All Archive November 2021

“It’s a wonderful opportunity to coach the women’s team and it will be a great challenge,” Suri said.

Suri Appointed Solomon Islands National Women’s Football Coach

Former professional player and experienced national age-group coach Batram Suri has been named as the new manager of the Solomon Islands women’s national football team.
“The riots and unrest in the Solomon Islands has wider implications for New Zealand. Security within the Asia-Pacific region is increasingly complex and is of growing concern."

ACT Party Leader Says New Zealand Must Support Solomon Islands

“The New Zealand Government must immediately respond to the Solomon Island Government’s request for support and send troops,” says ACT Deputy Leader Brooke van Velden.
"During the ten year Bougainville Civil War the people of the Solomon Islands offered Bougainville refuge and support. In the same token I offer our support to the people and Government of the Solomon Islands.This support goes by way of supporting the Papua New Guinea Government's response to the SIG."

Bougainville President Hon. Ishmael Toroama's Statement on Unrest in Solomon Islands

The current troubles in the Solomon Islands must not be seen as an opportunity by Bougainvilleans to prey on the nation's instability.
The Prime Minster said it is unfortunate that the information was leaked on social media before an official statement or clarification was made by government.

Inconclusive COVID-19 Cases Return Negative

By Jimmy Nolan
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has admitted that COVID-19 tests conducted on the visiting peacekeeping contingent has returned with some inconclusive results.
“I want to make a personal call to the good people of Solomon Islands to please respect our banks and other key infrastructures in and around Honiara,” CBSI Governor, Dr. Luke Forau stated.

CBSI Calls On Public to Respect Critical Infrastructure

Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) is calling on the general public to respect all banks and other financial institutions’ properties in Honiara.
The Stay-At-Home Notice was issued over the weekend due to the unrest.

Public Servants Resume Duties

The Public Service has resumed duties on Tuesday 30 November following a joint review by the Public Service Ministry in consultation with the Office of the Prime Minister and cabinet of the “Stay-at-Home” notice on Monday.
DJOOKY Music Award winning song artists Bradley Pitua (Blad P2A) and William Kadi (Khazin).

‘UKULELE’ Song Makes Global Hit

By Peter Zoleveke Jr.
Solomon Islands well-known solo music artists Bradley Pitua (Blad P2A) & William Kadi (Khazin) are putting the country’s flag on the world map with their 2021 hit island jam ‘UKULELE’ voted first at the DJOOKY Music Awards – the world’s largest online song competition over the weekend.
"Omicron has an unprecedented number of spike mutations, some of which are concerning for their potential impact on the trajectory of the pandemic," the WHO said.

WHO Warns New Variant Omicron Has High Infection Risk Globally

The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that the Omicron coronavirus variant poses a high risk of infection surges around the globe.
The Fiji deployment comes as Honiara residents continue to clean up the shattered capital, where much of the Chinatown area was burned down along with parts of Ranadi, east of Honiara.

Fiji Army Depart for Honiara, Solomon Islands

By Jimmy Nolan
The Fiji Army are on their way to Honiara, Solomon Islands, where they will join a regional peacekeeping force led by Australia.
The Prime Minister is already advancing discussions with development partners to explore ways to help in the rebuilding and recovery process.

Sogavare Says Government Will Assist Business Houses Destroyed by Riots

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has today announced that the National Government will assist business houses that were destroyed during last week’s unrest in Honiara.
“Safety comes first in all that we do so we had no choice but to cease operations for several days,” said Colin Sigimanu Manager Commercial for Solomon Airlines.

Solomon Airlines Resumes Domestic Flights

Solomon Airlines has confirmed the national carrier’s domestic flight schedule has recommenced today, and from tomorrow Tuesday 30 November, the airline will resume regular domestic operations.
Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama has told parliament that another 120 Fijian troops are on standby for deployment if needed to help maintain security.

50 Fijian Troops Will Tavel to Solomon Islands Tommorow

50 Fijian troops will be dispatched to the Solomon Islands as part of a reinforcement platoon embedded with Australia Force elements on the ground following deadly riots there.
What people are seeing on their TV screens will make it difficult for Solomon Islands to compete with other destinations, be it for tourists or investors.

