Home Blog Page 404

BSP unveils bold new look

Written by
Admin
-
0

BSP Financial Group Limited, the South Pacific’s International Bank, yesterday [March 31] proudly unveiled its revitalised brand identity – marking a bold new chapter in its history.

The refreshed brand marks a significant milestone in BSP’s journey, reflecting its evolution as a regional leader and its ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional banking services, a statement by BSP yesterday prior to the launch said.

More than a visual update, it reinforces BSP’s strong connection to the communities it serves across Papua New Guinea and the South Pacific, the statement said.

BSP Group CEO, Mark T Robinson, said: “Today marks an exciting new chapter for the BSP Group. Our new look will roll out across all our markets and captures the energy and ambition driving us forward, and our focus remains on delivering world-class banking services.

“While our look may be new, our unwavering commitment to the communities we serve remains – to support their prosperity and growth every step of the way.”

The refreshed identity was developed with input from BSP’s staff and customers across the region and brings to life the spirit of the South Pacific through a modern, vibrant visual language, the statement said.

At its heart is the stylised Kundu, symbolising the strength of connection, shared heritage, and unity across diverse island nations.

BSP Solomon Islands Country Head Sandra Fore said, “Each element of the new brand carries deep meaning.The drumbeat of the Kundu echoes across the Pacific, reminding us of our heritage and calling us together. The hook represents strength, stability, and prosperity -anchoring BSP to the region it proudly calls home. The waves reflect the oceans that connect us to one another and to the world. The bird in flight symbolises aspiration and guides us on our shared journey toward a prosperous future.”

BSP’s refreshed identity reflects its proud PNG heritage and growth across the South Pacific. Respecting the unique cultural identities of each market, BSP’s new brand also features locally inspired patterns for each of its seven Pasifika countries.

Designed by local artists, these patterns incorporate five core elements — growth, aspiration, care, prosperity, and journey – to tell stories that resonate with each community, the statement said.

“Our new brand identity reflects who we are today and where we’re headed. This is more than just a new brand — it’s our ongoing commitment to evolve and serve our customers better,” Ms Fore said.

Not being self-aware can contribute to difficulty in resolving conflicts

Written by
Admin
-
0

By Loretta B Manele

Not being self-aware can contribute to difficulty in resolving conflicts.

Johanna Podlesak, Director of Pacific Programmes for South-East Asia and Pacific, Conciliation Resources talked about this at the recent 2-day “Peacebuilding and Security Dialogue” session held last month.

Initially, she said in terms of “cognitive drivers” of conflict, this could be the misinterpretations of a policy, doctrine or culture.

“It means that a lack of open dialogue where you’re able to share those differences in understandings or interpretations can escalate into conflicts.”

She stated that if we are not self-aware it will be very difficult to resolve conflicts.

“And part of becoming an adult and growing up is learning to question yourself and everything that you’ve been taught.”

She mentioned that we all have preconceived notions or negative stereotypes that can contribute to discrimination and hostility.

Moreover, Podlesak stressed that the way we perceive things can also be influenced by the families that we grow up with or the societies that we grow up in.

Henceforth, she said different perceptions are common in every society so groups of people may have entirely different versions and perceptions of reality, history or the causes of a problem which can then lead to disagreements and conflict.

“So, for example, you’ll see just how polarised this is in the United States at the moment. Societies there have become so polarised that they can’t even have a rational conversation anymore about how to live together in harmony in the US.”

She stated that this is an example of “cognitive drivers” of conflict in other words, an example of how we think of things can contribute to conflict.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Unplaced students a time bomb: teacher warns

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

This year’s placement statistics show that more than 12,000 students are unplaced for Forms 3, 5, 6, and 7.

This was according to GS Faisi Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) school project coordinator and school director, Selison Faisi.

He made the statement during the two-storey classroom building handover to the GS Faisi TVET from Ms. Lindsey Buckingham, the Australian High Commission Minister-Counsellor, last week.

“Looking at the country’s population, 70% of the population are youth, kids from the age of 15 to 35.  According to the latest statistics for 2025 placement for Forms 3, 5, 6, and 7, more than 12,000 students are unplaced,’’ he said.

