In cool of the evening yesterday, as the sun getting to the horizon, USP TARD base student started their training session towards TARD free Christmas Game. Where they will organize soccer 11 a side tournament with TARD members in Honiara, which is to be held at Bita’ama. The coacher of the team peter Ofataloa standing with smiles as he see the boys unlocked there potential and skills, he believe TARD team will be really competitive on this 2008 Christmas Game.
Interesting, the Jewish vesi boys have taken on the Singh 2 Comrades, the match can be describe as lightening striker.
The line up for Jewish side are:
1.George Ganiau – defender
2. Mildred Delemani- Goalkeepers
3. Danny Waneoroa- right Defender
4. Semion Baeto – left defender
5 Tony Laufia strike
6 Ramo – striker
Singh 2 comrade Boys line up
1.Fletcher Fulairara- Midfield
2.Joe Kelesi - Striker
3.Rolland Delemani Striker
4. Jones Otafalu- Goal keepers
5 John Konofilia -right winger
6 Enly Saeni – defender
As the ball rolling on of the right side of the field in the 10 minutes of the match, konofilia place the ball between GG and his defending colleagues crossing to the far right where aggressive Fulata slowly pass to kelesi given it back to Fulata and unfortunately for the goal keep he watch the ball as it rolls between the two post and it was the opening goal of the match.
The effort made by the Jewish boys to equalize the goal is a running sweat, unfortunate for the Jewish boys Konofilia can’t wait as he side step Baeto Semion, he make a quick turn and shoot and shout by Peter the coach its another goal a beautiful one and the sigh 2 boys leading by 2 goals to nil.
With courage, and so much of skills in the middle of the field Laufiu was quick as a hungry lion, ball working was not absent, which GG coordinate his side but they cant make it to the singh 2 side as defending Saeni attack in eyeing the ball, in a quick turn Fulata unbelievable getting between his opponent place the ball to running kelesi kick the ball slowing with interruption into the gate and it was a goal and its now 3 nil
Despite that, Waneora who played fairly on the match make attempts but Otafalu guiding the gate not allowing a shoot to penetrate the gate mouth. There were few spectators along the side of the field where Peter the coach stands. A beautiful shoot was made by Ramo but Saeni just accommodates the shoots to his control, Konofilia on the right wing place the ball to Rolland Delemani, Rolland turn around but GG was already present, he passes to Joe and Joe given it back to Rolland which he just pass the Paul between Mildred legs and into the net.
The game is at its climax as the Jewish boys control the ball by Baeto Semion on their half but Joe prey the ball from his opponents make a smooth pass to otafalu as the Singh 2 build their ball working, Joe snick in a quick turn more gracious on their side he place the ball into the goal mouth which amounted to their 5th goal, fortunately in the split of second in the dying minutes Jewish boys make a break through initiated by Doctor Mildred and he make it a goal and the game was over,
Mean while Coach Peter Ofataloa encourages players like Samuel liosulia, Trevor Mae’eda, John Buata, Robert iromalefo, to attend training session and friendly matches that they could able to meet game standard in terms of fitness but their was no comment from Mr. JB of those a absent.
Source: Jones Otafalu
November 22, 2008
November 19, 2008
APPOINTMENT OF NORTH MALAITA STUDENT ASSOCIATION NEW LEADERSHIP TEAM
North Malaita student at Laucala campus has appointed their new Leadership team for the end of this semester and next year 2009.
North malaita student association was comprises of the following dialects or main languages of the northern part of Malaita, that is Toabaita students, Mbaelelea students, Lau student, Baegu and FataLeka student. who are pursuing their study at the university of the South Pacific, Laucala Campus.`
The newly appointed leadership team are as follows
President: Jones Otafalu
Vice President: Linus Samani
Secretary: Brian Mangi
Treasurer: Blondie Akwasia
Cultural Rep:1. Enly Saeni
2. Ken
Social Welfare1. John Buata
2. Ruth Ramo
Fundraising Coordinators:1. Danny Waneoroa
2. Jennifer Delemani
During the Final meeting and Handing over Ceremony,One of the Out going student Leader Trevor Mae’eda has stated that North malaita student have played significant role in the SISA (Solomon Islands Student Association) community especially in the Independences celebration and the UPS open Day, our contribution to SISA is recommendable and as wel as other association with SISA community.he said, those good things should be maintain by the newly appointed leadership team and the students or even build upon.
Mean while Stevaldo who looks after northern student social wel-fare has embraces the new leadership team and the student body to work together, he said 'having in mind that we are not educated only for the aid of our Families but to help Solomon Islands as whole after we finished our program.
Hence, the out going President, Milfred Delemani, has Given his last speech, that carry such a responsibility is another curriculum from USP, its challenging but it is significant in training of leaderships role. and which follow suit by the refreshment. every student of north malaita were happy and looking foward to worker to gether with the New leadership team.
Source: Jota
North malaita student association was comprises of the following dialects or main languages of the northern part of Malaita, that is Toabaita students, Mbaelelea students, Lau student, Baegu and FataLeka student. who are pursuing their study at the university of the South Pacific, Laucala Campus.`
The newly appointed leadership team are as follows
President: Jones Otafalu
Vice President: Linus Samani
Secretary: Brian Mangi
Treasurer: Blondie Akwasia
Cultural Rep:1. Enly Saeni
2. Ken
Social Welfare1. John Buata
2. Ruth Ramo
Fundraising Coordinators:1. Danny Waneoroa
2. Jennifer Delemani
During the Final meeting and Handing over Ceremony,One of the Out going student Leader Trevor Mae’eda has stated that North malaita student have played significant role in the SISA (Solomon Islands Student Association) community especially in the Independences celebration and the UPS open Day, our contribution to SISA is recommendable and as wel as other association with SISA community.he said, those good things should be maintain by the newly appointed leadership team and the students or even build upon.
Mean while Stevaldo who looks after northern student social wel-fare has embraces the new leadership team and the student body to work together, he said 'having in mind that we are not educated only for the aid of our Families but to help Solomon Islands as whole after we finished our program.
Hence, the out going President, Milfred Delemani, has Given his last speech, that carry such a responsibility is another curriculum from USP, its challenging but it is significant in training of leaderships role. and which follow suit by the refreshment. every student of north malaita were happy and looking foward to worker to gether with the New leadership team.
Source: Jota
November 14, 2008
HIV is Everyones Business: Dr. Auto
Recent results have shown that the number of people living with HIV in the Solomon Islands stands at twelve.
In a recent interview with Solomon Times, Dr. James Auto from the National Referral Hospital said that HIV will have a drastic impact on the economy of the country and on "our already limited health services."
Dr. Auto states that now is the time for action before there is an outbreak of the disease.
He said that young people are the most vulnerable and are at a higher risk of contracting the disease, further stating there is a need for a lot of awareness, "to enable them to make proper judgment and to protect themselves from the disease."
He said that HIV should not be treated lightly, adding that "once it affects more and more families it may result in a breakdown of social order."
He also revealed that stigmatization or discrimination against people living with HIV is a major challenge to overcome.
"People living with HIV have the right to be treated fairly in different sectors of the society, to enable to access treatment. People living with HIV need their disease controlled and requires employment, be it in the formal or informal sector, in order to cater for their children. Their children also have the right to a good education, health services, play and spiritual teaching without discrimination.
"There should neither be discrimination against social groupings, particularly the gay people, which would otherwise challenge the majority view. Everyone should bear in mind that 'HIV/AIDS is everybody's business.
"It is true that health workers are at the vanguard in dealing with the disease but it would be wrong for the nation to leave the task to the Ministry of Health and key stakeholders to deal with. This is a wrong conception," says Dr. Auto.
Dr. James Auto then called on the cooperation from the public to tackle the disease.
Source: Solomon times
In a recent interview with Solomon Times, Dr. James Auto from the National Referral Hospital said that HIV will have a drastic impact on the economy of the country and on "our already limited health services."
Dr. Auto states that now is the time for action before there is an outbreak of the disease.
He said that young people are the most vulnerable and are at a higher risk of contracting the disease, further stating there is a need for a lot of awareness, "to enable them to make proper judgment and to protect themselves from the disease."
He said that HIV should not be treated lightly, adding that "once it affects more and more families it may result in a breakdown of social order."
He also revealed that stigmatization or discrimination against people living with HIV is a major challenge to overcome.
"People living with HIV have the right to be treated fairly in different sectors of the society, to enable to access treatment. People living with HIV need their disease controlled and requires employment, be it in the formal or informal sector, in order to cater for their children. Their children also have the right to a good education, health services, play and spiritual teaching without discrimination.
"There should neither be discrimination against social groupings, particularly the gay people, which would otherwise challenge the majority view. Everyone should bear in mind that 'HIV/AIDS is everybody's business.
"It is true that health workers are at the vanguard in dealing with the disease but it would be wrong for the nation to leave the task to the Ministry of Health and key stakeholders to deal with. This is a wrong conception," says Dr. Auto.
Dr. James Auto then called on the cooperation from the public to tackle the disease.
Source: Solomon times
Police Officers Congratulated by Commissioner
This morning Acting Police Commissioner Peter Marshall officially congratulated three SIPF officers and their RAMSI Advisor for performing with excellence.
The officers from the Emergency Management and Special Events Planning (EMSEP) Unit have worked tirelessly with a range of operational units, Government agencies and the community on matters of significant interest to the safety and security of Solomon Islands.
EMSEP has planned and coordinated major operations and training exercises such as the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester visit, the response to the Tsunami, parliament operations, Independence Celebrations and Trade Show operations.
Acting Commissioner Marshall presented Sergeant George Paikai, Constable Jerry Akentara, Constable Miltus Fomani and RAMSI PPF Advisor Scott Cobern with certificates during the Police Parade this morning.
"These officers have undertaken difficult tasks within defined timeframes and have produced effective and efficient operational planning.
"On behalf of the Solomon Islands Police Force Executive and the entire Police Force, I would like to congratulate the officers for their success and excellent police work," he said.
Source: Solomon times
The officers from the Emergency Management and Special Events Planning (EMSEP) Unit have worked tirelessly with a range of operational units, Government agencies and the community on matters of significant interest to the safety and security of Solomon Islands.
EMSEP has planned and coordinated major operations and training exercises such as the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester visit, the response to the Tsunami, parliament operations, Independence Celebrations and Trade Show operations.
Acting Commissioner Marshall presented Sergeant George Paikai, Constable Jerry Akentara, Constable Miltus Fomani and RAMSI PPF Advisor Scott Cobern with certificates during the Police Parade this morning.
"These officers have undertaken difficult tasks within defined timeframes and have produced effective and efficient operational planning.
"On behalf of the Solomon Islands Police Force Executive and the entire Police Force, I would like to congratulate the officers for their success and excellent police work," he said.
Source: Solomon times
No Plans for Rearmament: Marshall
The Acting Commissioner of Police Mr. Peter Marshall, in his weekly press conference, informed the media that he has no plans to rearm the police.
Speaking to the media yesterday Mr. Marshall said that he has made the assurance to representatives of the National Council of Women and religious groups who have expressed concerns about the on going discussion of the rearmament of the Solomon Islands Police Force.
"We are not interested in progressing with any firearms aspect at all, the time may come but it is a matter for the government to decide," adds Mr. Marshall.
He emphasized that it is the government's decision and he hoped that such a decision "would be made through a national survey...before undertaking such a sensitive issue."
Mr. Marshall however added that in the future there might be the need for armed officers at the international airport. "This is mainly for dignitaries entering Solomon Islands, as it is done by the RAMSI," he said.
Source: Solomon times
Speaking to the media yesterday Mr. Marshall said that he has made the assurance to representatives of the National Council of Women and religious groups who have expressed concerns about the on going discussion of the rearmament of the Solomon Islands Police Force.
"We are not interested in progressing with any firearms aspect at all, the time may come but it is a matter for the government to decide," adds Mr. Marshall.
He emphasized that it is the government's decision and he hoped that such a decision "would be made through a national survey...before undertaking such a sensitive issue."
Mr. Marshall however added that in the future there might be the need for armed officers at the international airport. "This is mainly for dignitaries entering Solomon Islands, as it is done by the RAMSI," he said.
Source: Solomon times
November 13, 2008
Maldives Plan to Buy New Homeland Due to Climate Change
The island nation of Maldives has revealed plans to buy land for relocation as a result of sea level rise due to climate change which threatens to submerge the 1,000 plus islets that make up the nation.
This is a situation shared by the nations in the region, particularly countries like Tuvalu, who is said to be one of the first nations to experience the effects of sea level rise.
According to the Sydney Morning Herald, the Maldives 'will begin to divert a portion of the country's billion-dollar annual tourist revenue into buying a new homeland - possibly in Australia - as an insurance policy against climate change that threatens to turn the 300,000 islanders into environmental refugees, the country's first democratically elected president has said'.
The newly-elected president, Mohamed Nasheed, 'said the chain of 1200 islands and coral atolls dotted 800 kilometres from the tip of India is likely to disappear under the waves if the current pace of climate change continues to raise sea levels' and that 'even a "small rise" in sea levels would inundate large parts of the archipelago'.
"We can do nothing to stop climate change on our own and so we have to buy land elsewhere," Mr Nasheed said. "It's an insurance policy for the worst possible outcome."
Faced with the same predicament, nations in the region have tried to make their voices heard in international arenas about climate change and the topic of relocation has been and continues to be heavily discussed.
Mr. Nasheed's words when he stated, "We do not want to leave the Maldives, but we also do not want to be climate refugees living in tents for decades", rings true for other nations under the same predicament.
For Pacific people, much of their culture is interlinked with the land and depriving them of land deprives them of so much more. But it is something they will have to do if they want to survive.
The article further states that environmentalists 'say the issue raises the question of what rights citizens have if their homeland no longer exists'.
"It's an unprecedented wake-up call," Tom Picken, head of international climate change at Friends of the Earth, said. "The Maldives is left to fend for itself. It is a victim of climate change caused by rich countries."
'Mr Nasheed said he intended to create a sovereign wealth fund from the money generated by "importing tourists", in the way that Arab states had done by exporting oil'.
"Kuwait might invest in companies; we will invest in land."
Source: Solomon times
This is a situation shared by the nations in the region, particularly countries like Tuvalu, who is said to be one of the first nations to experience the effects of sea level rise.
According to the Sydney Morning Herald, the Maldives 'will begin to divert a portion of the country's billion-dollar annual tourist revenue into buying a new homeland - possibly in Australia - as an insurance policy against climate change that threatens to turn the 300,000 islanders into environmental refugees, the country's first democratically elected president has said'.
