Home Blog Page 2

Local workers raise concern over unfair wages

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY RODRICK DESURI

Auki

Local workers in Malaita Province have raised concerns over unfair wages by Chinese companies and wholesale shops to their workers, saying the payment is very small compared to the amount of work done.

They also raised concern and questions to the Labour Division within the Ministry responsible, about their rights and safety.

A research done in Auki showed that local workers are working for long hours while earning meager wages.

According to the research, the workers having worked for long hours are left physically and mentally exhausted by the end of the day, diminishing their quality of life and fostering a sense of exploitation.

One worker said the work for almost thirteen hours each day and their rate is eight dollars per hour.

Malaita Provincial Youth coordinator, Frank Samo Sari said he has also witnessed the same scenario with local workers who work as an shop assistants.

He said shop assistants stand almost for the whole day. 

“It is unacceptable for our local store assistants to stand for extended periods from early morning until late evening, serving customers without adequate breaks or rest.

“I have been speaking with a few workers. They said they started working at 7am and continued until 8.30pm and beyond,” he said.

He calls on the Ministry of Commerce for intervention into the issues facing local workers in the province and the country as a whole. 

He said the Ministry of Commerce, through the Labour Department, needs to investigate the conditions these local workers are facing.

“There is an urgent need for the Ministry of Commerce and the Labour Department to investigate the working conditions faced by local shop assistants.

“Stringent oversight is necessary to ensure that labor laws are adhered to and that workers are treated fairly according to the statutory mandates under the commission with regard to labor law,” he said.

He added that advocating for government intervention can help enforce labour standards and ensure that local workers are protected from exploitation.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

Chupu signals launch of 320-hectare rice farm

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY TONY IROGA

Future for commercial rice farming looks brighter with a 320-hectare project launched yesterday at the Guadalcanal plains, east Guadalcanal.

The South Pacific Economy and Technology Development Co Ltd (SPETD) currently owns a rice project, the biggest in the Solomon Islands at 175 hectares, which sits just outside the GPPOL palm trees, towards the sea.

A chupu ceremony with landowning groups yesterday opened the way to kick-start a second rice project, and together, SPETD’s two rice farms cover a total area of 495 hectares.

SPETD is anticipates the planting of rice seedlings in two months’ time, after the clearing and nursery stages.

Established early last year, SPETD began trial farming in another smaller plot in GPPOL which successfully resulted in the harvest and processing of fresh rice that is ready to hit the local market.

Prior scientific tests allowed SPETD to bring in rice species and fertilisers which suited the soil type in the GPPOL plains.

SPETD’s aim is for Solomon Islanders to access fresh rice at very affordable prices, which, once operations run smoothly, can be achieved in a couple of months.

Currently, the prices of rice in Solomon Islands are becoming too expensive, and SPETD’s project aims to reverse this.

The company also has plans to venture into sharing their expertise in rice farming to interested local farmers.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

Infant’s body found in east Honiara, police launch investigation 

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Police in East Honiara have opened an investigation into the suspected infanticide of a male infant whose body was discovered on the morning of Wednesday, June 3. 

Officers from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) at Naha Police Station confirmed that the infant’s remains were found between the Naha 4 and GG Valley areas, police said in a statement yesterday.

The discovery was made by employees of Solomon Water during routine work, after they noticed the infant’s umbilical cord inside a sewerage tank.

The RSIPF said that the workers retrieved the body and placed it on top of the tank before alerting authorities. 

The statement said police officers transported the infant to Naha Clinic, where medical staff confirmed that the child was a male, estimated to be around six months old. 

Superintendent Leslie Kili, Officer Commanding Station (OCS) at Naha Police Station, described the incident as “very sad” and urged residents in the surrounding areas to assist investigators.

“Any information, no matter how small, may help establish the facts surrounding this case,” he said. 

Also in the statement is that police forensic officers have attended the scene and are assisting with the ongoing investigation and are appealing to the public for information that could help determine how the infant’s body came to be at the location.

Residents with information are encouraged to contact Naha Police Station on [39647] (tel:39647). 

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

Man gets 4 years for ‘life-threatening injuries’ on wife

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY MELVILLE TITIULU

A man who got angry and attacked his wife because he wanted to go out drinking beer when he should have been babysitting to help his wife, who was doing the laundry, has been sentenced to four years’ imprisonment, with the judge describing his behaviour as ‘mere silliness’.