“And if we are not careful, this is a time bomb. According to the data that I collected from the Ministry of Women, Youth, Children, and Family Affairs, that every year 18,000 are unemployed, 14,000 are youth,’’ said Mr Faisi.

He said that in the Prime Minister’s speech in 2023, he mentioned that by 2050, the total projection of the Solomon Islands population would reach 1.8 million 2050.

“Which means there will be an increase in unemployment rates and social issues,’’ said Mr Faisi.

He said that GSF is established to address the need and the challenges of unemployment in the country.

“Thank you so much to the National Government and the people of Australia for this project under the Australian Community Partnership Programme. As I mentioned earlier, 70% of our country’s population is young people. Unemployment is on the rise, as I said. Every year, 18,000 to 14,000 youths under the age of 15 to 35. I believe and hope that this program would have a huge impact on our human resources going into the future,’’ Faisi told Ms. Lindsey Buckingham.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

SUPPORT GIRLS’ EDUCATION

Written by
Admin
-
0

With UK-support, World Vision donates much-needed menstrual hygiene kits to schools

BY NED GAGAHE

Education for female students of three schools on Guadalcanal is set to improve with the donation of much-needed menstrual hygiene kits.

With support from the United Kingdom, the World Vision Solomon Islands (WVSI) handed over the materials on Wednesday and Thursday last week.

This assistance is seen as a significant step towards ensuring girls can consistently attend their classes, a statement from the WVSI yesterday [March 31] said.

Funded generously by the British High Commission in Honiara, this project aims to address challenges girls face in managing their menstruation, which can lead to absenteeism and hinder their educational progress, WVSI statement said.

“The initiative will directly benefit the female students of St Francis and Selwyn College National Secondary School, along with Potau Community High School, all located in Guadalcanal province,” WVSI said.

Speaking at the handover events, WVSI highlighted the importance of creating a supportive environment for girls’ education.

WVSI emphasised that access to menstrual hygiene products is a crucial factor in enabling girls to participate fully in school activities without interruption.

The British High Commission underscored their commitment to supporting initiatives that promote gender equality and empower girls in the Solomon Islands.

The High Commission said it was happy to partner with WVSI on this vital project, which directly addresses a key barrier to girls’ education.

WVSI also acknowledged the valuable contribution of MJ Enterprise, a local company that produces the “Kaleko SteiFree” reusable pads.

These locally manufactured, sustainable pads form a key component of the hygiene kits being distributed to the schools, the WVSI statement said.

The handover ceremonies were met with gratitude and excitement by the students and staff of both St. Francis Community High School and Selwyn College.

The provision of these menstrual hygiene kits is expected to have a positive impact on the girls’ confidence and attendance, ultimately contributing to their academic success, the WVSI statement said.

This initiative represents a collaborative effort to break down barriers and ensure that girls in the Solomon Islands have equal opportunities to learn and thrive.

The handover ceremonies were attended by representatives from WVSI, the British High Commission, local producer MJ Enterprise, school staff and enthusiastic students, the statement said.

Meanwhile, this donation by the UK high commission and WVSI is an added value to the initiative to help the livelihoods of females across the country.

Early in March this year the Project Period Tax Reform came to media spotlight with the notion to remove tax from menstrual hygiene products.

This voluntary, youth-led initiative has gained a lot of support and has raised awareness around schools.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Case of foreigner killed in road accident after Pacific Games in 2023 returns in court today

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY ROMINAH FAKA

The case involving the death of a foreigner in a road accident at Bahai on December 3, 2023 will be heard at the Magistrate court today [Tuesday, April 1].

Last week defence sought a seven-day adjournment to allow time to seek plea instructions from the defendant.

Today’s hearing is set for possible plea and preliminary inquiry.

George Sau, 20, is charged with one count of driving without a valid licence and one count of manslaughter.

The foreign national was part Cook Islands and Samoa who was in the county to meet his brother who had led the Cook Islands team for the 17th Pacific Games.

