Latest News Archive October 2020

Such cooperation agreement is not the first of its kind within the region – Fiji and Vanuatu, who have diplomatic ties with China, also have cooperation agreements with the PAPF.

Government Set to Sign Co-operation Agreement with China’s Peoples Armed Police Force?

By Georgina Kekea and Jimmy Nolan
The Government is in advanced discussions with China on a co-operation agreement with the People’s Armed Police Force (PAPF) – a well-placed source revealed.
Two women candidates Pauline Radoe, second from left, and Rose Anilabata, right, with their campaign managers and workshop facilitators at the Honiara Hotel on Tuesday.

Election Workshop Helpful, says Firisua

Central Honiara by-election contender and female candidate Pauline Radoe Firisua says a workshop organized to assist them in their campaign has been helpful.
Following the completion of the screening process, the recipients whose applications are approved will be contacted in the coming days.

ESP Update: Fisheries, Tourism Applications Cleared

First round of assessment of all applications towards the Economic Stimulus Package under Fisheries and Tourism sector have completed the entire screening process this week.
He says the protest will continue until the government agrees to set a date for payment of the outstanding allowances.

Nurses Stage Sit in Protest

Nurses at the National Referral Hospital are currently staging a sit in protest outside the outpatient and car park area.
To vote in the awards, visit www.divemagazine.co.uk/travel and go to ‘Dive Travel Awards 2020’.

Solomon Islands Competes for Top 10 Global Ranking as a Diving Destination

With just three days to go before voting closes in one of the global dive industry’s most contested awards, Solomon Islands is ranking highly among global contenders for recognition as one of the best diving destinations in the world.
"So, when the two big projects start to run, we will start to inject finance into the economy to regenerate the economy, employment and moving things along”, Rodgers says.

Essential Workers for Development Projects a Priority: SPM

By Georgina Kekea
The government is working hard to bring in essential workers for the Tina Hydro Project and the Airport Project.
Mr Alan McNeil was sworn in as Solomon Islands’ Commissioner of Lands on Thursday 22nd October 2020.

SICCI Congratulates McNeil on Appointment as Commissioner of Lands

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Natalina Hong on behalf of the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) Board and its members congratulate Mr Alan McNeil on his official appointment as the Commissioner of Lands within the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Survey.
“It is a significant commitment by our Members and Partners. We sincerely thank all of those who participated across the Pacific. We work best when we work together," says the FFA Director General Dr Manumatavai Tupou-Roosen.

Enormous Fisheries Surveillance Effort by FFA and Members

One of the largest maritime surveillance operation in the world, Operation Kurukuru, concludes on Friday 30 October, after two weeks of international cooperation by aircraft, ships, and national organisations to target Illegal, Unregulated and Unreported (IUU) fishing in the Pacific.
Chiefs and Community leaders have established their own homegrown preparedness and response plans to prevent the entry of the virus, one of which is asking Government authorities to screen and ensure travelers to the island are covid-free.

Sikaiana Plans Local Measures as Fears of COVID-19 Grows

Leaders and people of Sikaiana Island are considering imposing restrictions on people traveling from Honiara to the Island following the recorded positive covid-19 cases in Honiara.
Luciana says many families in her village received assistance for housing, including other small projects, but she has been left out.

What About Us?

By Jimmy Nolan
86-year-old Luciana Lighoti has been living in the same leafy patched house for most of her adult life.
Rodgers told journalists in a press conference that the low risk countries are in the list for repatriation once the suspension is lifted.

Taiwan Based Students Await Next Flight

By Georgina Kekea
Solomon Islanders studying in Taiwan who have missed the recent flight from Auckland will await the next repatriation flight from Auckland.
Recent assessments have offered some insight into the mental health of those in quarantine, and the need to ensure that early mental health symptoms are picked up.

Mental Health of Those in Quarantine a Concern

By Georgina Kekea
As weeks turn to months the mental health of those in quarantine has become a concern.
"We must look ahead and capitalize on opportunities which will help us to not only recover but rethink our collective approach to the future of our Pacific tourism industry”, said Mr. Fua.

Pacific Tourism Organisation Elects New Leadership

For the first time in its history the Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) has convened a virtual meeting of its Board of Directors; comprising of government representatives from 20 Pacific Island countries and China, along with four representatives from the private sector.
Meanwhile, the Prime Minister has also announced that the government has deployed the Correctional Services of Solomon Islands to assist with security at the field hospital and to complement existing security arrangements in other quarantine facilities.