The defendant, who cannot be named to protect the identity of the victim, previously pleaded guilty to one count of acts intended to cause grievous harm, contrary to section 224 (a) of the Penal Code Cap. 26.

The court heard that on September 28, 2024, the defendant did so with the intent to do some grievous harm to his wife by using his right leg and right hand, open fist, to kick her both left and right hips and hit her left ear several times, causing internal bleeding to her liver.

“She could have died but was fortunate to receive early and timely medical intervention and care,” Justice John Keniapisia told the court.

The judge noted in his sentencing that in this case, the reason for the assault was “mere silliness”.

“Defendant got angry because he wanted to go out drinking beer when he should be babysitting to help his wife, who was doing the laundry.

“The court must be vigilant to give protection to vulnerable women from domestic violence by their partners or husbands,” Keniapisia said.

The defendants’ lawyer argued for a suspended sentence, but gave no reason to justify, and the court was of the view that a custodial sentence warrants the circumstances of the present case.

Judge Keniapisia said domestic violence is prevalent in this country, with women suffering at the hands of their husbands or male partner perpetrators.

“The court needs to send out a clear message of deterrence that men should not assault their wives or partners or female relatives for any reason at all,” he said.

The offence of acts intended to cause grievous harm attracts a maximum of life imprisonment. However, the court noted that this offence can be placed at the lower end of the scale of that offence.

“The absence of the normal serious aggravating factors such as pre-planning, acting in concert with others, use of a weapon and intruding into someone’s home to inflict harm,” the court said.

Justice Keniapisia sentenced the defendant to 4 years imprisonment after considering his mitigating and personal circumstances, hence, ordered that the defendant serve that 4 years at the Kirakira Correctional Centre.

“Four years is a very good time for you to go away, take stock of your life and come out a rehabilitation person to be a better and more responsible husband to your wife, father to your children and member of your community,” Judge Keniapisia told the defendant in court.

Ms Hellen Naqu and Mr Steward Beto prosecuted the matter on behalf of the Crown.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

‘VALUABLE EXPOSURE’

Written by
Admin
-
0

SICF President’s Manila invitation signals growing recognition for Solomon Islands Chess

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

The Solomon Islands Chess Federation (SICF) says the invitation extended to its President Simon Chottu to attend the Closing and Awarding Ceremony of the WR Bughouse Championship 2026 in Manila, Philippines, reflects the growing recognition of Solomon Islands chess on the international stage.

Chottu was among distinguished guests of honour at the ceremony held at the Grand Hyatt Manila following the conclusion of the international championship earlier this week.

Speaking to SunSPORTS, Chottu described the invitation as a proud moment for both SICF and the country.

“It was a great honour for both the Solomon Islands Chess Federation and our country.

“Being invited as a Guest of Honour at one of the world’s premier Bughouse Chess events demonstrates that Solomon Islands chess is gaining international recognition,” he said.

He said the event also provided SICF with an important opportunity to strengthen relationships within the international chess community while showcasing the federation’s commitment towards developing the sport locally.

The WR Bughouse Championship brought together some of the world’s strongest Bughouse Chess players and officials from more than 20 countries.

According to Chottu, the championship exposed SICF officials and players to international standards in tournament organisation, sponsorship, event management and player development.

“The championship provided valuable exposure to international standards of tournament organisation, player preparation, marketing, sponsorship and event management.

“We also observed how countries are using technology, social media and strong development programs to grow chess participation,” Chottu said.

He added that such experiences will help SICF improve its own local tournaments and create more opportunities for Solomon Islands players.

Team Solomon, represented by Fred Resture and Aloysius Shanel, also competed during the championship and faced some of the world’s top Bughouse Chess players.

Although the team did not qualify for the final stages of the tournament, Chottu said their participation still helped raise the profile of Solomon Islands chess internationally.

“Team Solomon proudly represented our country alongside players from more than 20 nations,” he said.

“Although we did not qualify for the final stages, our participation demonstrated that Solomon Islands is committed to being part of the international chess family.”

Chottu also revealed that SICF held positive discussions with WR Chess and the National Chess Federation of the Philippines regarding possible future cooperation and development opportunities.