Solomon Islands Image Shattered

It took just three days for years of hard work rebuilding the Solomon Islands 'brand' to be shattered.
There is now some normalcy in the Capital Honiara, thanks largely to the presesnce of the Australian forces supported by PNG.

Parliament Resumes Today

By Samson Sade
Parliament will resume today with the main order of business being the extension of the current state of emergency which will expire soon.
SICA humbly asks everyone to respect the rule of law and resolve any differences in a peaceful and Christian way. Matthew 5:9: "Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children Of God."

Solomon Islands Chinese Association (SICA) Condemns Burning and Looting of Businesses

SICA is the country's longest and well-respected association, with over 70 years of rich and proud history, and represents the Chinese community's social, cultural and business affairs in the Solomon Islands.
Normalcy has been restored on Saturday while Police will continue to investigate instigators of the unrest.

PM Commends Police and Residents That Stood With Police

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has commended the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) and City residents that stood with police to stop the spread of violence during the recent political unrest in Honiara.
The Central Bank Governor, Dr Luke Forau, stated that the Solomon Islands economy is already in a weakening state, and is struggling to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic and its adverse impact on the economy.

CBSI Estimates SBD$227 Million Loss Due to the Unrest

The Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) has conducted an initial impact assessment over the damage to the economy caused by the recent unrest and riots in Honiara since Wednesday.
"To the good people of Solomon Islands, especially those social media users, stop inciteful posts that will create violence and cause division among us," Deputy Commissioner (DC) Ms Juanita Matanga says.

Inciting Violence Online is a Crime: Police

Police says those that use online mediums to incite violence are committing a crime. Police says incitement is a crime whatever medium you use.
Hon. Wale said without a political solution this tragic situation will remain, even with foreign forces supporting the RSIPF to regain control and maintain order in Honiara.

Wale Files Motion of No Confidence Against Sogavare

The Leader of Opposition, Hon. Matthew Wale, has announced that he is today filing a notice of a vote of no confidence in the Prime Minister.
Fiji's Prime Minister thanked his Australian counterpart for his swift response and offered his Government’s support to the Australian operation.

Fiji Offers Support to Australia's Operations in Solomon Islands

Fiji says it stands ready to support the Government of Solomon Islands, alongside its Australian Vuvale, following the second day of uncontrollable riots in Honiara.
Requests were made to both Papua New Guinea and Australia and both responded with troops on the ground in Honiara.

AFP and ADF Personnels Fully Vaccinated

The Australian High Commission office in Honiara assures the public that all personnels from the Australia Defence Force (ADF) and the Australian Federal Police (AFP) are fully vaccinated.
"I must make it very clear here that no one is above the law."

More Than 100 Suspects Arrested For Looting and Rioting

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) have arrested more than hundred suspects in relation to the current protest, riot and looting in Honiara.
Australia's Home Affairs Minister Karen Andrews says the deployment was in response to a request for help from the Solomon Islands government under a bilateral security treaty.

Australian Defence Force Arrives

The Australian Defence Force ( ADF) has arrived in Honiara to help restore law and order.
He says all attempts to disrupt the normal development of relations between China and Solomon Islands are just futile.

China Confident Sogavare Will Restore Social Order

By Samson Sade
China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Zhao Lijan says China is confident that under Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare’s leadership, the government of Solomon Islands can restore social order and stability soon.
We are putting our very own lives and that of our own family members and friends at risk here if we continue like this; therefore; the Ministry of Health is urging people in Honiara to remain at homes and not involve in the current rioting.

Health Operations in Honiara Affected by Unrest

The Ministry of Health is calling on all Honiara residents involved in arson, rioting, looting to please stop immediately as continuation of such activities will further affect health services with its already out-stretched resources.
Curfew Declared by Governor General

Curfew Declared by Governor General

The Governor-General, His Excellency, Sir David Vunagi has declared a curfew for Honiara City from 7pm to 6am daily effective on November 26 until revoked.
The rapid deployment comes after Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced on Thursday the acceptance of a request for help by Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare under Australia's bilateral security treaty established in 2017. It comes as Papua New Guinea officials also announce the deployment of 34 peacekeepers to assist.

70 Australian Soldiers to Participate in Peacekeeping Mission in Solomon Islands

By Kate Banville in Townsville
An agreement between friends saw more than 70 Australian soldiers deployed to the Solomon Islands today as violent rioting continues, leaving potential for Australia’s role to escalate beyond peacekeeping.
Mr Mangau says, “I am respectfully calling on all community leaders to help us spread the message that ‘Enough is enough’.

