Latest News Archive July 2021

He says one wrong decision by the oversight committee nearly resulted in community transmission.

Exemptions on International Shipments Should be Banned

By Jimmy Nolan
Leader of the Opposition Hon. Mathew Wale is calling on the government to put a stop to exemptions for international cargo boats.
“Australia’s pledge of up to 1 million doses of AstraZeneca means there will be enough safe and effective vaccine doses to ensure the entire Solomon Islands population over 18 can get vaccinated. This consignment of 50,000 doses is the first of many more batches on their way from CSL in Melbourne,” Dr Strahan said.

50,000 Australian-Made AstraZeneca COVID-19 Vaccines Arrive in Solomon Islands

Fifty thousand Australian-made AstraZeneca doses arrived in Solomon Islands on 29 July on a flight from Brisbane - the largest single consignment of AstraZeneca doses yet to arrive in Solomon Islands from anywhere in the world.
“I therefore would like to clarify that from SIG-MPS perspective, the delay is nothing to do with politics,” Mr Sisiolo said.

Ministry of Public Service Clarifies AG Appointment Delay

Claims in the Island Sun Newspaper on July 29 assuming the Government is politically delaying the appointment of the new Auditor General (AG) is misleading.
Sogavare says "Yellow Journalism" refers to reporting rumors and false information often using eye-catching headlines merely for increased sales.

Sogavare Cautions Journalists of “Yellow Journalism”

Prime Minister Hon. Manasseh Sogavare has warned the media that the Emergency Powers (COVID-19) (No.2) Regulations 2021 has provisions relating to Yellow Journalism.
The sport made its debut in the Summer Games in 2016 at the Rio Olympics, meaning the Fiji team are now undefeated in Olympic rugby sevens competition.

Fiji Sevens Retains Olympic Gold

It may have been the early hours in Fiji, but Fijians were celebrating, with videos popping up on social media of groups of locals taking to the streets to dance and sing.
The team will leave tomorrow for the European camp and play several friendly matches against some international teams in Poland and Croatia.

Solomon Islands World Cup Futsal Team Announced

The Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) has officially released the names of Solomon Islands Futsal Kurukuru team for the FIFA Futsal World Cup Lithuania 2021.
“The recent incident of contact by sea-port COVID-19 front-liners with crews of MV Papa Mau Pau who tested positive for COVID-19, 10 days after leaving Honiara Port with ongoing contact tracing, quarantining and testing of all other secondary contacts had led the NRH Executive to activate COVID-19 alert”, explained Dr Malefoasi.

National Referral Hospital Restricts Entry After COVID-19 Scare

The scare caused by the positive COVID-19 cases on board a cargo vessel that passed through Honiara has prompted health authorities to restrict entry at the national referral hospital – with current status raised to ‘alert level’.
While no study has been conducted on its long-term effects on users, these are early signs of the psychological consequences of using them.

Schools Enforce Strong Rules Against “Coupen” Drug Use

By Jimmy Nolan
Secondary Schools are enforcing additional rules to fight against the use of “Coupen” in schools.
Keswar Leelah, UNDP Solomon Islands Operations Manager, and Premier of Guadalcanal Hon. Francis Sade.

Securing Our Greener Future

For the first time ever, the UN Development Programme Small Grants Programme in Solomon Islands handed over the certificate of afforestation project completion to its grantee, Isi Akson Theatre Art Trust (Inc).
Hon. Wale calls on the organizers of the petition, in the event that they are issued a permit to stage a protest march, to ensure that such a march is peaceful, orderly and respectful.

Opposition Leader Confirms Receiving Copy of Petition by Honiara-based Malaitans

Leader of Opposition Hon. Matthew Wale, has confirmed he received a copy of a petition addressed to the Hon. Prime Minister, by Honiara-based Malaitans, containing 8,210 signatures.
“Police has a mandated role to do their duties without any political interest or influence."