“We look forward to strengthening these relationships and exploring ways to bring more international opportunities to Solomon Islands players and officials,” he said.

He encourages young Solomon Islanders to take up the sport, saying chess can open doors to education, travel and international opportunities.

“My message to our young people is simple: dream big and believe in yourself.

“If you are willing to learn, practice and stay disciplined, you can compete on the world stage regardless of where you come from,” Chottu said.

The SICF President reaffirmed the federation’s commitment to developing pathways for more young Solomon Islanders to represent the country internationally.

The WR Bughouse Championship 2026 was held in Manila, Philippines, from June 1-2 and attracted 83 teams from 22 countries. The tournament featured the fast-paced Bughouse Chess format, where teammates compete simultaneously and captured pieces are transferred between boards during matches. Team Solomon Islands was represented by Fred Resture and Aloysius Shanel, accompanied by SICF President Simon Chottu as team official.

Photo: Supplied/Chess Explorer PH

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

Ngafu returns home as Ohasio adds steel to Malaita Kingz defence ahead of new Telekom S-League season

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

Malaita Kingz Football Club has boosted its preparations for the 2026 Telekom S-League campaign with the signing of former Rewa FC duo Norman Ngafu and Calvin Ohasio.

The club confirmed the arrival of the two players through its official social media platform this week, describing the signings as a major step to strengthen the squad for the new season.

Ngafu makes a return to the Kingz setup after spending six months with Fiji’s top club Rewa FC, while defender Ohasio also joins from the same side after previously featuring for Central Coast FC.

The return of Ngafu is expected to add more firepower to the Kingz attacking department, with the forward widely recognised for his pace, energy and eye for goal.

Club management said Ngafu’s overseas experience will bring added quality and depth to the squad.

“Norman’s return is a big boost for the club. His experience in Fiji will certainly help strengthen our attacking options this season,” the club stated.

Meanwhile, Ohasio is tipped to reinforce the defensive line with his speed, defensive awareness and ability to read the game.

The club also expressed confidence that the former Rewa defender will provide stability at the back as Kingz aim to challenge strongly for silverware this year.

“Calvin is a quality defender who has shown great maturity and discipline during his time in Fiji. We believe he will play an important role for the team this season,” the statement added.

The arrival of the duo comes as Malaita Kingz intensifies preparations for what is expected to be another highly competitive Telekom S-League season.

Both players are expected to bring valuable experience from Fiji’s premier competition, with club officials hopeful that their exposure overseas will help lift the overall standard and competitiveness of the squad.

Malaita Kingz management has also welcomed both players into the club, expressing confidence that their presence will strengthen the team’s ambition of mounting a serious title challenge in 2026.

Ngafu previously featured for Kingz before his move to Fiji, while Ohasio earned recognition during his time with Central Coast FC before joining Rewa FC.

Their return to Solomon Islands football adds further excitement ahead of the new Telekom S-League season, which is expected to feature strong competition among the country’s top clubs.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

Komasi and Jack Junior expected to strengthen Fiji club ahead of 2026 BiC Fiji FACT

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

Two Solomon Islands footballers are reportedly set to join Fiji’s Navua FC during the Fiji Football Association mid-season transfer window ahead of the 2026 BiC Fiji FACT tournament in Labasa.

According to social media posts by Fiji football sources, Solomon Kings FC player William Komasi and Malaita Kingz FC midfielder Jack Junior are expected to strengthen the Navua squad for the second half of the season.

A post shared by Fiji Football Association stated that Komasi is currently serving a mandatory 30-day stand-down period and is expected to complete it in time to be eligible for the 2026 BiC Fiji FACT.

The post said Komasi will add further international experience to the Navua side.

Meanwhile, Fiji News Today reported that Jack Junior is also set to reunite with Fiji football after previously playing for Labasa FC.

The report described the Solomon Islander as “no stranger to Fiji football” and said he is expected to bring quality and experience to the Navua midfield ahead of the prestigious tournament.

Also expected to join the club is Vanuatu international goalkeeper Kaloran Firiam from Vanuatu United FC.

The possible moves continue the growing presence of Solomon Islands footballers in Fiji’s domestic competitions, with several local players having featured for clubs across Fiji in recent years.

