Latest News Archive February 2022

The cumulative total cases of positive COVID-19 in the country since the outbreak now stands at 7,049.

COVID-19 Update: 112 New Cases Recorded

A total of 112 new positive cases have been recorded for the country as of 12pm yesterday.
Police are accused of selling betelnut while delivering emergency supplies to Ontong Java.

Police Deny Selling Betelnut While Delivering Emergency Supplies

Police strongly denied an article published on Solomon Star with the title ‘Patrol Boat Taro selling betel nut in Ontong Java.'
The Opposition Leader says the blunder remains that the Prime Minister allowed the matter to go to court in the first place and then later advised for the case to be retracted by writing to the DPP, whose unfettered criminal jurisdiction is guided by the Constitution.

Opposition Leader Says AG's Clarification Evasive

Leader of Opposition Hon Matthew Wale has described the Attorney General’s clarification on the Prime Minister’s interference in the criminal proceedings instituted against the PNG doctor’s case as ‘evasive’.
“Solomon Island has seen some improvement but this does not mean that we are out of the woods just yet."

Dr Rogers Gives an Overview of the Covid-19 Situation in the Country

The world has recorded 436 million cases of Coronavirus to date. This is roughly a million infections a day. Interestingly, the pandemic is showing signs of slowing and hopefully the trends recorded will continue to improve.
Participants are representatives of various organizations in the country dealing with sports.

National Sports Council Promotes Women Leadership Through Sports

The National Sports Council (NSC) successfully hosted a 2-day mentorship ‘Women Leadership through Sport for All’ virtual workshop on 24th and 25th February 2022.
The UN Security Council had voted to refer the matter to the UN General Assembly, which will be deliberating on this matter this week.

Opposition Urges Government to Speak up Aganist Russia Invasion at UNGA

The Leader of Opposition Hon. Matthew Wale has urged the government to condemn the actions by Russia in invading Ukraine at the United Nations General Assembly this week.
Mr Mangau says, “I wish to remind you that there will be times when your integrity will be challenged, when wantok culture will make it difficult for you. I ask you to remember that you are entrusted to rise above these pressures and uphold the laws of this country in a manner that is fair and equal to all."

Police Constables Graduate from Academy

Sixty-nine probation police constables graduate and take their oath of office during a strict health compliant graduation ceremony held at Rove police headquarters on 25 February 2022.
Hon. Stanley Festus Sofu is the new Minister for the Ministry of Environment, while Hon. Augustine Auga is the new Minister for Agriculture and Livestock (MAL).

Vacant Ministerial Porfolios Filled

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has filled the two vacant Ministerial portfolios following the passing away and resignation of respective former ministers last year.
SIWTU training squad flanked by SINIS Executive Director Aaron Alsop & Portfolio 1 Manager Moses Aunama Jr.

Taekwondo First Federation to Benefit from SINIS Scholarships

Solomon Islands World Taekwondo Union (SIWTU) is the first National Federation to select their 32-member training squad for elite scholarships available with the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS) High-Performance program.
"We also are planning to extend communication and cooperation with RSIPF, to establish long-term and stable bilateral law enforcement cooperation serving the people of both countries,” says Commissioner Guangbao of the PRC police.

Police Receive Riot Gear from PRC

The Royal Solomon Island Police (RSIPF) has received riot equipment’s worth of SBD$12 million plus dollars from the People’s Republic of China during a handing over ceremony at Rove Police Headquarter today 24 February 2021.
Chairman of the LSC Mr. Michael Ho’ota thanked the churches for their generous contribution adding the food support will help the LSC feed those that are in home isolation or in quarantine sites.

SDA Churches Donate Fresh Food to Livelihood Committee

The Livelihood Sector Committee (LSC) of the National Disaster Operation Committees (N-DOC) received with profound gratitude garden-fresh food donations from three Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) churches in Northeast Guadalcanal yesterday.
The cumulative total positive COVID-19 cases for the country now stands at 6,654.

COVID-19 Update: 306 New Cases Reported

The Solomon Islands has recorded a further 306 positive COVID-19 cases, 5 deaths have also been recorded in Honiara at the National Referral Hospital.
Minister for Police Hon. Anthony K Veke stated that the AFP is the number one partner of choice for security and thanked AFP for its long friendship with the RSIPF and the people of Solomon Islands.