Police Has Not Received Any Report Against Suidani: Mangau

By Samson Sade
Police Commissioner Mostyn Mangau has confirmed that the police have not received, or are not investigating, any report against Malaita’s Premier Daniel Suidani.
With Japan’s financial support, Pacific Island countries will engage communities on the importance of being vaccinated to save lives as well as tackle misinformation.

UNICEF and Japan Announce US$20.8 million Partnership in Fight Against COVID-19 in the Pacific region

This week, UNICEF and the Government of Japan announce a new US$20.8 million partnership to support Pacific Island governments with their COVID-19 preparedness and response efforts.
Consultations with the Island Sun news team.

MASI Conducts Scoping Study to Strengthen Media Industry

The Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI) is embarking on a scoping study to strengthen the media industry.
The Australian High Commissioner, His Excellency Dr. Lachlan Strahan (center), Permanent Secretary McKinnie P Dentana (right) and the Deputy Secretary Margaret Moveni (left) participated in the SIG ICT Services launch at the SIG ICT Office.

Australia Supports Upgrades to ICT Services

The Solomon Island Government’s (SIG) information communication technology (ICT) services will be more secure and efficient for users thanks to installation of a full IT Service Management System and upgrades to the Service Monitoring Centre, both funded by the Australian Government.
Dr. Culwick says the results of the COVID-19 tests were released just after 8pm today, and, to his relief, all frontliners tested returned negative.

Frontliners Test Negative After Cargo Vessel Scare

By Jimmy Nolan
Thirteen out of fourteen crew members of a cargo vessel that passed through Honiara have tested positive for COVID-19 on arrival in Nauru.
In trying to manage a possible COVID-19 outbreak, we already have a crisis that has not been managed – NCD’s are not transmittable but it is still killing our people.

Our Dual Crises: NCD’s and COVID-19

By Samson Sade
Solomon Islands has one of the highest rates of non-communicable diseases (NCD) in the Pacific region.
“I have no other option once they remove my river farm, being a mother, I know there will be huge challenges for me, this is the only way I can pay for my children’s school fees."

Company Tells Local Farmers to Leave Mamara, Offers No Compensation for Loss

By Jimmy Nolan
Local farmers are bearing the brunt of the expanding Mamara housing development project.
The Opposition Leader said while speculations on the arrest and bribery may be considered personal to Mr Suidani, they are however intrinsic to the stance taken by Malaita Province against the DCGA decision to make the switch to China.

Wale Cautions Police on Handling of Premier Suidani’s Case

Leader of Opposition Hon. Matthew Wale forewarns the Commissioner of Police to thread carefully when dealing with any complaints that might be reported against the Premier of Malaita Province, Mr. Daniel Suidani as suggested in recent media publications.
“Though I may have a poor background, I believe football can change that, I will continue and develop my skills in football when I return home. I know that if I maintain my passion in the game my dreams in football can be achieved,” a quietly confident Weni said.

Young Footballer Dreams Big

By Jimmy Nolan
At only 15 years of age Terrison Weni is showing great potential, he featured for the Guadalcanal Hornets at the recent U16 Solomon Cup, and after winning the finals, he has big dreams.
Tail docking performed by the farmer’s son under MAL officers supervision. Tail docking practice is a vital husbandry method which are done to piglets soon after birth to avoid biting of tail by other piglets which can lead to infection.

Putting Livestock Farmers in the Driver’s Seat

At the New Zealand camp behind Henderson area there is a potential pig breeder farmer called Chris Susa.
UN’s High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet, expressed serious concerns regarding the National Security Law introduced in Hong Kong, and repeated her call for access to Xinjiang, particularly as reports of serious human rights violations continue to emerge.

Solomon Islands Backs China in Silencing Dissidents

By Samson Sade
Solomon Islands has backed China yet again, rejecting statements made by the UN’s High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet, on Beijing’s handling of protests in Hong Kong and its treatment of the ethnic Uighur population in Xinjiang province.
The caretaker Prime Minister, a man fond of bombastic rhetoric, has shown little evidence that he has contemplated the shattering fact that the people of Samoa have voted and decided that they no longer want him to run the country.