The BiC Fiji FACT is one of Fiji’s major football tournaments organised by Fiji Football Association. The 2026 edition is expected to be held in Labasa later this year.

Photo credit: Solomon Kings FC

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

SICF to honour founding PM with national chess championship during Independence celebrations

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

The Solomon Islands Chess Federation (SICF) has announced that it will host the Sir Peter Kenilorea Championship 2026 on July 7 as part of the country’s 48th Independence Anniversary celebrations.

In a notice posted on its official social media platform yesterday, SICF said the championship is being organised in honour of the nation’s founding Prime Minister, Sir Peter Kenilorea, while also promoting the continued development of chess in the Solomon Islands.

“The Solomon Islands Chess Federation (SICF) is honoured to announce that we will host the Sir Peter Kenilorea Championship 2026 on 7 July 2026 as part of the celebrations marking the 48th Independence Anniversary of the Solomon Islands,” the federation stated.

SICF said the tournament aims to promote “unity, strategic thinking, sportsmanship, and the continued growth of chess throughout the country.”

According to the federation, the event will feature teams and players from around the country competing in a spirit of friendship and national pride during the independence celebrations.

The competition will be held as a team tournament, with each side consisting of four players and one reserved player.

SICF also confirmed that official notation will be required for all participating players.

Registration for the championship will officially open on June 8, while further details regarding team registration, tournament format, venue and prizes will be announced later.

“The tournament will bring together teams and players from across the Solomon Islands to compete in a spirit of friendship and national pride as we celebrate our independence,” SICF added.

The federation is encouraging players, clubs and chess enthusiasts throughout the country to take part in the championship as part of the nation’s independence commemorations.

The Sir Peter Kenilorea Championship 2026 is expected to strengthen the profile of chess in the Solomon Islands while recognising the legacy and leadership of one of the country’s most respected national figures.

SICF continues to promote chess development under its “Chess for Growth” vision, with growing participation from schools, communities and provincial players in recent years.  

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

Empowerment policy review and reporting workshop underway in Auki 

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

A workshop that aims to review Malaita Women’s Policy on empowerment and reporting took place at Green House, Auki, Malaita Province.

The two-day workshop’s objective is to produce an updated Malaita Provincial Women’s Policy that is responsive, inclusive, and aligned with national and global gender equality commitments. 

According to the programme, the specific objectives include assessing the implementation and impact of the current policy, identifying gaps, challenges, and emerging issues affecting women, strengthening alignment with national and international commitments, ensuring inclusive participation of stakeholders throughout Malaita, and developing a practical and implementable revised policy. 

The workshop provided a great opportunity for women to discuss the best ways to improve the policy to serve their interests.

It also helped to promote issues affecting women in the province that need to be addressed by responsible authorities.

One of the participants, said the policy needs to be updated and must work effectively to protect the women in the province.

“Once it is updated and doesn’t serve us women in this province, then this could be a waste of time and money,” she said.

The workshop was facilitated by the Supervising Director for the Women’s Development Division (WDD) within the Solomon Islands Ministry of Women, Youth, Children, and Family Affairs, (MWYCFA) Vaela Devesi.

The workshop was attended by women stakeholders from government ministries, departments of the Malaita Provincial Government, and representatives from non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

Kwasila association blesses piggery farm 

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

ABPO project recipient, Kwasila Piggery Farm Association has blessed their piggery farm yesterday in Larione, West Kwaio, Malaita Province.

This significant milestone marks a bottom-line effort to safeguard their piggery farm and to ensure the success of their project.

This was the first time such a blessing was held in the West Kwaio area for a business association. 

Speaking during the offered Mass, Fr Albert said the success of any business and project depends on togetherness and shared commitments.

He said that togetherness and the aim for one goal in good Christian faith can lead to success. 

“Togetherness is the most important thing when we want to do something. It is very vital to come together through discussion when we face barriers, doubts, and failures.

“It can also come once we have true faith in Christian life,” he said.

He warned that the division of ideas and mindsets can lead to failure along the journey to success in any business.

“Failure in business and projects like this can happen when we have different ideas and mindsets,” he said.

He encourages members of the Kwasila Piggery Farm Association to come together and work hard to achieve their goals.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Editor: [email protected]

123...1,661Page 2 of 1,661