The newly-elected president, Mohamed Nasheed, 'said the chain of 1200 islands and coral atolls dotted 800 kilometres from the tip of India is likely to disappear under the waves if the current pace of climate change continues to raise sea levels' and that 'even a "small rise" in sea levels would inundate large parts of the archipelago'.
"We can do nothing to stop climate change on our own and so we have to buy land elsewhere," Mr Nasheed said. "It's an insurance policy for the worst possible outcome."
Faced with the same predicament, nations in the region have tried to make their voices heard in international arenas about climate change and the topic of relocation has been and continues to be heavily discussed.
Mr. Nasheed's words when he stated, "We do not want to leave the Maldives, but we also do not want to be climate refugees living in tents for decades", rings true for other nations under the same predicament.
For Pacific people, much of their culture is interlinked with the land and depriving them of land deprives them of so much more. But it is something they will have to do if they want to survive.
The article further states that environmentalists 'say the issue raises the question of what rights citizens have if their homeland no longer exists'.
"It's an unprecedented wake-up call," Tom Picken, head of international climate change at Friends of the Earth, said. "The Maldives is left to fend for itself. It is a victim of climate change caused by rich countries."
'Mr Nasheed said he intended to create a sovereign wealth fund from the money generated by "importing tourists", in the way that Arab states had done by exporting oil'.
"Kuwait might invest in companies; we will invest in land."
Source: Solomon times
Japanese Sets up Scholarship Fund
Eleven students will benefit from a newly established Japanese scholarship fund beginning next year.
The Nakayama Scholarship program was officially launched during an establishment ceremony last night at the Mendana Hotel in Honiara.
The program's beneficiaries are high school students endorsed by their respective school principals.
Under the program, each student receives three thousand dollars each to help towards school fees.
Founder, Atsuo Nakayama has injected two-point five million yen or 175-thousand Solomon dollars to establish the scholarship program.
Mr Nakayama of Japan has been traveling to the Solomon Islands for many years under a program funded by his government to collect remaining bones of fallen Japanese soldiers of the Second World War.
His own father had died during the war.
In announcing the establishment of the scholarship fund Mr Nakayama said he often visits the Solomon Islands under a project to collect the remaining bones of those who died in the battle.
He says he decided to establish a scholarship fund to show his deepest gratitude to Solomon people who, despite having also suffered greatly from the war, continue to support the Japanese bone collection program.
The eleven student beneficiaries are from St Joseph Tenaru, White River Community High School, Visale Community High School, Mbokona Community High School and St Nicholas Community High School.
Source: Solomon times
The Nakayama Scholarship program was officially launched during an establishment ceremony last night at the Mendana Hotel in Honiara.
The program's beneficiaries are high school students endorsed by their respective school principals.
Under the program, each student receives three thousand dollars each to help towards school fees.
Founder, Atsuo Nakayama has injected two-point five million yen or 175-thousand Solomon dollars to establish the scholarship program.
Mr Nakayama of Japan has been traveling to the Solomon Islands for many years under a program funded by his government to collect remaining bones of fallen Japanese soldiers of the Second World War.
His own father had died during the war.
In announcing the establishment of the scholarship fund Mr Nakayama said he often visits the Solomon Islands under a project to collect the remaining bones of those who died in the battle.
He says he decided to establish a scholarship fund to show his deepest gratitude to Solomon people who, despite having also suffered greatly from the war, continue to support the Japanese bone collection program.
The eleven student beneficiaries are from St Joseph Tenaru, White River Community High School, Visale Community High School, Mbokona Community High School and St Nicholas Community High School.
Source: Solomon times
KING Solomon Hotel is expanding, with the construction of 20 more rooms.
Officers from Police, Customs and Excise and representatives of Solomon Tobacco yesterday destroyed over one million fake cigarettes.
A total of 154 boxes, each containing 30 sleeves of fake Winfield cigarettes, were burned at Ngalibiu area at CDC-1 early yesterday morning.
Detectives from the Serious Crime Squad began an investigation into the fake cigarettes in 2006 after members of the public in East Guadalcanal reported to police that the cigarettes they were buying tasted different.
The extensive investigation led police to a local business man.
Police used experts from Solomon Islands Tobacco to confirm the cigarettes were not authentic and then alerted officers from Customs and Excise because it was believed a large number of the fake cigarettes had been imported without duty being paid.
Customs and Excise made enquiries and established that the duty had not been paid.
A man aged in his thirties was charged in October 2006 under Section 213(c) of the Customs and Excise Act for knowingly keeping uncustomed goods.
On August 20 2008, the man was found guilty and the Magistrates Court ordered he pay the SBD$699,362.40 that was owed for importing the cigarettes.
Director of Police Prosecutions, Inspector Mathew Taro, said that this was the biggest prosecution case involving fake cigarettes to his knowledge in the Solomon Islands. He thanked other law enforcement agencies for their assistance.
"This was a case that involved the Solomon Islands Police Force, Customs and Exercise and experts from Solomon Tobacco. All three organisations acted professionally and as a result the man responsible was found guilty.
"The destruction of the fake cigarettes today marks the end a very complicated but successful investigation," he said.
Source: Solomon times
A total of 154 boxes, each containing 30 sleeves of fake Winfield cigarettes, were burned at Ngalibiu area at CDC-1 early yesterday morning.
Detectives from the Serious Crime Squad began an investigation into the fake cigarettes in 2006 after members of the public in East Guadalcanal reported to police that the cigarettes they were buying tasted different.
The extensive investigation led police to a local business man.
Police used experts from Solomon Islands Tobacco to confirm the cigarettes were not authentic and then alerted officers from Customs and Excise because it was believed a large number of the fake cigarettes had been imported without duty being paid.
Customs and Excise made enquiries and established that the duty had not been paid.
A man aged in his thirties was charged in October 2006 under Section 213(c) of the Customs and Excise Act for knowingly keeping uncustomed goods.
On August 20 2008, the man was found guilty and the Magistrates Court ordered he pay the SBD$699,362.40 that was owed for importing the cigarettes.
Director of Police Prosecutions, Inspector Mathew Taro, said that this was the biggest prosecution case involving fake cigarettes to his knowledge in the Solomon Islands. He thanked other law enforcement agencies for their assistance.
"This was a case that involved the Solomon Islands Police Force, Customs and Exercise and experts from Solomon Tobacco. All three organisations acted professionally and as a result the man responsible was found guilty.
"The destruction of the fake cigarettes today marks the end a very complicated but successful investigation," he said.
Source: Solomon times
King Solomon Hotel adding 20 more beds
KING Solomon Hotel is expanding, with the construction of 20 more rooms.
Operations Manager Francis Lilo said this is to cater for the growing number of visitors coming here.
He said with the festive season approaching and daily international flights to Honiara, there are more visitors coming here for holiday.
"But there are not enough rooms in Honiara," he said.
Mr Lilo, who has just graduated from the Australia Pacific Technical College (APTC), said there is a need for more hotel rooms in the country.
He said King Solomon Hotel is responding to this need. Mendana Hotel this year opened a new complex with additional rooms.
Another major hotel, soon to complete, is the Heritage Park Hotel.
Source:SIBC
Operations Manager Francis Lilo said this is to cater for the growing number of visitors coming here.
He said with the festive season approaching and daily international flights to Honiara, there are more visitors coming here for holiday.
"But there are not enough rooms in Honiara," he said.
Mr Lilo, who has just graduated from the Australia Pacific Technical College (APTC), said there is a need for more hotel rooms in the country.
He said King Solomon Hotel is responding to this need. Mendana Hotel this year opened a new complex with additional rooms.
Another major hotel, soon to complete, is the Heritage Park Hotel.
Source:SIBC
November 12, 2008
World Bank Team Looking at Alternative Source for Economic Growth in SI
A team from the World Bank and International Finance Corporation (IFC) is currently visiting Solomon Islands.
This is in response to a request from the Government of Solomon Islands for collaboration to identify and encourage alternative sources of economic growth for the country.
The aim of the visit is to analyze the growth potential of different sectors, in view of anticipated decline in logging revenues.
These sectors include mining, agriculture, tourism and fisheries. By looking at the contribution of these industries to budget revenue, export earnings and employment generation, this analysis will support the Government in charting a course to address the economic and fiscal effects likely to be associated with the decline in logging.
Working in close coordination with the Ministry of Finance and Treasury, the team will meet with several key Ministers and officials, including: Minister for Finance and Treasury; Minister for Forestry; Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources; Minister of Agriculture and Livestock and the Minister of Culture and Tourism.
The team will also discuss growth prospects with stakeholders in the business and private sectors to identify growth prospects and ways to make investment in Solomon Islands more attractive.
"We are very pleased to be working alongside the Solomon Islands Government on this important analysis," said Doug Porter, Senior Public Sector Specialist, who is leading the World Bank team's visit to the country. "We hope this first visit, one of a series we anticipate over the coming months, illustrates our strong and ongoing commitment to support the Solomon Islands."
Minister of Finance and Treasury Snyder Rini said the country's logging industry is fast declining and the World Bank's response is crucial to rescue Solomon Islands.
"Our government is so thankful for this timely response by the World Bank," Minister Rini said. "This approach will certainly salvage our economy which is facing critical problems triggered by our declining logging industry."
Source: Solomon times
This is in response to a request from the Government of Solomon Islands for collaboration to identify and encourage alternative sources of economic growth for the country.
The aim of the visit is to analyze the growth potential of different sectors, in view of anticipated decline in logging revenues.
These sectors include mining, agriculture, tourism and fisheries. By looking at the contribution of these industries to budget revenue, export earnings and employment generation, this analysis will support the Government in charting a course to address the economic and fiscal effects likely to be associated with the decline in logging.
Working in close coordination with the Ministry of Finance and Treasury, the team will meet with several key Ministers and officials, including: Minister for Finance and Treasury; Minister for Forestry; Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources; Minister of Agriculture and Livestock and the Minister of Culture and Tourism.
The team will also discuss growth prospects with stakeholders in the business and private sectors to identify growth prospects and ways to make investment in Solomon Islands more attractive.
"We are very pleased to be working alongside the Solomon Islands Government on this important analysis," said Doug Porter, Senior Public Sector Specialist, who is leading the World Bank team's visit to the country. "We hope this first visit, one of a series we anticipate over the coming months, illustrates our strong and ongoing commitment to support the Solomon Islands."
Minister of Finance and Treasury Snyder Rini said the country's logging industry is fast declining and the World Bank's response is crucial to rescue Solomon Islands.
"Our government is so thankful for this timely response by the World Bank," Minister Rini said. "This approach will certainly salvage our economy which is facing critical problems triggered by our declining logging industry."
Source: Solomon times
Police Plead to Road Users After Another Death
Director of Police Traffic Centre, Superintendent Albert Samani, is pleading with drivers and pedestrians to take more care on the road after another person was killed on Monday night.
A 17-year-old female died at the National Referral Hospital after she was hit by a taxi at the Kukum Labour Line main road at approximately 6:30pm on Monday night.
This death follows two other recent fatal hit and run accidents and numerous other motor vehicle accidents.
Police have charged a driver with murder following a hit and run accident near the Paradise Night Club recently and have arrested the driver of the taxi that collided with the 17-year-old girl on Monday night.
Superintendent Samani said that police are investigating numerous motor vehicle accidents and believes a change in behaviour from road users is needed.
"I am concerned that drivers and pedestrians are not improving their attitude when driving or walking near our roads in Honiara.
"Pedestrians walking on the road, instead of the side of the road and people not checking that it is safe to cross is what causes many of the accidents. Some people are drunk and just walk onto the road in front of vehicles. This is a very dangerous habit," he said.
The poor attitude of some drivers is also causing accidents
"Many drivers are travelling too fast particularly at night when it is quite difficult to see pedestrians. Buses and taxis must ensure when they stop to collect or drop off passengers that they do so in a place that is safe. Far too often they just stop without pulling off the road.
"In recent weeks, numerous drivers have not stopped after hitting a pedestrian and this is not acceptable. A driver that hits a pedestrian and fails to stop will be actively pursued by police...and the charges will be far more serious."
Superintendent Samani said that if drivers and pedestrians followed some simple rules it would reduce the occurrence of serious injuries and deaths.
Source: Solomon times
A 17-year-old female died at the National Referral Hospital after she was hit by a taxi at the Kukum Labour Line main road at approximately 6:30pm on Monday night.
This death follows two other recent fatal hit and run accidents and numerous other motor vehicle accidents.
Police have charged a driver with murder following a hit and run accident near the Paradise Night Club recently and have arrested the driver of the taxi that collided with the 17-year-old girl on Monday night.
Superintendent Samani said that police are investigating numerous motor vehicle accidents and believes a change in behaviour from road users is needed.
"I am concerned that drivers and pedestrians are not improving their attitude when driving or walking near our roads in Honiara.
"Pedestrians walking on the road, instead of the side of the road and people not checking that it is safe to cross is what causes many of the accidents. Some people are drunk and just walk onto the road in front of vehicles. This is a very dangerous habit," he said.
The poor attitude of some drivers is also causing accidents
"Many drivers are travelling too fast particularly at night when it is quite difficult to see pedestrians. Buses and taxis must ensure when they stop to collect or drop off passengers that they do so in a place that is safe. Far too often they just stop without pulling off the road.
"In recent weeks, numerous drivers have not stopped after hitting a pedestrian and this is not acceptable. A driver that hits a pedestrian and fails to stop will be actively pursued by police...and the charges will be far more serious."
Superintendent Samani said that if drivers and pedestrians followed some simple rules it would reduce the occurrence of serious injuries and deaths.
Source: Solomon times
November 11, 2008
PAC Conducts Inquiry into Reports
The Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee (PAC) today has concluded an inquiry into a number of audit reports released by the Office of the Auditor General.
The Committee has started its inquiry on Thursday 6th.
The Reports included:
.Status of the Audits of Solomon Islands Government Entities as at 30 June 2008
.Status of Audits of Solomon Islands Government Entities as at 30 June 2007
.An Auditor-General's Insights into Corruption in Solomon Islands Government
The Committee which is chaired by Hon Francis Zama has considered the Reports as part of its function prescribed under Standing Orders of the National Parliament.
Under Standing Order 69 (1) (a), the Committee has the mandate to examine audited accounts stipulated in section 33 of the Public Finance and Audit Act (accounts of the Solomon Islands Government) and the reports of the OAG on such accounts.