Australian Federal Police (AFP) Signs MoU With Solomon Islands Police

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Australian Federal Police (AFP), Ministry of Police, National Security Correctional Services (MPNSCS) and the Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) at Rove Police Headquarters today 24 February 2022.
The Chinese police advisory group meets with Chinese Ambassador Li Ming in Solomon Islands shortly after their arrival in the country.

Chinese Police Begin Work in the Solomon Islands

A team of Chinese police officers has begun work in Solomon Islands, two months after the government accepted Beijing's offer to help restore law and order following recent anti-government demonstrations.
“The handing over of critical life-saving equipment and consumables demonstrates the continuous unwavering commitment of the government of Australia to the government and people of Solomon Islands,” said Health Minister, Dr. Culwick Togamana.

Australia Delivers COVID-19 Medical Equipments and Supplies for All Nine Provinces in the Solomon Islands

In collaboration with the Ministry Of Health & Medical Services - Solomon Islands, Australia has delivered COVID-19 medical equipment and supplies for all nine provinces.
The Health Minister says that the trend shows that the virus is now spreading rapidly in our provinces, where some of our most vulnerable are in terms of access to health services.

COVID-19 Update: 380 New Cases Recorded

The country has recorded an additional 380 positive COVID-19 cases. The cumulative total COVID-19 positive cases for the country now stands at 6,348.
The Opposition Leader said health workers have raised concerns that some of them have to work up to 12 hours and the government should acknowledge their commitment and hard-work during this challenging time.

Opposition Raises Concerns on Health Workers Welfare

Reports of health workers welfare not well looked after has irked the Opposition, calling on the government to urgently address their concerns.
"The provincial governments’ dependency on the MHMS for the past two years has caught us [provincial governments] by surprise. Well, it should not be a surprise, provincial governments should be given more funding to build their own provincial isolation and quarantine centers in anticipation of the Covid-19 outbreak two years prior."

Provinces Want Fair Distribution of ADB's SBD$40M Grant For COVID-19 Response

The Premier of Guadalcanal Province Hon. Francis Sade, says he supports Premier Stanely Manetiva’s (Central Islands Province) call for the national government and all premiers to have an urgent roundtable discussion on the SBD$40 million grant recently announced by the Asian Development Bank, ADB.
The officer is currently on suspension while investigations are progressing into the case.

Police Officer Suspended After Traffic Accident

Officers of the Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) at the National Traffic Department are investigating a traffic accident, which involved a Police vehicle and a Toyota caldina car along Kukum Highway, in Honiara on 12 February 2022.
He says now that cases in Honiara appear to be easing, the focus now is to mitigate the impact in terms of hospitalization.

COVID-19 Update: 77 New Cases Reported

The Solomon Islands has recorded an additional 77 positive COVID-19 cases over a 24-hour reporting period.
Churches in the Honiara Emergency Zone have been ordered to close their doors since community transmission started just over a month ago.

Oversight Committee to Issue Recommencement Guidelines for Churches

The Secretary to the Prime Minister Dr. Jimmy Rogers said that it is wrong to compare the restriction on Church Services to Casinos.
Solomon Airlines – manager commercial, Colin Sigimanu (second from right) with (from far left), the late Tourism Solomons CEO, Josefa ‘Jo’ Tuamoto, Ministry of Culture & Tourism Permanent Secretary, Andrew Nihopara, and (near right) Ministry of Culture & Tourism director of tourism, Bunyan ‘Barney’ Sivoro.

Solomon Islands Mourns Passing of Senior Aviation Icon

Tourism Solomons is once again leading the tributes for another of the country’s acknowledged tourism pioneers, Solomon Airlines’ manager - commercial, Colin Sigimanu who passed away suddenly on 21 February.
These PRT officers will be trained by the AFP Operational Safety Trainers (OST) in one of the modern firearms training facilities in the Asia Pacific region.

Police Officers Doing Well in Training Programs

On Friday 18 February 2022, all ten (10) Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) officers successfully graduated from the Rifle User Training Program conducted in Australia by full-time Australian Federal Police Operational Safety Trainers.
Colin Sigimanu had served the airline with pride for over 30 years, moving successfully through commercial and operational management roles after joining Solomon Airlines on the 6th of February 1989, as a graduate of the University of the South Pacific.