Still No Lockdown: PM

There will be no lockdown despite the announcement of the country’s four new positive COVID-19 cases.
The Prime Minister said these are the students quarantined at the GBR quarantine station.

First Group of Philippine Students to be Released: PM

The first group of quarantined students from the Philippines will be released tomorrow if their final tests are negative.
Others on the flight have been quarantined in single rooms to minimize the risk of further transmission.

BREAKING: Four More Positive COVID-19 Case

By Jimmy Nolan
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has confirmed that four returning nationals that arrived via New Zealand have tested positive for COVID-19.
Police say the stabbing victim was with his girlfriend who is believed to be the suspect’s ex girlfriend.

Police Arrest 21-Year-Old Male for Stabbing 22-Year-Old Male in Honiara

Officers of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) at the Naha Police Station have arrested a 21-year-old boy for allegedly stabbing a 22-year-old male person at the Borderline bus stop in East Honiara on 23 October 2020.
The Sofrana Surville cargo boat is linked to a COVID-19 strain never before seen in NZ.

New COVID-19 Strain Baffles Authorities in NZ

A New Zealand port worker, who tested positive for COVID-19, carries a strain never before detected in New Zealand. Genomic testing of the port worker's virus found that it is in fact a new strain.
"Any body found breaching the COVID-19 Maritime Regulation will be prosecuted.”

Stay Away from Visiting Foreign Vessels in Port Cruz Harbour: Police

The Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) warns against outboard motors (OBMs) going out to foreign vessels while anchored at sea in the Port Cruz Harbor area.
“Our fourth case was retested and is now negative. Therefore, all our four initial positive cases are now negative,” he said.

Fourth Case Tests Negative

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has announced that the country’s fourth case has recovered and has tested negative.
“These four are being kept in isolation as a precaution,” the Prime Minister said.

Four Red-flagged on Arrival from Auckland: PM

Four passengers were red-flagged upon arrival from the repatriation flight from Auckland, New Zealand on Sunday night.
Vincent and his mother Ms Matesonia arrived back in the country over the weekend.

Surgery in Canberra Save Solomon Islands Baby Born with Detached Oesophagus

Not yet two years old, Vincent Toto's life was set to end before it really began.
Minister of Agriculture and Livestock Hon. Senley Levi Filualea delivers his keynote address.

MAL Minister Calls for United Effort in Agriculture Development

Minister for the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) Hon. Senley Levi Filualea is calling for collective efforts from stakeholders including government, private sectors and farmers towards the development of agriculture in the country.
Reports from the relevant government agencies say there were no damages to properties or lives lost.

5.5 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Makira

A shallow magnitude 5.5 earthquake was reported late last night near the town of Kirakira in Makira Ulawa Province.
“I really loved the job, it gave me good income and also I was working with some very skillful people which I learn from,” Tentoa recalls.

Still Going Strong at the Age of 76

By Jeremy Gwao
Tentoa Amon is 76 years of age, he comes from Arariki village in Wagina, Choiseul Province.
Newly appointed director general of SIICAC John Hugani Kouni taking his oath before the chairman of SIICAC, Sir Frank Kabui.

Anti-corruption Body Appoints Director General

The Solomon Islands Independent Commission against Corruption, SIICAC, has a first appointed Director General. He is John Hugani Kouni.
(L-R) Deputy Secretary Technical of MAL Michael Ho'ota, FAO rep Jimi Saelea, MAL PS Ethel Frances and other FAO rep Nichol Nonga.

Citizens Urged to ‘Eat Healthy Food Not Rice and Noodle’

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) Ethel Frances is urging citizens to plant and eat healthy nutritious food and not processed food.
Meanwhile Togamana says the first three positive cases has now returned negative.

Solomon Islands Records 4th Case

By Georgina Kekea
Solomon Islands now records its fourth positive case of COVID-19.
“The government has had ample time to prepare a budget that is attuned to the challenges and uncertainties posed by the COVID-19 pandemic,” says Wale.

Opposition Leader on Current State of Economy

The Leader of Opposition, Hon. Matthew Wale, has expressed grave concern about the current state of the economy and the impact it is having on families and households throughout the country.
The ESP Committee is currently finalising approvals for the remaining applications towards projects under Cocoa, Copra, Kava, and other projects under Fisheries, Tourism and Forestry sector.