The Reports, particularly the recent Status of Audits of Solomon Islands Government Entities as at 30 June 2008 has been the subject of intense media comment since it was tabled in Parliament and made public.
A number of issues which were identified in the Reports are:
.Ministers and public Officials acting outside authority or acting without the appropriate authority;
.Widespread non-compliance with the guiding legislation, financial instructions and general orders;
.Serious breakdowns in financial management and accounting systems and procedural controls;
.General lack of adequate and proper records maintenance;
.Officials using positions of influence to assist associates to receive benefits;
.Millions of dollars of revenue lost;
.Conflicts of interest not declared;
.Proliferation of unauthorized Government accounts and financial transactions occurring outside of authorized process;
.Serious shortcomings around asset management and procurement.
During the process, the Committee heard from Mrs. Ruth Liloqula, Secretary to Cabinet, Mr. Jeremiah Manele, Secretary to Prime Minister, Mr. Shadrach Fanega for the Ministry of Finance and Treasury and Mr. Ishmael Avui, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Public Service to hear their views on the systematic problems that were identified in the Audit Reports before commencing investigation into other Ministries that were identified in the Audit Reports.
Source: Solomon times
The Committee has started its inquiry on Thursday 6th.
The Reports included:
.Status of the Audits of Solomon Islands Government Entities as at 30 June 2008
.Status of Audits of Solomon Islands Government Entities as at 30 June 2007
.An Auditor-General's Insights into Corruption in Solomon Islands Government
The Committee which is chaired by Hon Francis Zama has considered the Reports as part of its function prescribed under Standing Orders of the National Parliament.
Under Standing Order 69 (1) (a), the Committee has the mandate to examine audited accounts stipulated in section 33 of the Public Finance and Audit Act (accounts of the Solomon Islands Government) and the reports of the OAG on such accounts.
The Reports, particularly the recent Status of Audits of Solomon Islands Government Entities as at 30 June 2008 has been the subject of intense media comment since it was tabled in Parliament and made public.
A number of issues which were identified in the Reports are:
.Ministers and public Officials acting outside authority or acting without the appropriate authority;
.Widespread non-compliance with the guiding legislation, financial instructions and general orders;
.Serious breakdowns in financial management and accounting systems and procedural controls;
.General lack of adequate and proper records maintenance;
.Officials using positions of influence to assist associates to receive benefits;
.Millions of dollars of revenue lost;
.Conflicts of interest not declared;
.Proliferation of unauthorized Government accounts and financial transactions occurring outside of authorized process;
.Serious shortcomings around asset management and procurement.
During the process, the Committee heard from Mrs. Ruth Liloqula, Secretary to Cabinet, Mr. Jeremiah Manele, Secretary to Prime Minister, Mr. Shadrach Fanega for the Ministry of Finance and Treasury and Mr. Ishmael Avui, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Public Service to hear their views on the systematic problems that were identified in the Audit Reports before commencing investigation into other Ministries that were identified in the Audit Reports.
Source: Solomon times
Avuavu Case Adjourned
Mr. Philip Talaolia, arrested on Saturday in Avuavu in the Weathercoast, appeared briefly before the central magistrates' court late yesterday afternoon.
However, magistrate judge Mr. William Seneka adjourned the case for another 14 days, "as investigations are yet to conclude."
Mr. Talaolia arrested and charged for one count of attempted murder will be remanded at the Rove Prison and will be appearing before the magistrates' court on the 24th of this month.
Meanwhile, the New Zealand RAMSI officer alleged to have been beaten by Mr. Talaolia is said to be still undergoing treatment in New Zealand.
Source: Solomon times
However, magistrate judge Mr. William Seneka adjourned the case for another 14 days, "as investigations are yet to conclude."
Mr. Talaolia arrested and charged for one count of attempted murder will be remanded at the Rove Prison and will be appearing before the magistrates' court on the 24th of this month.
Meanwhile, the New Zealand RAMSI officer alleged to have been beaten by Mr. Talaolia is said to be still undergoing treatment in New Zealand.
Source: Solomon times
Avuavu Case Adjourned
Mr. Philip Talaolia, arrested on Saturday in Avuavu in the Weathercoast, appeared briefly before the central magistrates' court late yesterday afternoon.
However, magistrate judge Mr. William Seneka adjourned the case for another 14 days, "as investigations are yet to conclude."
Mr. Talaolia arrested and charged for one count of attempted murder will be remanded at the Rove Prison and will be appearing before the magistrates' court on the 24th of this month.
Meanwhile, the New Zealand RAMSI officer alleged to have been beaten by Mr. Talaolia is said to be still undergoing treatment in New Zealand.
Source: Solomon times
However, magistrate judge Mr. William Seneka adjourned the case for another 14 days, "as investigations are yet to conclude."
Mr. Talaolia arrested and charged for one count of attempted murder will be remanded at the Rove Prison and will be appearing before the magistrates' court on the 24th of this month.
Meanwhile, the New Zealand RAMSI officer alleged to have been beaten by Mr. Talaolia is said to be still undergoing treatment in New Zealand.
Source: Solomon times
Sir Nathaniel: Need to Strengthen SICHE Council
The Governor General Sir Nathaniel Waena has strongly articulated the need to strengthen the Solomon Islands College of Higher Education (SICHE) Council during a meeting last Friday.
Sir Nathaniel met the College Counsel to highlight areas that he wants the Council to facilitate to improve the current status of SICHE.
SICHE is the country's only institution which trains thousands of Solomon Islanders in different fields and professions.
Among one of the many significant areas that need urgent attention is the upgrading of SICHE into a University.
"The idea of having progressive development of the College to eventually enjoy University status needs to be viewed against the unfolding high demand and the need to train more of our young people to University level at home," he said.
He said Solomon Islands may benefit more by having its own University of Technology which would produce technocrats to take charge of industries which utilize modern technology.
Sir Nathaniel suggested that the College Council must become increasingly proactive towards the growth of our population and the increasing demand for higher education and training.
"We need a kind of training that must be at pace with the rapidly changing circumstances and environment of the contemporary Solomon Islands in a highly competitive global market with a much more demanding national community,"
Sir Nathaniel also pointed out the importance of raising the research capacity of SICHE by engaging our highly trained and intellectually able man-power to establish the desired research capability.
He said the world of academia thrives through ongoing research and publication.
Sir Nathaniel encouraged SICHE's academics to embark on relevant applied research into challenging fears of topics which relate to nation building, economic development and social reformation to advance the nation to new heights.
The Governor General also recommended the Council to have a representative from the Chamber of Commerce to effectively connect pre-service manpower production and in-service training requirements with employers.
Currently the Council's membership does not include any representative from the Chamber of Commerce or the Private Sector.
Source: Soomon times
Sir Nathaniel met the College Counsel to highlight areas that he wants the Council to facilitate to improve the current status of SICHE.
SICHE is the country's only institution which trains thousands of Solomon Islanders in different fields and professions.
Among one of the many significant areas that need urgent attention is the upgrading of SICHE into a University.
"The idea of having progressive development of the College to eventually enjoy University status needs to be viewed against the unfolding high demand and the need to train more of our young people to University level at home," he said.
He said Solomon Islands may benefit more by having its own University of Technology which would produce technocrats to take charge of industries which utilize modern technology.
Sir Nathaniel suggested that the College Council must become increasingly proactive towards the growth of our population and the increasing demand for higher education and training.
"We need a kind of training that must be at pace with the rapidly changing circumstances and environment of the contemporary Solomon Islands in a highly competitive global market with a much more demanding national community,"
Sir Nathaniel also pointed out the importance of raising the research capacity of SICHE by engaging our highly trained and intellectually able man-power to establish the desired research capability.
He said the world of academia thrives through ongoing research and publication.
Sir Nathaniel encouraged SICHE's academics to embark on relevant applied research into challenging fears of topics which relate to nation building, economic development and social reformation to advance the nation to new heights.
The Governor General also recommended the Council to have a representative from the Chamber of Commerce to effectively connect pre-service manpower production and in-service training requirements with employers.
Currently the Council's membership does not include any representative from the Chamber of Commerce or the Private Sector.
Source: Soomon times
November 10, 2008
Regional Audit Institutions to Set Up Secretariat
The standard of public auditing within the Pacific region is expected to be improved with the establishment of a Secretariat of the Pacific Association of Supreme Audit Institutions (PASAI) in Suva, Fiji next year.
The 12th Forum Economic Ministers' Meeting (FEMM) held in Port Vila, Vanuatu 27 - 29 October noted the establishment of a PASAI Secretariat as part of the implementation of the Pacific Regional Audit Initiative (PRAI).
The PRAI is a Pacific Plan initiative endorsed by Forum Leaders in 2005, and followed-up by the 2006 FEMM which directed the Forum Secretariat to undertake further work on a number of Pacific Plan initiatives related to regional economic integration, in particular, agreed to consider the development of regional support to audit services to improve integrity and financial scrutiny.
"This Pacific Plan initiative has made significant progress in the last two and half years since FEMM mandated this matter. Extensive diagnostic and design work has been undertaken with stakeholder consultation, and development partner support mobilized to allow for implementation of regional and sub-regional programmes from early 2009," says Tuiloma Neroni Slade, Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat.
Mr Slade adds: "The programmes are aimed to uniformly raise public auditing standards and effectiveness in the region through a package of initiatives including capacity supplementation and augmentation approaches to help overcome the underlying structural and capacity constraints particularly amongst the Smaller Island States."
The design of PRAI has been developed through an extensive consultation process under the guidance of the 25-member PASAI with support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), International Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions Development Initiative (IDI) and AusAID. The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat provided oversight of the process. In April this year, the PASAI Congress which met in the Cook Islands endorsed the PRAI design.
Besides setting up the PASAI Secretariat, the emphasis of PRAI for 2008 - 2012 will be:
. the setting up a sub-regional audit support programme for Kiribati, Nauru and Tuvalu;
. designing a long-term structured capacity-development programme; and
. initiating cooperative performance audit.
During the FEMM in Port Vila, Ministers welcomed the progress made to-date, noted the positive implications for the management of State Owned Enterprises, and lent support to associated implementation of PRAI, with the ongoing support of the ADB, AusAID, IDI, and other development partners.
Source: Solomon times
The 12th Forum Economic Ministers' Meeting (FEMM) held in Port Vila, Vanuatu 27 - 29 October noted the establishment of a PASAI Secretariat as part of the implementation of the Pacific Regional Audit Initiative (PRAI).
The PRAI is a Pacific Plan initiative endorsed by Forum Leaders in 2005, and followed-up by the 2006 FEMM which directed the Forum Secretariat to undertake further work on a number of Pacific Plan initiatives related to regional economic integration, in particular, agreed to consider the development of regional support to audit services to improve integrity and financial scrutiny.
"This Pacific Plan initiative has made significant progress in the last two and half years since FEMM mandated this matter. Extensive diagnostic and design work has been undertaken with stakeholder consultation, and development partner support mobilized to allow for implementation of regional and sub-regional programmes from early 2009," says Tuiloma Neroni Slade, Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat.
Mr Slade adds: "The programmes are aimed to uniformly raise public auditing standards and effectiveness in the region through a package of initiatives including capacity supplementation and augmentation approaches to help overcome the underlying structural and capacity constraints particularly amongst the Smaller Island States."
The design of PRAI has been developed through an extensive consultation process under the guidance of the 25-member PASAI with support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), International Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions Development Initiative (IDI) and AusAID. The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat provided oversight of the process. In April this year, the PASAI Congress which met in the Cook Islands endorsed the PRAI design.
Besides setting up the PASAI Secretariat, the emphasis of PRAI for 2008 - 2012 will be:
. the setting up a sub-regional audit support programme for Kiribati, Nauru and Tuvalu;
. designing a long-term structured capacity-development programme; and
. initiating cooperative performance audit.
During the FEMM in Port Vila, Ministers welcomed the progress made to-date, noted the positive implications for the management of State Owned Enterprises, and lent support to associated implementation of PRAI, with the ongoing support of the ADB, AusAID, IDI, and other development partners.
Source: Solomon times
Women Meet to Seek Better Representation in Parliament
Various women stakeholders, along with the Ministry of Women Youth and Children Affairs and UNIFEM, held a workshop recently to look at ways in which women of the Solomon Islands could have better representation at the political level.
Speaking during the presentation Mrs. Ruth Maetala, the CEDAW (Convention on the Elimination of all Discrimination against Women) Officer with the Ministry of Women Youth and Children Affairs, stated that the objective of the workshop is to have a greater understanding on the special measures needed to ensure "that the voice of our women is heard at the highest level of political leadership."
"The workshop therefore aims to develop and design strategies to ensure greater participation at all level of decision making, particularly in parliament" she said. She added that while there are no special measures put into law by the government she says, "Special measures are in line with the CEDAW convention, a convention that the Solomon Island Government had ratified."
"The intended special measures we are looking at submitting to government "is to reserve ten seats for women in parliament." Mrs. Maetala said that this is the time to "look at how to create and carry forward such strategies...we need to plan and work at the submission with all your inputs," she said.
Solomon Times understand that the submission on the "Special Measures," looking at reserving 10 seats for women in parliament, would be the first of its kind in the Pacific region.
Source: Solomon times
Speaking during the presentation Mrs. Ruth Maetala, the CEDAW (Convention on the Elimination of all Discrimination against Women) Officer with the Ministry of Women Youth and Children Affairs, stated that the objective of the workshop is to have a greater understanding on the special measures needed to ensure "that the voice of our women is heard at the highest level of political leadership."
"The workshop therefore aims to develop and design strategies to ensure greater participation at all level of decision making, particularly in parliament" she said. She added that while there are no special measures put into law by the government she says, "Special measures are in line with the CEDAW convention, a convention that the Solomon Island Government had ratified."
"The intended special measures we are looking at submitting to government "is to reserve ten seats for women in parliament." Mrs. Maetala said that this is the time to "look at how to create and carry forward such strategies...we need to plan and work at the submission with all your inputs," she said.
Solomon Times understand that the submission on the "Special Measures," looking at reserving 10 seats for women in parliament, would be the first of its kind in the Pacific region.
Source: Solomon times
Police Charge Man Responsible for Attacking RAMSI Officer
Solomon Islands Police Force detectives have charged a man with attempted murder after he attacked a RAMSI police officer with a bush knife.
Police will allege the 39-year-old man was responsible for seriously wounding the New Zealand police officer at Avuavu on Guadalcanal's Weathercoast on 2 September 2008.
