BY NED GAGAHE

Wing Leader of the Solomon Islands Democratic Party (SIDP) and Opposition Leader Matthew Wale has expressed heartfelt condolences following the passing of the Member of Parliament for West Guadalcanal,Moses Garu.

The late MP passed away on Monday, February 10th, after a prolonged battle with illness.

In a statement, Opposition Leader Wale extended his deepest sympathies to the family of the late MP, particularly to his wife, Mrs. Mary Daniella Zae Garu, their children, and the extended family. He described Hon. Moses Garu as a “towering figure of humility, courage, and service,” who was deeply committed to the welfare of the people of Solomon Islands.

“We mourn the loss of a colleague and friend who was a true leader for the people, always willing to sacrifice for the sake of reconciliation and peace in our country,” Wale said. “Hon. Garu’s legacy as a founding member of the CARE coalition and his service as a member of Parliament will forever be remembered.”

“May the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who gave His Son for our salvation, uphold you with His everlasting peace,” he stated.

SIDP President Gabriel Suri also expressing his condolences. “We extend our deepest sympathies on the passing of Hon. Moses Garu, a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, and a true servant of his people,” said Suri.

He described the late MP as a dedicated member of the SIDP and a founding member of the CARE coalition, noting his selfless contributions to the nation, especially in the areas of peace and reconciliation.

“We mourn the loss of a respected member of the Solomon Islands Democratic Party, and we pay tribute to his lasting impact on our nation,” Suri added. “As we grieve with you, we lift you up in prayer. May the peace of God surround you and your family.”

Hon. Moses Garu was elected to the National Parliament in two terms, having served the people of West Guadalcanal. He was recently re-elected in the 2024 National General Election (NGE), where he joined the Opposition Group.

Before entering politics, Garu worked as a teacher and a banking officer. He held a diploma in tropical agriculture and was deeply committed to his community and his people.

Late Moses Garu was born on December 1, 1969, in Isunavutu, West Guadalcanal, Guadalcanal Province. His contributions to the nation and his dedication to his people will be fondly remembered.

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By Loretta B Manele

Today we celebrate more work for Solomon Islands companies, more infrastructure for Solomon Islands communities and more development for Solomon Islands.

Rod Hilton, Australia’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands expressed this when he spoke at the launching program of Community Access and Urban Services Enhancement 2 (CAUSE 2) project last week.

He said CAUSE 2 project will bring in more funding, more partnerships, bigger projects, more infrastructure and more jobs for Solomon Islanders.

“Most importantly these benefits will all go to Solomon Islanders. The work of course starts and ends here in local communities in the Solomon Islands”.

He expressed that the project will deliver big changes led by the community and will create skills in communities thus, creating jobs for locals and has even kick-started businesses to go on to grow and prosper.

Hilton said he is pleased to say that under the first phase of the CAUSE project, 8,360 Solomon Islanders were employed.

He referred to this as a “massive achievement” and the definition of economic empowerment and community development.

Hilton said all of this partnership is about skill making, business creating and community building and the projects under CAUSE are really making a difference.

Speaking of difference, he shared a story of the construction of a jetty at Western province.

Hilton said he had the opportunity and privilege to see the great work of CAUSE firsthand and that was the airport jetty at Gizo.

He stated that the jetty was built with the support of CAUSE via the community under the leadership of Western provincial government and had employed 30 Solomon Islanders.

“That jetty now provides a safe, stable platform for the elderly, for the sick or travellers with large luggage to safely move from boat to airport and enjoy the wonderful place that is Western Province”.

He said this is just one of the many stories from around the nation about infrastructures that were built, waste that was collected and roads maintained from CAUSE to date.

Hilton stated that today we come together to create many more stories under the CAUSE 2 project.

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East Honiara CDC meets HCC on proposed healthcare clinic

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The East Honiara Constituency Development Committee (CDC) has met with the Honiara City Council (HCC) and the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) regarding the proposed healthcare clinic in East Honiara.

A CDC spokesperson stated that the committee met with City Mayor Eddie Siapu, City Clerk Justus Denni, Panatina Ward 12 Councillor Lydia Yeo, and the Director of the MHMS to discuss the initiative.