ESP Update: Contract Signing, Disbursements of Funds Ongoing

Signing of letter of offers and contracts with local farmers who are among of the recipients of the Government’s Economic Stimulus Package (ESP) and its committee is currently ongoing.
These students were assessed and identified in the ‘contact tracing process’ as those that either had no exposure, or very low risk exposure, to any of the 3 positive cases.

Low Risk Students Transferred to Vimo and SA Apartment

Eighteen (18) students who were assessed to be ‘low risk’ by the Public Health Emergency Surveillance Unit have been shifted to two other government-managed Quarantine Stations (QS) over the weekend.
The NHA chairman and SPM added that the signing of the agreement outlines what we want to achieve by 2023.

NHA Chair: This is a Historic Moment

“This is a historic moment”, the Chairman of the National Hosting Authority (NHA) and Secretary to Prime Minister, Dr Jimmy Rodgers made the statement to describe the signing of the Implementation Agreement of the 2023 Pacific Games Stadium Project.
The government is now tightening its finances as the strain of COVID-19 hits hard on its pocket.

Economic Impact of COVID-19: Government Braces Itself

By Georgina Kekea
With repatriation flights set to re-start in the coming weeks, the government is bracing itself for the huge costs involved.
Solomon Islands Government’s assistance will include repatriating overseas staff to Honiara and measures to ensure critical activities can continue in the event of a lockdown.

FFA Thanks Solomon Islands Government for its Support During the Pandemic

The Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency has expressed its gratitude to the Solomon Islands Government for its assistance throughout the COVID-19 period, during a visit by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs & External Trade, Mr Collin Beck, to FFA Headquarters.
"The fire could have been caused by a solar power battery and inverter inside the building. But investigations will continue to confirm this or otherwise."

Police Investigates Burning of Aola Post

Officers of the Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) at the Henderson Police Station are investigating the burning down of the Aola Police Post in East Guadalcanal on 17 October 2020.
Prime Minister Sogavare said it is important that all persons in quarantine must adhere to Covid-19 preventative measures.

We Can Reclaim Our COVID-19 Free Status

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare says Solomon Islands can reclaim its status as a COVID-19 free country, if we eliminate the virus within the quarantine station.
“The results will tell us which way the Covid-19 situation is heading within our quarantine stations, so we await the results in anticipation,” he said.

Chengs Classified as High-Risk Station: PM

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has disclosed that Chengs is now classified as a high-risk quarantine station.
Muria added that failure to tell the truth is a threat to national security and persons who are not honest will be dealt with by appropriate authorities.

AG Urges Students to Answer Truthfully

Attorney General John Muria Jnr has called on students who are currently in quarantine centres to tell the truth when they are being asked questions by responsible and authorized officials.
Alice recognises that the opportunity to work in Australia under the PLS is crucial to widening her skills and experiences in order to support her family and community.

APTC Alumna Inspired to Help Elderly People

“The challenges I faced while caring for my grandfather motivated me to persevere and attain a qualification at the Australia Pacific Training Coalition (APTC),” says Alice Houtoro Tara.
Charles says he plans to expand the tilapia farm further. He says he knows there are challenges, but he is now experienced enough to handle them.

“I Hated the Job!” Young Fish Farmer Breeds 20,000 Tilapia

By Jimmy Nolan
Charles Koria is from Aruligo in North West Guadalcanal. He was just 17 years old when he decided he had enough of school, with little option, and with much reluctance, he decided to help his father breed tilapia.
Dr. Rodgers says whilst it is good to go to single rooms to limit the likelihood of exposure, it is also risky to move them to another location.

Government Weighs Options to Transfer Occupants

By Georgina Kekea
The government is weighing its options whether to move some of the occupants from Chengs quarantine station to other quarantine facilities.
Pauline Firisua, second from right, with US Consul Keithie Saunders and supporters who attended her commissioning.

More Women Needed in Parliament: Saunders

Solomon Islands would be a much fairer and balance country if it elects more of its women into parliament.
Sir Dr. Kere has vast experience in the healthcare industry, both as a private doctor as well as serving in government, international NGOs, and multinational corporations. He has also served at regional and international levels.

Sir Dr. Nathan K. Kere is the New Chancellor for SINU

Sir Dr. Nathan K. Kere has accepted his appointment as Chancellor of the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) for the next two years.
“For visitors, do not come with the full family. Because of COVID-19 we do not want people coming in and moving to places they are not supposed to”, Hue says.