On Saturday 8 November 2008, the man surrendered to police based at Avuavu after an extensive operation to apprehend the offenders responsible for the attack.
The man was transported to Honiara on Saturday where detectives from the Solomon Islands Serious Crime Squad interviewed and formally charged the 39-year-old.
Acting Commissioner of Police, Peter Marshall, said the two-month operation to apprehend those responsible has been successful.
"This arrest is the result of some very good work by a number of dedicated police officers. For eight weeks we have been actively pursuing the offenders that committed the cowardly attack on the New Zealand police officer.
"I am pleased to say the man we believe responsible for inflicting the wound with the bush knife is now in police custody," he said.
Three other suspects involved in the attack surrendered to police on 20 September 2008.
The operation to apprehend the remaining offenders will continue.
"The support from RAMSI's Participating Police Force and RAMSI military during this operation has assisted the Solomon Islands Police Force locate and arrest the offenders responsible.
"I would like thank RAMSI, the community leaders and people living on the Weathercoast that have provided assistance to the Solomon Islands Police Force during the operation.
"There are still a number of people wanted in connection to the attack and I ask the community to continue to work with police so the other offenders can be brought before the courts," Acting Commissioner Marshall said.
The 39-year-old man is expected to face the Honiara Magistrates Court on Monday 10 November 2008.
Sourc: Solomon times
Police will allege the 39-year-old man was responsible for seriously wounding the New Zealand police officer at Avuavu on Guadalcanal's Weathercoast on 2 September 2008.
On Saturday 8 November 2008, the man surrendered to police based at Avuavu after an extensive operation to apprehend the offenders responsible for the attack.
The man was transported to Honiara on Saturday where detectives from the Solomon Islands Serious Crime Squad interviewed and formally charged the 39-year-old.
Acting Commissioner of Police, Peter Marshall, said the two-month operation to apprehend those responsible has been successful.
"This arrest is the result of some very good work by a number of dedicated police officers. For eight weeks we have been actively pursuing the offenders that committed the cowardly attack on the New Zealand police officer.
"I am pleased to say the man we believe responsible for inflicting the wound with the bush knife is now in police custody," he said.
Three other suspects involved in the attack surrendered to police on 20 September 2008.
The operation to apprehend the remaining offenders will continue.
"The support from RAMSI's Participating Police Force and RAMSI military during this operation has assisted the Solomon Islands Police Force locate and arrest the offenders responsible.
"I would like thank RAMSI, the community leaders and people living on the Weathercoast that have provided assistance to the Solomon Islands Police Force during the operation.
"There are still a number of people wanted in connection to the attack and I ask the community to continue to work with police so the other offenders can be brought before the courts," Acting Commissioner Marshall said.
The 39-year-old man is expected to face the Honiara Magistrates Court on Monday 10 November 2008.
Sourc: Solomon times
November 07, 2008
Audit reports go under scrutiny
THE Public Accounts Committee (PAC) will begin inquiring into reports the Auditor General recently released.
The inquiry starts today.
The reports include:
Status of the Audits of Solomon Islands Government Entities as at 30 June 2008.
Status of Audits of Solomon Islands Government Entities as at 30 June 2007.
An Auditor-General’s Insights into Corruption in Solomon Islands Government.
The committee is chaired by South New Georgia-Tetepare MP, Francis Zama.
The audit reports have identified widespread use of government funds outside of normal procedures.
Other issues identified in the reports are:
Ministers and public Officials acting outside authority or acting without the appropriate authority;
Widespread non-compliance with the guiding legislation, financial instructions and general orders;
Serious breakdowns in financial management and accounting systems and procedural controls;
General lack of adequate and proper records maintenance;
Officials using positions of influence to assist associates to receive benefits;
Millions of dollars of revenue lost;
Conflicts of interest not declared;
Proliferation of unauthorized Government accounts and financial transactions occurring outside of authorized process;
Serious shortcomings around asset management and procurement.
Top government officials to appear before the committee are:
Ruth Liloqula, Secretary to Cabinet
Jeremiah Manele, Secretary to Prime Minister
Shadrach Fanega, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Finance and Treasury
Ishmael Avui, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Public Service.
They’ll be questioned on the systematic problems that were identified in the Audit Reports.
Source: SIBC
The inquiry starts today.
The reports include:
Status of the Audits of Solomon Islands Government Entities as at 30 June 2008.
Status of Audits of Solomon Islands Government Entities as at 30 June 2007.
An Auditor-General’s Insights into Corruption in Solomon Islands Government.
The committee is chaired by South New Georgia-Tetepare MP, Francis Zama.
The audit reports have identified widespread use of government funds outside of normal procedures.
Other issues identified in the reports are:
Ministers and public Officials acting outside authority or acting without the appropriate authority;
Widespread non-compliance with the guiding legislation, financial instructions and general orders;
Serious breakdowns in financial management and accounting systems and procedural controls;
General lack of adequate and proper records maintenance;
Officials using positions of influence to assist associates to receive benefits;
Millions of dollars of revenue lost;
Conflicts of interest not declared;
Proliferation of unauthorized Government accounts and financial transactions occurring outside of authorized process;
Serious shortcomings around asset management and procurement.
Top government officials to appear before the committee are:
Ruth Liloqula, Secretary to Cabinet
Jeremiah Manele, Secretary to Prime Minister
Shadrach Fanega, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Finance and Treasury
Ishmael Avui, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Public Service.
They’ll be questioned on the systematic problems that were identified in the Audit Reports.
Source: SIBC
Honiara Beautification condemns cutting down of palm trees
DESPITE efforts of the Honiara Beautification Committee to beautify the Honiara city some members of the public seem not to appreciate such great work.
Over the weekend more than ten royal palm trees planted between Panatina Plaza and the Ministry of fisheries along the Prince Philip Highway has been brutally chopped down.
The palm trees were planted by the beautification committee four years ago.
Chairperson of the Honiara Beautification committee Keithie Saunders has expressed disappointment over such action.
“What are these people trying to do? We have spent so much time and effort trying to beautify the city and it is very disheartening to see this kind of attitude.
"We are a charity organization. We get no support from the government and the city council. We are trying to get donors to give us money for our work.
"I have spent 11years trying to organize work to beautify the city. Iam doing this as a volunteer. I don’t get paid for it. I’ve spent thousand of hours doing this," she said.
Everything the beautification committee has done is free because we are trying to make the city of Honiara look good.
And it is very disheartening to see this happen.
"What do the people of Honiara want? Do they want a nice Honiara or a Honiara with chopped down trees?" she said.
The Honiara Beautification committee has been beautifying parks, roundabouts, and the streets of Honiara.
Source: SIBC
Over the weekend more than ten royal palm trees planted between Panatina Plaza and the Ministry of fisheries along the Prince Philip Highway has been brutally chopped down.
The palm trees were planted by the beautification committee four years ago.
Chairperson of the Honiara Beautification committee Keithie Saunders has expressed disappointment over such action.
“What are these people trying to do? We have spent so much time and effort trying to beautify the city and it is very disheartening to see this kind of attitude.
"We are a charity organization. We get no support from the government and the city council. We are trying to get donors to give us money for our work.
"I have spent 11years trying to organize work to beautify the city. Iam doing this as a volunteer. I don’t get paid for it. I’ve spent thousand of hours doing this," she said.
Everything the beautification committee has done is free because we are trying to make the city of Honiara look good.
And it is very disheartening to see this happen.
"What do the people of Honiara want? Do they want a nice Honiara or a Honiara with chopped down trees?" she said.
The Honiara Beautification committee has been beautifying parks, roundabouts, and the streets of Honiara.
Source: SIBC
Panatina School Snatches Sports Carnival Prize
Panatina School snatched the overall prize in the Our Telecom Inter-Primary School Sports carnival in the Capital last week.
They grabbed the trophy after dominating all track and field events resulting in them scooping 23 medals; 10 gold, 6 silver and 7 bronze together with a $1500 cash prize and the championship shield.
The presentation was done this week at the SIFF Academy at King George.
Second prize went to Woodford International School who snatched 7 gold, 7 silver, a trophy and a cash prize of $1000.
The third place went to Lunga Primary School with 5 golds, 3 silver, and 8 bronze plus a trophy and a cash prize of $800.
Other prizes were given out according to categories. In the 7-9 age category, Lunga Primary School won it, in the 10-11 years category Tuvaruhu School won the category and Panatina Primary School won the 12-15 year old category.
Christian Nieng, Manager for Human Resources and Administration for Our Telecom thanked the participants and organizers, adding that as a major sponsor they would like to see more children become involved in future Primary and Secondary school carnivals, to develop their interest in athletics.
Source: Solomon time
They grabbed the trophy after dominating all track and field events resulting in them scooping 23 medals; 10 gold, 6 silver and 7 bronze together with a $1500 cash prize and the championship shield.
The presentation was done this week at the SIFF Academy at King George.
Second prize went to Woodford International School who snatched 7 gold, 7 silver, a trophy and a cash prize of $1000.
The third place went to Lunga Primary School with 5 golds, 3 silver, and 8 bronze plus a trophy and a cash prize of $800.
Other prizes were given out according to categories. In the 7-9 age category, Lunga Primary School won it, in the 10-11 years category Tuvaruhu School won the category and Panatina Primary School won the 12-15 year old category.
Christian Nieng, Manager for Human Resources and Administration for Our Telecom thanked the participants and organizers, adding that as a major sponsor they would like to see more children become involved in future Primary and Secondary school carnivals, to develop their interest in athletics.
Source: Solomon time
RAMSI Joins Hunt for Killer Crocs
Two teams of RAMSI Participating Police Force (PPF) officers are being dispatched today to help local police deal with threatening crocodiles in two separate provinces.
One team is heading to the Russell Islands after a community there requested assistance following the death of a young girl who was taken from the village of Ale by a crocodile earlier this week.
The Commander of the PPF, Denis McDermott, said that it is always tragic when a life is lost under these circumstances.
"The PPF is here to support the Solomon Islands Police in keeping the people of this country safe from harm. When a village is threatened by a dangerous animal, such as a crocodile, I am very pleased to be able to send my officers to help."
At the request of the community, one of the teams will help local police in the Russell Islands to destroy the animal.
A second team will travel to Atoifi, Malaita Province to help the SIPF to locate and destroy a crocodile that has been menacing the community there.
"In the last month RAMSI has responded to requests from communities in Munda, on the Weathercoast, and from parts of Western Province," Mr McDermott said.
RAMSI has promised to destroy crocodiles and urges anyone with concerns about these dangerous animals in their area to report the matter to their local police, who can then request armed assistance from RAMSI.
One team is heading to the Russell Islands after a community there requested assistance following the death of a young girl who was taken from the village of Ale by a crocodile earlier this week.
The Commander of the PPF, Denis McDermott, said that it is always tragic when a life is lost under these circumstances.
"The PPF is here to support the Solomon Islands Police in keeping the people of this country safe from harm. When a village is threatened by a dangerous animal, such as a crocodile, I am very pleased to be able to send my officers to help."
At the request of the community, one of the teams will help local police in the Russell Islands to destroy the animal.
A second team will travel to Atoifi, Malaita Province to help the SIPF to locate and destroy a crocodile that has been menacing the community there.
"In the last month RAMSI has responded to requests from communities in Munda, on the Weathercoast, and from parts of Western Province," Mr McDermott said.
RAMSI has promised to destroy crocodiles and urges anyone with concerns about these dangerous animals in their area to report the matter to their local police, who can then request armed assistance from RAMSI.
Rove Barracks to be Replaced Under New RAMSI - NZ Police Housing Project
Thirty four new houses for police families will soon be replacing the current police barracks at Rove and other priority locations in the provinces as part of the new RAMSI - NZAID Police Housing Project launched today.
The Executive Director of NZAID, Mr Peter Adams made the announcement today at Rove Police Headquarters.
"I am pleased to be here to announce that New Zealand, through our partnership with Solomon Islands Government and RAMSI, will fund the construction of thirty four new houses for SIPF, to replace these Barracks, here at Rove and elsewhere."
Acting Special Coordinator, Jonathan Austin welcomed the initiative in his opening remarks.
"RAMSI has done a lot of work in stablising law and order but there is much that still needs to be done which is why we welcome the initiative of the New Zealand Government to work in partnership with RAMSI and the Solomon Islands Government to build houses for the police."
Acting Police Commissioner Walter Kola also acknowledged the contribution from New Zealand and pledged good management of the new houses.
"New Zealand's contribution towards police housing marks a significant milestone in addressing this most important need for improving police capability," Mr Kola said.
"In accepting this generous contribution I would like to assure the Government of New Zealand and the people of the Solomon Islands that the executive and management of the Police Force will use all the powers available to it to ensure that these houses will be properly managed and maintained."
Mr Austin said the project was a good example exactly the kind of partnership between donors, RAMSI and the Solomon Islands Government we are working towards.
Mr Adams said the commitment by Solomon Islands Government as a partner in the project was critical if the good progress made by SIPF with the assistance of RAMSI in strengthening the police force is to be sustained.
"The provision of adequate housing is not only about ensuring a functional police force across the country; it is also about respecting and valuing these hardworking, committed men and women."
Source: Solomon time
The Executive Director of NZAID, Mr Peter Adams made the announcement today at Rove Police Headquarters.
"I am pleased to be here to announce that New Zealand, through our partnership with Solomon Islands Government and RAMSI, will fund the construction of thirty four new houses for SIPF, to replace these Barracks, here at Rove and elsewhere."
Acting Special Coordinator, Jonathan Austin welcomed the initiative in his opening remarks.
"RAMSI has done a lot of work in stablising law and order but there is much that still needs to be done which is why we welcome the initiative of the New Zealand Government to work in partnership with RAMSI and the Solomon Islands Government to build houses for the police."
Acting Police Commissioner Walter Kola also acknowledged the contribution from New Zealand and pledged good management of the new houses.
"New Zealand's contribution towards police housing marks a significant milestone in addressing this most important need for improving police capability," Mr Kola said.
"In accepting this generous contribution I would like to assure the Government of New Zealand and the people of the Solomon Islands that the executive and management of the Police Force will use all the powers available to it to ensure that these houses will be properly managed and maintained."
Mr Austin said the project was a good example exactly the kind of partnership between donors, RAMSI and the Solomon Islands Government we are working towards.
Mr Adams said the commitment by Solomon Islands Government as a partner in the project was critical if the good progress made by SIPF with the assistance of RAMSI in strengthening the police force is to be sustained.
