Home Blog Page 355

36 candidates selected for forklift driving training

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

A total of 36 candidates from the Labour Mobility Unit (LMU) have been selected from the work-ready pool to participate in a specialized forklift driving training program.

This initiative is delivered by Hasting Deerings PNG-SI in partnership with LMU-SI and is funded through the Australian Solomon Islands Support System Program.

The training program is conducted by Hasting Deerings PNG Cat (Caterpillar) Forklift Trainer Igo Baru, who emphasized that this training represents a significant opportunity for the candidates.

“This is a great opportunity for these candidates not only to pursue skills in forklift driving overseas but also to return home with qualifications that will benefit them in the future,” he said.

Anneth Taemani, a female candidate and participant from cohort 2, expressed her gratitude towards Hasting Deerings PNG-SI for providing this valuable training.

“Massive appreciations go to those who work behind the scenes to ensure we had the opportunity for free without any financial challenges,” Taemani said.

Baru, who has extensive experience in delivering similar training in Honiara over the years, explained that the candidates are divided into six groups, each receiving a maximum of three days of training that includes both theoretical and practical sessions.

“The training is expected to conclude on June 27, depending on how quickly the candidates grasp the basic principles of forklift operation,” he added.

The candidates were selected based on specific criteria, including English comprehension skills and possession of a valid driving license.

Hasting Deering SI Manager, Matt Pacey expressed his satisfaction with the collaboration, wishing the candidates the best in their training, which will resume this week at the Hasting Deerings PNG-SI compound located at the KGVI Industrial site.

Meanwhile, the first cohort of six candidates completed their training last week, while the second cohort commenced on Friday and will continue today.

Hasting Deering employs over 300 staff across five business centers throughout Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands.

Their locations include Port Moresby, Lae, Kimbe, Lihir Island, Tabubil, and Honiara.

The company specializes in selling, renting and supporting Caterpillar machinery and power systems, offering unmatched parts distribution and technical expertise.

Hasting Deering is recognized as one of the largest Cat dealers in the Asia-Pacific region, with Cat (Caterpillar) forklifts being a well-regarded brand in the material handling industry.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

Red Cross Malaita supports family

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Red Cross Malaita Branch in Auki has supported a family at Fiolo village in West Kwaio, Malaita province, after they lost their house to a fire incident early last month.

In a statement from Malaita Issues, the fire is allegedly to have started from a mobile phone battery that was being charged directly from a solar panel.

When the incident happened, according to Red Cross Malaita, the owner of the house Mr Pio Mato’omae was away working in his coconut plantation.

Mr Mato’omae lost all his belongings in the incident, as the fire completely destroyed his house.

The Ward Supporting Officer for provincial ward 26, Mr Elvis Godwin brought information on his tragic incident to Red Cross Malaita office in Auki and requested emergency assistance on behalf of Mato’omae and his family.

In response, the Red Cross Malaita provided essential Non-Food Items (NFIs) to support the family’s immediate needs.

The items included a tarpaulin, shelter kit, blankets, bucket, collapsible water container, hygiene kit, kitchen set, and mosquito net.

Branch Coordinator of Red Cross Malaita Branch, Ms Elizabeth Oge handed over the relief items to Mr Godwin on behalf of Mr Mato’omae.

Godwin expressed his appreciation to Malaita Red Cross for their swift response and support, describing it as a timely intervention during a period of great hardship for the affected family.

The Red Cross Malaita Branch continues to uphold its commitment to serving communities in times of crisis.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

One inmate to be pardoned on King’s Birthday

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY NED GAGAHE

Only one inmate will be pardoned by His Excellency Sir David Tiva Kapu, the Governor General, during the King’s Birthday celebrations this Friday.

This was confirmed by Private Secretary to Government House, Mr. Rawcliffe Ziza, during a media conference yesterday.

“There will be a pardoning ceremony during the program this Friday. Just to inform the public, only one inmate will be pardoned by the Governor General on that day, based on the recommendation from the Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy,” Ziza said.

He further explained that the Prerogative of Mercy is not limited to specific types of offences.

“The pardon does not apply only to murder cases. Anyone convicted of any offence can apply. You may petition the Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy, and if your case is considered and approved, the Governor General can then grant a pardon,” he said.