National Referral Hospital Still on Emergency Mode

By Georgina Kekea
The National Referral Hospital (NRH) is still operating in an emergency mode. Medical Superintendent, Dr. John Hue says they have adjusted visiting hours and made restrictions in the number of visitors to the hospital.
Students need to be conscious of the fact that the quarantine stations are becoming hotspots for COVID-19, and they must be more responsible before it gets out of hand.

“Stop Mingling:” Quarantine Stations Now COVID-19 Hotspots

By News Desk
There are now three confirmed cases of COVID-19. All three cases are students who recently returned from the Philippines and were in quarantine.
Theme for this year’s annual celebration is: Grow, Nourish, Sustain. Together. Our Actions are our Future.

World Food Day Commemoration

Today 16th October is the World Food Day.
Sogavare says that despite the new confirmed COVID-19 case the risk for community transmission remains low.

BREAKING: 3rd Confirmed Case of COVID-19

By Georgina Kekea
There is another confirmed case of COVID-19.
Onorina Fugawai, PTI Australia Tourism and Investment Project Officer emphasised the importance of providing operators with practical steps to enhance their digital presence, especially as the world starts to plan post-pandemic holiday destinations.

New Advanced Online Workshop for Pacific Tourism Operators

Pacific Trade Invest (PTI) Australia, the region’s lead trade and investment promotion agency has partnered with leading experts to provide an advanced online workshop series for Pacific tourism operators looking to elevate their digital skills.
“I know our family had no money to give, but than what came to my mind when I heard the announcement was the many birds in the wild,” an excited James recall.

Faith in Action: Young Bird Catcher Donates to Church

By Jimmy Nolan
James Ghaua may be young but he understands that faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.
Hon. Wale says he is confident that Premier Suidani was aware of, and will learn from the challenges encountered heading into the motion.

Opposition Leader Congratulates Suidani, Calls for Unity

Leader of Opposition and MP for Aoke Langalanga, Hon. Matthew Wale congratulates the Premier of Malaita Province, Hon. Daniel Suidani, on his success against the no confidence motion tabled against him.
Breaches Identified in Quarantine Stations

Breaches Identified in Quarantine Stations

By Georgina Kekea
A report by the health ministry has highlighted lack of isolation by occupants in quarantine stations as a concern.
High Commissioner Robert Sisilo receiving the two Immigration officials at the High Commission in Canberra.

Passport Renewals for Solomon Islands Nationals Continues in Australia

Forty Solomon Islands Nationals residing in Australia will soon have new passports valid for the next 10 years.
Health Minister Dr. Culwick Togamana thanked the Ambassador for the courtesy call and acknowledged the support rendered by China in the country’s efforts against the pandemic.

PRC Ambassador Pays Courtesy Visit to Health Minister

The Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) to the Solomon Islands His Excellency Mr. Li Ming paid a courtesy visit to the Health Minister at the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS).
The USP DFL centre recently imposed restrictions in response to COVID-19. This has affected Mac and many others as they adjust to the new measures and guidelines.

COVID-19 Impact: Not Giving Up

By Jeremy Gwao
The COVID-19 pandemic has taken its toll on students studying at the University of the South Pacific’s distance and flexible learning centre (DFL).
A polling station at the 2019 National General Election. Voter turnout for Central Honiara and North East Guadalcanal were 75% and 92% respectively.

Electoral Commission Hopeful for High Voter Turnout Despite Covid-19

In the 2019 National General Election, voter turnout for Central Honiara and North East Guadalcanal were 75% and 92% respectively.
Ambassador of the European Union for the Pacific HE Sujiro Seam (L) and the United Nations Resident Coordinator, Sanaka Samarasinha.

UN and EU Launch Spotlight Initiative Regional Pacific Programme

The United Nations and the European Union (EU) has launched a multi-year partnership - the Spotlight Initiative Regional Pacific Programme focused on amplifying efforts to end violence against women and girls.
Bosamata says parents should not panic but must always listen to advice provided by relevant government authorities.

MEHRD Urges School Administrators to Implement SOPs

By Georgina Kekea
The Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) is urging school administrators to implement their Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).
The whole community in Piru are now searching for the girl and are also hunting for the suspicious crocodile.

