Economy Archive May 2020

Project Coordinator Dr. Edgar Pollard said Career Guide is aimed at helping young people especially high school students identify the types of job suitable for them.

Pasifiki Career Guide Wraps Up

A career guide program for young people was successfully held in the month of May.
The Prime Minister said from all the passengers that returned on the two flights this week, three passengers were red-flagged.

First In-country Covid-19 Test Negative: PM

The first in country testing for COVID-19 has turned out negative.
Nusatupe Island has been identified as a quarantine site in the Western province.

Gizo Quarantine Site Ready

A quarantine site in Gizo has been identified and now awaits final inspection.
He explained that most rural farmers are eligible to apply by submitting simple project proposals, even a two page proposal with all the basic relevant information is suffice.

Youths and Farmers Encouraged to Apply for ESP

All youths and rural farmers in the country are encouraged to apply for assistance from the COVID - 19 Economic Stimulus Package, ESP.
The primary objective of the ESP is to assist the productive sector stakeholders to maintain productive output at all levels of the production chain.

Economic Stimulus Committee Reaches Out to Rural Communities

The Solomon Islands Government’s committee looking after the Covid-19 Economic Stimulus Package (Covid-19 ESP) are currently reaching out to rural communities.
The flight crew were allowed to bypass quarantine but were kept in isolation during their short stay in Honiara at the Heritage Park Hotel.

Only Flight Crew Exempted

Seven flight crew onboard the Solomon Airlines flight were the only inbound people exempted from quarantine in Honiara. It is understood that the flight crew onboard the Solomon Airlines flight are staff from Qantas Airways.
He says the current emergency restrictions have already thrown our school programs into chaos and who knows what else will happen if we do have an outbreak of the Covid-19.

Wale Calls for Waiver of School Fees and Access to Internet for Students

The Leader of Opposition, Hon. Matthew Wale calls on the government to prioritize the need to ensure that the education of our young people is not hampered by the current state of emergency.
The coverage include video interviews of health workers in rural areas.

Uncovering the Untold: SISAC Collecting Stories of Health Impacts in Rural Western Province

A media team from the Solomon Islands Social Accountability Coalition (SISAC) successfully completed a weeklong tour in the Western Province to capture issues faced by rural communities on healthcare access and effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I also want my school to become a role model for other schools in how we support our girls and MHM”, Mr. Matia said.

Breaking the Barriers: School Principal Advocate for Menstrual Hygiene in School

“I want to be a male champion for Menstrual Health Management (MHM) for my school”, Mr. Matia says.
The youths are in the States on a program with International Leadership Training Program (ILTP).

Solomon Islanders in US Hope to be Repatriated Soon

12 Solomon Islanders currently in the United States on a Youth leadership program are hoping to be repatriated back to the country soon.
The planned Tina River Hydropower Project, when up and running, is expected to significantly reduce the cost of electricity for Solomon Islanders.

Norconsult Appointed LTA on Tina River Project

Norconsult is to act as the Lender’s Technical Advisor (LTA) during construction of the Tina River Hydropower Project in Solomon Islands, after being selected for the role by the Government of Solomon Islands and a consortium of Lenders led by the World Bank.
Village Chief Allegedly Ordered Killing of "Vele"

Village Chief Allegedly Ordered Killing of "Vele"

Officers of the Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) at the Henderson Police Station have arrested a male person at Titinge in relation to an alleged murder incident which occurred at Malaisu Village on South Guadalcanal on 20 March 2020.
While carrying out this repatriation exercise the Government is mindful of its obligation to ensure that the operation runs as smoothly as possible to ensure the safety of its people.

First Repatriation Flight Arrives: Passengers to Undergo 28-days Quarantine

Solomon Islanders stuck overseas have arrived today at the Henderson International Airport and taken to government Institutional Quarantine Facilities to undergo the mandatory 28 days quarantine.
Prime Minister Sogavare during the official handover of the ESP to the Minister of Finance and Treasury Harry Kuma.