Samoa Observer: For Tuila’epa, What Follows Defeat?

By Samoa Observer editorial board
When Australia’s second-longest ever serving Prime Minister faced a complete wipeout at the national elections after 10 years in power — even being voted out of his own seat — he realized that he had lost but only as part of a process much bigger than he was.
Clement Totu, field officer Guadalcanal agriculture extension office explains to farmers the processes of Noni propagation at the Propagation/Nursery booth during the Noni field day at T.W. Enterprise Noni farm at LDA area.

Noni Farmers Told to Seek Guidance from MAL

Existing and prospective Noni farmers in the country are advised to seek technical advice from the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL), through its extension department, if they wish to cultivate Noni as a commercial crop.
Despite the seemingly bleak situation on their island, people are still hopeful of a better future.

The Resilience of Temotu’s Low Lying Islands

By Georgina Kekea
The outlying islands of Temotu are some of the worst affected from storm surges and sea level rise.
Dr Fong says maternal deaths at any time are a tragedy, and maternal deaths due to COVID-19 are a clear indication of the severity of this outbreak.

Two Pregnant Mothers Dies From COVID-19, Both Babies Saved

Fiji's Permanent Secretary for Health, Doctor James Fong confirms two pregnant mothers are part of the 21 deaths from COVID-19 for the period of 14th to 20th July, 2021.
The Honiara city council vaccination team will also set up a vaccination site at the Solomon Ports Car Park Area at Point Cruz today.

COVID-19 Vaccination Sites Expands

By Jimmy Nolan
The Ministry of Health and Medical services (MHMS) has established new sites for those eligible for the COVID-19 vaccination.
The Prime Minister said there is a limit to what the government can do – it can only contain the virus, secure adequate doses and keep the economy running – but people who can get vaccinated must make it their personal responsibility to do so.

COVID-19 Vaccination Drive Targets 415,500 People

By Jimmy Nolan
Prime Minster Manasseh Sogavare is pleading to those eighteen years and above to get vaccinated and protect those that cannot get vaccinated.
“I must thank his family for bringing up this noble leader who have contributed to our country’s nation building. His service has honored him a legacy of courage where our future generation will look upon with trust, humility and dedication. This legacy will definitely live on,” Sogavare said.

Prime Minister Farewells Late High Commissioner Barnabas Anga

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare joined the Governor General, Sir David Vunagi, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade Jeremiah Manele and other dignitaries to farewell His Excellency, the High Commissioner of Solomon Islands to Papua New Guinea, the Late Barnabas Anga at a burial Service in Honiara this afternoon (Sunday 18 July).
Hon. Prime Minister Suga Yoshihide of Japan and Prime Minister, Hon. Manasseh Sogavare, during the virtual bilateral meeting held on 1 July 2021.

Solomon Islands and Japan Reaffirm Bilateral Cooperation

Solomon Islands and Japan have reaffirmed their bilateral cooperation during a virtual meeting between Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare and his Japanese counterpart Prime Minister Suga Yoshihide early this month.
“Land recording plays a pivotal role in empowering people and building sustainable peace in Solomon Islands’ communities. We are bridging gaps between customary land groups and laying strong foundations for harmonious relations and social cohesion.”

Sustaining Peace Through Customary Land Recording

The UN Development Programme (UNDP) in Solomon Islands, in partnership with the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Survey, has supported the customary land recording in selected locations in Western, Guadalcanal, and Malaita provinces.
“The formal handing over of the certificate to the Patubasioto Land Holding group is now recognised and protected by law as a landholding group with its own rights, interest and ownership,” Mrs. Tegavota said.

Land Recorder Applauds Western Province Support Towards Land Recording Programme

The Government’s National Land Recorder, Mrs. Mary Tegavota has applauded the Western Provincial Government and Tribal Chiefs for their support towards implementing the Government’s Customary Land Recording programme.
PUBG Mobile’s monthly performance in 2021 has also been noteworthy, recording more than USD$200M in player spending for each month since the turn of the year.