The pardon ceremony will be part of the official program to mark the King’s Birthday public holiday.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

Australia continues to touch life of rural Solomon Islanders

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

Australia through its Solomon Islands Australia Community Partnership Program (SI-ACPP) continues to support Solomon Islands with essential livelihood projects that touch the life of people in rural areas.

Recently, the SI-ACPP has funded communities in ward 29 of Central Kwara’ae constituency with two major water projects that will help thousands of people living in both the highland and coastal areas of the ward.

In a statement from Malaita Issues, the first project is a water tank and will be received by Mamalade, Aisiko, Gwairiagalu and Abetaba’a in the highlands of ward 29.

“These communities have struggled for years to get enough water, especially during dry season. The new tanks will help families collect and store rainwater; making daily life easier and help reduce water related diseases,” it said.

The statement said the second project is the Afetafa Community Water Supply Project. The project will see piping of a water system from Afetafa to Arabala.

The system will bring clean and safe water to both communities along the coast, where access to fresh water has also been a major problem.

These projects are a big step forward for Ward 29. They show how help from outside can work hand in hand with local efforts to improve lives.

Member of the Provincial Assembly (MPA) for Ward 29, Philip Kwato’o acknowledged the Australian Government for their support.

“This is a proud moment for our people,” said Kwato’o. “Clean water is one of our biggest needs. We are thankful that both of our projects were approved.”

He also reminded the communities that the projects will only succeed with local support and hard work.

“This is a partnership. The people must take part – through their labour and their time. We all have a role to play in making sure these projects are a success,” he said.

The award night for the projects was held last month and attended by MPA Kwato’o and MP for Central Kwara’ae constituency, Ricky Fuo’o.

The success of the water projects shows the power of teamwork, when international support and local efforts come together. For the people of Ward 29, clean water means more than convenience. It means better health, more dignity and a new beginning.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

Court to hear bail variation and stay application in false pretence case

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY ROMINAH FAKA

The Honiara Magistrate Court is set to hear an application for a stay and a bail variation for the defendants charged with false pretence tomorrow, 11 June 2025.

During last week’s Pre-Trial Conference (PTC), defence counsel for John Clinty Kokoro informed the court that he had not yet received disclosure materials and PTC documents from the Crown.

Furthermore, he also informed the court that he intends to file a bail variation application on behalf of his client, Mr. Kokoro.

Defence counsel for the defendants, Jerry Madada Pakivai and Alosi Jonah Taka, also filed an application to stay the proceedings on behalf of his two clients. However, counsel for John Clinty Kokoro informed the court that the application will also affects his client, citing a point of law. Mr. Kwaiga stated that any ruling on the application for the two defendants should likewise apply to his client.

The matter was adjourned to tomorrow, the prosecution directed to file their responses to the stay application and the bail variation application by close of business today, 10 June 2025. The court will hear the applications and confirm the trial date during tomorrow’s proceedings.

Defendant Chief John Kokoro Clinty, Chief Alosi Jonah Taka and Jerry Madada Pakivai are jointly charged with one count of false pretence, contrary to section 306 (a) of the Penal Code, read together with section 21 of the Penal Code.

Police alleged on 12July 2022, complainant Johnny Yeh, met with defendants Chief John Kokoro Clinty, Chief Alosi Jonah Taka, and Jerry Madada Pakivai at Coral Sea Resort Hotel to discuss matters related to the development plans for Robroy Island.

The defendants informed the complainant about the latest development concerning the reconciliation process with the Volaikana Soa Tribe.

It was further alleged that the defendants informed the complainant that the reconciliation works are still in progress, as both tribes (Volaikana Soa Tribe and Volaikana Tribe) had yet to reach an agreement on royalty sharing and other important tribal matters. So, they allegedly need more time to complete the reconciliation process in the near future.

The defendant requested complainant’s continued support in their reconciliation process, emphasizing its importance to the development of Robroy Island. Upon hearing this, the complainant agreed and accepted defendants request for continuous financial support for their cause at the meeting.

On 14 of July 2022, the defendant invited the complainant to Heritage Park Hotel for a meeting. During the meeting, the defendants requested an allowance of $ 1,500 each for the seven chiefs and elders including themselves. They also attached a letter dated 13 July 2022 address to the complainant company, requesting financial assistance for reconciliation purposes. Complainant upon seeing that, was satisfied and willing to provide support.