Submissions Open for Economic Stimulus Package

The National Government through its Implementation and Oversight Committee (IOC) is now calling for submissions from interested applicants for funding consideration under the covid-19 Economic Stimulus Package (ESP).
“We need to make drastic improvements within and across sectors if we are to enhance our state of preparedness and readiness to deal effectively and efficiently with positive COVID-19 cases in the country”, said Mr. Remobatu.

Government and Partners Assess Lock Down Simulation

The National Government and its Partners met recently to workshop on lessons learned from last week’s lock down simulation.
Solomon Airlines Confirms Repatriation Arrangements

Solomon Airlines Confirms Repatriation Arrangements

With the approval of the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu and Fiji Governments, Solomon Airlines will operate a series of additional international repatriation flights on Wednesday 27 May, 2020.
L - R: The Young Entrepreneurs Council Solomon Islands (YECSI) Coordinator, Emmanuel Pitakaka, Chairlady, Millicent Barty, Women’s Economic Empowerment and Youth Director at Strongim Bisnis, Mr Gianluca Nardi and after signing the partnership agreement to pursue the Youth Innovation Programme.

YECSI and Strongim Bisnis Partner up for Youth Innovation Programme

Given the current global COVID-19 pandemic situation dwindling and affecting ‘business-as-usual’ activities, the Young Entrepreneurs Council Solomon Islands (YECSI) has come up with an innovative approach to use technology to deliver its services and their new in-house programme “Ennovation Blo Iumi”.
One such school adjusting to such measures is Saint Nicholas. School principal, John Lengi says social distancing is practiced in both secondary and primary classes.

Schools Adjust to New Realities as Classes Resume

Schools have resumed in Honiara, but many will have to rethink how they organize themselves - in the classrooms and outside – practices such as social distancing need to be observed.
Blood sugar test and blood pressure readings being conducted at the Kilu’ufi Hospital in Auki.

Urgency to Strengthen National Health Systems to Respond to NCD: WHO

The threat of COVID-19 has accelerated the urgency and need to strengthen the national health system’s ability to treat and manage patients with diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure.
Four Murder Suspects Remanded

Four Murder Suspects Remanded

Officers of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force at Lata, Temotu Province have arrested and remanded four murder suspects ranging from 18 to 60 years old in relation to the death of a 50-year-old male on Utupua Island on 31 December 2019.
Combined efforts by MHMS and partners sorting out Covid-19 awareness materials before going to the field.

10,000 Households in Honiara Reached with Covid-19 Information

Over 10,000 households in Honiara have been reached with Covid-19 information through house to house awareness programs.
The facility will support existing production in cocoa, copra, kava, noni, cassava, and other export commodities.

Government Call for Submissions for Economic Stimulus Support

The call for submissions to access the economic stimulus package will be published starting today, and for the next two weeks.
“Self doubt and looking down on yourselves will only hinder you from achieving your biggest and wildest dreams. The sky's the limit,” she said.

Flying One of the World's Favourite Aircraft, in the Solomon Islands

On May 20 1965, when the world’s first DHC-6 Twin Otter took to the air in Canada, it rapidly became the model for a tough go-anywhere, do-anything aircraft.
“Despite the number of suspects arrested, I wish to commend the majority of our citizens within the declared emergency zone for respecting the lockdown order and staying at home," said Acting Commissioner of Police Mostyn Mangau.

22 Arrested For Breaching Lockdown Order

Officers of the Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) have so far arrested 22 suspects for the alleged breaching of the lockdown order under the State of Public Emergency (SoE).
Solomon Airlines Confirms 26 May Repatriation Flight

Solomon Airlines Confirms 26 May Repatriation Flight

With the approval of the Solomon Islands Government, Solomon Airlines will operate a single repatriation flight from Brisbane to Honiara on Tuesday 26 May, making it possible for Solomon Islands citizens who have been stranded offshore, to return home.
The ceremonial occasion also marked the official opening of the refurbished pathology laboratory at the National Referral Hospital.