Possible Crocodile Attack: 7yr-Old Girl Feared Dead

Officers of the Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) at Taro in Choiseul Province are investigating a seven-year-old girl who went missing at Piru Village in South Choiseul yesterday morning.
Premier Suidani was confident going into the vote, stating that the motion is just to satisfy the intention of certain MPAs.

Suidani Defeats Motion

The motion of no confidence against Malaita Province Premier Daniel Suidani has failed.
Jawsh 685, real name Joshua Nanai, and who is of Cook Island-Samoan heritage, originally posted his Laxed (Siren Beat) on YouTube before it reached worldwide fame on social media app TikTok.

“Savage Love:” Young Kiwi Producer Tops US Chart

Savage Love, that catchy viral tune on TikTok has reached the top of the US chat.
“Drilling at the project is expected to begin by the end of October and will consist of 64 holes for approximately 1300 metres.”

Malachite Resources to Begin Drilling in Jejevo this Month

Malachite Resources (MAR) will begin drilling at the Jejevo Nickel Project in Isabel Province, Solomon Islands, this month.
Jennifer says that she started selling topsoil at the central market 10 years ago and is now one of the main suppliers for residents in Honiara.

Demand for Compost Increases

By Jimmy Nolan
With the confirmed case of COVID-19 in the country the demand for compost has increased as residents in Honiara turn to backyard gardening.
Early childhood education (ECE) classes within the Honiara City will close up to 16th October 2020, all other classes will continue as usual until further notice.

Cabinet Issues Immediate Response Measures, No Instant Lockdown

Cabinet has approved immediate response measures under the current Emergency Regulations in light of the two confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the country and there will be no immediate lockdown until further notice.
"There have since been no reports or sightings of any illegal crossings at our border with PNG including the Malaita Outer Islands."

Borders Remain Secure: PM

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare says the Government has not lost sight of its commitment at our borders.
“Apart from the two COVID-19 positive case, all arrivals that are currently in quarantine have all tested negative,” he said.

Four Tests Return Negative for Suspected COVID-19 Cases

The tests of the four other suspected cases that underwent further tests yesterday have returned negative.
It is understood more than 16,000 applications were received from rural farmers for support through the ESP.

Seaweed and Honey Farmers Set to Benefit from ESP

By Georgina Kekea
Seaweed and honey farmers are scheduled to receive support from the economic stimulus package (ESP) this week.
Fijian girls performing the Meke during the celebrations.

PM Sogavare Thank Fijian Community in Solomon Islands

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has expressed his sincere gratitude to the Fijian community for their service and contributions to the Solomon Islands.
Mike said through that experience he has become a full-time freelancer, advocating for social issues, not with words but with his lens – capturing words unspoken.

Capturing Words Unspoken

By Jeremy Gwao
Michael Wasi is a 20-year-old photographer, shy and reserved he uses the camera to capture pictures of everyday Solomon Islanders.
The SCALE programme will be delivered through five implementing Partners, which are Nathan and Associates; Social Solutions International; Green Power Tech; Winrock International; and DAI. These implementing partners will be undertaking further community consultations on the activities that the programme will support.

Government on US Aid Assistance Targeting Malaita Province

The US Department of State has recently announced new funding investments of US$200 million for the Indo Pacific as part of its Pacific Pledge. Under this umbrella of support to the Region is a US$25 million support package for the (SCALE) project in Solomon Islands.
Graduating Students Overseas to be Brought Home in December

Graduating Students Overseas to be Brought Home in December

By Georgina Kekea
462 government sponsored students are expected to complete their studies in institutions in Fiji, Vanuatu, and Papua New Guinea this year.
According to the Prime Minister, it is the sacrifices of the front liners that “enable us all to continue to live freely."

PM Sogavare Commends Frontline Workers

Prime Minister Hon. Manasseh Sogavare continues to highly commend the work done by front-line workers during the State of Public Emergency.
The Prime Minister said that the second positive student was seated close to the first positive case during the repatriation flight from the Philippines.

BREAKING: Second Positive COVID-19 Student

By Georgina Kekea
Solomon Islands has a second positive case of the COVID-19. Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has confirmed that there is now a second positive COVID-19 student and is now currently in isolation.
Sikua became a Member of Parliament in 2006. However, in the 2019 National General Election he lost the seat to Jamie Vokia who later lost his seat in a High Court petition led by Sikua.

