Latest News Archive July 2013

Futsal Loss a Wake-Up Call

The Solomon Islands Futsal coach Dickson Kadau says his side’s disappointing performance at the Oceania Invitational tournament in Auckland is a massive wake-up call.

PNG and Solomons Look to Strengthen Ties in Trade

Solomon Islands Prime Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo has highlighted the importance of building a strong private sector relationship between Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea (PNG).

Biometric Voter Registration to be Conducted

To prepare for Parliamentary elections in 2014, the government of Solomon Islands has hired Canadian firm Electoral Services International Inc. (ESI) to undertake electronic Biometric Voter Registration (BVR) exercise.
A high-powered Papua New delegation led by PNG’s Trade, Commerce and Industry Minister Richard Maru made a courtesy call to Hon. Lilo yesterday.

SICCI Welcomes PNG Trade and Investment Mission

The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry says the current PNG trade and investment mission to the country bodes well for business relationships between the two countries.

New Zealand Extends Support

A team of New Zealanders are currently in the Solomon Islands to provide humanitarian support in various communities of the country.
USS Pearl Harbor will work alongside the Royal New Zealand Navy’s HMNZS Canterbury (L421) for the Partnership Projects around the country.

Pearl Harbor Arrives for Partnership Projects

The amphibious dock landing ship USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52) has arrived in the Solomon Islands for the Pacific Partnership projects.

Financial Institutions Bill Introduced

The Solomon Islands Minister of Finance and Treasury, Hon. Rick Hou has introduced a Bill to permit the Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) to issue an interim license to carry out limited banking service.
Dr Kenton Sare says at a conservative estimate, the emegency department treats more than 150 patients every day with only two doctors.

Hospital Make Do With Limited Doctors

The Solomon Islands Referral hospital's severe shortage of doctors is creating pressure for each units to function properly.

Strike Called Off After Court Order

The union representing Solomon Islands teachers says has it little confidence the government will honor a court order to meet all outstanding wage commitments, despite ending its strike.

Local Coast Watchers Recognized

The bravery of Solomon Islanders serving under Royal Australian Navy command during the Second World War has finally been recognized by Australia's federal government.

Pacific Sports Partnership Recipients Announced

Eleven Australian national sporting organisations have been selected to receive funding through the second phase of the Pacific Sports Partnerships (PSP) program, of which Solomon Islands will also benefit from.
Exporting live dolphins used to be allowed in the Solomon Islands, but after international outrage, the Government banned the practice.

Fisherman Plans to Resume Dolphin Export

A Solomon Islands fisherman says he plans to resume exporting live dolphins to countries like China and Dubai because the Government in Honiara has broken its promise.
Vanuatu's Prime Minister, Mr Kalosil has congratulated the Government and people of Solomon Islands on the success of  RAMSI's 10th anniversary celebrations.

Vanuatu and Solomons Commit to Strengthening Ties

The Solomon Islands Prime Minister, Hon. Gordon Darcy Lilo has highlighted the importance of strengthening the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) and its visions for the benefit of the Melanesian people.

Ministry of Environment Now Has Permanent Secretary

Solomon Islands Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster and Meteorology has a new Permanent Secretary.

Kola Reinstated Following Allegations

The acting head of the Solomon Islands Police has confirmed the reinstatement of the deputy commissioner Walter Kola.
Pacific nations that are signatories to the United Nations Refugee Convention, such as the Solomon Islands, which neighbors Papua New Guinea, could be asked to accept asylum seekers processed on Papua New Guinea's Manus Island who are found to be genuine refugees.

Solomons Could Play Role With Asylum Seekers

Solomon Islands is expected to play a role in the Australian government's plan to send asylum seekers to Papua New Guinea for processing and resettlement.
The brief bilateral meeting was to provide an overview for both Prime Ministers of the current engagements between the Solomon Islands and New Zealand.

New Zealand and Solomon Islands Held Bilaterals

Solomon Islands Prime Minister, Hon. Gordon Darcy Lilo has held bilateral talks with his New Zealand counterpart, John Key at the Office of the Prime Minister.
Hon. Gordon Darcy Lilo inspecting the Solomon Islands Police Response Team (PRT) at GBR.

Local Police Demonstrate Skills to Leaders

A demonstration of skills and tactics of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) and the Police Response Team (PRT) was demonstrated for the Pacific leaders at RAMSI base this week.
The training on Peace building and Conflict Analysis focused on conflict analysis, the difference between conflict and violence; as well as strategies for peace interventions.