Police Calling on Community Leaders to Help

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) strongly appeals to the citizens of Honiara to make the right choice by refraining themselves from looting and burning of valuable infrastructures.
A formal request for help was sent by Manasseh Sogavare to his counterpart, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison.

Australian Defence Force (ADF) Set to Arrive Later Today

“It’s a hive of activity in Townsville as troops prepare to depart to the Solomon Islands as the south pacific nation continues into civil unrest," ABC Journalist, Kate Banville, said on Twitter this morning.
The request was said to be made from Mr Sogavare for PNG to send assistance to maintain law and order in Honiara.

PNG Looking to Deploy Defence Force to Assist Solomon Islands

Government negotiations are said to be taking place between Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea to deploy Defence Force and police personnel to assist in the unrest in Honiara.
Given the extraordinary circumstances surrounding the civil unrest and public looting, government employees have not been asked to return to work.

Public Servants Without Pay

By Jimmy Nolan
As a result of the looting and riots over the past two days, public servants are today without pay.
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare requested Australia's help under a security treaty the country signed with Australia in 2017.

Australian Federal Police Personnel Touch Down in Honiara

Australian Federal Police (AFP) officers have touched down in Honiara, the first of a series of deployments coming in from Australia to help maintain peace and security in Honiara.
"If I am removed as Prime Minister, it will be on the floor of Parliament. I have faith and respect in our democratic process, and I will defend it with my life. I say this with deepest conviction."

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare’s Address on the Current Political Unrest in Honiara

Dear fellow Solomon Islanders, I am addressing you today with a very heavy heart. The past 36 hours have seen our country, especially our city, Honiara brought to its knees. I have been asked to step down and while I acknowledge that call I must also respect our democracy.
“This is not protest. This is vandalism and acts of criminals.”

SICCI Calls on Leaders to Defuse Situation

The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) on behalf of the private sector and the business community is calling on the country’s leaders both in Government and the Parliamentary Opposition to come out and hold dialogue with protesters to immediately defuse the protests, looting and burning down of businesses in Honiara City.
"Our purpose here is to provide stability and security," he said following a meeting of the National Security Committee of cabinet this afternoon.

Australia Agree to Send Troops and Police to Solomon Islands Amid Unrest

Australian Defence Force personnel and federal police will be deployed to Solomon Islands as the Pacific Island nation faces a second day of rioting.
“As a country, we have already experience budget shortage, employment concerns and disruptions too. Political volatility on top of Covid19 crisis will only lead the entire country and its population to a deeper uncertainty."

SICCI Statement on Current Situation in Honiara

Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI), as the peak body representing the private sector, is observing the current security situation in Honiara with great concern.
“This situation will not be resolved by the police, it requires a political solution. It is unfair on the police to expect them to face the people’s anger caused by irresponsible leadership,” says the Opposition Leader.

Leader of Opposition Calling on Prime Minister to Resign

The Leader of Opposition, Hon. Matthew Wale, has called on the Prime Minister, Hon. Manasseh Sogavare to immediately resign.
We are clearly in a state of emergency, but not a public health emergency - our protocols for a general lock down were designed for a public health emergency, not for riots and anarchy.

Looters Moving into Point Cruz

By Samson Sade
Looters have regrouped and are now heading towards point cruz from East Honiara.
Should you need to reach the hospital or health clinics please contact St John Ambulance on toll free line, 111 or 911.

Public Message for Lockdown Period

With the current 36 hours lockdown enforced for Honiara, the Ministry of Health and Medical Services wish to inform the public that during this period the following services will continue.
Crowd of youths outside the Naha police station.

Looters Defy Lockdown Orders

By Samson Sade
Looters are defying lockdown orders, with reports of looting and attempted break-ins at the Burns creek area east of Honiara.
“The 36-hour lockdown will allow police to further investigate what transpired today,” Sogavare said.

We Will Track Down Those Responsible: Sogavare

By Samson Sade
In a special nationwide address Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare says the government will track down those responsible for today’s protest and riots.
“Solomon Islands has always been a beacon of hope for us in Melanesia, and a middle ground for many of our Pacific and Melanesian issues."