The main agenda of the meeting was to seek approval for the establishment of a new healthcare clinic in Ilia, within the Gilbert Camp school area in East Honiara.

HCC also released a statement regarding the dialogue, emphasizing that the proposed clinic is a crucial initiative aimed at improving access to healthcare services for residents in the area.

According to the HCC statement, both parties acknowledged the urgent need for enhanced healthcare services in East Honiara. The clinic is expected to provide essential services, including maternal and child care, vaccinations, and general outpatient consultations.

Construction of the clinic is anticipated to commence in the short term, pending further discussions and the signing of a partnership agreement, which is expected to take place in February 2025.

Mayor Siapu expressed his appreciation for East Honiara MP Morris Toiraena and his Constituency Officers for prioritizing the Ilia Urban Health Center project in the constituency’s development plan.

“HCC is truly grateful for the collaboration and partnership in this essential project,” Mayor Siapu stated.

He also emphasized the importance of community involvement throughout the development and operational phases of the project. The MHMS and other relevant authorities will be engaged to ensure that the facility is adequately resourced and maintained.

Mayor Siapu reaffirmed HCC’s commitment to addressing concerns in collaboration with MHMS to ensure the clinic’s long-term success.

This initiative aligns with HCC’s broader strategy to enhance healthcare infrastructure in Honiara, reflecting its commitment to the well-being of city residents.

HCC has called upon the community to actively participate and support the project, highlighting that collective effort is crucial for the successful establishment of the clinic.

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By Loretta B Manele

Economic viability is at the heart of the Community Access and Urban Services Enhancement 2 (CAUSE 2) project.

Manasseh Sogavare, minister for the Ministry of Finance and Treasury (MoFT) voiced this whilst giving the keynote address at the CAUSE 2 project launch on Friday last week.

He said CAUSE 2 directly supports the priorities of the Solomon Islands government by fostering economic growth through targeted investments in infrastructure, workforce development and urban management.

Sogavare pointed out that this project is not just a response to current urban challenges, but it is a forward-looking effort that sets the stage for the sustainable development of our country’s fastest growing urban centres.

He added that contributions reinforced by the CAUSE 2 project aligns with the National Urban Policy (NUP) emphasizing planned urbanization, enhanced productivity, sustainable infrastructure and improved governance.

Sogavare said the project is designed to generate measurable economic returns for communities, households and the nation at large.

The finance minister explained that this will be through; climate resilient infrastructure as an economic enabler, job creation and workforce development, sustainable waste management systems and long-term financial sustainability.

Sogavare said through “climate resilient infrastructure as an economic enabler”, by constructing climate-resilient roads, drainage systems and community access amenities, CAUSE 2 will address critical infrastructure gaps that hinder economic productivity.

He stated that improved transport networks and drainage systems will also boost businesses by enhancing accessibility and reducing disruptions caused by flooding.

Sogavare expressed that enhancing climate resilience of infrastructure mitigates the financial risks associated with disasters.

“By reducing the need for repeated repairs and protecting economic assets, CAUSE 2 ensures more efficient use of public funds over time”.

Under “Job creation and workforce development, as stated, the CAUSE 2 project will generate over 360,000 paid workdays, prioritizing employment for women, youth and persons with disabilities.

Sogavare emphasized that this focus not only addresses unemployment but also empowers vulnerable groups to contribute actively to the country.

He said this project will offer skills training for over 4,700 workers, who will be equipped with expertise in areas like construction, maintenance and waste management which will enhance their employability beyond the project duration.

Sogavare stated that the ripple effect of job creation extends to household income improvements, poverty reduction and stimulation of local markets.

The third area under the CAUSE 2 project is “Sustainable waste management systems”.

He said this will involve implementation of sustainable waste collection to reduce localized flooding and environmental health risks, improving urban sanitation and enhancing the quality of life in urban areas.

Sogavare highlighted that a cleaner urban environment promotes tourism, attracts private investment and reduces public health expenditure.

Finally, there is the “Long-term financial sustainability” initiative.