Civil Society Discuss Sustainable Peace

In the past week, over 40 religious, private sector, and civil society leaders from around the Solomon Islands have participated a training course in peace building.
The procedures will be delivered through the third phase of the Pacific Regional Blindness Prevention Program – a partnership with the New Zealand Aid Programme and Fred Hollows Foundation New Zealand.

Australia Commits to Treating Avoidable Blindness

Australia's Minister for International Development Melissa Parke has announced that Australia will help support 8,000 operations to restore the sight of people in the Pacific, including Solomon Islands.

RAMSI Launches Video Documentary

The Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI) has launched a video documentary and a booklet recording the work of the Mission as it celebrates its 10th anniversary this week.
New Zealand's Dylan Manickum celebrates one of his five goals.

Solomons Stunned with Loss

The OFC Futsal Championship Invitational 2013 got underway at The Trusts Arena in Auckland, New Zealand today with four goal-filled matches, including a 7-3 loss to New Zealand for defending champions Solomon Islands.
The RAMSI-funded site covers the years from the declaration of the British Protectorate in 1893 until independence in 1978.

Scholar to Bring History to Life

The first comprehensive online history of the Solomon Islands will be launched on 25 July, thanks to the painstaking research of a University of Queensland academic.

Asylum Seekers Topic Discussed

The Solomon Islands has opened the door to a possible asylum seeker processing deal with Australia, claiming it was ready to talk about the issue if a proposal was put to the small developing nation.
The young family's first public appearance together has been the moment that the world's media and crowds of onlookers camped outside the hospital had long been waiting for.

Future Commonwealth Head Introduced

The brand new Heir to the throne and future leader of the Commonwealth, has been presented to an adoring public for the first time.
DISAPPOINTED: Fidelis Jeminta, chief editor of Pelita Papua in Jayapura, said police action would again deter freedom of the press in West Papua. 
Photo - Katarina Lita / PortalKBR

Papua Police Ban on New Mag Illegal – PFF

Rarotonga, Cook Islands - Police actions to stop distribution of a new magazine in West Papua break press laws of Indonesia and must be condemned, says the Pacific Freedom Forum.

Honiara Rugby to Begin in August

The Honiara Rugby Union Association (HRUA) will be partnering with Matson & Silent World Shipping for the upcoming rugby 7 series scheduled to start on Saturday the 4th of August 2013 in Honiara, Solomon Islands.
The VOCTEC program enables SINU to train technicians to deliver sustainable solar power solutions in these areas.

Training Held for Solar Technicians

In the past week, the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) hosted its first ever training session for solar technicians through the USAID funded Vocational Training and Education for Clean Energy program (VOCTEC).
Mr Key will lead a delegation of New Zealand Ministers and Members of Parliament to the Solomon Islands.

Key to be Here for RAMSI Anniversary

New Zealand Prime Minister, Mr. John Key will be one of the high level guest for the tenth anniversary of the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI).

Wini Wins Gold

Solomon Islander, Jenlyn Wini, has scored a mark in weightlifting history for women in Solomon Islands.
The new WHO growth monitoring strategy involves measuring children’s weight and length or height against age. Measurements are then compared to growth standard to determine whether child is growing normally, has a growth problem or trend towards a problem.

Nurses and Nurse Aids in South Malaita receive Health Training

Twenty-one Nurses and Nurse Aides from Clinics and Health Centres around south Malaita are currently attending a week long training workshop on World Health Organizations (WHO) Growth Monitoring and Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) in Afio.
The Solomon Islands have now appeared at two World Cups in succession and proved they can compete on the global stage at Thailand 2012 in December by narrowly missing out on a place in the knockout stages on goal difference.

Talent Aplenty in Futsal Showdown

The naming of each country’s squad for the upcoming OFC Futsal Championship Invitational has confirmed there will be plenty of talent on show when the eagerly-anticipated tournament kicks off at The Trusts Arena in Auckland, New Zealand, on July 23.
Marles Receive Highest Solomon Award

Marles Receive Highest Solomon Award

Australian Trade Minister, Richard Marles, has been awarded the Cross of Solomon Islands by the Governor General of Solomon Islands, H. E. Sir Frank Kabui.
During the workshop, participants discussed a broad range of issues including the nature and impacts of corruption, corruption offences and penalties, how to report corruption and what individual citizens can do to combat corruption.

Transparency Conducts Workshop in Malaita

Transparency Solomon Islands has made a good start to its Provincial Visits Program with a successful first day in Auki, Malaita Province.
There is a need to consult more with communities and have a better assessment of how to stimulate sustainable income, help develop businesses and skills, increase employment numbers, and offer quality technical and vocational education

Solomon Islanders Speak Through Survey

The independent People’s Survey which collected feedback from communities throughout the nation has revealed that the people of Solomon Islands want better education in order to aspire to a sustainable income, on social, trade and governance issues.