The deceased was based in Papua New Guinea was 48, and a pilot with the Air Niugini.

Police alleged that the deceased was with a friend in front of the fish and chips shop at the Bahai seaside area when he got hit by the defendant.

The vehicle was travelling in an easterly direction at high speed and with the defendant allegedly under the influence of alcohol.

Allegations said when the vehicle reached Saru beach it veered from the road and hit the rail outside from the low lane which pushed the vehicle back to the high lane.

Police further alleged that the vehicle was still moving at the same speed and hit the middle island at St Nicholas Junction, resulting in the vehicle jumping and hitting the rail outside of the low lane again and hitting the deceased.

Selwyn Vaike from DPP office is prosecuting and PSO appears for the defendant.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Voir dire for grievous harm case completes

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY ROMINAH FAKA

The voir dire trial of four people accused of attacking and committing grievous harm on a man at the City Council Depot area in 2023 has completed at the Magistrate court.

Yesterday [March 31], one of the four defendants Warren Basil and his lawyer challenged the record of interview (ROI) conducted by the recording police officer on grounds of involuntary and unfairness.

Defence argued that the recording police officer did not gave Mr Basil the opportunity to seek legal representation to talk with during the ROI.

Prosecution called two witnesses, first the recording police officer and the police officer who was present at the time of interview of the defendant.

After the voir dire trial was completed yesterday, Basil opted to remain silent.

Court adjourned for April 7 for closing submissions from defence.

Prosecution charged Luise Meke, Daniel Rofeta, Warren Basil and Daniel Fugui jointly with one count of grievous bodily harm each.

The four defendants pleaded not guilty to the charge.

It was alleged about 2am of August 16, 2023 at the Town Council Depot area, the complainant was waiting at the front gate of the Holy Cross transit in front of his girlfriend’s residence.

It was alleged that the complainant honked for the security guard to open the gate for him and while waiting, he saw the four accused running towards him from the opposite side of the road.

The complainant then drove away.

After 30 minutes the complainant returned to the same location.

The four accused attacked the complainant from behind.

Prosecution alleged they used a hard object to strike the complainant’s right hand, causing him to fall onto the road unconsciously.

One of the security officers at the Honiara City Council workshop witnessed the attack and in-tervened and prevented the boys from further harming the complainant.

He was later assisted to his girlfriend’s residence and later that same night the complainant was not feeling well and went to the National Referral Hospital.

He was informed that the right side of his skull was cracked and there was internal bleeding.

The injury sustained by the complainant was severe and he was referred to the Gold Coast Uni-versity Hospital in Queensland, Australia for further medical assistance.

Public Prosecution office is prosecuting and PSO lawyers Delilah Kukura represents Luise Meke, Daniel Onorio represents Warren Basil, Jennifer Happilyn represents Daniel Fugui and Daniel Rofeta.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Trial for false pretence case begins today

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY ROMINAH FAKA

Trial into the case of a man charged with false pretence by obtaining money in exchange for drum petrol is set to begin today [April 1] at the Magistrate court.

Pre-Trial-Conference (PTC) was carried out previously where prosecution told court it will call two witnesses and another two witnesses’ statements will be tendered to the court as exhibits.

Eli Deke is charged with one count of false pretence and he pleaded not guilty to the charge.

Pre-Trial-Conference (PTC) was carried out previously where prosecution told court it will call two witnesses and another two witnesses’ statements will be tendered in court as exhibit.

Prosecution alleged on April 4, 2023 about 4pm at Rover, the complainant received a call from Deke saying they were selling two drums of petrol at $1,700 per drum at Markworth.

It is further alleged that upon satisfied with the arrangement made, he rang the accused to meet him.

The accused arrived at Niuhavis residence and the complainant gave him the sum of $3,400 plus one $100 for his commission.

Few weeks later, the complainant followed up with the arrangement but got nowhere, and when the complainant contacted the accused his phone was turned off.

The complainant reported the matter to police and the accused was arrested.