PNG Prime Minister Calls for Calm

Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has appealed to the people of neighboring Solomon Islands to “respect the rule of law and democratic institutions and not to take the law into their own hands”.
The police are calling on all citizens of Solomon Islands especially those in Honiara to remain calm and refrain from taking any illegal action following today’s protest.

Prime Minister Declares Lockdown for Honiara

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has ordered a lockdown starting 7pm tonight until 7am Friday 26th November 2021.
The rapid response team secure the point cruz area.

Police Secure Point Cruz Area From Protestors

By Jimmy Nolan
Police have set up a blockade around the central market and point cruz area. The situation is calm but tense.
Two groups of protestors took to Parliament, one from the town council area up Vavaya ridge road, the other group from the foothills of Parliament from Point Cruz.

Protestors Attempted to Storm Parliament

By Samson Sade
What was supposed to be a peaceful protest is turning violent, with protestors attempting to storm Parliament, and reports of thick smoke coming from the Parliament compound.
The statement said nothing good will come out from such actions which is designed to serve the interests of a select few who have no regard for our peaceful co-existence and unity.

Malaita MPs Calls on Protest Leaders to Refrain from Unlawful Activities

Malaita Members of Parliament (MPs) in the Government have called on the proposed protest leaders and Premier Daniel Suidani to refrain from inciting Malaitans to engage in unlawful activities.
SICCI Chairman, Ricky Fuo’o escorting the Prime Minister to the dinner venue at the 2021 Business Excellence Awards.

SICCI Hosts Business Excellence Awards With the Theme ‘Challenges to Opportunities in a COVID-19 World’

The 2021 edition of Solomon Islands’ leading business event, the Business Excellence Awards (BEA) was yet another success.
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has stated that Solomon Islands cannot stay locked up from the rest of the world forever and has been urging Solomon Islanders to take the COVID-19 vaccination.

Tough Road Ahead for Solomon Islands Vaccination Efforts

By Samson Sade
New research by the Lowy Institute suggests the Solomon Islands may not be able to reach its target 90% vaccination coverage.
Hon. Wale points out that the Prime Minister and his Government have a clear track record in disregarding due process and meaningfully consulting the people on major decisions. The use of internal government processes to secure the China switch, Hon. Wale insists, is a good example of this.

Wale Says Governments Response Deceptive

The Leader of Opposition has rejected Government’s recent article claiming his outburst was baseless, used as a deceptive strategy to respond to the two issues he raised for the public’s attention in his earlier statement.
The feeling of seeing his illustrations published and knowing that he was contributing to educating the young minds of the Pacific inspired Jo to continue his journey as an illustrator.

Josefa Contributes to Evolution of Children's Literature in the Pacific

Josefa Uluinaceva, or Jo, as he is fondly known, has contributed to the evolution of children's literature in the Pacific for many years, in addition to his day job as a Graphic Artist at The University of the South Pacific's Division of Marketing and Communications.
The International Maritime Organizations’ Marine Environment Protection Committee convenes this week to discuss decarbonization measures.

Solomon Islands Wants IMO to Back Net Zero Target on International Shipping by 2050

Solomon Islands has warned participants at the International Maritime Organizations’ (IMO) Marine Environment Protection Committee that not supporting a resolution that seeks to achieve net zero emissions from international shipping by 2050 would hurt IMO progress on decarbonization.
CCECC SINIS project Manager, Qi Rongbao, handing over the building keys and certificate to NHA Chair Dr Jimmie Rodgers and Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare.

A Milestone for the Development of Elite Sports in Solomon Islands

Solomon Islands marked history with its first ever Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS) High – Performance complex officially commissioned and handed over to the national government on Friday 19th November 2021.
The Bangladeshi operated a shop in the area, one of many such shops scattered throughout Honiara and parts of Guadalcanal. The controversy surrounding how this group of Bangladeshis managed to enter the country in 2019 remains unresolved to this day.

Bangladeshi Accused of Rape Goes to Court Today

By Samson Sade
The Bangladeshi national accused of raping a 11-year-old girl has been listed for hearing today.
Hon. Ismael Mali Avui, Minister of Lands, Housing and Survey, Mr Allan McNeil, Commissioner of Lands, Ms Hellen Ohukeni, Director Land Reform, Ms Mary Tegavota, National Recorder and Mr Vardon Hoca, UNDP Programme Manager with members of the Sahalu community.

