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High seas management remains challenge for FFA

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

There are significant challenges remains, particularly on high seas management.

 Allen Rahari the Director for Fisheries Operations at the Forum Fisheries Agency said when he presented the FFA operations, including the collaborations with the members.

Speaking at the side event at Honiara Summit this year Raharin said that monitoring, control, and surveillance is a key component of sustainable fisheries.

He said that the scale of the Blue Pacific Continent is extensive, which includes the Exclusive Economic Zones and the high seas.

“Our Pacific region, FFA members’ Exclusive Economic Zone areas make up approximately 30.5 million square kilometers, and that accounts for over 20 percent of the world’s Exclusive Economic Zone. So, that in itself, is a massive area when it comes to monitoring compliance and surveillance.

“It is also important to note that fisheries management frameworks within our Pacific Island region operate under two legal frameworks,’’ he said.

Rahari said these are the Exclusive Economic Zones, which are subject to national laws, and the high seas fisheries, which is regulated through the Western Central Pacific Fisheries Commission, which is the regional fisheries management organization for the Western Central Pacific region.

He said that both frameworks are interconnected due to the migratory nature of the offshore resources.

“As you would imagine, there are significant challenges remains, particularly on high seas management. In particular, addressing the less stringent monitoring on the high seas through some of the work that our members are doing. We are driving changes, particularly in strengthening monitoring of high seas fisheries activities.

“Our blue Pacific continent is vast and extensive, and so a key challenge for the region is to effectively monitor this area with the limited MCS resources available to Pacific Island states. This is where regional cooperation and partnership is critical,’’ said Rahari.

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Technology necessity in modern-day fisheries management

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Technology is no longer a luxury, but a necessity in modern-day fisheries management said Ribanataake Tiwau, Kiribati Minister for Fisheries and Marine Resources development.

Mr Tiwau said when he delivers his opening remarks in the side event on fisheries monitoring, control, and surveillance (MCS), the challenges and solutions in the region at the Honiara Summit.

He said that the challenges Pacific Islands face in contemporary fisheries MCS are complex and evolving and required innovative solutions and strengthen regional cooperation.

He said that Kiribati is committed to leveraging this technological advancement and strengthening partnership and network to enhance Pacific Nation’s national MCS capabilities.

“Through shared resources and ongoing regional collaborations, we can reinforce our collective power of overcoming IUU fishing in our continent,’’ said Tiwau.

Mr Tiwau also acknowledged the ongoing support of Australia, New Zealand, France, the United State, European Union, and others for their support to MCS in the region.

“Together, through technology, innovation, strong partnership, and global cooperation, we can overcome the challenges in fisheries, MCS and secure a sustainable future for our shared ocean resources,’’ said Tiwau.

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PTC for two Police officers to be held on March 11

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

The Pre-Trial Conference (PTC) for two police officers arrested in connection with the stolen gold ashes case was mentioned in court yesterday and has been further adjourned to March 11, 2025 for PTC.

Prosecution and defense counsels have yet to finalize the PTC documents and have requested an adjournment.

Gravis Afuga and Allen Noni have been jointly charged with one count of bribery, contrary to Section 122(a) of the Penal Code, read with Section 21(a) of the Penal Code.

Additionally, Allen Noni has been separately charged with one count of bribery.

On November 8, 2024, an investigation into the stolen gold ashes was underway.

It is alleged that the accused officer, Allen Noni, contacted the General Police Station’s lead investigator in the gold case and allegedly bribed him with $10,000 in return for removing the investigation file of accused Max Gura, who had been remanded at the Magistrate’s Court for stealing the gold ashes.

Max Gura and Miriam Keni Sasau were charged with simple larceny for allegedly working with the prime suspect to sell the stolen gold ashes.

On Tuesday, November 12, 2024, the lead investigator from the Central Police Station received another call from the accused Allen Noni, arranging a meeting at Henderson with officer Afuga.

It is further alleged that during the conversation between the lead investigator and the accused officers, Afuga and Noni, Noni reached into his bag and attempted to bribe the investigator again with another $20,000 in cash.

The investigator returned to the Central Police Station and reported the incident to their supervisor, who instructed that the money be recorded as evidence.

Later, Officers Noni and Afuga were arrested and charged with bribery.

Jeremy Oiofa from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution is prosecuting the case, while Donation Houa from the Public Solicitor’s Office is representing the defendants, Afuga and Noni.