"The provision of adequate housing is not only about ensuring a functional police force across the country; it is also about respecting and valuing these hardworking, committed men and women."
Source: Solomon time
November 06, 2008
Best Wishes to Comrades in and Around Fiji -FSM, USP & FIT
it just two (2) weeks away before students studying in USP laucala campus and Fiji institute of technology (FIT) will sat their Final examination to determine what they have been learning through out the half of the year 2008.
Homeboy understands, that Fiji school of Medicine (FSM)this week was a week of examination and next week. And hope they will finish there final examinations as of next week.
Some of those students will soon return home early this month for there Christmas break and hope to return next year when another new year of learning commenced.
Therefor,On behalf of the Bushman ( Homeboy) Admin, We would like to Convey our sincere thanks and gratitude for the being our visitor clients when browsing through this Bushman homepage daily,weekly,monthly and so on. We wish USP students and FIT students a Good luck in there study break as starting from next week and after they will sat for there remaining paper outline on the week after there study break
Further more,Good luck to FSM students as they already in the week of examination,Good luck and may our good lord be with you always until the day you finish the final paper and return home safely.GOOD bless us all in our future endeavour.
Home boy bae rest fastaem from update: carol Please Do update the home page thanks:
Source : Home boy
Homeboy understands, that Fiji school of Medicine (FSM)this week was a week of examination and next week. And hope they will finish there final examinations as of next week.
Some of those students will soon return home early this month for there Christmas break and hope to return next year when another new year of learning commenced.
Therefor,On behalf of the Bushman ( Homeboy) Admin, We would like to Convey our sincere thanks and gratitude for the being our visitor clients when browsing through this Bushman homepage daily,weekly,monthly and so on. We wish USP students and FIT students a Good luck in there study break as starting from next week and after they will sat for there remaining paper outline on the week after there study break
Further more,Good luck to FSM students as they already in the week of examination,Good luck and may our good lord be with you always until the day you finish the final paper and return home safely.GOOD bless us all in our future endeavour.
Home boy bae rest fastaem from update: carol Please Do update the home page thanks:
Source : Home boy
November 05, 2008
Carteret Islanders to be Resettled to Bougainville
The first 40 families of Carteret Islands, north of Ontong Java of Malaita Province are to be resettled to Bougainville by March next year.
Bougainville Administrator Raymond Masono says that they are still negotiating with landowners for land which they would resettle the islanders as their permanent home under the major climate change resettlement exercise.He however says that the exercise would cost the Autonomous Bougainville and PNG Government millions of dollars starting next year through to 2014. Carterets Islanders have become the world's first climate change refugees according to a recent United Nations Report. The one-thousand-500 residents of Carterets Island, an atoll of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, are fast becoming the world's first climate change refugees as officially stated. A third of the population had refused to leave their island because they claimed they had spent all their lives there and would not move or claimed they would sink and vanish with the island.Sea levels around the atoll have risen 10 centimetres in the past 20 years, inundating plantations. The situation is deteriorating, islanders told officials. They said they urgently needed assistance to be relocated to higher ground. The ABG administration has already set up a committee to work on the resettlement programme to mainland Bougainville.
Source: Solomon time
Bougainville Administrator Raymond Masono says that they are still negotiating with landowners for land which they would resettle the islanders as their permanent home under the major climate change resettlement exercise.He however says that the exercise would cost the Autonomous Bougainville and PNG Government millions of dollars starting next year through to 2014. Carterets Islanders have become the world's first climate change refugees according to a recent United Nations Report. The one-thousand-500 residents of Carterets Island, an atoll of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, are fast becoming the world's first climate change refugees as officially stated. A third of the population had refused to leave their island because they claimed they had spent all their lives there and would not move or claimed they would sink and vanish with the island.Sea levels around the atoll have risen 10 centimetres in the past 20 years, inundating plantations. The situation is deteriorating, islanders told officials. They said they urgently needed assistance to be relocated to higher ground. The ABG administration has already set up a committee to work on the resettlement programme to mainland Bougainville.
Source: Solomon time
Minister Abana Injects RCDF into Rural Community Fishing
Thousands of rural villagers in West Fataleka constituency will soon enjoy improved nutritional and income levels following last Friday's launching of a community fishing project at Sisifiu village.
The project which was implemented in the form of a Fishery Aggregate Device (FAD), commonly known as "Fishing Raft" was implemented by MP for Fataleka, Steve Abana through the Taiwanese Government-funded Rural Constituency Development Fund (RCDF). Minister Abana and Political Councilor of the Taiwan Embassy, Ben Wang, officially delivered the project which costs SBD$35,000 to villagers last Friday. Over the years, fishermen in the region have to travel far distances in rough seas, scorching heat and heavy rain to catch fish. The West Fataleka region, like other areas in the Central West coast of Malaita is isolated from suitable fishing grounds - making fish difficult to catch.The circumstance has denied many families from consuming fish which gave rise to low levels of nutrition as well as income for basic needs such as school fees and transportation. Sisifiu Community leader, Rodney Sam hailed the successful implementation of the project - describing it as the first ever major development to happen in the constituency after many years. "This device will certainly improve our people's dietary composition and levels of income generation," "It will also reduce the risk faced by our fishermen who endured difficult fishing trips for many years," Mr Sam said people of Sisifiu and other surrounding communities are grateful for Hon Steve Abana and the Taiwanese Government's positive response to their request for the project. Minister Abana said the fishing device is crucial to attract fish closer to the coastline which will reduce the burden on fishermen traveling risky distances to catch fish. Among other benefits, improved catches will further enhance trade or the barter system between coastal and highlands villagers who were interdependent on each other for food varieties for many years. "An improved barter system will certainly build and improve relations between people in the region," Mr. Abana explained. The success of the project was a result of the close partnership between the Taiwanese Government, the Fataleka Constituency Office, the Malaita Provincial Fisheries Office and Communities in West Fataleka.
Source: Solomon times
The project which was implemented in the form of a Fishery Aggregate Device (FAD), commonly known as "Fishing Raft" was implemented by MP for Fataleka, Steve Abana through the Taiwanese Government-funded Rural Constituency Development Fund (RCDF). Minister Abana and Political Councilor of the Taiwan Embassy, Ben Wang, officially delivered the project which costs SBD$35,000 to villagers last Friday. Over the years, fishermen in the region have to travel far distances in rough seas, scorching heat and heavy rain to catch fish. The West Fataleka region, like other areas in the Central West coast of Malaita is isolated from suitable fishing grounds - making fish difficult to catch.The circumstance has denied many families from consuming fish which gave rise to low levels of nutrition as well as income for basic needs such as school fees and transportation. Sisifiu Community leader, Rodney Sam hailed the successful implementation of the project - describing it as the first ever major development to happen in the constituency after many years. "This device will certainly improve our people's dietary composition and levels of income generation," "It will also reduce the risk faced by our fishermen who endured difficult fishing trips for many years," Mr Sam said people of Sisifiu and other surrounding communities are grateful for Hon Steve Abana and the Taiwanese Government's positive response to their request for the project. Minister Abana said the fishing device is crucial to attract fish closer to the coastline which will reduce the burden on fishermen traveling risky distances to catch fish. Among other benefits, improved catches will further enhance trade or the barter system between coastal and highlands villagers who were interdependent on each other for food varieties for many years. "An improved barter system will certainly build and improve relations between people in the region," Mr. Abana explained. The success of the project was a result of the close partnership between the Taiwanese Government, the Fataleka Constituency Office, the Malaita Provincial Fisheries Office and Communities in West Fataleka.
Source: Solomon times
Chiefs call for HIV tests
CHIEFS in Munda, Western Province, want community members suspected of carrying the HIV virus to undergo tests. The chiefs agreed on this last week, after those suspected of contracting the killer disease, are being stigmatised in the community.A spokesman for the chiefs said the only way to clear the air is for those suspected to undergo tests."It is not good to see people suspected of living with the virus stigmatised in the community,” the spokesman said."They need to undergo tests to clear their names,” the spokesman said.Already a man was jailed for three months for spreading rumors and naming those allegedly living with the virus.Solomon Star correspondent in Munda, Brian Beti, earlier said names of the HIV positive cases were released by medical officers from Helena Goldie Hospital during a drinking session.Solomon Islands National Aids Council (SINAC) has already taken steps to investigate those behind the rumours.
Source: SIBC
Source: SIBC
Sahu installed Bishop of Malaita
HUNDREDS of people from the Church of Melanesia gathered at Fiu Village on Sunday to witness Malaita’s new bishop Sam Sahu installed. Rev. Sahu became the fifth bishop of the Diocese of Malaita. He took over from retired Bishop Terry Brown.Sunday’s consecration ceremony began with a welcome ceremony for invited guests from overseas, Honiara, other provinces and parts of Malaita.This was followed by a procession led by Gwailiki panpipers to Christ the King Cathedral. Senior Bishop of Central Solomons Rev. Charles Koete conducted the Liturgy.Reverend Cliff Bird of the United Church gave a sermon on the theme "Participating in the work of the Kingdom of God."Rev. Bird highlighted the need for human participation in the work of the Kingdom of God.He said the challenge today for the church and for its leaders is to proclaim the word of God in ever-changing and ever new situations."This is no easy challenge for the church and its leaders but it is a challenge that must be addressed."Within these challenges are windows of opportunities and it is necessary and urgent task of the church and leaders to identify these windows of opportunities and translate them into mission opportunities. This must be the new paradigm for the mission in our nation and beyond," he said.Bishop Sahu, when giving his address to the congregation, said he look forward to work together with church leaders, political leaders, chiefs and business leaders."We must stand together and together we must go forward,” he said. "We need to address critical areas such as the gospel and culture and areas as discipleship. Together we must work for good leadership and quality leaders," he said."Together we are called to lead and to serve."Bishop Sahu said he wants to see the church in Malaita built with the power of God. "To make an impact for this nation especially Malaita, we have to hold our values and beliefs together," he said.Feast and entertainments from various parishes around Malaita took place after the service.The ceremony ended with an Island night dinner hosted by John Lamani and his wife Catherine, at their residence at Gegema, near Kilufi’i Hospital. Bishop Sahu is from East Kwara’ae in Malaita Province and has four children.He obtained his Masters of Theology from Trinity Theological College in Singapore and Licenticite of Theology and Graduate Diploma from Auckland University in New Zealand. Prior to taking up his new job, he was secretary to the Melanesian Board of Mission.He has been working for the Church of Melanesia since 1990.Governor General Sir Nathanial Waena, Attorney General Gabriel Suri, Premier of Malaita Richard Na’amo Irosaea and representatives of other churches also attended the ceremony.
Source: SIBC
Source: SIBC
November 04, 2008
Guale peace committee meets this week
THE Guadalcanal Province Peace Building and Reconciliation Committee second meeting has been rescheduled for this month. A statement from the Ministry of National Peace and Reconciliation said the Peace Building and Reconciliation Committee is an important Committee with a mandate to plan the reconciliation and peace process in Guadalcanal which will be facilitated by Ministry of National Unity, Reconciliation and Peace in partnership with the Guadalcanal Provincial Government.“Members of the Committee comprises leaders of various community-based organizations representing chiefs, church leaders, ex-combatants, youths, women and other prominent leaders within the Province,” the statement said.The Guadalcanal Province Peace Building Committee in recognition of the important roles of women in peace building has four women representatives in the Committee.The meeting is aimed at discussing and putting together a peace and reconciliation program activities for 2009 which should see reconciliations of the different parties to the recent ethnic tension in Guadalcanal reconciling with each other.This should lead to an inter-provincial reconciliation after which should then lead on to a national reconciliation. Two main agendas of discussions during this upcoming meeting will be:
To plan the 2009 Intra-reconciliation programs for Guadalcanal Province.
To draw up the Guadalcanal Province Reconciliations framework.With regards to Intra-reconciliation Program for 2009, the statement said the Committee will be discussing major inter-provincial reconciliation issues such as the Constituency Reconciliation programs, reconciliations between various former militia groups and civilians’ supporters and victims, Marau Island communities and Guadalcanal Provincial Government and people and reconciliations between Guadalcanal Provincial Government and Solomon Islands Government [RASI] and with the other provinces.
Source: SIBC
To plan the 2009 Intra-reconciliation programs for Guadalcanal Province.
To draw up the Guadalcanal Province Reconciliations framework.With regards to Intra-reconciliation Program for 2009, the statement said the Committee will be discussing major inter-provincial reconciliation issues such as the Constituency Reconciliation programs, reconciliations between various former militia groups and civilians’ supporters and victims, Marau Island communities and Guadalcanal Provincial Government and people and reconciliations between Guadalcanal Provincial Government and Solomon Islands Government [RASI] and with the other provinces.
Source: SIBC
Youth hit to death
A YOUTH was discovered dead in a drain at Ranadi in the early hours on Saturday morning. The deceased, sixteen year old John Iki Isu was found by some children playing around the drain next to the Marine School opposite Earthmovers Limited.Police Media said police are now investigating the circumstances surrounding his death after it was believed he was struck and killed by a vehicle on Saturday morning between midnight and 3:00am.Detectives from National Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Central CID, Forensic officers and officers from Kukum Traffic Centre attended to the scene on Saturday morning and commenced an immediate investigation.“Police understand that the young man left Paradise Night Club and was walking in an easterly direction when he was struck by a vehicle.”“He was flung into a near road side drain where he died as the result of the speeding vehicle,” police media said.An autopsy revealed that the deceased suffered multiple injuries consistent with being hit by a motor vehicle from behind.The police media reported that police are interested in hearing from members of the public that may have witnessed the incident or that have information relating to this death.Police are now looking for the vehicle and the driver involved in the hit and run incident.Members of the public can contact Kukum Traffic on 22336 or the Police Communications Centre on 23666.
Source: SIBC
Source: SIBC
November 03, 2008
More nurses graduate
THIRTY-SEVEN new registered nurses graduated yesterday in a ceremony held at the Wesley United Church. They were products of the Atoifi Adventist Hospital in Malaita and Solomon Islands College of Higher Education (SICHE) nursing school.Deputy Director of Nursing Services, Edith Fanega, said the newly registered nurses have gone through a 13-month probation as appointed by the Public Service."These nurses will, after this ceremony, take their annual leave first before they will be going out to the provinces,” Ms Fanega said."The administration of nurses is not enough, as there are vacant posts to be filled. The nurses have been chosen to go to those provincial posts because they are needed there,” she added."The chairman of nursing council board has recruited another 12 nurses this week,” she said.The Ministry of Health posted the nurses out to the provinces. It came as a surprised to them as they don't know where they will be posted.Some of them will have to adjust themselves, as they will be under different managements.She said another 48 probation nurses would be graduated next year.