Australia Officialy Hands Over Covid-19 Test Machine

Today the Australian High Commission officially handed over the qPCR machine to the Ministry of Health and Medical Services.
AC Pogeava briefing Police Officers on the RSIPF COVID 19 lockdown operations with members of the RSIPF Executive.

Police Starts COVID 19 Lockdown Operation

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) operation to enforce the COVID-19 lockdown in the declared Emergency Zone from Poha to Alligator Creek has begun this morning with officers deployed to assist with movement of people from Honiara City safely to their homes before the lockdown starts at 6 pm this evening.
Seif Ples centre manager, Falu Maesugea said in April alone 890 genuine callers were recorded, calling to seek information & referrals on domestic violence, rape, and COVID-19.

SAFENET Preparing for Possible Increase in Domestic Violence During Lockdown

The Solomon Islands government has declared a lockdown period from 6pm Wednesday May 20th to 6am Friday May 22nd, 2020.
"I question whether the Telecommunication Act 2009 allows for an MOU to facilitate disclosure of confidential information by a Service provider like Solomon Telekom,” said the Opposition Leader.

Wale Questions the Recently Signed MOU Between Police and Telekom

The Leader of Opposition, Hon. Matthew Wale questions the legality of the MOU signed by Solomon Telekom and the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force(RSIPF), to foster exchange of communication related information.
The flight will be from Brisbane to Honiara. All nationals boarding the flight must have valid Solomon Airlines tickets.

Government Announces Repatriation of Stranded Nationals

The Government’s Covid-19 Oversight Committee has announced the repatriation of Solomon Islands Nationals who are stranded in Australia and Fiji as a result of flight closures due to Covid-19.
Based in Honiara, Smiley Giobauta is also responsible for managing IFC’s relationship with the Solomon Islands government, donors and private sector representatives.

IFC Appoints Smiley Giobauta as New Country Officer for Solomon Islands

IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, has appointed Smiley Giobauta as Country Officer for Solomon Islands.
Fuel Price Drops, Lowest in Years

Fuel Price Drops, Lowest in Years

Good news for motorists in the country, fuel prices are now at its lowest point in decades – petrol is now at SBD$6.85 per liter and diesel at SBD$7.27 per liter.
Acting Commissioner Mangau explains: “Any one breaking the Order could be fined a maximum of $10,000 or imprisoned for five years or both.”

What to Expect During 36 Hour Lockdown

A 36-hour lockdown will be imposed this week in the emergency zones of Honiara and on Guadalcanal. The lockdown will start on Wednesday 20th May at 6pm and lifted on Friday 22nd May 6am.
Solomon Airlines is Recognising "International Day of Families"

Solomon Airlines is Recognising "International Day of Families"

Solomon Airlines is recognizing 'International Day of Families', observed on the 15th of May every year, by sharing some of the family ties that exist between the airline’s current employees and generations past.
Dr Forau says that given that villages have been, and will continue to be, an insurance of sorts for Solomon Islanders, it would be important that discussions focus on alternative paths to development.

Prepare for a New Normal: Dr Forau

The Governor of the Central Bank, Dr. Luke Forau, has launched the 2019 CBSI Annual Report.

Response to Unfair Covid-19 Allowances Claim

In such a time like this when the country is facing a global health pandemic, the lives of each and every one of us very much depend on how we work together and critical to this, is the sharing and dissemination of correct, accurate and contextual information.
Mr Tony Tepeaihana, Managing Director of Food Works Supplies Ltd, MAL Permanent Secretary Mrs Ethel Tebengi Frances and MAL Undersecretary Technical Michael Ho’ota signing the funding agreement.

MAL SBD$2.4M Funding Support for Local Feed Production and Hatchery

The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) has signed another exciting project worth SBD2.4 million dollar with Food Works Supplies Ltd for hatchery and feed mill services.
COVID-19 Human Capital Virtual Consulting principal, Belinda Botha.