Office of Director of Public Prosecution act for the crown and Vincent Nomae of Public Solicitor office (PSO) represent Deke.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Ministry of peace to launch national peace policy soon

Written by
Admin
-
0

By Loretta B Manele

The Ministry of Traditional Governance, Peace and Ecclesiastical Affairs (MTGPEA) will soon launch a national peace policy.

Lottie Vaisekavea, permanent secretary to MTGPEA made the announcement on Tuesday (March 25) at a “Peacebuilding and Security Dialogue” at the King Solomon Hotel.

“The ministry will release soon a national peace policy to supersede what we have already.”

Vaisekavea expressed that when you hit a new era, a new timeframe, a new dimension or a new component we have to change what we have been doing.

“Because the structures, the institutional structures that have taken us up to this time can no longer keep us and secure us going into the future.”

Speaking of peacebuilding, Vaisekavea voiced that we have gone through some stages but it won’t always be enough.

“So, in peace-building, going by what Solomon Islands has gone through, transitional justice, we have reconciled, we have made peace with the warring parties.

We have demobilized them. When we look at it in the traditional way, it will always not be enough.”

Vaisekavea said the reason for this is because we would want to have some funds to enable the completion of a reconciliation or reintegration process.

He mentioned that in the reality of where Solomon Islands is at the moment, there is simply not enough funds.

Vaisekavea said in this case, we have to think outside the box and with the support of stakeholders and financial institutions we can be able to learn and to move forward.

“So how fundamental we can change a day to make it a pivotal point going into the future, it depends on us.”

Vaisekavea stressed that we live in a democracy hence the partnership of everyone is important.

He said together we face challenges but going back to the past and repeating what had happened in the past won’t change anything.

Vaisekavea furthered that things that have happened back then is in the past and we are here today thus we need to step forward and take on the challenges of what the future is presenting to us.

The dialogue was facilitated by Transcend Oceania and Conciliation Resources from March 25th to 26th at King Solomon Hotel with funding support from UK-Integrated Security Fund.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

BROAD PARTNERSHIP

Written by
Admin
-
0

Ambassador reveals the US’s commitment to Solomons, listing few ongoing US-supported programmes in the country

BY MORRIS NAFU

The United States has said it is committed to a more broad and expansive partnership with the Solomon Islands.

This was revealed to Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele by US Ambassador Ann Marie Yastishock during their meeting last week.

What this means remains unclear.

However, a media statement from the Prime Minister’s press secretariat last week following the meeting said Mr Manele listed US-supported ongoing programmes in the country which include the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), the UXO programmes, health and humanitarian services.

The statement also said Ambassador Yastishock told PM Manele of the Trump administration’s plans to nominate a resident ambassador for the Solomon Islands.

The person ear-marked for the job “could not make it through the selection process”, the statement said.

At the meeting’s outset, Manele expressed Solomon Islands’ appreciation for the longstanding relationship with the United States, acknowledging the invaluable support received over the years.

He highlighted significant USAID programmes such as the MCC, UXO programmes, and health and humanitarian services.

Manele welcomed the possibility of increased focus on transformative projects, particularly in infrastructure and renewable energy.

He emphasised that such initiatives would drive economic growth and prosperity across the nation.

Manele reiterated Solomon Islands’ openness to continuing its development partnership with the US, stressing the importance of transparent and collaborative relations.

He reassured Yastishock that Solomon Islands remains vigilant and guided by its national security strategy, particularly in light of evolving global and regional security dynamics.

The Solomon Islands government continues to prioritise the protection of its sovereignty, addressing both internal and external security threats, while adhering to its foreign policy of being “friends to all and enemies to none”, the statement said.

He explained the government’s national security focus includes areas critical to the well-being of its people, such as climate change, food, water, and health security.

Manele stressed that Solomon Islands is committed to addressing these challenges through development and economic growth initiatives.

Yastishock meanwhile noted that various USAID programmes in the country have been successful, the statement said.

The Strengthening Competitiveness, Agribusiness, Livelihoods and Environment (SCALE) is a $25 million programme designed to unlock economic opportunity and increase trade over the long-run; improve natural resource management, including forest governance; promote agribusiness and small enterprise development; and expand critical small-scale infrastructure. The five-year programme ends this year.