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FFA adopts policy to guide its MCS engagement

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) Secretary and its members have adopted an Emerging Technology Engagement Policy to enhance efficiencies in Monitoring, Control, and Surveillance (MCS) processes.

Allen Rahari, the Director for Fisheries Operations at FFA, shared this development while presenting the agency’s operations and collaborations with its members.

He stated that the policy provides a framework to structure and prioritize FFA’s engagement with emerging technology providers.

“Harnessing technology in MCS allows for the strengthening of MCS tools and systems,” Rahari said.

He added that this initiative seeks to address priority gaps in existing systems and technologies and will be informed by the priority needs of FFA members in the region.

“Some of the technology solutions used in MCS include electronic monitoring and electronic reporting tools, remote sensing technologies, maritime domain awareness intelligence tools, and satellite data technologies such as radio frequency, satellite departure radar, and satellite optical data,’’ said Rahari.

He noted that while the Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) is not an emerging tool, it remains a traditional and effective monitoring system for the region.

“Fisheries information management systems, online vessel registration, and the electronic port state message system, which was launched last year, are some of the technologies currently being employed in the region to address Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing and specific IUU risks, such as unreported fishing,” he said.

Rahari emphasized that work on emerging technology is ongoing.

Looking ahead, he stated that FFA’s MCS tools and programs are proving effective in combating IUU fishing in Pacific tuna fisheries, and the agency will continue to explore ways to strengthen these tools.

“This can be achieved through enhancing cooperation and partnerships, both within FFA membership and with key partners, while also advancing technological solutions in our MCS programs,” he said.

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EXPANDING MINING OPERATIONS 

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Peru’s non-resident ambassador pays courtesy visit to Prime Minister Manele

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele MP on Friday extended his warm congratulations to Mr. Vitaliano Gallardo Valencia, non-resident Ambassador of Peru to the Solomon Islands.

Ambassador Gallardo Valencia, a seasoned diplomat with a career in the Peruvian Foreign Service since 1992, brings extensive international experience. 

During the courtesy visit, Prime Minister Manele underscored the importance of this diplomatic milestone, noting that the establishment of formal relations between the two nations marked a significant step forward in bilateral cooperation.

Solomon Islands look forward to strengthening ties with Peru and working closely to explore new areas for collaboration, said Prime Minister Manele.

As Solomon Islands moves toward graduating from Least Developed Country, LDC, status by 2027, the relationship with Peru becomes even more vital,” said PM Manele.

Peru’s prominence as a global producer of minerals such as gold and copper presents exciting opportunities for Solomon Islands to explore partnerships in these areas.

“With Peru’s position as a top gold producer, there are valuable lessons to be learned from your experience. We hope to explore and increase engagements in mining and other industries such as agriculture, tourism, fisheries, trade and investment and forestry.

The Prime Minister accentuated Solomon Islands’ National Development Strategy (NDS) 2016–2035, which lays out the country’s priorities for inclusive economic growth, improved healthcare and education, environmental sustainability, and strong governance.

Ambassador Gallardo Valencia also emphasized the importance of promoting knowledge exchanges and training programs, particularly in the fields of manufacturing, agriculture, and eco-tourism, as both countries work towards sustainable development and economic diversification.

Prime Minister Manele expressed gratitude for Ambassador Gallardo Valencia’s commitment and extended best wishes as he embarks on his new assignment.

Court sentences woman to 3 years in prison for stealing

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

The court has sentenced a woman to three years in prison for stealing from another person at Kingslee area, Point Cruz.

Alice Kini was arrested and granted bail to appear at the Magistrate’s Court on Monday last week. However, she failed to appear, leading to a warrant of arrest being issued against her.

Police executed the warrant on Thursday last week, arresting Alice and bringing her to court, where she chose to represent herself and pleaded guilty to stealing from the complainant.

Principal Magistrate Ishmael Kekou sentenced Alice Kini on Thursday, 27th February 2025, at the Magistrate’s Court after she admitted to stealing $12,000 from the complainant.

Alice Kini was charged with one count of larceny from a person, contrary to section 270 of the Penal Code.

On 26th January 2025, at Kingslee, Point Cruz, the victim was driving his vehicle when he decided to stop in the area to rest, as he was tired and had consumed a few beers.

At the parking area, he parked his vehicle, and Alice Kini opened the left-side door and sat with him in the front seat. Alice asked the complainant for a beer, and he handed her half a can of beer.