Virtual Consulting Lifeline Created to Help Struggling South Pacific Tourism Operators

High profile Solomon Islands dive tourism entrepreneur, Belinda Botha has stepped up with a timely and proactive helping hand to offer virtual business coaching advice to struggling South Pacific tourism operators - COVID-19 Human Capital Virtual Consulting.
“Providing cash transfers supports local economies and ensures that the most vulnerable community members can pay for urgent goods and services to help them get back on their feet after a disaster.”

Research Concludes Cash Best Way to Help Solomon Islanders After a Disaster

A new study on the use of cash and voucher assistance in the Solomon Islands found that it has the potential to be one of the most effective and dignified ways to support communities hit by disaster.
Several Quarantine Facilities Closed

Several Quarantine Facilities Closed

The country currently has up to 120 quarantine rooms in place now.
Pubs, Casinos and Kava Bars Re-open for Business

Pubs, Casinos and Kava Bars Re-open for Business

Pubs, kava bars and casinos are now allowed to resume operations. This was revealed by the Attorney General, John Muria Jnr in a radio talkback show on Monday.

COVID-19 Has Significantly Affected Enterprises, SICCI Survey Reveals

The COVID-19 crisis has significantly affected enterprises in Solomon Islands.
The airline will continue to remain flexible and available to operate Solomon Islands Government approved cargo and charter flights as needed.

Solomon Airlines Extends Suspension of International Flights

Following the 23 March announcement that Solomon Airlines scheduled international passenger flights will be suspended until 31 May, 2020, the airline has now extended the suspension a further seven weeks, until 15 July 2020.
Vice-President of the Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI) Douglas Marau.

MASI VP Says Media Must Continue to Promote National Unity

Vice-President of the Media Association of Solomon Islands Douglas Marau has reminded journalists to continue to promote national unity during this current COVID-19 pandemic.
Increased Breaches of COVID-19 Measures

Increased Breaches of COVID-19 Measures

The National Emergency Operations Center (NEOC) said there are reports people are continually breaching measures imposed by authorities on COVID-19.
Satlink systems will be used to monitor longline fisheries on behalf of the Solomon Islands’ Government.

Solomon Islands Looks to Satlink Technology to Monitor Fishing Activities

The Solomon Islands’ Government has selected technology developed by Spanish engineering company Satlink, to better monitor and manage fishing activity on longline vessels.
Eight Vehicles Impounded Over Mothers Day Weekend

Eight Vehicles Impounded Over Mothers Day Weekend

More than two hundred vehicles were checked during a weekend operation by the police, eight motor vehicles were impounded and drivers charged.
Working Together on the COVID-19 Crisis

Working Together on the COVID-19 Crisis

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is a global health emergency of unprecedented scale, which is threatening the health, wellbeing and security of all Pacific people. This crisis recognizes no borders and requires leadership, coordination, and cooperation from across our Blue Pacific region.
Celebrate Mother's Day Responsibly

Celebrate Mother's Day Responsibly

The Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) appeals to those planning to celebrate mothers day tonight to do so responsibly.
GeneXpert Testing Cartridges Will Enable COVID-19 Testing in Solomon Islands

GeneXpert Testing Cartridges Will Enable COVID-19 Testing in Solomon Islands

Working together with the World Health Organization (WHO), Australia and New Zealand funded the successful procurement and delivery of highly sought after GeneXpert PCR testing cartridges to Solomon Islands. The batch of cartridges arrived yesterday on a special Solomon Airlines cargo flight.
Australian High Commissioner Dr Lachlan Strahan and Minister for Health and Medical Services, Hon. Dickson Mua at the handover ceremony.