The other is the US MCC Fund Threshold Programme Grant Agreement. The USD $20 million programme has helped reduce poverty and increase economic growth by supporting government efforts to manage natural resources and increase tourism investment.

However, PM Manele shared that Solomon Islands is concerned the escalating global conflicts might overshadow critical issues such as climate change, ocean sustainability, and sustainable development that are vital to Solomon Islands and the Pacific.

The Prime Minister and Her Excellency Yastishock also discussed the ongoing challenges posed by unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Solomon Islands which continues to hinder development and cause loss of innocent lives.

Potential markets for exports and bilateral scholarships were also discussed.  

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

PACRA gov’t to launch development initiatives for MUP

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Siapu-led PACRA government of Makira Ulawa province (MUP) will launch a series of transformative initiatives designed to reshape the province’s landscape and drive sustainable development in the province.

Premier Stanley Siapu emphasised the initiatives will include social, economic and infrastructure development that will contribute largely to accomplish the development aspirations of the province.

He said the PACRA government planned to pursue the initiatives this current fiscal year (2025/2026), which included;

  • Preparing Huro Land for development:
    Transforming Huro Land into a vibrant economic and social hub through sustainable, inclusive, and innovative development projects.
  • Revitalizing the Old Market Site:
    Redeveloping the old market site into a modern, dynamic marketplace that will stimulate local commerce and foster community engagement.
  • Redevelopment through Lease Retrieval:
    Systematically retrieving all expired leases to unlock redevelopment opportunities, ensuring optimal land use and enhanced revenue generation.
  • Comprehensive Survey of all FT Lands:
    Conducting detailed surveys, valuations, and reporting on all FT Lands to guarantee transparency and promote equitable development across the province.
  • Strategic Development of Okea Land and Kolaridge House:
    Spearheading the development of these pivotal sites to create landmark projects that set new standards for urban renewal and economic growth.
  • Rectifying the Kira Kira Township Western Boundary:
    Implementing corrective measures to accurately redefine the western boundary of Kira Kira Township, ensuring fair governance and strategic urban planning.
  • Establishment of the Kira Kira Township Committee:
    Forming a dedicated committee to oversee and drive the progressive development of Kira Kira Township, ensuring that community voices lead the way.
  • Ordinance Review and Reform:
    Undertaking a comprehensive review of all existing Provincial Ordinances and introducing forward-thinking regulations that respond to our evolving needs and aspirations.
  • Review and Reinstatement of the MUPIC Ordinance:
    Conducting an in-depth review of the MUPIC Ordinance with a commitment to reinstating it as a robust legal framework. This initiative will ensure that our governance practices are aligned with contemporary standards and that the spirit of MUPIC is reinvigorated to support our developmental agenda.
  • Developing Waimamura Land into a Special Economic Zone:
    Launching an ambitious project to transform Waimamura Land into a Special Economic Zone, fostering an environment that attracts investment, promotes innovation, and accelerates economic growth.
  • Forging Sister Relationships with Guadalcanal and Guizhou Provinces:
    Establishing dynamic sister province relationships with Guadalcanal Province and Guizhou Province of the PRC, aimed at promoting international cooperation, cultural exchange, and shared economic development.
  • Overhauling the Provincial Workforce and MUP Scheme of Services:
    Conducting a thorough review and transformative overhaul of the provincial workforce alongside the MUP Scheme of Services. This initiative is designed to modernize our human resource practices, streamline administrative processes, and foster a merit-based, highly efficient civil service ready to meet the evolving challenges of governance.
  • Strengthening the Province’s Internal Revenue Base:
    Enhancing our internal revenue mechanisms through systematic reforms, efficient tax collection, and innovative revenue generation strategies that solidify the financial foundation of Makira Ulawa Province.

Siapu said his government is “rigorous behind the proposal and will ensure it eventuate to benefit both the people and government of MUP”. 

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

1...403404405...1,666Page 404 of 1,666