The allegations further stated that, at that time, the complainant did not know that a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) had already been made between the Volaikana Soa Tribe and New Venture on 8 July 2022.

A total of $ 10,500.00 was given to the defendants for reconciliation purposes, as requested.

The allegation also stated that the complainant gave $ 1,500 in cash to defendant Alosi Jonah and another $ 1,500 in cash to Jerry Pakivai in Honiara. The remaining $ 7,500 was deposited into defendant Kokoro personal BSP bank account on 16 July 2022 by POB, Greenland Enterprise Limited.

On 18 July 2022, the money was transferred to defendant Kokoro’s personal BSP bank account.

Police alleged that the contents of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) confirmed that Volaikana Tribe and Volaikana Soa Tribe had completed their reconciliation and both tribes agreed to allow New Venture Limited to conduct Logging Operations on Robroy Island.

The complainant was not happy with what happened and reported the matter to the Fraud Squad at Rove Police Headquarter on 13 February 2025. The defendants were subsequently arrested and charged and bailed.

Defendant Kokoro Clinty participated in a Record of Interview and denied receiving the $ 7,500. Defendant Jonah Taka, during his record of interview, admitted receiving $ 1,500 but denied meeting with the complainant at Heritage Park Hotel. Defendant Pakivai in record of interview, remained silent all through the allegation questions asked to him.

Mr. Lazarus Kwaiga from L&L Lawyers represent defendant Kokoro and Joseph Iroga of Florida International Legal Service represent Pakivai and Taka and Leonard Chite from Bridge Legal and Consultancy firm prosecuting.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

Court remands 14-year-old juvenile on multiple charges

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY ROMINAH FAKA

The court has remanded a 14-year-old juvenile in custody in relation to multiple charges, during a hearing held on Friday last week.

The prosecution applied for the remand on the grounds of re-offending, ongoing investigations and the risk of absconding. It was submitted that the juvenile poses a high risk of re-offending and fleeing, as he does not have a fixed or permanent address.

The defendant has been charged with one count of larceny from another person, one count of burglary and one count of escaping lawful custody.

The first incident, involving larceny from another person, allegedly occurred on 30 May 2025 at Skyline Road.

According to police, the complainant, a Chinese national was returning from the Memorial when he was stopped along Skyline Road by the defendant and a group of other boys, who were refilling the road with ground. The group demanded money from the complainant. While he was distracted, the juvenile allegedly approached the backdoor of the vehicle, opened the back door, and stole a bag from inside.

The stolen bag reportedly contained a laptop, SBD $2,500, FJD $250, and other personal documents. Police later recovered only the laptop, SBD $150, and FJD $60.

The second incident occurred on 31 May 2025, the day after the first offence, at Koa Hill. The juvenile allegedly stole a bilum bag containing SBD $1,000 and various bank documents, including an NPF card.

On 3 June 2025, police arrested the defendant and took him to the Central Police Station. However, he escaped from custody later that day. He was rearrested that same evening at Mamana Wata and subsequently remanded on Friday last week.

The matter has been adjourned to 20 June 2025 for mention.

John Saugaro from police prosecution department remanded the defendant.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

PACIFIC VOICE

Written by
Admin
-
0
  • PM Manele leads push for ocean action and Pacific voices at UNOC 3 in Nice

The Solomon Islands joined world leaders and ocean champions at the Third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC 3), officially opened yesterday in Nice, France, with a call for urgent and united global action to safeguard the ocean and marine life for future generations.

Leading the delegation, Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele reaffirmed the Solomon Islands’ unwavering commitment to global ocean stewardship, ensuring that the concerns and aspirations of coastal and island communities are front and centre in international ocean policy.

Held under the theme “Accelerating action and mobilizing all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean,” the conference is co-hosted by France and Costa Rica and runs throughout the week. It brings together governments, scientists, civil society, and regional organizations in a critical moment for ocean action.

A major highlight for Solomon Islands is its co-hosting of the high-level side event titled:

“Advancing SDG14.4 – A Call to Action Toward 2030 and Beyond: Building on the Honiara Summit.”

This event builds on the historic Honiara Summit on SDG 14.4, held in February 2025, and focuses on sustainable fisheries, ending IUU (illegal, unreported and unregulated) fishing, enhancing regional cooperation, and embracing ocean science.

The side event is being held in partnership with the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA), FAO, SPC, and the UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for the Ocean.