PUBG Mobile Highest Grossing Mobile Game

Player Unknown’s Battlegrounds or more popularly known as PUBG launched a mobile version of its game in 2018 and still continues to dominate charts in 2021.
Vaccination is now open for all adults above 18 years of age.

MAL Sets Example by Taking COVID-19 Jab

Staff at the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) have joined citizens both in Honiara and across the country in the fight against COVID-19 by taking their Covid-19 vaccination.
Police say the weather was fine, but the boat owners only had 7 gallons (35 liters) of fuel for the entire journey, which ran out midway through.

Missing Seven at Sea Found Alive

By Jimmy Nolan
The seven people feared dead after their boat failed to reach their destination were found safe and well.
Women's’ representative Rosa Paia said “We the women would like to make a very special acknowledgement and appreciation to the Australian High Commissioner on behalf of Australian Government, SIFF and SWPL Board for supporting football progressively as we witnessed in this occasion today.”

Solomon Islands Women’s Premier League Set to Kick Goals with Australian Gear

Solomon Islands Women’s Premier League set to kick goals with Australian gear Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) is the first federation in the Pacific to receive a sporting grant through Australia’s PacificAus Sports Program.
He says the soaring number of confirmed cases of the delta variant strand, which has a higher transmission rate, will have severe consequences if it enters the country.

Wale Cautions Government Over Future Repatriation Plans

Leader of Opposition Hon. Matthew Wale cautions the government not to down play the recent mutation of the corona virus into the delta variant as it plans repatriation flights for standard citizens abroad.
For now, authorities are confident that relevant procedures were followed and the infected person is being monitored.

Foreigner on Board Logging Vessel Tests Positive for COVID-19

By Jimmy Nolan
A Malaysian national has tested positive for COVID-19.
Prime Minister Sogavare has reiterated his call for all adults 18 years and over living in and around Honiara to get their vaccinations at the Central Field Hospital and other outreach vaccination centers.

COVID-19 Delta Variant Threat Imminent: Sogavare

In his recent nationwide address Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare warns that the threat from the highly transmissible ‘Delta Variant of COVID-19’, which has now proven to be air-born, is imminent.
Herd immunity is important for our future and that of our children.

COVID-19: Can Solomon Islands Reach Herd Immunity?

By Samson Sade
The reason why many countries push for its population to get vaccinated against COVID-19 is so that it can reach herd immunity.
The launching of Bulkshop’s e-commerce platform is part of the Government’s efforts to develop the National Digital Economy Strategy 2021-2025 (NDES) – the roadmap for Solomon Islands in the next 5 years towards a digital economy.

Bulkshop E-commerce Online Platform Launched

Solomon Islands will now have its own e-commerce online platform with the launching of Bulkshop’s e-commerce service.
“Through this new road map, ADB will leverage its extensive experience in the transport sector and its strong partnerships in the region to provide transport support that improves connectivity, makes cities more livable, builds resilience to climate change, and spurs inclusive economic growth through regional cooperation."

ADB Launches Transport Strategy for Pacific

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has launched a new strategy to help ADB’s Pacific developing member countries (DMCs) improve connectivity and tackle other core development challenges across the Pacific over the next 5 years.
Cornelius Donga hands over the equipment to recipients.

Local Businesses Benefit from Donated Equipment from Australia

Three small enterprises have received value-adding equipment donated by the Australian Center for International Agriculture Research (ACIAR) last week.
During his last spell in charge of the Solomon Islands in 2017, Felipe Vega-Arango guided them to a playoff for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, where they lost over two legs to New Zealand.