Securing Land Rights for Sustainable Peace

The UN Development Programme in Solomon Islands has supported the Government’s Customary Land Recording programme conducted by the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Survey in three target provinces – Guadalcanal, Western and Malaita.
USP Student leaders from 12 member countries and President of New Zealand Union of Students Association at Suva Point in Fiji during the planting of mangroves in August 2019.

The Pacific Youth Summit: The Values of Integrity for the Achievement of Sustainable Development

Students and youth leaders from around the Pacific region are coming together to discuss the importance of integrity and stronger youth action on anti-corruption, transparency, and accountability towards progress on the sustainable development agenda in the Pacific.
“What we noticed is increased disputes over fishing grounds and sharing of money gained from selling Bechdemer. This normally comes out after consuming alcohol, people fight over their share of what they sell, and many have been physical confrontations.”

Bechdemer Dividing Rural Communities

By Jimmy Nolan
While the opening of the lucrative Bechdemer marine product has been welcomed, many communities are reportedly divided. Squabbles over fishing grounds, purchase price and sharing of the spoils is now common place.
The 100,620 doses of the vaccines will be enough to cover for 50,310 of our eligible adolescents and pregnant women to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 with the Pfizer vaccine.

Pfizer Vaccines Targets Adolescents 12 to Below 18 Years and Pregnant Women

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) wish to emphasize that the 100,620 doses of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines provided by the government of the United States of America (USA), through COVAX Facility, that arrived last week, will be allocated for adolescents 12 to below 18 years of age and pregnant women only.
“This has motivated us, to use comedy to tell stories, and at the same time show the real picture of issues in our society today."

“Behind the Jokes There is a Message,” Chai Comedy

By Jimmy Nolan
Chai Comedy is perhaps the biggest comedic act to come out of social media for the Solomon Islands.
Hon. Wale once again calls on the government to be transparent about its dealings with Mamara and make copies of its agreements with that company available to parliament.

Wale Blasts Government Over SBD$13M Payment to Mamara Developer

The Leader of Opposition, Hon. Matthew Wale, has blasted the government for the payment last week of SBD$13 million for Mamara houses.
"Investigation on both offenses are continuing and I appeal to those who have information to assist police," PPC Toaki says.

Man Arrested for Incestuous Relationship with Two Daughters

Officers of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) at Lata Police Station have arrested a 42 year-old man for having sexual intercourse with his two biological daughters in Temotu Province.
The Minister said that he is happy that the 10 years Strategy was launched by Solomon Islands Prime Minister Hon. Manasseh Sogavare on the 19th of October 2021 and "we are here few weeks from that launching talking together on how to implement it. It is exciting!" he said.

Minister Calls for Support from Donor Partners and Stakeholders to Implement Strategy

The Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, Hon. Senley Levi Filualea, (MAL) is calling for support from development partners and stakeholders towards the implementation of the Agriculture Sector Growth Strategy and Investment Plan (ASGIP) 2021-2030.
Solomon Islands is ill prepared for COVID-19, experts say. With low vaccination coverage, entry and community transmission of COVID-19 would be detrimental to the people and economy.

Entry of Covid-19 a Real Possibility

By Samson Sade
Solomon Islands remains Covid-free for the last six months.
Late Hon. Fika was the Minister for Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Conservation in the current Sogavare led government.

West Kwaio MP Passes Away

By Jimmy Nolan
The Member of Parliament (MP) for West Kwaio, Hon. Titus Mokofi Fika, has passed away.
SICCI says the recent site visit to the Honiara International Airport Improvement Project by Civil Engineering students from the National University (SINU) as a positive step forward in its continuous effort to realize local participation as a positive continuous effort to realize local participation in major national projects.

SICCI Acknowledges Initiative to Visit Airport Project Site

The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) describes the recent site visit to the Honiara International Airport Improvement Project by Civil Engineering students from the National University (SINU) as a positive step forward.
"Should anyone come across a health facility or medical worker advising of such condition, please call health’s emergency operation centre toll free line, 115 and provide details for relevant health authorities to address the matter."