After receiving the beer, the victim lay down on the front seat and instantly fell asleep. While he was asleep, Alice removed $12,000 from inside his bag.

A witness who happened to be nearby saw Alice standing not far from the victim’s parked car. The witness approached her and asked what she was doing in the car. Alice then left the car and walked away with the money.

The witness woke the victim, who then drove back to his residence at Panatina Valley. Upon arrival, the victim realized that his bag, which contained his mobile phone and $12,000, was missing.

He returned to Kingslee to search for his bag. A few women at the scene informed him that his cousin had taken the bag. The complainant then went to his cousin’s location and managed to recover his bag and mobile phone.

Upon checking his bag, he discovered that the money was missing. He asked his cousin about the missing amount, and his cousin responded that it must have been the woman who last entered the vehicle before he approached her.

On 30th January 2025, the complainant reported the matter at the White River Police Station. He was assisted by an officer, who helped locate a female witness. The witness stated that she had seen the money when she and Alice Kini boarded a taxi to Namoruka. She added that they spent the night drinking alcohol and that the next day, she left Alice.

The female witness then directed the police to Alice Kini’s sister in Namoruka. Alice Kini’s sister told the police that Alice had returned to their house briefly but left again while intoxicated and had not returned.

On 8th February 2025, police arrested Alice Kini and conducted a recorded interview at the White River Police CID office. During the interview, Alice admitted to stealing the money and stated that she had already spent it.

The case was prosecuted by the Police Prosecution Department.

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Combining local wisdom with scientific methods

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By Loretta B Manele

Combining local wisdom with scientific methods is said to be key in creating a framework for better outputs.

Rhea Moss-Christian, Executive Director for the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) spoke about this when contributing to the recent Honiara Summit on SDG 14.4 “Achieving Sustainable Fisheries”.

Speaking under Session 4: “Achieving sustainable fisheries through science”, she stressed on how traditional knowledge can be blended with scientific methods to create a balanced approach that will be more effective and bring better outputs for everyone.

In early remarks, Moss-Christian expressed that many local artisanal fisheries depend on traditional, time-tested knowledge and no one knows this better than island communities.

She added that these communities have been experiencing and living in concert with the ocean and marine environment for centuries.

Moss-Christian said listening to these community insights is just as important as high-tech monitoring.

“By combining local wisdom with scientific methods, we can create a balanced approach that will be far more effective and return better outputs for everyone.”

Moss-Christian explained that the goal is to create a framework where insights from local stakeholders are respected and combined with scientific analysis to produce actionable advice.

She said as “managers” or local stakeholders, they know that when that data comes to them, it needs to be presented in a way that they can take action.

Henceforth, as stated, this is where the platforms that support that interaction and dialogue between scientists and managers is absolutely necessary for bridging gaps between science and policy.

She said this means setting up mechanisms to create regular and structured dialogues whilst ensuring that actions are agreed and based on the best available science.

“When that scientific advice is presented in clear, actionable terms, it becomes a powerful tool for decision makers.”

She also took the opportunity to share her experience in the WCPFC.

Moss-Christian said from their experience, interface between scientists and policy makers has been key to timely and effective management decisions.

“We benefit from the deep experience and knowledge of the scientists in the Pacific community, who, through the strength and contributions of the Pacific Island countries and territories in this region, that have been collecting and submitting and now analysing data for decades, continues to form the basis of management in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean.”

Moss-Christian said the WCPFC is committed to adopting rigorous, scientific-driven, and ecosystem-based management practices.

She stated that the success stories of fisheries management across the globe demonstrate that when science is prioritized, sustainable outcomes follow.

Moss-Christian voiced that whether this is through detailed assessments in data-rich fisheries, or adaptive, community-informed approaches in data-poor contexts, robust scientific advice is the cornerstone of effective management.

“If we can continue to foster that ongoing dialogue between scientists and policy makers, and invest in the product of research and future talent in our young people, we will build a resilient future for fisheries everywhere.”

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SIPPA to offer 2 days free cervical cancer screening to commemorate IWD

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BY NED GAGAHE

To commemorate this year’s International Women’s Day, the Solomon Island Planned Parenthood Association (SIPPA) will be offering two days of free cervical cancer screening for women aged 25 and above.

This initiative is part of SIPPA’s ongoing efforts to support women’s health and rights.

The screening will take place at the SIPPA Clinic, New China Town, from Monday, 10th March to Tuesday, 11th March 2025, from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM.