Australia Formally Hands Over Newly Built Quarantine Units at Henderson Airport

Australian High Commissioner Dr Lachlan Strahan officially handed over two special-built pre-fabricated units to the Minister for Health and Medical Services, the Honourable Dickson Mua, at a ceremony at Henderson Airport on Friday.
16 Year Old Arrested for Alleged Rape of 28 Year Old

16 Year Old Arrested for Alleged Rape of 28 Year Old

Officers of the Royal Solomon Island Police (RSIPF) in Auki have arrested a 16-year-old male suspect for raping a 28-year-old female at Afetafa Village in Central Kwara’ae, Malaita Province on 7 May 2020.
44 People Who Breached Curfew Re-bailed

44 People Who Breached Curfew Re-bailed

The Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) has re-bailed 44 people who breached the curfew order under the State of Public Emergency which was enforced from 10 - 11 April in Honiara.
Acting Commissioner Mostyn Mangau and the Solomon Telekom Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Arthur Yen, with the signed Memorandum of understanding (MoU).

Solomon Telekom and Police Can Now Share Information Under MOU

The Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) Acting Commissioner Mostyn Mangau today signed a Memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Solomon Telekom Company Limited (STCL) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Arthur Yen during a brief ceremony at Rove Police Headquarters in Honiara.
Mother Of Three Becomes First Person From Village To Graduate With Masters

Mother Of Three Becomes First Person From Village To Graduate With Masters

Leonora Houma has overcome more than most to complete her Master of Education at the University of Waikato, and she hopes it shows other young Solomon Islanders what can be achieved.
This assistance is part of a wider budget support mechanism – the Core Economic Working Group - through which Australia, New Zealand, the Asian Development Bank, and the European Union all provide budget support.

World Bank Approves USD$15 Million to Assist Solomon Islands

The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors has approved a US$15 million Development Policy Operation for Solomon Islands that will seek to strengthen public financial management while enabling the government to meet the costs of COVID-19 preparedness.
SICCI Vice Chairman, Rick Fuoo (left), Acting Commissioner of Police, Mostyn Mangau and SICCI CEO, Ms Atenasi Ata with officials from both SICCI and RSIPF who were present at the Executive Group Meeting.

Collaborating With RSIPF Throughout COVID-19 Pandemic

The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) has assured the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) of its support on behalf of businesses during this time of State of Public Emergency (SOPE) as a result of the COVID-19 global pandemic.
Minister for Foreign Affairs & External Trade, Hon. Jeremiah Manele and Australian High Commissioner Dr Lachlan Strahan sign the funding agreement.

SBD$71 Million Funding Support From Australia

Australia has officially delivered SBD$71 million to the Solomon Islands Government to boost COVID-19 preparedness and response activities.
Demand for Seeds High, First Handover Done

Demand for Seeds High, First Handover Done

A high number of Honiara residents are asking for seedlings from the National Agriculture and Livestock Research Development Centre (NARLDC).
"We have covered more than 50 percent of the areas on Guadalcanal and only a few more communities within the wards are to be covered”, Denty said.

COVID-19 Awareness on Guadalcanal Close to Complete

COVID-19 awareness on Guadalcanal is expected to complete by the end of May.
It had been a month now since this ban was effective. With restrictions in their income earning activity, Lia is worried for her children’s future.

Betel Nut Vendor's Plea for Empathy

The current ban on informal markets is taking its toll on families.
In his speech to launch the governments economic stimulus plan Sogavare says that the the country is heading towards a recession in the second half of 2020.

As Recession Looms Country Looks to the Economic Stimulus

The writing is on the wall, experts are pointing to a historic economic downturn. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) say worldwide gross domestic product will shrink by 3.0 percent in 2020, compared to an initial January projection of 3.3 percent growth.
“While travel around the Pacific Region is still a way off, it’s important for Niue to tell our Kiwi and Aussie neighbors know that we all miss each other and we want to connect again.”

Niue Launches New Tourism Campaign to Aid Recovery

“Let’s say Fakaalofa lahi atu again soon” is the heartfelt wish central to a marketing campaign launched by Niue Tourism.
He says countries that have positive cases of covid-19 are reopening their economies and institutions.