Source: SIBC
Source: SIBC
October 30, 2008
Guadalcanal Peace and Reconciliation Committee Meets
A second meeting of the Guadalcanal Peace and Reconciliation Committee is rescheduled to kick-off early next month.
The Committee is an important body mandated to plan the reconciliation and peace process on Guadalcanal.The Ministry of National Unity, Reconciliation and Peace in partnership with the Guadalcanal Provincial Government will facilitate the meeting. Members of the Committee comprises leaders of various community-based organizations representing chiefs, church leaders, ex-combatants, youth, women and other prominent leaders within the Province. The Guadalcanal Province Peace Building Committee in recognition of the important roles of women in peace building has four women representatives in the Committee.The meeting is aimed at discussing and putting together MNURP program activities for 2009 aimed at reconciling different parties affected by the recent ethnic tension on Guadalcanal.The meeting meant prepare the province for a proposed inter-provincial reconciliation to be followed by the Government proposed National Reconciliation. Two main agendas of discussions during the upcoming meeting will be:(1) To plan the 2009 Intra-reconciliation programs for Guadalcanal Province.(2) To draw up the Guadalcanal Province Reconciliations framework.In regards to Intra-reconciliation Program for 2009, the Committee will be discussing major inter-provincial reconciliation issues.These will include the Constituency Reconciliation programs, reconciliations between former militia groups and civilians, the Marau Island communities and Guadalcanal Provincial and Solomon Islands Government.
Source: Solomon times
The Committee is an important body mandated to plan the reconciliation and peace process on Guadalcanal.The Ministry of National Unity, Reconciliation and Peace in partnership with the Guadalcanal Provincial Government will facilitate the meeting. Members of the Committee comprises leaders of various community-based organizations representing chiefs, church leaders, ex-combatants, youth, women and other prominent leaders within the Province. The Guadalcanal Province Peace Building Committee in recognition of the important roles of women in peace building has four women representatives in the Committee.The meeting is aimed at discussing and putting together MNURP program activities for 2009 aimed at reconciling different parties affected by the recent ethnic tension on Guadalcanal.The meeting meant prepare the province for a proposed inter-provincial reconciliation to be followed by the Government proposed National Reconciliation. Two main agendas of discussions during the upcoming meeting will be:(1) To plan the 2009 Intra-reconciliation programs for Guadalcanal Province.(2) To draw up the Guadalcanal Province Reconciliations framework.In regards to Intra-reconciliation Program for 2009, the Committee will be discussing major inter-provincial reconciliation issues.These will include the Constituency Reconciliation programs, reconciliations between former militia groups and civilians, the Marau Island communities and Guadalcanal Provincial and Solomon Islands Government.
Source: Solomon times
Australian Arrested in Honiara
A wanted man from Melbourne, who allegedly taunted Australian police saying he would never be captured, was arrested by Solomon Islands Police Force detectives at Henderson International Airport in Honiara on Tuesday (28 October 2008).
Solomon Islands detectives met a flight from Port Vila at the International Airport on Tuesday and arrested the man. Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police, Peter Aoraunisaka, said the arrest took place after information was received that the alleged murderer was traveling to the Solomon Islands. "The Solomon Islands Police Force is very pleased to have achieved this result, given the offender had traveled through several jurisdictions. Working on operations with other law enforcement agencies in the region is an example of the growth our organisation has achieved. "We acted after Australian authorities informed police that an arrest warrant existed for this man after he allegedly committed a murder in Victoria in 2004," he said. The 38-year-old was interviewed at Police Headquarters by Solomon Islands detectives and placed in custody at Central Watch House. "Our investigation is continuing and we are liaising with the Solomon Islands Government in relation to the extradition process," Acting Assistant Commissioner Aoraunisaka said. The 38-year-old man appeared before the Honiara Magistrates Court yesterday afternoon and was remanded in custody for 14 days, until extradition proceedings commence.
Source: Solomon times
Solomon Islands detectives met a flight from Port Vila at the International Airport on Tuesday and arrested the man. Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police, Peter Aoraunisaka, said the arrest took place after information was received that the alleged murderer was traveling to the Solomon Islands. "The Solomon Islands Police Force is very pleased to have achieved this result, given the offender had traveled through several jurisdictions. Working on operations with other law enforcement agencies in the region is an example of the growth our organisation has achieved. "We acted after Australian authorities informed police that an arrest warrant existed for this man after he allegedly committed a murder in Victoria in 2004," he said. The 38-year-old was interviewed at Police Headquarters by Solomon Islands detectives and placed in custody at Central Watch House. "Our investigation is continuing and we are liaising with the Solomon Islands Government in relation to the extradition process," Acting Assistant Commissioner Aoraunisaka said. The 38-year-old man appeared before the Honiara Magistrates Court yesterday afternoon and was remanded in custody for 14 days, until extradition proceedings commence.
Source: Solomon times
October 28, 2008
Lilo Accuses Wong of Set Up
The Environment and Conservation Minister, Gordon Darcy Lilo, has totally denied having sent anyone to ask RIPEL Chairman Patrick Wong for corrupt payments totaling $3 Million.
"I know that Wong has been circulating a recorded CD of himself talking to someone who has claimed that I had sent him to get $3 Million from him but that is a matter between Wong and the person he was talking to on the recorded phone recording," Mr. Lilo said."The person that Mr. Wong was talking to in that recording is a person known to both Mr. Wong and RIPEL General Manager John Whiteside and knowing a character like Mr. Wong he would manipulate the situation for his own purpose."Mr. Lilo said that the entire issue has to be investigated and the recording also needed to be analyzed by experts.The Environment Minister said that Mr. Wong was trying to divert attention from the mess he has created in RIPEL by coming up with all sorts of allegations but the Government is working on how best to deal with the RIPE issue.Mr. Wong has circulated a CD recording to the media and other parties claiming that a local person by the name of Brian was sent by Minister Lilo to ask Mr. Wong for $3 Million so that Mr. Lilo would not push for Mr. Wong's deportation when Minister Lilo was Acting Minister for Finance.
Source: Solomon times
"I know that Wong has been circulating a recorded CD of himself talking to someone who has claimed that I had sent him to get $3 Million from him but that is a matter between Wong and the person he was talking to on the recorded phone recording," Mr. Lilo said."The person that Mr. Wong was talking to in that recording is a person known to both Mr. Wong and RIPEL General Manager John Whiteside and knowing a character like Mr. Wong he would manipulate the situation for his own purpose."Mr. Lilo said that the entire issue has to be investigated and the recording also needed to be analyzed by experts.The Environment Minister said that Mr. Wong was trying to divert attention from the mess he has created in RIPEL by coming up with all sorts of allegations but the Government is working on how best to deal with the RIPE issue.Mr. Wong has circulated a CD recording to the media and other parties claiming that a local person by the name of Brian was sent by Minister Lilo to ask Mr. Wong for $3 Million so that Mr. Lilo would not push for Mr. Wong's deportation when Minister Lilo was Acting Minister for Finance.
Source: Solomon times
Blood samples pile up at hospital
ABOUT three containers of cancer blood samples are still waiting to be transported to Brisbane, Australia, for tests. These cancer blood samples were at the Honiara’s National Referral Hospital Laboratory Department since July.Head of the department, Alfred Dofai, said the delay to send the samples over was due to late arrival of special containers from overseas.Mr Dofai said they started sending the samples last month. Asked if the delay of not sending blood specimens in the last three months has caused problems to patients, he said they are dealing with case by case.“We normally send the urgent cases first. The normal blood samples would be sent after,” Mr Dofai said.However, according to a reliable source, the blood samples could not be sent over in July due to an outstanding bill of AUD$500,000 with Brisbane hospital.Mr Dofai said he hopes to see all samples sent by the end of the month.“We are sending the blood samples twice a week. This is to give time for doctors in Brisbane to test them,” he said.
Source: SIBC
Source: SIBC
Girls learn beauty tips
SIXTEEN girls from Don Bosco Technical School have Patricia Dallu from Trish’s Hair Salon educate them about the basics of beauty. Mas Dallu ran a two-day Personal Enhancement workshop on Tuesday and Wednesday last week for the girls.The training combined both theory and hands-on experience. The girls learnt all the essentials, including hair cutting andstyling, facials, waxing and After studying Beauty and Hairdressing in Australia, Ms Dallu began her very own hair salon in Honiara’s King Solomon Hotel named ‘Trish’s Hair Salon’. Twenty years on, she now employs a team of four dedicated staff to keep up with the demand.Ms Dallu’s expertise shone through everything she taught to the young ladies but above all, her message was that “You must feel good about yourself and love yourself”.She also taught the girls to have confidence in themselves and set goals. She said “If I can do it, I know you can too”.The classroom turned into a beauty parlour buzzing with excitement as the girls put into practice what they had learnt.Some gave each other haircuts whilst others received relaxing facial massages and treatments.As the workshop came to a reluctant end, the young girls were unrecognisable as they beamed with their new images.Esther Rongokulia said: “I feel even more beautiful and confident within myself…I learnt that our body is important and we must maintain it properly.“I’m so happy to be a woman.”
Source: SIBC
Source: SIBC
SSEC Faces Serious Threat of Split
Some leaders of the South Seas Evangelical Church, SSEC, have reportedly threatened to set up an alternative SSEC leadership structure if Reverend Michael Maeliau is elected on Thursday as the Reverend Bishop of the SSEC Church in the country.
Several of the SSEC superintendents attending the national SSEC conference have told the National Express that if Reverend Maeliau is elected Head of the SSEC Regions of Guadalcanal, Makira, Southern Malaita, and Rennell and Bellona they would break away and set up an alternative National SSEC Church structure.The National SSEC Head Office has received letters, particularly from North Malaita and one of SSEC's most prominent members and Speaker of the National Parliament, Sir Peter Kenilorea, raising serious concern about Reverend Maeliau's candidacy. Reverend Maeliau, one of the SSEC's most trained and prominent leaders have become a controversial figure in the SSEC community over his teachings and leadership of a movement he has created in North Malaita.Many SSEC leaders and followers believe that Reverend Maeliau's teachings have been very much influenced by Judaism. Those teachings have subsequently created a split in the SSEC community in North Malaita as many deem that the teachings have departed from some of SSEC's fundamental teachings and practices. The Superintendents believe that the failure by the previous two SSEC administrations to deal with the split in the North Malaita SSEC community over the emergence of Reverend Maeliau's movement has led to the current situation.SSEC, which is one of the country's five main churches, is divided into Regions comprising of Northern and Southern Regions of Malaita, Guadalcanal, Makira, Rennell and Bellona, and Central Regions which covers Honiara, Central, Western and Choiseul provinces.
Source: Solomon time
Several of the SSEC superintendents attending the national SSEC conference have told the National Express that if Reverend Maeliau is elected Head of the SSEC Regions of Guadalcanal, Makira, Southern Malaita, and Rennell and Bellona they would break away and set up an alternative National SSEC Church structure.The National SSEC Head Office has received letters, particularly from North Malaita and one of SSEC's most prominent members and Speaker of the National Parliament, Sir Peter Kenilorea, raising serious concern about Reverend Maeliau's candidacy. Reverend Maeliau, one of the SSEC's most trained and prominent leaders have become a controversial figure in the SSEC community over his teachings and leadership of a movement he has created in North Malaita.Many SSEC leaders and followers believe that Reverend Maeliau's teachings have been very much influenced by Judaism. Those teachings have subsequently created a split in the SSEC community in North Malaita as many deem that the teachings have departed from some of SSEC's fundamental teachings and practices. The Superintendents believe that the failure by the previous two SSEC administrations to deal with the split in the North Malaita SSEC community over the emergence of Reverend Maeliau's movement has led to the current situation.SSEC, which is one of the country's five main churches, is divided into Regions comprising of Northern and Southern Regions of Malaita, Guadalcanal, Makira, Rennell and Bellona, and Central Regions which covers Honiara, Central, Western and Choiseul provinces.
Source: Solomon time
October 27, 2008
Police Calls for Calm after Stabbing Incident
The Acting Police Commissioner Walter Kola has denied rumours that the recent stabbing at the Honiara Central Market could spark a reoccurrence of the Guadalcanal ethnic tension.
The stabbing incident as reported by the local media last week occurred in the early hours of Friday morning at the Central market. The stabbing involved a young man from Marau in East Guadalcanal.Mr. Kola reassures the public that the stabbing at the Central Market, which resulted in the death of a young man from Guadalcanal, is not in anyway related to the ethnic tension.In a weekly press conference with the local media, the Acting Police Commissioner said that the police are continuing with their investigations, and therefore is calling on the public to remain calm."That young boy tried to intervene during a scuffle and was accidentally stabbed and killed...he was an innocent person."He warns individuals not to spread false rumours and confuse the situation. He calls on relatives of the deceased to remain calm "and leave the matter to the police.""I also urge the public to cooperate and assist the police any way they can...and we should allow the courts to bring about justice," said the Acting Police Commissioner.
Soure: Solomon time
The stabbing incident as reported by the local media last week occurred in the early hours of Friday morning at the Central market. The stabbing involved a young man from Marau in East Guadalcanal.Mr. Kola reassures the public that the stabbing at the Central Market, which resulted in the death of a young man from Guadalcanal, is not in anyway related to the ethnic tension.In a weekly press conference with the local media, the Acting Police Commissioner said that the police are continuing with their investigations, and therefore is calling on the public to remain calm."That young boy tried to intervene during a scuffle and was accidentally stabbed and killed...he was an innocent person."He warns individuals not to spread false rumours and confuse the situation. He calls on relatives of the deceased to remain calm "and leave the matter to the police.""I also urge the public to cooperate and assist the police any way they can...and we should allow the courts to bring about justice," said the Acting Police Commissioner.
Soure: Solomon time
October 24, 2008
Maemae and Sale in Oceania All Stars to Take on Becks
A young, energetic and competitive Oceania All Stars line-up will face David Beckham's LA Galaxy on Saturday December 6 at the Auckland Regional Council's Mt Smart Stadium.
According to Fiji Times Online, the core team, announced today at The Westin Hotel in Auckland's Lighter Quay, promises to showcase some of the best footballing talent from New Zealand and the South Pacific. "Oceania is honoured to bring together an All Star XI to participate in this match," said Oceania Football Confederation General Secretary Tai Nicholas."We have chosen the best players from around the region to make up a side that will challenge the opposition and thrill spectators."Matches such as these provide a wonderful spectacle for fans and help to show how football can make a difference to people's lives," he said.