I Have Unfinished Business: Sikua

By Georgina Kekea
A former Prime Minister who is contesting the North East Guadalcanal constituency by-election says he still has unfinished business to attend to.
“The sun is hot, and we have been standing here for quite some time”, Elisa says.

“Think About Us,” Rural Hospital Raises COVID-19 Measures

By Georgina Kekea
Elisa is heavily pregnant and is expecting her baby any time from now. Ellen from the Matepona area is five months pregnant, another standing next to her is six months pregnant.
Auki town in Malaita province.

Wale Urges Premier Suidani to Use USD$25M Funding Wisely

Leader of Opposition Hon. Matthew Wale congratulates USAID for the decision to prioritize Malaita Province in its allocation of USD$25 million under its SCALE programme for the Pacific.
Projects that have been approved so far are for honey, piggery and noni.

ESP Committee Approves New Batch of Applications

The Government’s Economic Stimulus Package (ESP) oversight committee has approved the next batch of applications and recipients will be contacted accordingly.
Research findings show that online violence is serious, causing real harm and silencing girls’ voices. It highlighted that in this global pandemic, when all our lives are moving online, girls are more at risk than ever.

International Day of the Girl (IDG) Campaign: Freedom Online

The Plan International Solomon Islands will organize an event to commemorate the International Day of the Girl (IDG) in Honiara today.
“USAID is beginning a USD$25 million (SBD$204M) Strengthening Competitiveness, Agriculture, Livelihoods and Environment (SCALE) Program focusing on Malaita Province in Solomon Islands.”

SBD$204 Million Grant for Malaita Under U.S Pacific Pledge

By Jimmy Nolan
The United States has announced an SBD$204 Million grant for Malaita Province under the Pacific Pledge of the Indo-Pacific strategy.
The by-elections were made necessary after both MPs, John Moffat Fugui and Jamie Vokia, lost their seats after being found guilty of bribing voters.

Lilo and Sikua Contest By-Elections

By Jeremy Gwao
At the close of nominations yesterday two former Prime Ministers will be contesting the two seats up for by-election.
The Forum Chair further reaffirmed the Forum Leaders call for all parties to protect and uphold the human rights of all residents and to work to address the root causes of the conflict by peaceful means.

PIF Chair Reaffirms Support for Open, Constructive Dialogues, Human Rights Mission to West Papua

The Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) and Prime Minister of Tuvalu, the Honourable Kausea Natano, has reaffirmed the importance of open and constructive dialogue on the human rights situation in West Papua (Papua).
“There is a need for more Solomon Islanders to take part in activities that will contribute to the economic development of the country,” he said.

PM Sogavare Reiterates Need to Take Part in Economic Development

Prime Minister Hon. Manasseh Sogavare, MP says there is a need for Solomon Islanders to participate actively in economic development activities.
Aligegeo P.S.S Principal, Mr. Alick M. Tuita thanks CBSI Deputy Governor Moveni for the timely assistance to help the school.

CBSI Donates SBD$10,000 to Aligegeo Provincial Secondary School

The Central Bank of Solomon Islands has donated a sum of SBD$10,000 along with economic resources (reports) to the Aligegeo Provincial Secondary School in Auki-Malaita Province last week.
RO and ARO Central Honiara Constituency sorting nominations received today.

Nominations For By Elections Closing at 4pm

A few more hours and the nomination of candidates for both Central Honiara and North East Guadalcanal by elections will close this afternoon at 4pm.
“We now have provincial health workers in Choiseul, Western and Malaita provinces engaged and so the concern is a national one,” says Hon. Wale.

Wale Questions Government Over Legal Protection of Provincial Health Workers

Leader of Opposition Hon. Matthew Wale questions the government over protection under law for provincial health officials and front liners required to participate in Covid-19 related activities.
Passengers are still required to get approval from the Controller’s office to travel into PNG and must do a PCR test with negative results to be allowed to enter PNG.

Air Niugini Opens International Flights to Honiara

By Georgina Kekea
Air Niugini has now opened international flights to Honiara, Solomon Islands. Controller David Manning recently announced the new normal and relaxation in travel for Papua New Guinea.
If we look around and try to learn from other COVID-19 positive countries, one thing seems clear – complacency kills.