National Carrier Pays Heartfelt Tribute to a Beloved Member of Management

The national carrier has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Colin Sigimanu, Manager Commercial for Solomon Airlines, who passed away suddenly on 21st February 2022.
(L-R) SINIS Performance Manager Amanda Korinihona, SINS Executive Director Aaron Alsop, SIBF President Cyril Rachman and SIBF executive member, Timmy Magi.

Basketball Signs MOU With Sports Institute

The Solomon Islands Basketball Federation (SIBF) is the latest National Federation (NF) to pen down the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to partner with the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS) High – Performance program in time for their preparations for the upcoming 2022 FIBA Melanesia Basketball Cup in Fiji this April.
CBSI Governor Dr Luke Forau (L) and the TCSI Commissioner, Mr Calvin Ziru.

CBSI and TCSI Sign MoU

The Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) and the Telecommunication Commission of Solomon Islands (TCSI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Thursday 17th February, 2022.
Mr Leonard Louma OBE who hails from Milne Bay Province in Papua New Guinea is a former seasoned diplomat and a senior public servant who had more than 30 years of senior management experience in both the government and private sector.

MSG Secretariat Has a New Director General

After a lengthy process, the MSG Secretariat has a new Director General, he is Mr. Leonard Louma OBE from Papua New Guinea.
Under the arrangement several ships have already been dispatched to some provinces and there are more applications still going through the process. The process looks simple but behind the scene there is a lot of small details that must be complied with.

Process in Place to Facilitate Shipping to Provinces

After more than a month since community transmission of COVID-19 was detected in the country, people in the provinces are now in dire need for basic essential services.
The riots in November 2021 has compounded an already weakening financial position of the government caused by the pandemic.

Riots and Covid-19 Have Led to Serious Economic Losses

The man-made disaster of November 2021 was further compounded in January when community transmission of the deadly Coronavirus was first detected.
Mr. Sogavare stressed that the primary objective is to manage the community transmission of Covid-19 while protecting the high risk and vulnerable population whilst simultaneously sustaining the economic livelihood of the people of Solomon Islands.

Government Formulates Community Transmission Response Policy

To mitigate and manage the economic losses brought about by the spread of the Coronavirus into our communities, the Policy, Implementation and Evaluation Unit has put together a Community Transmission Response Policy Paper.
"Flying empty sectors with no income is a loss-making exercise. This is where the Australian Government is assisting Solomon Airlines. The Australian Government covers the costs that are not recovered from the normal sale of cargo.”

Solomon Airlines Clarifies Current Airfreight Arrangements to Provinces

Solomon Airlines wishes to clarify the current airfreighting of Government and private cargo to the Solomon Islands Provinces under the arrangements supported by the Australian Government.
The update was given by the Minister of Health and Medical Services Dr. Culwick Togamana during his daily COVID-19 situation update on the national broadcaster, SIBC.

COVID-19 Update: 78 Cases Reported, No Deaths Recorded

The country has registered 78 new cases of COVID-19 over a 24 hour reporting period. No deaths were recorded over the same period.
The coaches are asked to participate in a range of theory and practical sessions to showcase their skills, knowledge and experience.

Sports Institute Conducts Scholarship Interviews

For the first time, the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS) successfully conducted a 3-days Coach Scholarship Interview workshop last week starting Wednesday 16th February, 2022
The Opposition Leader said reports that the ship was transporting cargoes for foreign bechedemer buyers in Ontong Java must also be thoroughly investigated.

Wale: Who Authorised MV Solomon Prestige 2 to Travel to Ontong Java?

Leader Hon Matthew Wale has probed the Office of the Prime Minister & Cabinet (OPMC) as to who authorised Solomon Prestige 2 to travel to Ontong Java.
Coartem is a prescription medicine used to treat the symptoms of Malaria. Coartem may be used alone or with other medications. Coartem belongs to a class of drugs called Antimalarial.

Do Not Treat COVID-19 With Malaria Tablets

Those that test positive for COVID-19 or have symptoms of the virus must not take Malaria prescribed medication.
“This is a welcome relief to our business and will also be very welcome news to many people who need or want to fly to Australia and other countries via Brisbane,” said Solomon Airlines CEO Brett Gebers.