Wale Calls for Early Resumption of Classes at SINU

The Leader of Opposition Hon. Matthew Wale calls on the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) to review the decision to delay the resumption of classes to 3rd August 2020.
A staggering 70% of tourism jobs were lost in the past six weeks and as the backbone of Vanuatu’s economy, tourism has traditionally provided approximately 40% of its National GDP.

Tourism Recovery Perspective for Vanuatu Following Covid and Harold

In mid-January 2020, Vanuatu formed a National Coronavirus Taskforce to begin preparing the country for the growing global health pandemic.
"These statements should be re-clarified to reflect the actual boundaries between Honiara City and Guadalcanal in accordance with several other laws..or if not then there should be an inclusion of ‘Guadalcanal Province’ along the same line in the first Order"

Guadalcanal Premier Unhappy with Overlapped Boundaries in SOE Orders

The Guadalcanal Honorable Premier, Mr. Francis Sade, had voiced his frustrations and appealed to the National Government to correct the boundaries declared under the Emergency Powers (COVID-19) Regulations 2020 on March 27.
The visit was to observe COVID-19 preparedness and response activities on Solomon Islands’ border with Bougainville, and to review the progress of cooperation under way between Australia and Solomon Islands to strengthen border security.

United Stand For A COVID-19 Free Solomon Islands

Five Ministers joined the Australian High Commissioner, high-level Solomon Islands Government Officials, the Acting Commissioner of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) and senior representatives of the Australian Defence Force and Australian Federal Police on a visit to the Shortlands Islands on Saturday 2 May.
“The effective implementation of the stimulus package, especially coordinating the implementation phase in the short to medium term is critical,” he said.

Prime Minister Sogavare Launch Economic Stimulus Plan

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare today launched the Solomon Islands Economic Stimulus Package at the Heritage Park Hotel in Honiara.
One of the event’s organizers James Kana and Lorio Sisiolo from FSC.

Push Up Challenge for Mental Health Raises Funds

It's about hitting two birds with one stone, or in this case, two worthy cause with one small gesture.
She told the participants that there are many ways to develop a business. She said they must be willing to start small and then monitor their progress as they grow.

Entrepreneurship Way To Go Says Guadalcanal Women

A life skills training was successfully carried out by the Guadalcanal Provincial Council of Women (GPCW).
Guadalcanal Province Propose New Market Site

Guadalcanal Province Propose New Market Site

Guadalcanal province is seeking to establish a vegetable market at the west end of Honiara, purposely to serve the community of West Honiara and restart much needed economic activity for farmers.
The Warehouse offered by Tongs re-emphasizes the importance of all stake holders working together to combat a pandemic with the potential to bring havoc into our country.

Tongs Supports Government COVID 19 Efforts

Tongs Builders Warehouse, a locally owned company has provided free of charge, a warehouse at its Henderson compound to support the Government in its operations for COVID-19 and Tropical Cyclone Harold.
The Multipurpose Hall Upgrade project is in partnership between the Honiara City Council and the New Zealand Aid Programme.

Multipurpose Hall Upgrade Progressing Well

In Solomon Islands, the Honiara Multi-Purpose Hall upgrade continues, despite minor delays caused by COVID 19.
The aim was to grow cash-free, direct trading in food and pre-loved items between people, to help use what money they could save for bills such as rent, utilities and transport.

Facebook Barter Page Grows Cash-Free Trade in Fiji and Beyond

Within days of launching "Barter for a better Fiji" on Facebook, Suva resident, Ms. Marlene Dutta has sparked a cashless trade movement so popular it's gone from three administrators to more than 90,000 members in just a over a week.
Sister Doreen Awaiasi has decided to close the center indefinitely because of over-crowding and more-so because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Malaita Care Center Closes Indefinitely

The Malaita Care Center is closing its doors indefinitely.

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