Gizo Hospital is Open to All, Not Just those Vaccinated

The National and Western Provincial Ministry of Health and Medical Services would like to assure the public that health services at the Gizo Hospital is open to all and not only to those who are vaccinated with COVID-19 vaccines.
"I was not interested in other fields, where people might say is more suited for girls,” Natalie said, holding up her Certificate proudly.

My Duty is Not Only in the Kitchen

By Jimmy Nolan
She admits that cultural stereotype was a challenge, but says her passion for carpentry was greater than that.
Erecting of pillars and beams 17th September 2020.

Home of Sports Ready for Official Handover

Exactly 2 years before the 2023 Pacific Games - the China Civil Engineering Construction (CCECC) will officially handover the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS) High – Performance Center facility to the Solomon Islands Government (SIG) this Friday 19th November at Panatina, East Honiara.
"This is not a matter for general consultations because this decision will fundamentally affect people’s right to vote in 2023. Since this issue was not raised in the last election, the mandate given to Government is to have elections after 4 years."

PM’s Plan to Extend Parliament Deceptive: Wale

Hon. Matthew Wale has criticized the Prime Minister’s recent statement confirming Government’s intention to extend the life of Parliament, describing the move as purely deceptive.
He than started punching the empty iceboxes outside the house, he sustained deep cuts to his elbow from the broken glass.

30 Year Old Man Hits Icebox Glass and Dies From Injury

Police at the Naha Police Station are investigating the death of a 30 year old man said to have died from injuries after hitting an icebox glass.
Simaema Neilsen and Uriel Matanani, hosts of the 2021 Business Excellence Awards (BEA).

SICCI Announce Hosts for 2021 Business Excellence Awards (BEA)

The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SICCI) is pleased to announce two new hosts for this year’s Business Excellence Awards (BEA) which will take place on Saturday 20th November at the Coral Sea Resort from 6pm.
High Commissioner Eliam Tangirongo and Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern at the Prime Minister’s Office, New Zealand Parliament.

H.E Tangirongo Presents Letters of Introduction to NZ Prime Minister

Solomon Islands High Commissioner to New Zealand, His Excellency Eliam Tangirongo has presented his Letter of Introduction to Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Jacinda Ardern on Monday 15 November 2021.
Australia and Solomon Islands are longstanding security partners. This partnership has continued to grow over the past year despite the challenges of COVID-19.

Australia and Solomon Islands Hold 4th Bilateral Security Dialogue

Australia and Solomon Islands held their 4th Bilateral Security Dialogue yesterday, committing to deepening its security partnership including in areas such as policing, border and cyber security.
Mr. Russell Comeau, Director US Embassy Office, Solomon Islands giving his remarks. The United States Government has provided 100,620 doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine to Solomon Islands via the COVAX Facility to strengthen the country’s vaccination rollout.

United States Government Supports Solomon Islands with COVID-19 Pfizer Vaccines through the COVAX Facility

Today, Solomon Islands received the 100,620 doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines from the United States Government through the COVAX Facility – a partnership co-led by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance and the World Health Organization (WHO), with UNICEF as the key delivery partner.
MASI President, Georgina Kekea says this initiative is timely, as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has also affected the media industry, causing media houses to implement drastic measures, which have greatly affected journalists and the journalism profession in Solomon Islands.

MASI to Host Media Awards

For the first time the Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI) is hosting a Media Awards Event to recognize media practitioners, more so journalists for the work that they do.
Dr. Heine was the first female President of the Republic of the Marshall Islands serving from 2016 to 2020.

Dr Hilda Heine Appointed Pro-Chancellor and Chair of USP Council

The University of the South Pacific at its 92nd Council meeting on Friday 12th November, 2021 unanimously appointed the Honourable Dr. Hilda Cathy Heine to the Office of the Pro-Chancellor and Chair of Council for a three-year term commencing 1st January 2022 until 31st December 2024.
Such claims are not new, several social media users overseas, often tied to antivax groups online, have shared videos that appear to show magnets sticking to people’s arms where they say they were injected.

“Magnetic Woman” Investigated

By Samson Sade
The woman who claimed that the COVID-19 vaccine contains magnetic substance is now under active investigation. This was revealed by the Attorney General John Muria Jr. during the 14 November talkback show over the national broadcaster, SIBC.
President of the SPOL Avaiki rugby club, Mr. Barry Pugeva, says the 7s tournament is about strengthening the bond, partnership, and friendship in the sport of Rugby.