"A Welcome Relief,” Australia Re-opens its Borders to Fully Vaccinated International Travelers

Solomon Airlines has welcomed Australia’s new international border rules, which from today open the country’s borders to all fully vaccinated visa holders, preparing for the return of tourists, business travelers, and other visitors.
He assures other tertiary students abroad that arrangements are also being made to bring them home. This includes students studying in Cuba, the US, Korea, and the UK.

Plans to Repatriate Students in Fiji in March

The government is making plans to repatriate Solomon Islands tertiary students studying in Fiji as early as March 2022.
“It is sad that each day we only hear updates of daily increase in cases and deaths but nothing on any strategy or plans on a way forward on how to effectively respond to the current situation not only in Honiara but other provinces,” he said.

Fight Against Virus Needs a New Approach: Wale

Opposition Leader Hon Matthew Wale says the confession by the health minister that authorities do not know the extent of infections around the country is very ‘worrying’.
Preliminary findings from the Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) show the direct loss of tax revenues during the most recent lockdown (January 25-30) averaged around SBD$10.6 million a day.

Millons Lost During Lockdowns

The country has lost millions of dollars in tax revenue as a result of the recent covid-19 lockdowns imposed at the beginning of community transmission last month.
“Our budget will reflect the situation on the ground, and this year 2022 will be a challenging year in our country’s short history,” Sogavare said.

Government Prioritizes 2022 Budget in Upcoming Parliament Meeting

The main priority for the upcoming Parliament meeting will be the passage of the 2022 budget.
GOC’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Peter Stewart delivered a virtual presentation for businesses.

Pacific Games to Create Opportunities for Local Businesses

Businesses in the Solomon Islands will be looking to get in on the action as preparations continue for the 17th Pacific Games in the Solomon Islands in 2023.
“We still need to think of our elderly and those with underlying medical conditions at home. Let us not be complacent with the virus,” the Health Minister said.

People No Longer Taking COVID-19 Health Measures Seriously

Health Minister, Dr. Culwick Togamana, says it is concerning to note that people are no longer taking COVID-19 health measures seriously.
The total cumulative cases of positive COVID-19 in the country now stand at 5,565.

COVID-19 Update: 522 Cases Recorded

522 cases of COVID-19 have been recorded, which includes updated figures from the Central province and in Honiara.
This week the team visited Helena Goldie Hospital in Munda and Gizo hospital in the Western. Similar assessments were also conducted in Malaita and Guadalcanal Provinces earlier this week.

Joint AUSMAT and MHMS Mission Underway in Provinces

A joint AUSMAT and MHMS mission to assess the capacity of Provincial Health Centers is underway as part of the overall response plan to the current covid-19 outbreak.
Soakai says it was alleged that the small boat from Fishing village, in Honiara, had been transporting goods for sale in small Ngella and also provided passengers service to the villages in and around small Ngella.

Goods Smuggled to Ngella From Honiara Breaching COVID-19 Orders

Officers of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) at Tulagi have arrested three suspects for breaching orders on restriction of movement of small boats from Honiara to Gumba in small Ngella in Central Province yesterday.
A total of more than 28,000 tests had been conducted since the beginning of our response.

Health Distributes Rapid Test Kits As Cases Rise

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services this week has released a total 41,000 Rapid Antigen Test Kits from the National Medical Store and distributed in Honiara and the Provinces for COVID-19 testing.
“COVID-19 is spreading faster than the wind from our cities and towns to the most remote communities. Testing and health services are overloaded, and this dangerous virus is running rampant in villages where people are yet to be given a first dose of the vaccine."

Vaccines Vital as COVID Overloads Health Systems in Solomon Islands

Ramping up vaccinations is critical in the Solomon Islands as COVID-19 crashes across the country overloading the country’s fragile health system from the capital city Honiara to remote islands and villages.
Strict COVID-19 safety measures were followed for all deployments including contactless deliveries to minimise contact between the aircraft crew and the public.

Australian Aircrafts Airlift Essential Items to West and Malaita Provinces

This week, in close partnership with the Solomon Islands Government, Australia’s C-27J Spartan aircrafts completed their first deployments to Auki, Munda and Gizo.
Mr Mangau says, “I would like to make it very clear here that this kind of article really is not good. We have a working relationship with PNG and Bougainville Police to have some common understanding to look at what problems both countries faced in policing perspectives."