Spaniard Coach Targets 2023 Pacific Games Football Gold

The Solomon Islands' returning Spanish football coach Felipe Vega-Arango has revealed that winning the gold medal for the first time at the 2023 Pacific Games in Honiara is his main target.
The Solomon Islands Red Cross Society is the only organization that has a blood donor voluntary program. Civic awareness on the importance of blood donation is an on-going activity for the Society. However, the fear of needles and sight of blood is an enduring challenge for them.

Voluntary Blood Donation Crucial for Life

By Georgina Kekea
“They cannot give you blood transfusion unless somebody donates blood for you”, Mike (not his real name) tells of his wife's plight, who was a cancer patient.
PM Sogavare and High Commissioner Tangirongo at the Commissioning ceremony.

Solomon Islands Designate High Commissioner to New Zealand Commissioned

His Excellency Mr Eliam Tangirongo has been commissioned to take up his new role in New Zealand.
"This is a matter of great public concern. With drops in government revenue it is of paramount importance that government expenditure is tightly monitored so that spending is focused only in areas that really matter."

Wale Questions Delay in Appointment of Auditor General

Leader of Opposition Hon. Matthew Wale questions the long delay in government filling up the position of Auditor General which was vacant since March this year, and calls for immediate action.
The partnership with Facebook will offer free training and promotional resources to SICCI and its members, commencing over the coming months.

SICCI Partners with Facebook to Support Digital Growth

The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) and Facebook are partnering to equip local small businesses with the digital skills to connect with customers and support them to grow online.
MHMS has strongly advised that all the covid-19 measures set in place by the Ministry of Health for events must be fully adhered to.

Mass Gatherings Urged to Abide by Covid Measures

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) would like to remind all organizations, committees and individuals organizing mass gathering events to fill up the pre-event or pre-mass gathering assessment form for the National Health Emergency Operation Centre (NHEOC) to review, assess and make recommendation.
The land cruiser was chased by police vehicle for careless driving from Burns Creek area before heading up to Tenaru bridge.

Accident Claimed Lives

Five people were confirmed fatalities of a roadside accident on Independence Day.
The person obtained nearly SBD$100k from a Malaysian businessperson with intent to defraud between 11 and 14 November 2020.

Man Charged With False Pretense

Officers of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) at the Fraud Unit within the National Criminal Investigation Department (NCID) at the Rove Police Headquarters have arrested and charged a male person for allegation of false pretense on 2 July 2021.
"I represent my family, my province and my school and I am proud to have participated in the games."

Ellen Makes History for Her School with Gold Medal Win

By Jeremy Gwao
Ellen created history for her school when she scooped the National Secondary School Games (NSSG) 10,000-meter gold medal, clocking 45:22 ahead of thirty-nine other competitors.
The Iumi Tugeda Holidays programme was announced in March this year by Solomon Airlines in partnership with Tourism Solomons and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Let’s Keep Our Country Moving: Solomon Airlines

Solomon Airlines has announced an expansion of the national tourism initiative ‘Iumi Tugeda Holidays’ in time for Solomon Islands Independence Day, to further support the local tourism industry and encourage more Solomon Islanders to travel on the discounted holiday deals throughout 2021.
"We have reserved these vaccines specifically for people who were to be given their 2nd dose."

Health Ministry Warns Vaccines Will Expire Soon

The Ministry of Health and Medical services (MHMS) is calling on those who are due to receive their second COVID-19 vaccine to do so soon.
During the trial of both COVID-19 vaccines results show that the second dose enhances the ability of the human body to fight off COVID-19 once one comes in contact with the virus.

Second Jab of COVID-19 Vaccine Critical for Protection

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) is calling on all persons who are eligible for their second dose of COVID-19 vaccine either Sinopharm or AstraZeneca to come forward to receive their 2nd dose at the Central Field Hospital (CFH).
Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, H.E Dr Lachlan Strahan, with national training providers and students at the handover ceremony.

Australia Provides Transport Support to National Training Providers in Solomon Islands

Australia has provided three boats and a bus to four training providers in order to enhance students’ learning experiences as part of its commitment to strengthening the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector in Solomon Islands.

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