This year’s celebration will be held under the theme “Accelerate Action: For all Women and Girls: Rights, Equality.”

A statement from SIPPA said, “As we observe this year’s International Women’s Day, SIPPA is taking concrete steps to improve women’s access to essential health services. The free cervical cancer screening is a vital service aimed at early detection and prevention of cervical cancer, a leading health concern for women worldwide.”

This event is open to women aged 25 years and above. In addition to the screening, an information tent will be set up on-site to provide valuable resources and information related to women’s health, rights, and gender equality.

“We encourage all women to take advantage of this opportunity for free screening and to join us in celebrating the progress and continued efforts to achieve gender equality.” The statement said.

SIPPA is a non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting and advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights for all individuals, especially women and girls. Through education, advocacy, and accessible healthcare services, SIPPA strives to empower communities and reduce health disparities.

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PALM SCHEME IS FREE’

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Only RSE scheme conducts recruitment through agents: MFAET

BY NED GAGAHE

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade (MFAET) has clarified that only the New Zealand Labour Mobility program under the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme conducts recruitment through Agents.

In a statement yesterday MFAET via their Facebook page announced that for 2025/2026, the Labour Mobility Unit (LMU) has recently issued licenses to 7 active agents who will be tasked to do recruitment in country for RSE work in New Zealand.

“As we have announced earlier, only the New Zealand Labour Mobility program under the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme conducts recruitment through Agents.” MFAET said.

“The RSE Agents will be working closely with their Approved Employer in New Zealand for recruitment and will report to the LMU for data purposes and pre departure briefings.” The statement said.

Last week, the Labour Mobility Unit (LMU) under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade is responsible for overseeing the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme, which facilitates employment opportunities for Pacific Islanders in Australia.

The LMU has issued a public warning about individuals and groups falsely posing as recruitment agents for employment under the PALM and Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) schemes.

These fraudulent agents have been demanding upfront payments, despite the fact that the PALM scheme is free, with applicants only needing to cover costs for their passport, police, and medical clearances.

The LMU has clarified that recruitment for the PALM scheme is not taking place at this time and urged job seekers to only engage with official, verified sources.

The unit continues to emphasize the importance of caution and vigilance to prevent people from falling victim to scams.

Meanwhile, the seven (7) active agents who will be tasked to do recruitment in country for RSE work in New Zealand this year are; Islander Recruiting Agency, AMA Recruiting Agency, United Isles Recruiting Agency, Kelvin’s Recruitment Agency, Macos Recruitment Agency, Teraroa Company Agency and Leeman company Agency.

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Mission to the Solomon Islands successfully concluded

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Initially an early adopter in the pilot phase of the World Bank’s Pacific Catastrophe Risk Assessment and Financing Initiative (PCRAFI), for the past decade the Solomon Islands has been limited in its ability to prioritise disaster risk financing expenditures over other pressing budgetary considerations.

It is hoped that the recent 4-day mission to the nation by PCRIC CEO Mr. Aholotu Palu and Chief Risk Officer, Mr. Richard Poulter will ease the way for this to change over the course of 2025. Undertaking briefings with the Permanent Secretary for Finance, Mr. McKinnie Dentana, Accountant General, Mr. Paula Uluinaceva and senior officials of the Ministry of Finance and Treasury and subsequently with officials from the Central Bank, details were shared of the recently revised and vastly superior product options now available to regional nations including the Solomon Islands.

Able to be scaled and customised to the specific preferences of client governments, policy options currently include coverage for tropical cyclone, earthquake, tsunami and excess rainfall / flooding with a product option of drought soon to be released. Featuring greater transparency and ease of comprehension, plus a focus on the number of people impacted rather than the scale of damage to physical assets, government officials commented on the appeal this revised line-up held for them.

The PCRIC team also provided details on the availability of donor funded subsidies to improve the affordability of policy premiums, putting pre-arranged disaster risk finance solutions in much closer reach of the government.

The mission also created an opportunity to meet with the CEO of the Solomon Islands Submarine Cable Company (SISCC), one of the nation’s most critically important state-owned enterprises. The innovative policy development of coverage for earthquake damage to submarine cables was showcased and prompted formal requests for further information to be provided.

With agreement to provide concrete policy options for further consideration ahead of FEMM 25, parties agreed that significant progress has been quickly made toward Solomon Islands becoming the next member nation of PCRIC.

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