Tensions at the Border With PNG Article Misleading: Mangau

The Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) would like to clarify an article published online on 15 February 2022 with a title ‘tension at Papua New Guinea (PNG) Solomon’s border’ is misleading and tarnish the good reputation of RSIPF officers at the border between PNG and Solomon Islands (SI) in Shortland Islands.
He adds, a total of 28,000 tests have been conducted since the beginning of the country’s response to the global pandemic.

COVID-19 Update: 131 New Cases Recorded

An additional 131 positive cases of Covid-19 have been recorded in the past 24 hours.
Epidemiology is the study and analysis of the distribution patterns and determinants of health and disease conditions in defined populations.

Epidemiologists Arrival Boost Government's COVID-19 Response

Two international epidemiologists have arrived in the country supported by the WHO and the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs to provide technical support in the field of epidemiology for the current COVID-19 response.
Hon Wale said the new normal should also push forward innovative modes of teaching and the need for government support in that area.

Opposition Leader Questions Plans for Schools Nationwide

Opposition Leader Hon. Matthew Wale has questioned the Government if there are any plans in place for schools around the country.
Autonomous Region of Bougainville Police Minister Emanuel Carlos Kaetavara said the southern command of the Bougainville police service is investigating the incident and will brief the government.

Bougainvilleans Threaten Retaliation After Border Incident with Solomon Islands Police

The Post-Courier newspaper reports that Bougainville Police are aware of an incident at the border in which two fishermen were allegedly assaulted by Solomon Islands border police.
“My Ministry would like to issue a stern warning to any health worker found to be engaged in such illegal activity that you would be reported to the police for investigation,” the Health Minister warned.

Minister Calls on Public to Report Health Workers that Charge for COVID-19 Vaccine

Certain health workers are reportedly charging the public for the COVID-19 vaccine, and the public is being urged to report them to the police.
The cumulative total for the country now stands at 4,910 positive COVID-19 cases.

COVID-19 Update: 87 New Cases Reported Today

87 new positive COVID-19 cases have been reported today.
“I have been requested to issue a strong call to anyone at home who starts to feel weak or dizzy after days of fever must not wait but to seek urgent and immediate medical help at the Hospital,” Minister Togamana said.

Those Feeling Severely Ill Must Seek Medical Attention

People who are severely ill while undergoing home isolation are advised to seek urgent medical attention at the National Referral hospital.
PS of MAL Ethel Tebengi Frances (centre) DS Admin Elda Wate (fifth from left) staff from MAL and Second Secretary Australian High Commission office, Heather Randall.

Livelihood Sector Receives More Relief Food Supplies From Australia

The Livelihood Sector Committee (LSC) of the National Disaster Operation Committees (N-DOC) has received with boundless gratitude yet another major delivery of relief food assistance from the Australian Government yesterday (Monday 14th January, 2022) for its food distribution program to households within the Honiara Emergency Zone.
He says, “We must work together to fight and stop the community transmission of coronavirus in our communities."

Police to Mount Checkpoints Targeting Public Transport

Officers of the Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) will mount checkpoints in certain locations in Honiara to check public buses and taxis to ensure they are following health protocols when providing services to the public.
The aircraft will also support the delivery of six Australian-supplied ‘bricks’ of medical equipment and consumables to be distributed in provincial hospitals.

Australia Deploys Two RAFF Cargo Aircraft to Assist Deliver Medical and Essential Supplies to Provinces

Australia has deployed two Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) C-27J Spartan cargo aircraft to the Solomon Islands which arrived in Honiara yesterday. This was in response to a request from the Solomon Islands government.
The provincial deployments will ensure that AUSMAT can continue to provide tailored clinical advisory support to MHMS to assist it to support the provinces to access critical supplies as they respond to escalating COVID-19 outbreaks.

AUSMAT Team Conducts Rapid Assessment of Provincial Health Systems

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) says the Australian Medical Assistance Team (AUSMAT) is currently assisting the Ministry to conduct a rapid assessment of provincial health systems this week.
SITAS interim committee during their meeting last week. The committee currently is represented by the SINIS High-Performance Sports Business & Education Department, the University of South Pacific (USP) and the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) representatives.

