ambitious young workers.
The remnants of 300-year-old trees which once stood tall, but are now all but drowning, prove the point.

60 Minutes Highlights Disappearing Islands in the Solomons

With crystal clear blue waters and white sandy beaches, the Solomon Islands are one of the most stunning and remote parts of the Pacific Ocean.
The Central Bank of Solomon Islands released a new $5 polymer bank note on World Tuna Day.

CBSI Launches New $5 Bill on World Tuna Day

The Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) chose May 2, United Nations World Tuna Day, for the introduction of its new polymer $5 legal tender note. It is money with a clear message.
MV Solomon Trader oil spill on Rennell Island, Solomon Islands.

Moves to Re-float Bulk Carrier Vessel in Rennell Underway

An operation is underway in the Solomon Islands to re-float a ship that ran aground three months ago, causing an environmental disaster.
Inside the Solomon Islands parliamentary chambers.

Parliament Set to Meet 15th May 2019

The first meeting of the 11th Parliament is officially scheduled for Wednesday 15th May 2019.
Lucy Kasimwane inspects cocoa beans in a solar drier on her farm in Makira.

Level the Playing Field for Solomon Islands Businesswoman: ADB

Addressing barriers faced by Solomon Islands’ women entrepreneurs and business owners will spur business activity and create a more open and productive economy, says a book recently released by the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
RSIPF Assistant Commissioner Crime (AC) and Intelligence, Ian Vaevaso.

Foreigner Charged for Alleged Fraudulent Voting

Investigators of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) have formally charged a 40-year-old man today (9 May 2019) for alleged fraudulent voting during the recent National General Election.
Minister Tanangada and PS Galokale with RSIPF and CSSI executive officers.

“RSIPF and CSSI Saved a lot of Lives," Minister of Police

The new Minister of Police, National Security and Correctional Services, Hon. Lanelle Tanangada congratulates the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) and the Correctional Services of Solomon Islands (CSSI) for saving a lot of lives and properties during the recent disturbances in Honiara following the election of the Prime Minister on 24 Apr
Plumbing training participants and APTC staff - plumbing trainer, James Matariki, and Vocational Training Manager for Vanuatu and Nauru, Natasha Murray.

VIT and APTC to Renew Partnership for Skills Training in Vanuatu

The Vanuatu Institute of Technology (VIT) and the Australia Pacific Training Coalition (APTC) organised a storian to jointly agree and shape a renewed APTC and VIT Partnership for 2019-2022.
Sediment run-off from logged areas at the Kongulai catchment area.

Water Cuts Due to Logging Activities?

Solomon Water and relevant government Ministries are currently investigating a logging operation near the Kongulai water source area.
A numbers game has been underway in the South Pacific nation with rival camps of MPs jostling for dominance at meetings in recent days.

PNG Government Delays Planned Motion of no Confidence

Parliamentary sittings in Papua New Guinea were postponed for three weeks after opposition MPs planned a vote of no confidence in Prime Minister Peter O'Neill.
For this pilot programme, nine young entrepreneurs are paired with experienced mentors who are also members of the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI).

YECSI Launches Business Mentoring Programme

The Young Entrepreneurs Council Solomon Islands (YECSI) has launched the first ever business mentoring programme on Thursday 2nd May, 2019.
“I never watch this exciting kid play before but from what I have seen on videos he is a great young talent,” he said.

Rijsbergen Shows Interest in Raphael Leai’i

Solomon Islands national team coach Wim Rijsbergen has indicated his interest of calling up Raphael Leai’i into the national team for the Netherlands camp this month.
Some Solomon Islands officials are inclined toward China, Minister of Foreign Affairs Joseph Wu told Taipei Times, but denied reports of a possible switch to Beijing.

Some Solomon Islands Officials Inclined Toward China: Taiwan Foreign Minister

There are growing concerns in Taiwan that the Sogavare led government will cut ties and switch diplomatic recognition to China.
SAMMIELZ said that he is very excited to collaborate with Solomon Islands artists like JAH BOY since the style of music played by our local artists is quite similar.

Sammielz Here for M JAM Mother’s Day Concert

Sydney based Sammielz is in the country to perform at the upcoming M JAM Mother’s Day concert at the Heritage Park Hotel this weekend.
Megapodes incubate their eggs using the heat of an active volcano on Savo Island.

Savo Islands Megapodes Egg Fields

From Honiara, the capital of the Solomon Islands, Savo Island is reached by a 30-minute boat ride across the Iron Bottom Sound—so named for the dozens of ships and planes that sank in it during World War II.
The plaque presented by the Solomon Island Chinese Association to RSIPF.

Chinese Association Says Thank You to RSIPF

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force received a commendation letter from the Solomon Islands Chinese Association (SICA) and a plaque thanking the RSIPF for the exceptional service in April 2019.
“The world has taken notice of the problem and the international community is calling for action."

Western Province Moves To Ban Single Use Plastic Bags

“We are not going to wait for the national government to take action and therefore we have taken it upon ourselves to lead the country,” said the Premier of Western Province, David Gina.
Mr. Albert Kabui is the new Special Secretary to the Prime Minister.

New SSPM Appointed

Prime Minister Hon. Manasseh Sogavare has appointed Mr. Albert Kabui as his Special Secretary.

SICCI Members Updated on Revised Credit Guarantee Scheme

Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs) who are members of the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) had the opportunity to be informed about the revised SME Credit Guarantee Scheme.

RSIPF Investigates Deaths Over the Weekend

Officers of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) are investigating the death of two people in separate incidents in Honiara over the weekend.
Wu said he is “very confident” about the country’s ties with the Solomon Islands at a Legislative Yuan session this morning.

Taiwan's Foreign Minister Confident About Ties With Solomon Islands

Foreign Minister Joseph Wu expressed his confidence in Taiwan’s diplomatic relations with its Pacific ally, the Solomon Islands this morning.
RSIPF Officers provide high visibility police presence in Honiara.

RSIPF Continue With High Visibility Presence in Honiara

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) is continuing with its high visibility presence in Honiara as part of the normal police routine duty.
“We would like to think that political parties and members are exercising maturity that would also help protect Solomon Islands’ reputation in attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)," SICCI Chair, Mr Jay Bartlett, said.

SICCI Calls for Political Stability

The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) notes the developments taking place in the current political scenario.
They are the Hilltop Innovators: Giftson, Rosa, Joyce and John.

Trash to Cash: Cleaner, Greener Gizo

At the top of a steep hill in Gizo, the capital of Solomon Islands’ Western Province, four young people are leading a low-key waste management revolution.
Lai was given the mandate to lead Solomon football for another term after receiving 15 votes.

Lai Re-elected SIFF President

William Lai has been re-elected as the Solomon Islands Football Federation President at the SIFF Elective Congress held at Heritage Park conference room in Honiara over the weekend.
Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare speaks at a news conference at Parliament House in Honiara on April 24.

Taiwan Ambassador Meets with Prime Minister

Taiwan's Ambassador to the Solomon Islands Roger Luo, on Friday, met Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare to solidify bilateral ties.
Solomon Islands finished second in the 2018 OFC U-16 Championship.

U17 Given All Clear for World Cup

IT is official that the country’s national Under-17 Football team will be heading to the FIFA U17 World Cup in Brazil, this September.

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