Our Positive COVID-19 Status

By News Desk
Solomon Islands has one confirmed case of COVID-19. People are slowly coming to grips with the fact that we are no longer COVID-19 free.
Ear-resistible – Tourism Solomons Branded Ear Saver Mask

Ear-resistible – Tourism Solomons Branded Ear Saver Mask

Tourism Solomons has come up with a novel way of keeping the destination in the minds of Australian travel agents while at the same time helping to keep them safe by giving away Tourism Solomons-branded ear savers.
CSSI officers escorting the defendants to the Court hearing at Yandina.

Four Men Imprisoned for Assaulting Police Officers in Central Province

Four men have been convicted and sent to prison for a total of more than three years after being found guilty of assaulting police officers, offensive behaviour at police premises and disobeying lawful order during a Court circuit sitting at Yandina, in the Central Province from 21 – 27 September 2020.
The Codex Alimentarius Commission is a joint program between FAO and WHO for the development of technical standards for most foods and their manufacturing processes, and food safety.

Kava Formally Recognized as a Beverage

By Georgina Kekea
Kava is now formally recognized as a beverage.
“All the staff who are involved in operations underwent daily risk assessment and adequate Infection Prevention and Control procedures that have been put in place and they pose no risk to the community or family members,” Dr Togamana said.

Frontliners Properly Protected Against COVID-19

Frontline workers engaged in COVID-19 operations including support staff have underwent proper training on infection, prevention and control measures and effective use of personal protective equipment.
“The camp management is chaired by the Under Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs. He provides the oversight in terms of operations in camp management. He has powers to make decisions on the spot. We want to ensure that decision making is where the action is”, Mataki says.

Dr Mataki Says He is Confident in Camp Management Work

By Georgina Kekea
Chairman of the National Disaster Council (NDC) Dr Melchior Mataki says he has confidence in the system in place at the quarantine facilities.
The first COVID-19 positive case is a student that recently returned from the Philippines.

Wale on First Covid-19 Case in Solomon Islands

Opposition Leader Hon. Matthew Wale has called on the government to urgently review its SOPs for the repatriation of the remaining students in the Philippines.
“The patient remains asymptomatic meaning that although he has tested positive for COVID-19 he is not feeling sick or showing COVID-19 signs of fever or coughing. This is normal as there are some cases of COVID-19 who remain asymptomatic,” he said.

Health Minister Provides Update on First COVID-19 Case

Solomon Islands’ Health Minister Hon. Culwick Togamana assures that the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) is working very hard to ensure that the country’s first COVID-19 case remains contained and is limited to quarantine stations and does not lead to community spread.
Sogavare said that Cabinet also met yesterday and was briefed on the situation by the public health emergency and surveillance team.

Situation Under Control: Sogavare

By Jimmy Nolan
In the early hours of Saturday morning the country recorded its first positive case of COVID-19.
The MOH says that there are also stringent safety protocols in place, ensuring the safety of front-line workers and the public at large.

Ministry of Health Clarifies Public Concerns

By Jeremy Gwao
There are concerns that those living next to quarantine centres expose themselves to the virus. This has been raised through social media, especially after the first positive case of the COVID-19.
“The situation is low risk so therefore the understanding and position that my ministry has taken is that there is no need to close the schools”, Rodie says.

Schools Continue as Normal: Dr Rodie

By Georgina Kekea
Schools in the country are expected to carry out classes as normal.
Rodgers says the students have so far remained asymptomatic and there were no reports of reinfection.

Quarantined Students in Philippines Cleared

By Georgina Kekea
The 18 Solomon Island students in the Philippines who tested positive for COVID-19 have been given the all clear.
“As a responsible government we cannot close our eyes to the plight of our children and bringing them home was the humane thing to do,” the Prime Minister said.

Government Well Aware of Repatriation Risk

The government is aware of the risks posed by repatriating Solomon Islands citizens from the Philippines.
“The Gene Xpert and the QPCR equipments were used to cross validate the results”, Ms. McNeil says.

Negative Results for Two Students Who Were in Contact with First Positive Case

By Georgina Kekea
Two students who were in close contact with the first positive COVID-19 student have both tested negative.
“RSIPF appeals to those communities near the two quarantine stations to keep well away from them. Relatives of the students quarantined at the stations are strongly urged to stay away from the stations and do not attempt to break any of the quarantine regulations."

Police Boost Security at Quarantine Sites After First Positive COVID-19 Case

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) is boosting static security at the two quarantine stations where the repatriated Solomon Islands students from the Philippines are accommodated as the Government declared the first positive COVID-19 case in the country this afternoon.

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