Sports Institute Partners with Tertiary Sports Association

The Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS) High–Performance program is partnering with national education institutions to re-establish the Solomon Islands Tertiary Association of Sport (SITAS).
The total cumulative positive COVID-19 cases for the country now stands at 4,827.

COVID-19 Update: 202 New Cases Today

202 positive COVID-19 cases have been recorded today after a 24-hour reporting period.
Foreign Minister Manele assured Secretary Blinken that the Government stands ready to work with US diplomats to make this happen.

Solomon Islands Welcomes US Announcement to Re-open Embassy in Honiara

The Minister of Foreign Affairs & External Trade, Hon. Jeremiah Manele welcome the announcement made by the US Secretary of State, Antony John Blinken, to re-establish the US Embassy in Honiara.
The selling of betelnuts and roadside markets along the streets of Honiara had been banned. Selling of betelnut outside private homes are also banned.

Police Warns Betelnut and Roadside Vendors

The Assistant Commissioner of Police Mr Simpson Pogeava says there will be consequences for those that continue to breach current orders set by the government.
“An assessment will be made based on the risk of spreading COVID-19 but at the same time respect for our culture," Dr Rodgers said.

New Guidelines for Repatriation of Deceased to Provinces

Secretary to the Prime Minister and Chairman of the COVID-19 oversight committee, Dr Jimmie Rodgers, says there are now new arrangements in place for the repatriation of deceased persons to the provinces.
Kenilorea says he joins the Solomon Islands Government to thank US Secretary of State Blinken for announcing the government of USA’s intention to re-opening a US Embassy in Honiara.

Kenilorea Welcomes Plans to Re-open US Embassy in Solomon Islands

Member of Parliament for East Are’are and Chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee of Parliament, Hon. Perter Kenilorea Jr, has welcomed plans by the US to re-open its embassy in Solomon Islands.
Washington promises more diplomatic and security resources to the South Pacific region as China’s influence grows.

US to Reopen Solomon Islands Embassy

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has confirmed the United States plans to open an embassy in the South Pacific nation of Solomon Islands in an effort to counter China’s influence in the politically troubled Pacific Islands.
The Livelihood Sector Committee assists Lord Howe Settlement with relief food supplies during the lockdown.

Localized Lockdowns Lifted for Lord Howe Settlement, Burnscreek, Seghe and Munda

Prime Minister Hon. Manasseh Sogavare has revoked the legal notice on the restriction of movements of persons in the Lord Howe Settlement and Burnscreek in Honiara.
The cumulative total for the country now stands at 4,203 positive COVID-19 cases.

COVID-19 Update: 229 New Cases Recorded Today

229 new positive COVID-19 cases have been recorded today over the past 24-hour reporting period.
Papua New Guinea Police Commissioner Mr. David Manning.

Police Commissioner Manning Refutes Allegations Against PNG Police

The Papua New Guinea Police Commissioner David Manning has refuted allegations levelled against the PNG police currently serving in Solomon Islands.
The Committee reiterates that the protocols in place are there to protect our communities, it stressed.

COVID-19 Breach: Relatives Attempt to Take Dead Body Home

The Oversight Committee on COVID-19 is concerned that there are people in the Honiara Emergency Zone who are covertly sending bodies of deceased persons to the villages under cover of darkness, the government said in a statement today.
“It is totally unacceptable that these rogue forces are assaulting and harming the very people they were sent to serve and protect,” the Chairman for Parliamentary Foreign Relations Committee said.

Kenilorea Condemns PNG Police Unlawful Actions

Chairman of the Parliamentary Foreign Relations Committee Hon. Peter Kenilorea Jr has condemned recent reports of unlawful actions by the PNG police force in Honiara.
He says from the 138 new cases 10 are recorded in Honiara and 128 are in the provinces.

138 New COVID-19 Cases, Most from the Provinces

There are 138 new COVID-19 cases in the country, most of which are from the provinces.
The statement says that the arrangement to have MPs swabbed and tested was made through the Office of the Clerk to the National Parliament under its duty of care to the political leaders of this nation.