Fijian Forces Praised Over Solomon Visit

Fijian police officers who returned from the Solomon Islands after conducting community policing outreach programs there were told to make an impact at home now.

RAMSI Anniversary Expect Highlevel Attendance

Two Presidents and five Prime Ministers from the Pacific Islands Forum countries have confirmed their attendance to the RAMSI 10th Anniversary in Honiara, Solomon Islands next week.
WHO Vanuatu

Winning the War Against Neglected Tropical Diseases

MANILA, 15 July 2013 - Together with its Member States and partners, the World Health Organization (WHO) continues to make progress against neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) such as leprosy and yaws in the Western Pacific Region.

Business Visits Raise Tourism Rates

Tourism numbers in the Solomon Islands have been boosted following an increase in the number of business conferences and meetings held there, according to the latest 2012 figures.

Samoa Urged to Halt Plans for New Media Council – PFF

Rarotonga, Cook Islands - Government in Samoa must halt plans for a state media council and return to the original timeframe recommended by the country’s law reform commission, says the Pacific Freedom Forum.
Because of the consistent strikes, all exams for 2013 have been moved to November.

Teachers Go on Strike Again

Teachers in Solomon Islands are on an indefinite strike again for the third time this year over the government's failure to adjust the teachers' pay.
High Commissioner Ngele sincerely thanked His Majesty, the Yang di-Pertuan Angong for accepting his Letter of Credence, and further conveyed to the Government and people of Malaysia best wishes and friendship from the Government and people of Solomon Islands.

Ngele Presents Credentials

Solomon Islands High Commissioner accredited to Malaysia, Victor Ngele has finally presented his letter of Credence to the King of Malaysia, His Majesty, Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
Pat Robertson, right, with Mahitahi-COVS director Christina Reymer.

New Zealander in Solomons as Volunteer

A New Zealand teacher who became a medical social worker has returned to the Solomon Islands to teach English.
Logging in the Solomon Islands has been running at   more than the sustainable rate.

Logging Companies Close Account

The Central Bank of Solomon Islands has confirmed that 14 logging company accounts held by commercial banks in the country have been closed.
The project aims to get as many accommodation providers as possible in Solomon Islands set up with a professional e-commerce enabled web site able to process bookings instantly.

Visitors Bureau Holds Marketing Conference

The Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau (SIVB) with South Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) and Pacific Islands Trade and Invest (PT&I) will play host to the digital marketing workshop for small and medium sized (SME) accommodation providers in Gizo and Auki.
Ms. Prinnie Stevens flanked by Aussie troops in Honiara, Solomon Islands.

Prinnie Performs for RAMSI Troops

The Australian singer, Prinnie Stevens has provided a last hurrah for Australian troops who are ready to withdraw from peacekeeping in the Solomon Islands.

SINTA Creates Another Strike Threat

Teachers throughout the country once again go on another strike after the Solomon Islands national teachers association (SINTA) is unsatisfied with how the government has been dealing with their issues.
The RAMSI anniversary will not only showcase what  has been achieved so far but it is also a time to help Solomon Islanders start discussing what they would like to see when the Mission actually leaves the country.

RAMSI Anniversary Preparations Underway

Arrangements are now well underway by the Solomon Islands Government, Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS) and the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI) to mark the 10th anniversary of the Mission on 24 July 2013.
Youth @ Work has given Honiara youths a chance to succeed in life by empowering youths to be a useful and proud member of society.

Youth Programme Battles it on Court

A little bit of rain was no match for the downpour of talent at the Youth @ Work netball match this week in Honiara, Solomon Islands.

Concerns Raised Over Limited Tax Awareness

Solomon Islands Acting Commissioner of Inland Revenue, George Tapo has noted with concern the low level of awareness of an important tax change among people who participated in the 2013 SIG RAMSI People’s Survey.
Solomon Islands continue to remain as one of the most vulnerable countries to Natural Disaster and Climate Change.

Integration Important for Climate Change and Disaster Management

"Solomon Islands is in a great position to integrate climate change and disaster risk management."

Inland Revenue Warns Property Owners

Solomon Islands Commissioner of Inland Revenue, Mark Bell has stated that “Inland Revenue will be focusing on the taxation of leased or rented properties as highlighted in the recently launched Tax Compliance Focus 2013-2015.”