The Oceania All Stars will be coached by former Football Federation Australia National Instructor Coach and OFC Technical Director, Jim Selby and former All Whites international and Auckland City FC coach, Colin Tuaa. They will be assisted by former Tahitian international and FIFA Technical Development Officer Patrick Jacquemet."This is a great opportunity for players from the Oceania region to test themselves against some of the best players in the world," Selby said."There is a lot of football potential in the South Pacific and this match presents an occasion for the players, Confederation and public to benchmark local talents on the international stage.
""One off matches can provide at times surprising and entertaining results - the local players will be there to prove that they can compete at the highest level of the game and against the best," he said.Selby was assistant coach to former Switzerland coach Roy Hodgson for a World XI match against Australia in 1999.
"It is a real honour for me to be working with this group of Oceanian players," assistant coach Colin Tuaa said.Oceania All Stars-Jacob Spoonley (New Zealand);Benjamin Longue (New Caledonia); David Muta (Papua New Guinea); Fedy Vava (Vanuatu); Nelson Sale (Solomon Islands);Ivan Vicelich (New Zealand); Pierre Wajoka (New Caledonia); Raimana Lee Fung Kuee (Tahiti); Judd Molea (Solomon Islands); Jarrod Smith (New Zealand); Peni Finau (Fiji); Osea Vakatalesau (Fiji); Francois Sakama (Vanuatu); Malakai Tiwa (Fiji); Alick Maeme (Solomon Islands); Henry Faarodo (Solomon Islands); Christian Karembeu (France/New Caledonia); Steven Old (New Zealand).
According to Fiji Times Online, the core team, announced today at The Westin Hotel in Auckland's Lighter Quay, promises to showcase some of the best footballing talent from New Zealand and the South Pacific. "Oceania is honoured to bring together an All Star XI to participate in this match," said Oceania Football Confederation General Secretary Tai Nicholas."We have chosen the best players from around the region to make up a side that will challenge the opposition and thrill spectators."Matches such as these provide a wonderful spectacle for fans and help to show how football can make a difference to people's lives," he said.
The Oceania All Stars will be coached by former Football Federation Australia National Instructor Coach and OFC Technical Director, Jim Selby and former All Whites international and Auckland City FC coach, Colin Tuaa. They will be assisted by former Tahitian international and FIFA Technical Development Officer Patrick Jacquemet."This is a great opportunity for players from the Oceania region to test themselves against some of the best players in the world," Selby said."There is a lot of football potential in the South Pacific and this match presents an occasion for the players, Confederation and public to benchmark local talents on the international stage.
""One off matches can provide at times surprising and entertaining results - the local players will be there to prove that they can compete at the highest level of the game and against the best," he said.Selby was assistant coach to former Switzerland coach Roy Hodgson for a World XI match against Australia in 1999.
"It is a real honour for me to be working with this group of Oceanian players," assistant coach Colin Tuaa said.Oceania All Stars-Jacob Spoonley (New Zealand);Benjamin Longue (New Caledonia); David Muta (Papua New Guinea); Fedy Vava (Vanuatu); Nelson Sale (Solomon Islands);Ivan Vicelich (New Zealand); Pierre Wajoka (New Caledonia); Raimana Lee Fung Kuee (Tahiti); Judd Molea (Solomon Islands); Jarrod Smith (New Zealand); Peni Finau (Fiji); Osea Vakatalesau (Fiji); Francois Sakama (Vanuatu); Malakai Tiwa (Fiji); Alick Maeme (Solomon Islands); Henry Faarodo (Solomon Islands); Christian Karembeu (France/New Caledonia); Steven Old (New Zealand).
Honiara Central Market Receives Facelift
The Honiara Central Market has received a facelift, following a construction of a steel fence erected around the market premises.
Solomon Times approached City Councilor; Mr. Jeremiah Taloa responsible for infrastructure around the City who stated that the intention of the fence was to safe guard the market premises."We are trying to avoid the many illegal activities that take place at the market area at night. A lot of crime has been happening around the market area and we want to reduce that," he said.He stated that the selling and consumption of alcohol and prostitution are the illegal activities common at the market premises at night.He stated that the market janitors would now find it easier to clean up the market and to continuously keep it clean.He also stated that it is quite common for market vendors to sleep overnight to protect their goods, however this will soon change."We are trying to meet the need of the market vendors by having more than 5 to 6 store rooms built to store their goods. This is to avoid them sleeping in the market premises."With the fence, this will help us to restock market properties, such as stools and tables for the market vendors. Criminal activities will also decline, so this is a good initiative to protect our society," he says.
Source: Solomon times
Solomon Times approached City Councilor; Mr. Jeremiah Taloa responsible for infrastructure around the City who stated that the intention of the fence was to safe guard the market premises."We are trying to avoid the many illegal activities that take place at the market area at night. A lot of crime has been happening around the market area and we want to reduce that," he said.He stated that the selling and consumption of alcohol and prostitution are the illegal activities common at the market premises at night.He stated that the market janitors would now find it easier to clean up the market and to continuously keep it clean.He also stated that it is quite common for market vendors to sleep overnight to protect their goods, however this will soon change."We are trying to meet the need of the market vendors by having more than 5 to 6 store rooms built to store their goods. This is to avoid them sleeping in the market premises."With the fence, this will help us to restock market properties, such as stools and tables for the market vendors. Criminal activities will also decline, so this is a good initiative to protect our society," he says.
Source: Solomon times
Road work on Guale starts
THE Ministry of Infrastructure Development has started rehabilitating roads, bridges, culverts and drainage on Guadalcanal. But the ministry says in a media statement that progress will depend on the available funds and in the case of donor funded projects, the implementation schedules.It says the Ministry of Infrastructure Development has two components of work programmes which complement each other in the rehabilitation work.The Solomon Islands Improvement Project (SIRIP) has included in its work programme the Guadalcanal Main Road (Honiara to Lambi on West Guadalcanal and Honiara to Aola on East Central Guadalcanal.The statement says a contractor has been contracted to maintain the sealed road beyond Alligator Creek on North Guadalcanal and beyond Kakabona on North West Guadalcanal for $2.816 million.The contractor is now on the ground repairing the sealing on the road.And on the unsealed roads on West Road to Naro Hill, the Ministry of Infrastructure Development has contracted a local company, Jerisya Earth Works to seal the road for $3,298,900.The statement says work on site is progressing as scheduled, adding the contractor has successfully negotiated with landowners for gravel.The Ministry also carried out an assessment on the Naro Hill to Lambi road on West Guadalcanal under the project and a full rehabilitation/reconstruction will start in accordance with the Project schedules.But it says it will be an expensive exercise as it would cost more than $24 million, adding it will include re-gravelling and compacting, drainage, culverts and bridges.The statement says the roads will likely cost $11.03 million while the crossings $13. 838 million.The Ministry of Infrastructure and Development has included the section of the road under the Project because of the cost involved and it will be treated as a sub-project and contracted superlatively.The Project is about a month behind schedule as the Ministry of Infrastructure Development had decided the sub-projects must be revised as a result of the world prices which have pushed up the estimates by about 50 percent.The revised scopes and cost estimates have been completed and tenders should be released this month, with civil work to be carried out in early 2009, considering the three months tender process.The sub-project Mberande to Aola stretch of road will be tendered out on its own so a separate contractor will be engaged.The statement says assessment has been completed under the project for this section of the road.The intention is to rehabilitate the road beyond Mbokokimbo River crossing/bridge on East Central Guadalcanal. Tenders for this section of the road will be released later in the month but work will not start until in early 2009.
Source: SIBC
Source: SIBC
October 23, 2008
HIV Healing a Hoax
The HIV Department of the Ministry of Health has rejected claims that there are herbal medicines that can heal the HIV virus.
This stern warning has come about because of a recent claim that a young boy with HIV infection had been healed using herbal medicines.The Department calls on the public not to believe such rumors pointing out that even if it were true, this would have to be verified and declared as such by the National Aids Council.An officer of the HIV Department made the clarifications following rumors that someone has been healed through the use of herbal medicines.The officer called on the members of the public to contact the Ministry's HIV Department if they hear such rumors, adding that the scientific community is still doing research, searching for a cure. The officer stated that currently he virus can only be slowed down once it is treated with drugs.The officer also said that only Solomon Island National Aids Council can declare and release any information regarding the virus but for any body to talk about the virus was not right and will mislead the public with wrong information.
Source: Solomon times
This stern warning has come about because of a recent claim that a young boy with HIV infection had been healed using herbal medicines.The Department calls on the public not to believe such rumors pointing out that even if it were true, this would have to be verified and declared as such by the National Aids Council.An officer of the HIV Department made the clarifications following rumors that someone has been healed through the use of herbal medicines.The officer called on the members of the public to contact the Ministry's HIV Department if they hear such rumors, adding that the scientific community is still doing research, searching for a cure. The officer stated that currently he virus can only be slowed down once it is treated with drugs.The officer also said that only Solomon Island National Aids Council can declare and release any information regarding the virus but for any body to talk about the virus was not right and will mislead the public with wrong information.
Source: Solomon times
Police Officer Arrested
An investigation by the Royal Solomon Islands Police Professional Standard and Internal Investigation (PSII) has resulted in the arrest of a police officer from Honiara on 20th October 2008.
The Officer has been charged with incest, indecent assault and attempted rape. He has been interdicted from duty and will not be receiving his pay. The officer has been bailed on condition and is expected to appear in court on a later date.In related news, Police Commissioner Peter Marshall will tomorrow hold a press conference at their Rove Headquarters to brief the media on the outcome of the infanticide investigations at Kobito.
Source: Solomon times
The Officer has been charged with incest, indecent assault and attempted rape. He has been interdicted from duty and will not be receiving his pay. The officer has been bailed on condition and is expected to appear in court on a later date.In related news, Police Commissioner Peter Marshall will tomorrow hold a press conference at their Rove Headquarters to brief the media on the outcome of the infanticide investigations at Kobito.
Source: Solomon times
October 22, 2008
Mala reconciles its people
MALAITA Province has completed its second phase of reconciliation in the province. This was achieved in collaboration with the Ministry of National Unity, Reconciliation and Peace. Provincial Government, chiefs, church and community leaders, and non-government organisations took part in the process.“Malaita Provincial Government and the National Government have recognised the importance of this intra-reconciliation programme,” the ministry said in a statement.“It is a significant prerequisite for true and meaningful development for long lasting peace that will achieve economic prosperity in longer term within the province.”“The intra-reconciliation program became feasible after the translation of the Government’s policy statement. Not only that but the prioritization of reconciliation and rehabilitation as its number one priority to enable all levels of societies to live in unity, peace and harmony.”The statement said the road map for this intra-reconciliation programme was drawn in a Leader’s Summit held in Auki in 2007.This programme will concentrate mainly on all cases that are partially or wholly related to the ethnic tension. The intra-reconciliation programme began with a two and half week training jointly coordinated by World Vision and ministerial staff.The 24 Field Mediators were selected on the basis of their capability and recognition in their communities and on their past experiences in community leadership.“The field mediators, after two months in the field, presented a total of 56 ethnic tension related cases. 22 cases were approved for facilitation and assistance whilst almost 82 per cent of the approved cases were reconciled.“The remaining 61 per cent of ethnic tension related cases await the third phase of intra reconciliation programme probably this year and part of 2009.“Generally, the success comes about when five cases were reconciled in central region, seven in northern region, three in southern region and three cases in eastern region.”The second phase of intra reconciliation programme started at the end of May and contracts of field mediators are expected to expire at the end of October 2008.Most reconciled ethnic tension cases were emotional, especially in cases where perpetrators and victims have never met and for the first time came together to forgive and accept each other.
Source: SIBC
Source: SIBC
Police believe body was of fleeing man
POLICE believe a body found recently in Makira/Ulawa Province was not of a husband suspected of killing his wife in July this year. Acting Police Commissioner Walter Kola said investigation to establish the person’s identity continues. Mr Kola said postmortem was not possible at this stage because investigation continuing.“Clothes taken from the body were identified to be those worn by the husband. Police also found ropes at the scene which is not far from where the woman was murdered,” Mr Kola said.The husband fled after his wife’s body was discovered beside a bush track to their garden. He was in his mid 30s and comes from Marapui village, Rawo District.The man’s wife, who was believed to have been murdered, was last seen alive accompanying her husband to their garden on 15 July 2008.Her body was found the next day.
source:SIBC
source:SIBC
PM impressed with Heritage Park Hotel
PRIME Minister Dr Derek Sikua is impressed with the progress of the Heritage Park Hotel development currently underway in Honiara. He was given the opportunity to see the progress on Saturday. Accompanying him during the visit to the site were;
Kostas Constantinou, managing director of Papua New Guinea’s Lamana Development, which is building the hotel to add to its leading hotels in Papua New Guinea,
Papua New Guinea High Commissioner Parai Tamei,
Honiara City Council Lord Mayor Andrew Mua,
Acting Minister of Finance Gordon Darcy Lilo,
Minister of Home Affairs James Tora,
Sir George Lepping,
Francis Zama,
and hotel project manager Bill Mathew.“I’m happy to see the progress of the hotel development which is going to be first five star hotel in the country,” Dr Sikua said.“I’m also happy because it is connected well with my Government’s policy to increase hotel beds and visitors.” Dr Sikua said the government is aiming for 30,000 visitors next year. At the moment between 18,000 to 19,000 visitors come, he said.Dr Sikua praised Mr Constantinou for investing in the country. He added that nine more investors from Papua New Guinea are coming.The hotel is expected to be completed by April.A complex for Bank South Pacific will also be built on the road side of the hotel. The hotel itself sits beside the sea.
Kostas Constantinou, managing director of Papua New Guinea’s Lamana Development, which is building the hotel to add to its leading hotels in Papua New Guinea,
Papua New Guinea High Commissioner Parai Tamei,
Honiara City Council Lord Mayor Andrew Mua,
Acting Minister of Finance Gordon Darcy Lilo,
Minister of Home Affairs James Tora,
Sir George Lepping,
Francis Zama,
and hotel project manager Bill Mathew.“I’m happy to see the progress of the hotel development which is going to be first five star hotel in the country,” Dr Sikua said.“I’m also happy because it is connected well with my Government’s policy to increase hotel beds and visitors.” Dr Sikua said the government is aiming for 30,000 visitors next year. At the moment between 18,000 to 19,000 visitors come, he said.Dr Sikua praised Mr Constantinou for investing in the country. He added that nine more investors from Papua New Guinea are coming.The hotel is expected to be completed by April.A complex for Bank South Pacific will also be built on the road side of the hotel. The hotel itself sits beside the sea.