SPOL Avaiki 7s Kicks Off Today

By Jimmy Nolan
The South Pacific Oil (SPOL) Avaiki 7s is set to kick off today.
He says a strong vaccination coverage and adhering to COVID-19 measures such as wearing a mask has proven to be effective, and does work, as shown in Fiji.

Fiji’s Covid Experience is a Good Lesson to Solomon Islands

By Samson Sade
The Secretary to the Prime Minister, Dr Jimmie Rodgers, having just returned from Fiji, is encouraging all Solomon Islanders to put into practice COVID-19 measures to prepare themselves should there be community transmission in the country.
Group photo with the equipment in their boxes, (L-R) AHC COVID-19 Support Coordinator Ms. Laura Wilson, AHC Counsellor for Human Development Ms. Julie McCallum, MHMS Permanent Secretary Mrs. Pauline McNeil & MHMS Deputy Secretary Health Care Dr Gregory Jilini.

Australia Assists Ministry of Health to Strengthen Linkages with the Provinces

Consistent and timely updates and sharing of information between national and provincial health teams with opportunities to engage in real time discussions is crucial for swift decision-making and actions particularly with the ongoing COVID-19 preparedness and response efforts including COVID-19 vaccination roll out.
“Due to limited supply, it will be administered only to children between 12 and 18 years of age and to pregnant mothers,” Prime Minister Sogavare said.

Pfizer Vaccine to Arrive Tuesday: PM

The Pfizer vaccine will arrive in the country Tuesday this week, 16th November.
Deputy Secretary Corporate of MRD, Constance Wane.

Enhancing MRD Human Resource Competency

Four officers of the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD) are among hundreds of Solomon Islands students’ who received their academic qualification as graduates of the University of the South Pacific (USP) in a graduation ceremony held on 29th October, 2021 in Honiara.
Honorable Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare and the Chinese Ambassador His Excellency Li Ming witnessed the milestone undertaking between and by the Agency for International Economic Cooperation, Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China representative and the NHA Chairman Dr Jimmie Rodgers.

SINU ‘Games Village’ Agreement Sealed

The People’s Republic of China (PRC) and the Solomon Islands Government (SIG) through the National Hosting Authority (NHA) signed the Implementation Agreement of the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) Dormitory Building project that will be part of the 2023 Pacific Games village.
With the current level of vaccination coverage of only 14.3 percent it is critical that the hospital trains and provides additional manpower and resources to get the vaccines to the people, in their communities.

Main Hospital Trains Staff to Manage an Outbreak of COVID-19

A community outbreak of COVID-19 in the country would be devastating, and the National Referral Hospital (NRH) says it will not be able to cope with a sudden increase of COVID-19 infected persons.
Enforcement agencies at the Western border.

Surge in COVID-19 Cases in Bougainville a Threat to Solomon Islands

By Samson Sade
The border between the Western province and Bougainville is the major flash point for COVID-19 entry into the country.
SICCI with RSIPF and the Ministry of Health brought together close to three hundred community representatives from all three constituencies in Honiara to share information, education, and communication materials to help protect people with the right knowledge and encourage them to get their vaccination against COVID-19.

Private Sector Partnership with Community Policing Committees, MHMS to Vamp Up COVID-19 Vaccine Coverage

Amid Solomon Islands’ continuous efforts to increase COVID-19 vaccination rates, the private sector aligns with the Government through the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS).
Solomon Port says that the barriers will be used to trap plastic wastes and rubbish coming out from the Mataniko river and along the Honiara coastline.

Solomon Ports Taking the Lead in Waste Management

By Jimmy Nolan
The foreshore in Honiara is polluted, unsightly debris and garbage gets washed down during torrential downpour.
One of the main objectives of the Constituency Development Funds (CDF) is to assist individuals, families, and community-based organizations to participate in socio-economic developments to help alleviate poverty within the rural areas.

MRD Commences Monitoring of CDF Support

Ministry of Rural Development (MRD) says it will commence its monitoring of Constituency Development Funds (CDF) on selected constituencies next week.
SIBC Editor, Fred Osifelo, receiving the materials from MASI President Georgina Kekea on behalf of SIBC newsroom team.