Combining Sciences is Critical for Effective Risk Reduction

With the increasing flow of funding into the Pacific region for disaster risk management and climate change adaptation projects, it is essential to combine the perspectives of different sciences for effective outcomes.
The Fijian Prime Minister stands with Glenn Bennett, Managing Director, Silentworld Shipping (far right), Reginald Douglas, director of Dalgro (far left) as well as museum owners Anderson Dua and his family.

Fijian Soldiers Remembered

The sacrifice of Fijian soldiers during WWII will be remembered thanks to a new plaque installed at the Vilu War Museum in Solomon Islands.

Community Volunteers Trained

Solomon Islands Planned Parenthood Association (SIPPA) together with Ministry of Health's Social Welfare Division are implementing a project funded by the British High Commission called ‘Nokim Daon Vaelens’.
In thanking his Solomon's counterpart for what he described as “a wonderful experience” for the Fijian delegation visiting the country, the Voreqe Bainimarama said it had reinforced his optimism about the future of the Melanesian Spearhead Group.

Solomon Visit Described as "Wonderful Experience"

Fiji Prime Minister, Voreqe Bainimarama, has urged Solomon Islands to step up its engagement with Fiji, telling his Solomons counterpart that Fiji is more sympathetic and understanding than some of its other regional neighbours.
The melting of glaciers and ice sheets also contributes to sea-level rise, which is already causing problems for such artificial islands.

Solomons Vulnerable to Sea Level Rise

Solomon Islands like many other countries in the Pacific is at risk to coastal erosion, storm surges and water inundation with sea levels projected to rise in the coming century.
Dr. Palitha Kohona, the Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the United Nations, signed the Joint Communiqué on behalf of Sri Lanka, while Mr. Collin D. Beck, the Permanent Representative of Solomon Islands to the United Nations, signed on behalf of Solomon Islands.

Sri Lanka and Solomons Establish Relationship

The Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka and Solomon Islands has established formal diplomatic relations on 3rd July 2013.
Besides attending the Independence celebrations, Commodore Bainimarama will engage in a series of meetings including a courtesy call on the Governor General Sir Frank Kabui, a meeting with Prime Minister Lilo and a special meeting with Cabinet Ministers.

Bainimarama to Attend Independence Celebrations

Fiji’s Prime Minister, Commodore Frank Bainimarama has been confirmed to arrive in Honiara on Saturday as special guest to the Solomon Islands 35th Independence Anniversary Celebrations.
World Vision Assists Care Centre

World Vision Assists Care Centre

Last week World Vision, Solomon Islands, facilitated a strategic workshop on behalf of the Christian Care Centre (CCC) with the aim of developing a framework and a five year plan.
Pictured are the new Australian volunteers with the Australian High Commissioner Matt Anderson and AusAID's Kenndy Folasi.

New Australian Volunteers Arrive

Thirteen new Australian volunteers have arrived in Solomon Islands to begin their placements with government ministries, schools, non-government organisations and community groups.
Families will also save money by growing their own produce rather than buying fruit and vegetables at market prices.

People Encouraged to Have Supsup Gardens

People in the Solomon Islands capital are being encouraged to return to the practice of cultivating their own supsup gardens as a means of providing fresh foods.
The Prime Minister and his delegation spent last weekend with the people of Lord Howe and Sikaiana.

Malaita Outer Islanders Call for Resettlement

People of Malaita Outer Islands (MOI)in Solomon Islands says it is high time for them to move into resettlement before sea level rise could become a huge threat for them.
Launched in July 2003, the RAMSI mission involved more than 2000 troops and police from Australia, New Zealand, PNG, Fiji and Tonga.

RAMSI Defence Ends Mission

Australia has concluded its decade-long defense mission in the Solomon Islands, with troops now packing up before heading home later this year.

NPF Members to Receive Bonus

The Solomon Islands National Provident Fund (SINPF) members can expect an increase in their balance as of yesterday after the declaration of a 20-percent interest rate to members’ contribution worth $246.2 million (US$33.7 million).
Matthew O’Sullivan from Glenfield (left)has been in the Solomon Islands since mid-June to continue his work building a new church in Makaruka, Guadalcanal.

Rural Church Receive Helping Hand

For one young Kiwi, doing volunteer work in the Solomon Islands as part of a Mahitahi — Catholic Overseas Volunteers programme will have a special poignancy.

Criminal Investigators Requested to Receive Corruption Cases

Transparency Solomon Islands has called on the country’s corruption watchdog to refer serious cases to criminal investigators.
For rural people to have access to the funds, there should be a partnership within each constituencies, members of parliament, as well as the Ministry of agriculture.

Corruption Remains A Problem

A Solomon Islands cabinet minister says there is entrenched corruption in government ministries and a new controversial law is all part of fixing the problem.

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