Government Calls on Opposition Leader Not to Politicize Pandemic

The government has called on the opposition leader, Mathew Wale, not to politicize the current COVID-19 outbreak in the country.
One of the main private clinics offering the service say they are charging for the COVID tests because they procured and paid for the test kits themselves and it is not from the government.

Why Are Private Clinics Charging COVID-19 Tests?

Private clinics are charging excessive prices to the public for COVID-19 testing using the Rapid Antigen Test kits.
Hon Wale said such self-serving attitude should not be practiced during this time.

Why Are MPs, their Families and the PMO Given Priority for Testing: Wale

Leader of Opposition Hon Matthew Wale has questioned the rationale behind the Oversight Committee’s directive to prioritise COVID testing for Members of Parliament, their families and the Prime Minister’s Office.
The Health Minister says to date 40 deaths have occurred since the outbreak.

349 New Cases Recorded

The Ministry of Health and Medical services has recorded 349 new cases of COVID-19.
Now that COVID-19 has hit the country, it may be necessary for the government to re-asses its stance on the vaccine mandate. The government will need people to implement its policies, it cannot afford to let go of some of its talented workers.

No Jab No Job Policy Hits Hard on Senior Public Servants

As COVID-19 takes its toll on the health and economy of the country the no jab no job government policy will soon be implemented, with several senior public servants on the firing line.
The new mechanism will ensure that fresh food is delivered to Honiara safely and in compliance with COVID-19 measures.

Mechanism to Facilitate Delivery of Fresh Food Being Implemented

The National Disaster Operations Committee Livelihood Sector is implementing a mechanism that will ensure the safe delivery of fresh food and vegetables from outside the Honiara Emergency Zone into the city and vice versa.
The ADB financing will help fund the country’s response to this increasing health emergency,” said ADB Director General for the Pacific Leah Gutierrez. “This quick-disbursing financing will expedite government activities to manage the crisis.”

USD$5 Million Grant to Solomon Islands From ADB

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) today announced the release of a $5 million ($40.3 million Solomon Islands dollar) grant from its Pacific Disaster Resilience Program (Phase 3) to help finance the Government of Solomon Islands’ response to community transmission of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
The three (3) days Lockdown was ordered following recommendation from the Provincial Disaster Committee to the Prime Minister following the rise in infection cases in and around Buala.

Buala Township Under Lockdown

The National Government has enforced a lock down for the Isabel Provincial Capital Buala, effective 6pm pm this evening to 6pm Thursday 10th February.
The Opposition Leader said the government should not rush in talking about living with COVID yet.

New Policy Direction Must be Strategic: Opposition Leader

Opposition Leader Hon Matthew Wale said the government’s new policy direction to focus on the new reality of ‘living with and emerging successfully’ from the pandemic must be carefully thought out.
The Opposition Leader said the Prime Minister’s admission now confirms that there was never a National COVID Response Plan developed in the last two years.

Delay in a National COVID Response Plan a Disgrace: Wale

The Prime Minister’s confession that Cabinet and Caucus are yet to consider the National COVID Response Plan is a ‘national disgrace’.
Hon. Kofe was nominated by Guri Melby, the leader of Norway's Liberal Party, for his work in raising awareness of climate change issues, particularly the threat of climate change to his low-lying Pacific Island nation, Tuvalu.

Tuvalu’s Foreign Affairs Minister Nominated for Nobel Peace Prize

Honourable Simon Kofe, Tuvalu's Minister for Justice, Communication, and Foreign Affairs and a USP alumnus, has been nominated for this year's Nobel Peace Prize.
He says Australia is also exploring the option of deploying an aircraft to the country to assist in airlifting cargos to the provinces.

Goods to Provinces Delayed After Boat Crews Test Positive

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare says crew members of cargo boats cleared to resume cargo runs have tested positive for COVID-19, delaying goods destined for the provinces.
That means close to 50,000 people living in Honiara are now infected with the virus.

One in Two in Honiara Infected with the Virus

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare says he has been informed that one in two residents in Honiara are infected with the COVID-19 virus.
These weekly professional development sessions are set to occur regularly throughout the year in partnership with ACU.

SINIS Continue With Online Professional Development

This week the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS) High–Performance Sports Medicine Team continue with their online professional development in collaboration with the Australian Catholic University (ACU).
Commander Telfer says, “The AFP goal was to provide quality and relevant training for the RSIPF and Pacific partners."