16 arrested for alcohol offences
POLICE arrested 16 men around the Honiara township area on alcohol related offences over the weekend. Out of all the 16 men arrested, most were for consuming alcohol in public places in and around Honiara.Police are urging Honiara residents to be mindful of alcohol consumption in public places, for their own safety and also to maintain law and order as it is an offence. Man on false pretence chargeA 23-year-old man was arrested at Tenaru Care Centre, after he was discovered to have faked his identity to collect money from Catholic sisters early Sunday morning. The young man called up to the Tenaru Care Centre with an envelope seeking donations from the Catholic sisters for the West Kwaio household. Police werecalled in as he was behaving suspiciously and the man was arrested. Police have praised the public for such prompt reports. Man convicted for stealingA 23-year-old man from Tikopia Island has been convicted for defrauding his former employer, Save the Children Australia (SCA), with a substantial amount of money. The offence occurred between 26/09/07 and 21/10/07 whereby the accused managed to fraudulently advance a fund.The fund was initially intended to support the Youth Outreach Project in Honiara , Guadalcanal . The accused had access to the funds through his former role as a Peer Educator for Honiara Youth Outreach Project within SCA. The matter was reported to police by the Manager of Save the Children on 22 February 2008 and the Police Fraud Squad conducted their necessary investigations.The accused was subsequently charged and he first appeared in Court on the 28 July 2008. On 10 October 2008 the court found him guilty of the offence of Larceny by servant and upon conviction was sentenced to one year imprisonment.
October 16, 2008
Australian Prime Minister Not Offended
Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd was said to have not been offended by Dr. Derek Sikua's absence during his address to the recent United Nations General Assembly in New York.The Solomon Island Prime Minister's office says Dr Sikua received the advise in a form of a letter from the Australian High Commissioner to the Solomon Islands, Mr. Peter Hooton.
Mr Hooton was given the advise following a report in the local newspaper, Island Sun that had suggested that Dr Sikua caused a diplomatic embarrassment when he failed to turn up for Mr Rudd's UN General Assembly address.
In the letter Mr Hooton says that no offence was caused nor damage done to a very close and cooperative bilateral relations between the two countries.
Mr. Hooton says that the Australian delegation was notified of Dr Sikua's absence.
Following the advise, Dr Sikua says, the call by the Leader of Opposition, Hon. Manasseh Sogavare for a formal apology to Canberra is now null and void.
source : Solomon Times
FUND ASSURES FINANCE MINISTER OF SECURED INVESTMENTS
In brief: The National Provident Fund has assured the Acting Minister for Finance and Treasury, Gordon Darcy Lilo that its off-shore investments are safe. |
| The National Provident Fund has assured the Acting Minister for Finance and Treasury, Gordon Darcy Lilo that its off-shore investments are safe. The National Provident Fund advised Mr Lilo about the impacts on workers’ savings because of the current international financial crisis. The Board and Management of the NPF has provided a full briefing to the Acting Minister of Finance and Treasury, the Governor of the Central Bank of Solomon Islands, and Senior Officials of the Ministry of Finance and Treasury on the current status of the Board’s offshore investments portfolio. A statement from the Ministry of Finance and Treasury says in line with its investments guidelines, the Fund has invested up to 30-percent of its investments portfolio offshore in cash deposits with ANZ Bank in Singapore and in equity exposures in USA, Australia, Europe, and Papua New Guinea. It says by investing outside Solomon Islands as well as inside the country, NPF has spread its risks and ensures that workers get the best possible returns on their important savings. The statement says the strategy NPF takes is a stable one, spreading investment in a range of different products to reduce the risk. About half of the offshore investments are in safe bank deposits while the remainder is spread between an investment in the Bank of South Pacific and several different managed funds. It says the value of NPF’s offshore holdings goes up and down because of movements on the International markets. But these are long term investments so the important issue is how they perform over many years, not in any particular month. source : SIBC |
Church crusade ends.
THE week-long South Seas Evangelical Church (SSEC) tabernacle crusade which started on Sunday 5th October ended on Sunday 12.The church’s secretary Joyline Maina said they have achieved what they’ve aimed for during the week.
“There were lots of young men, women, old people who recommitted their lives during this crusade,” she said.
She said 31 local churches in Honiara involved in this programme.
“One of the main highlights during the programme was that many new young people were touched and moved by God.” This tabernacle crusade was seen by local SSEC churches that the move of God existed in every church.
“Honiara SSEC association saw that this tabernacle is not end of the move of God but will continue to move with this wave to the provinces,” she said.
The visiting Vanuatu Women also took part in the crusade. Their attendance ensures a new relationship was built with the Vanuatu Presbyterian Church.
The crusade ended with a march from the Kukum Campus field to the Central Honiara Market with the theme, “Jesus for our nation march.”
source : Solomon Star
October 14, 2008
inister of Health Assures Locals of Services to Curb Mental Illness
Solomon Is have been assured of psychiatric services in light of growing mental illness in the country.
Speaking last Friday to mark Mental Health Day, Minister for Health Johnson Koli assured listeners that his ministry will work in the development of mental health services in the Solomon Islands, with an emphasis on community based care within a primary health care framework.
He said that the Ministry of Health will integrate mental health care with the general health care, social welfare and community programs.
He added that the Ministry will reduce individual, family and community burden associated with severe mental disorders through early identification and referral to effective treatment and rehabilitation.
"The Ministry will increase community awareness and understanding of disorders and reduce their social stigma and also promote health through collaborative sectoral and inter sectoral initiatives," the Hon. Koli stated.
The Minister for Health stated that pressure on mental health in the country is increasing.
He revealed that the government's vision for the mental health of the people was to improve greater access to specialist and primary mental health care, by inter sectoral collaboration for mental health promotion and prevention at the national, provincial and community level.
source: Solo Times
Kurukuru an Unforgettable Experience for Solomon Islanders
With the Kurukuru boys back in the country, majority of the citizens are so proud having them as sports ambassadors of Solomon Islands and having inspired many fans in Brasilia.
In a random street interview, Marshall Ini from Isabel province stated that with youngsters aged only 18 and below, "their performance at World Cup level was outstanding."
He added that these are young players who, in four years time will still be the best players because they have a wealth of hands-on experience at a young age setting a record that's stamped in local history.
Danny Philip from Temotu Province stated that with the experience the boys had gone through, "it will be only luck from other Oceania countries to beat them".
"Our boys have faced the challenge of World Cup pressure and it is a great learning experience for them," Mr. Philip said.
Agreeing on public support for the Kurukuru boys, Francis Bugotu said that even though they lost on their pool matches, majority of supporters are proud to have them representing Solomon Islands.
He adds that although the boys lost their games in the opening playoffs, "they are young yet tough on the inside to play the world's experienced futsal players."
A female fan Primula Kingmele stated that no one dreamed Solomon Islands' flag would be flying high in a world cup tournament.
"Ten years ago, who would have thought our flag would fly high in the world cup stages of Futsal?"
Ms. Kingmele said that in itself is an experience most Solomon Islanders will never forget.
Solomon Times understands that the Kurukuru boys will be parading in the streets of Honiara.
Source : Solomon Times
October 13, 2008
Dr. Sikua Snubbing Rudd are Lies: Haomae.
Solomon Islands Foreign Affairs Minister, William Haomae has described a media report that Prime Minister Dr Derek Sikua had snubbed Rudd as fabricated lies.Mr. Haomae said that the story is totally misleading and that it was not true that Prime Minister Sikua had caused a diplomatic embarrassment for allegedly failing to turn up for his Australian Counterpart Kevin Rudd's speech at the recent United Nations General Assembly Meeting in New York.
"The head line on the front page of Island Sun News Paper on their Wednesday is an unsubstantiated story which, the Sun should not have published without first cross checking for independent and credible verification," Mr. Haomae said.
He explained that when Mr. Rudd arrived to address the General Assembly Prime Minister Sikua was attending another bilateral meeting held by the Fiji Mission with other neighboring countries to talk about the political situation in Fiji with the Fiji Interim Prime Minister Commodore Bainimarama.
Mr. Haomae said that at that time the Prime Minister Derek Sikua authorized former Foreign Minister Laurie Chan who is also the Chairman of the Parliament's Foreign Relations Committee to congratulate, Australian Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd after he delivered his speech.
"So Laurie Chan was representing the Solomon Islands Government during the session when the Australian Prime Minister delivered his speech to the UN General Assembly," according to Foreign Minister Haomae.Mr. Haomae said, due to time overlap during the bilateral meetings they held with Fiji, he said Sikua cannot missed the meeting because they have invited the head of government to attend because it's a regional issue for heads of government must participate.
He told National Express, they attend various bilateral meetings with neighboring countries such as, Fiji, Tonga, Marshall Islands, Tuvalu and other countries in the Pacific. Haomae said it's now time for media in Solomon must properly reporting to the public on information's that is substantial and accurate other wise they will be misleading the public.
Source: Solomon Times
October 12, 2008
SOLOMON KURUKURU FLY HOME
DUBAI - As the Solomon Island futsal side is in transit, waiting to return home, team correspondent James Rufhus reflects on the Kurukuru's first ever visit to a FIFA Futsal World Cup.Solomon Kurukuru might not have won any games at the FIFA Futsal World Cup, but off the field they were big winners as ambassadors for their nation. If first impressions really are everything then all of the Solomon Islands have benefitted from the six weeks that the fourteen young men have been away. Most people the team encountered had never met a someone from the Happy Isles before, however if you asked them now to describe a typical Solomon Islander then they would enthusiastically paint a picture of a friendly, respectful, and above all, joyous person.
The scene of Kurukuru leaving the Brasilia Palace Hotel was telling of the relationship that the team built with everyone around them during the tournament. Hotel managers, cleaners, security gaurds, police and various World Cup staff all turned out to say goodbye and wish them well. 'I've been working in the hotel industry for seven years,' said Team Liason Officer Manager Eduardo, ' and I've never met a sports group like this before. We love you – thank you.'
On returning from their opening World Cup game against Cuba the boys found a small cake on each of their beds, attached was a note that read 'Your singing gives our hotel energy, have a nice Championship'. The gesture referred to the team's morning devotion that begins with two or three songs of praise. What Kurukuru did not know was that their songs carried throughout the hotel and were given staff an uplifting start to the day.
The next morning they were requested to worship not in a small hotel room as usual, but in the lobby. A crowd of staff gathered and Head of Delegation Pastor Seru lead the team and onlookers through a morning devotion that was memorable for all. 'They liked our songs, but it's not only entertainment,' said Seru, 'it's worship. For everyone that's met us we are not losers because we really represent our nation and Jesus well.'
The way the team played its futsal also won many admirers, including the Brazilian media and Futsal team. Although they were beaten in all their games, Kurukuru's potential was recognised by people with knowledge of the game and encouraging words were never far away. At Brasilia airport it was a photographer who worked at the World Cup at liked what he saw. When they got off the plane in Sao Paulo it was a young woman who came over and said that her mother saw them playing on television and was impressed with their spirit and skills. Certainly it is a rare team that loses a match 32–2 and can still inspire a rapturous response from the crowd as they leave the court.
Kurukuru is currently in Dubai, en-route to Singapore, then Brisbane and finally back to home on Sunday at 12:30pm. And friends, family or fans wanting to greet them at Henderson Airport are most welcome – they surely deserve it!
Source : OFC
October 09, 2008
25 Confirmed to Study Medicine in Cuba in 2009
25 young Solomon Islanders are confirmed to under take Medical studies in Cuba under the Cuban Government medical doctor scholarship arrangement in 2009.
The National Training Unit Director, Mr. Selu Maezama told the National Express that a meeting was held last Friday to look at a list of applicants, some short listed from the previous year.He explained that the main purpose of the meeting was to get in touch with pre-service applicants who were awarded a scholarship so that they could confirm their names. Meanwhile the Under Secretary for the Ministry of Health and Medical Services Dr. Cedric Alependava said it was a great privilege for Solomon Islanders to study in Cuba. He described the opportunity as a great bonus for Solomon Islands as we will have more qualified doctors in the near future. Dr. Alependava said he really appreciate the Cuban Government for its on-going assistance in sponsoring "more of our students' and securing spaces for them to do their studies in Cuba." He said so far the Ministry has received positive results and feedbacks from students who went to Cuba early this year. The students have moved onto their academic studies after learning the Spanish language in the first six months of their course. Dr. Alependava encouraged the newly selected students (6 girls and 19 boys) to do the same. He encouraged them to work hard to become qualified doctors and "to serve our country in years to come." He said he wants to see these students return as fully qualified doctors. Dr. Alependava said that "our country will be relieved of the problem of shortage of doctor which we are currently experiencing."Dr. Alependava said that the twenty-five students will be leaving for Cuba sometimes towards the end of this year to start their first Six months of learning the Spanish language before going commencing their academic studies.
Source: Solomon Times
The National Training Unit Director, Mr. Selu Maezama told the National Express that a meeting was held last Friday to look at a list of applicants, some short listed from the previous year.He explained that the main purpose of the meeting was to get in touch with pre-service applicants who were awarded a scholarship so that they could confirm their names. Meanwhile the Under Secretary for the Ministry of Health and Medical Services Dr. Cedric Alependava said it was a great privilege for Solomon Islanders to study in Cuba. He described the opportunity as a great bonus for Solomon Islands as we will have more qualified doctors in the near future. Dr. Alependava said he really appreciate the Cuban Government for its on-going assistance in sponsoring "more of our students' and securing spaces for them to do their studies in Cuba." He said so far the Ministry has received positive results and feedbacks from students who went to Cuba early this year. The students have moved onto their academic studies after learning the Spanish language in the first six months of their course. Dr. Alependava encouraged the newly selected students (6 girls and 19 boys) to do the same. He encouraged them to work hard to become qualified doctors and "to serve our country in years to come." He said he wants to see these students return as fully qualified doctors. Dr. Alependava said that "our country will be relieved of the problem of shortage of doctor which we are currently experiencing."Dr. Alependava said that the twenty-five students will be leaving for Cuba sometimes towards the end of this year to start their first Six months of learning the Spanish language before going commencing their academic studies.
Source: Solomon Times
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