“For us in the Pacific, the ocean is our identity, our economy, our heritage, and our future,” PM Manele said during his address. “We are not only participants, but protectors.”

Key issues to be addressed include the role of science in fisheries management, the use of data and monitoring technologies to track and prevent IUU fishing, and the potential of international instruments like the BBNJ Treaty to strengthen ocean governance.

Solomon Islands will also hold bilateral meetings and high-level dialogues to push for Pacific-centered solutions to climate change, ocean health, and sustainable livelihoods.

The Solomon Islands delegation continues to stress that ocean protection is more than a global duty — it is vital to the sovereignty, wellbeing, and survival of Pacific peoples.

“Our voices must not only be heard — they must shape the future of our ocean,” PM Manele affirmed.

Australia’s Partnership with Temotu Province

Written by
Admin
-
1

From the High Commissioner’s Desk

Congratulations Temotu on your Second Appointed Day! Australia’s partnership with Temotu Province is stronger than ever—spanning infrastructure, security, health, and education. Many Temotuans also benefit from Australia’s PALM scheme.
Australia is Solomon Islands’ largest and most enduring infrastructure partner, investing over SBD5 billion in the past five years. Since 2020, we’ve funded eight community infrastructure projects in Temotu, as part of our nationwide program to deliver accessible improvements.

Work progressing at the Mona Community High School classroom project, in Temotu Nende, funded through the Solomon Islands – Australia Community Partnerships.

Community Partnerships

Australia is committed to working with the people of Temotu to improve lives, strengthen infrastructure, and build resilient communities, especially in rural and remote areas.
Access to clean drinking water remains a priority. Over the past two years, Australia has funded four new water and sanitation projects in Temotu under the Solomon Islands – Australia Community Partnerships, including water tanks in Nanngu, Ngawa, Ravenga, and at Kati Community High School near Lata.
In Temotu Pele, Australia is funding solar-powered streetlights in Vaiakau Community, improving safety for everyone.
In the Duff Islands (Temotu Vatud), this week marks the official opening of the new ‘halevaka’ canoe house—a space where elders can pass on centuries old kastom boat-building knowledge to youth. Australia understands the importance of preserving cultural heritage and my team will join your celebrations on the special occasion.
In Temotu Nende, Solomon Islanders are hard at work constructing a new classroom at Mona Community High School, providing a safe learning space for students. Australia prioritises using Solomon Islands businesses to supply materials because it creates local jobs which further benefit families.
As Prime Minister Manele said at the recent 2025 Awards Night, the Solomon Islands–Australia Community Partnerships are “small-scale infrastructure investments [that] are meaningful and life-changing for many… especially those in rural and remote areas.”
I’m pleased to announce there will be another funding round under this program in July and encourage people in Temotu to apply.

More than 9000 Solomon Islanders including those from Temotu are sending money home to their family and communities under the PALM scheme.

Security Partnership

The Solomon Islands–Australia partnership continues to deliver security and law and justice support in Temotu.
The new Eastern Border Outpost (EBO) in Lata is one of the major security projects under our Defence Cooperation Program. Construction of the first stage began in September 2024 and is set to conclude this month. It includes the refurbishment of the RSIPF Police Station and National Disaster Management Office in Lata.
Australian agencies—including the Australian Border Force and Australian Federal Police—are providing mentoring and training to build staff capacity at the EBO. In August 2024, the Australian Border Force visited Temotu for on-the-job training for Customs, Immigration, and Police officers.
Australia’s law and justice program supports security and stability across all nine provinces inlucding Temotu. In 2024, Australia supported three court circuits (March, May, and September) in Temotu, ensuring people can access justice without needing to travel to Honiara. The program also provided RSIPF training on charging offenders.

Opening of the biomedical Labatory at Lata giving Temotuans access to international standard health services.


Economic Partnership


Australia remains committed to creating jobs and economic opportunities for Solomon Islanders, including through the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme. It’s great to see that over 9,000 Solomon Islanders so far have had the opportunity to work in Australia under the PALM scheme.
I’m pleased that Temotu Province is participating in this scheme, with 250 Temotuans who have mobilised to Australia and another 250 in the Work Ready Pool. These workers are employed in sectors including agriculture, hospitality, tourism, horticulture, aged care, and meat processing.
Through the PALM scheme, our partnership with the Solomon Islands Government is helping more Solomon Islanders, including those from Temotu, access quality employment, develop skills, and contribute to the nation’s economic development.
It’s incredibly moving to see Solomon Islanders investing their PALM earnings in school fees, building homes, and setting up small businesses—real economic benefits making a difference.