RSIPF Officers Undergo Training in Australia

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) officers who are currently in Brisbane begin their training conducted by the Australian Federal Police (AFP) on 31 January 2022.
The Health Minister says that brings the total number of positive COVID-19 cases recorded since the outbreak to 2,357.

190 Test Positive, New Cases in Makira

There are a total of 190 positive COVID-19 cases recorded over a 24-hour reporting timeframe.
Commissioner Mangau says, “Misinformation from members of the public can mislead the public and form rumours that tarnish the reputation of others."

Mangau Reject Rumors Linking Intervention Force to COVID-19 Outbreak

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) rebutted a social media post claiming that the high number of officers tested positive with COVID-19 was through close interaction with the Solomons’ International Assistance Force (SIAF) during the civil unrest in November 2021.
According to the Happy Isles Landscape & Turf (HILT) Construction, the initial phase and installation of synthetic grass has progressed well since their commencement in mid-December 2021.

Sports Institute Turf Shaping up

Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS) High – Performance multipurpose outdoor field upgrading and construction is progressing well, despite the uncertainties posed by the Covid-19 outbreak in the country.
People queue for food in Tonga on Wednesday February 2, 2022.

Tonga on 5-Day Lockdown as More Covid Cases Reported

The Kingdom of Tonga is to go into a five-day lockdown from Wednesday night as Covid-19 begins to spread in the community.
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare (2nd from left) with Secretary to the Prime Minister, Jimmie Rodgers, A/g Australian High Commissioner Sally-Anne Vincent, and Mr Ewen McDonald, Head of the Office of the Pacific, Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Australian Delegation Discuss COVID-19 Support with Prime Minister

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare welcomed Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Head of the Office of the Pacific, Ewen McDonald and Australian Federal Police Commissioner, Reece Kershaw APM to Honiara to discuss COVID-19 response and the ongoing strong partnership between Solomon Islands and Australia.
He says the cumulative total for the country now stands at 2,167 cases, with the majority of the cases in Honiara.

236 New Cases and 3 Deaths Recorded Today

The Minister of Health and Medical service Dr Culwick Togamana has confirmed that the country has registered 236 new positive cases and 3 deaths from COVID-19 today after a 24 hour reporting period.
The Health Ministry say the vaccination team will have to reassess how best to proceed with the vaccination drive, one that is safe for health workers and the public.

Health Close Vaccination Sites Citing Transmission Risks

The Ministry of Health and Medical services has closed all vaccination sites in Honiara today.
“We have deployed the rapid test kit (to the province) and our health teams will conduct COVID-19 testing today and onwards and results will be conveyed in the coming days,” the Health Minister said.

COVID-19 Test Kits Sent to All Nine Provinces

In an effort to understand the spread of the current COVID-19 outbreak the Ministry of Health and Medical services have deployed rapid antigen test kits to all the nine provinces in the country.
“We are stronger, more abled, and effective when we unite and join forces.”

Health Minister Speaks Out Against Stigmatization of Positive Persons

The Minister of Health and Medical services Dr Culwick Togamana has spoken out against stigmatizing those that have tested positive for COVID-19.
The Leader of Opposition said the Prime Minister in his recent addresses has clearly stated that there will be no incoming or outgoing passenger flights, yet a chartered passenger flight was allowed into the country under the radar.

“Why is Prime Minister Tight-lipped Over China Flight:” Opposition Leader

Opposition Leader Hon Matthew Wale has questioned the Prime Minister as to why his office is tight-lipped over the arrival of Chinese nationals on a chartered flight over the weekend.
The Delta variant is the dominant variant of COVID-19 worldwide. It is highly transmissible and causes more severe disease than previous variants.

CONFIRMED: It’s the Delta Variant

The Minister of Health and Medical services Dr Culwick Togamana has confirmed that the COVID-19 variant spreading in the country is the Delta variant.
"1,000 kits to each province as announced by the Health Minister yesterday is not enough given the fact that we are in the dark about the real extent of infections throughout the country," Wale said.

"Procure More Rapid Antigen Test Kits:" Wale Urges Government

Opposition Leader Hon. Matthew Wale says the government must procure more Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) kits.

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