MASI Hands Over Reporting Guidelines to Media Outlets

The Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI) has handed out copies of the revised Journalist ‘Code of Ethics’ booklet and a Court Reporting Guide to its members' newsrooms.
“I appeal to the general public to respect public properties for our conveniences,” says PPC Robo.

Young Man Takes Out Anger on ATM After Arguement with Girlfriend

A young man in his 20s has been arrested and charged by the police for damaging an ATM machine in Chinatown.
Initial reports said that the deceased climbed a tree to collect fruit leaf (korokua) for chewing betel nut when he fell.

Man Dies Collecting Korokua

Officers of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) at Kirakira Police Station in Makira-Ulawa Province are investigating a sudden death incident of a male person in his 30s on 4 November 2021.
Fully vaccinated Australian citizens and permanent residents may now return to Australia via Sydney, without quarantine requirements.

Solomon Airlines Adds Honiara-Sydney-Brisbane Flights in Time for Christmas

Solomon Airlines will commence fortnightly passenger flights from Honiara to Sydney, with the airline’s Airbus A320 then continuing on to Brisbane.
PRC funding Support for Constituency Development under the CDF Program came into effect in the 4th quarter of 2019, following the approval of Solomon Islands Government to normalise diplomatic ties with the Peoples Republic of China (PRC) on 16th September, 2019.

MPs Receive SBD$1.8M Each in CDF Grant

The funding assistance normally known as the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) targeted at alleviating poverty and improving livelihoods of rural Solomon Islanders has been released to the 50 constituencies this week, Monday 8th November, 2021.
Sorcery deaths are murders where the victims are accused of practicing some sort of witchcraft, often on a neighbouring family or village. Belief in socery is still widespread in rural communities despite many professing to be Christians.

Three in Custody Over Sorcery Related Killing

Three male persons are currently in police custody, accused of a sorcery related killing in Veravalou village, Aola.
Together with Lodhia, they were the first Fijians to be listed on the Forbes 30 under 30 Asia last year.

USP Alumnus Paves Way Forward in Tech Business

Growing up in a farming community in Labasa, Vanua Levu, to becoming an entrepreneur at 26 years of age, Sanjesh Kumar believed in the power of his dreams and chased them wholeheartedly.
Diving for these marine creatures has become big business for those in the rural areas, especially when there are few economic alternatives.

Another Life Lost Diving for Bechdemer

By Jimmy Nolan
Another life has been lost after the ban on Bechdemer was lifted some three months ago.
To achieve coverage of 90 percent 313,668 will need to get their first jab, while 192,682 will need to get their second jab.

239,438 COVID-19 Vaccine Doses Administered

239,438 doses of COVID-19 vaccines, which includes both the AstraZeneca and Sinopharm Vaccines 1st and 2nd doses, have been administered as of Friday last week 5th of November.
Charan is an Electrical Engineer by profession and now works as a senior consultant in a Sydney-based engineering consultancy firm.

Charan Praises USP’s MBA Programme

Meenit Suryadeo Charan, a native of Ba, Fiji, who now lives in Sydney, Australia, believes the University of the South Pacific's (USP) Master of Business Administration (MBA) programme was a fulfilling experience that allowed him to apply his knowledge of business operations.
Ms. Naomi Kaluae, Chair of the 2021 BEA Working Committee and SICCI Board member, announced the new category.

New Award Category Added to the 2021 Business Excellence Awards

The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) announces one new award category to be added to the Business Excellence Awards (BEA) which returns for the 7th time this year and will take place on Saturday 20th November at the Coral Sea Resort in Honiara.
The Solomon Islands Tourism: Investor Guide can help investors understand the process of investing in land for tourism projects. It provides practical information on registered land leases and development.

Vital Solomon Islands Tourism Industry Guides Launched, to Help Drive Growth and Jobs

On November 5th, 2021 — Solomon Islands has taken a key step in advancing its tourism industry with the launch of guides for investors and the government, to ensure this vital sector remains a long-term driver of job creation, sustainable economic growth, and benefits for many people.
Premier of Central Province Stanley Manetiva, Solomon Power Chairman David Quan and CEO Donald Kiriau.

Solomon Power Officially Opened New Tulagi Office

Solomon Power has opened its new Office at Tulagi, Central Islands Province.

All Archive

2024

2023

2022

2021

2020

2019

2018

2017

2016

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

2009

2008

2007