Delivery of life saving essential medical supplies funded by Australia.

Health Partnership

During my first visit to Temotu in 2024, I was honoured to hand over the new international standard biomolecular laboratory to the people of the province.
The Lata Biomolecular Laboratory has been a game changer for delivering quality diagnostics and treatment in Temotu, one of the most remote provinces in Solomon Islands. It reduces reliance on sending samples to Honiara, enabling faster, more accurate diagnoses to improve outcomes for patients at Lata Hospital.
Costing SBD1.4 million, the lab is part of Australia’s long-term commitment to improving health outcomes for all Solomon Islanders.

Education

Australia has supported the construction of safe and comfortable school facilities to encourage more girls to attend school, including a new girls’ dormitory and ablution block at Luesalemba Provincial Secondary School. We are also installing computer laboratories at Lata, Monene, Balipa’a, Gauwa, and Bishop Patterson Community High Schools. Each lab will be equipped with 15 laptop computers, helping to enhance learning outcomes for high school students across Temotu.

Hapi Second Appointed Day lo pipol blo Temotu an lukim yu next taem!
 

Betikama students visit Parliament

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY NED GAGAHE

120 students from Betikama Adventist College visited National Parliament on Wednesday as part of their school’s governance studies program.

The visit aims to provide students with a practical understanding of the national legislative institution and its functions.

A statement from Parliament said the program included a tour guide of key areas within the Parliament precincts, where students received informative briefings aligned with their curriculum.

“During the tour, students were introduced to the constitutional roles of the Governor-General, the Prime Minister, the Speaker of Parliament and the Clerk of the National Parliament.

“In addition, they were given an overview of the various departments and administrative units that support the operations of Parliament and ensure the delivery of parliamentary services” the statement said.

A key highlight of the visit was the opportunity for students to meet and engage directly with the Honourable Speaker of the National Parliament, Mr. Patteson J. Oti.

The Speaker addressed the students and shared insights into the role of Parliament in national development and democratic governance.

The visit concluded with a formal presentation on the structure, mandate and functions of the National Parliament, followed by a question-and-answer session. Students and teachers actively participated, posing thoughtful questions and reflecting on their experiences.

“The National Parliament, through its Civic Education Unit, remains committed to promoting civic awareness and parliamentary education among young Solomon Islanders.” The statement said.

Schools across Honiara and the provinces are encouraged to arrange similar visits to Parliament, which serve as valuable learning experiences and foster a deeper understanding of the country’s democratic processes.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

Women’s association concludes agriculture workshop

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Women and girls of Tolosi Hokutenikeni Women’s Association and women’s groups from Ward 21 at Eliote Village in small Malaita have successfully concluded an Agriculture workshop.

Hokutenikeni Women’s Association President Anna Grace Aitorea said the agriculture workshop was facilitated by the Matavale Women’s Association from 26th to 28th May, 2025.

Mrs Aitorea said that the workshop is immensely important and its focus is on “How to improve the soil for growing food”.

She said agriculture is often the primary source of food and income for rural communities like Eliote Village and so, learning how to improve soil fertility will result in better crop yields, ensuring more food for families and potentially surplus for sale.

“Thereby enhancing food security and economic stability,” she said.

She told the participants that healthier soil means more productive gardens, reducing the need to purchase expensive, often less nutritious, imported foods.

She said that this is crucial for remote areas where access to markets can be challenging and costly.

She said that one of the areas the workshop intends to address and equip the women on is the high vulnerability of climate change that usually affects food security.

“The Solomon Islands are highly vulnerable to climate change, with impacts like increased rainfall, droughts and sea-level rise affecting agricultural productivity. Sustainable soil management practices, such as increasing organic matter improve the soil’s water retention capacity and resilience to extreme weather; making farming systems more robust in the face of climate change,” said Mrs Aitorea.

“By focusing on the first part of soil health, it provides practical tools for building a more resilient and food-secure future,” Mrs Aitorea told the women’s group associations.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

1...354355356...1,660Page 355 of 1,660