Sogavare said through this avenue, the project introduces mechanisms for revenue mobilization ensuring infrastructure is maintained and economic benefits are sustained over time.

“By building the capacities of local governments, communities and public authorities, CAUSE 2 reduces dependency on external funding and paves the way for long-term financial sustainability”.

Sogavare stressed that CAUSE 2 project is a cornerstone of the Solomon Islands government’s mission to align development efforts with the National Development Strategy (NDS) 2016-2035 and its focus is both timely and critical.

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By Loretta B Manele

Unlocking urban potential is a good and excellent driver for economic growth.

Lodewijk Smets, World Bank’s economist for Solomon Islands made the statement when speaking at the recent launch of Community Access and Urban Services Enhancement 2 (CAUSE 2) project.

He said World Bank has initiated this engagement about 14 years ago with financing of the Rapid Employment Project, continuing with CAUSE 1 in 2018 and now the CAUSE 2 project.

Smets expressed that their partnership under CAUSE 1 and CAUSE 2 has been essential in allowing them to scale up urban efforts in collaboration with the Australian government.

“So, the World Bank is very proud to support CAUSE as a model for positive urban development throughout the whole Solomon Islands, creating job opportunities, improving the resilience of communities and enhancing essential services”

Smets also took the opportunity to highlight a few benefits of the CAUSE project during its first phase.

He said the CAUSE 1 project sustained increase in employment and income potential, which is key for development and livelihoods.

Smets added that from this project, their survey shows a 20-percentage point increase in self-employment among female participants.

“Also, formal employment had increased, among 15 points among male and 6 points among male and female participants”.

Smets pointed out that CAUSE 1 also improved access and safety for urban residents.

He said their surveys indicate that there was a 90 percent drop in injuries reported due to the construction of Jacob’s ladders and footpaths.

Additionally, there was also a 95-percentage point decrease in beneficiaries reporting that their roads were impassable.

“So, these are just a few examples that demonstrate the effectiveness of a project like CAUSE in producing economic benefits for urban populations across this beautiful country”.

Smets moved on to talk about why we need a second phase of the CAUSE project.

He said the population of Honiara city and peri-urban areas of Guadalcanal have nearly doubled in the past 10 years, making Honiara one of the fastest growing capital cities in the whole world.

Smets stated that this rapid urbanization has put an unprecedented pressure on infrastructure and services.

“This is made worse by the increasing frequency and intensity of climate and weather events as experienced in the past weeks that could lead to local flash floods”.

Henceforth, Smets said CAUSE 2 will address the needs for climate resilient infrastructure and urban services by laying the foundations for sustainable urban management and service delivery.

“It will do so through improving land administration, own source revenue and as a country economist I fully support that and also asset management”.

Smets said relying on community labour and national contractors, the project will continue to create local jobs and help communities prepare for climate challenges.

In this regard, he voiced that he is encouraged and inspired by the government’s strong commitment to investing in human capital and the fiscal environment, both urgently needed to unlock the economic potential of urban centers in Solomon Islands.

“I’m not saying this only as the acting resident representative, but also as the country economist for this country. Unlocking urban potential is a good and excellent driver for economic growth”.

In terms of financing, he said the World Bank stands by Solomon Islands to support the country with experience and technical assistance to ensure a successful implementation of Phase 2 of the CAUSE project.

“I wish you all a successful launch of field activities and look forward to witnessing the first infrastructure improvements already this year”.

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By Loretta B Manele

Ministry of Infrastructure and Development (MID) has a crucial role in delivering and sustaining infrastructure investments under the Community Access and Urban Services Enhancement 2, (CAUSE 2) project.

Manasseh Maelanga, MID minister expressed this during the launch of CAUSE 2 project on 7^th, Feb, Friday at the CAUSE office compound.

He said the urbanization challenges we face today such as; rapid population growth, climate risks and infrastructure gaps require bold action and strategic investments.

“Through CAUSE 2, MID will lead efforts to upgrade and maintain critical urban infrastructure, ensuring that our city and towns are more accessible, resilient and inclusive”.

He explained that under CAUSE 2 project’s first component, “Resilient township infrastructure”, MID will oversee the implementation of key infrastructure projects aimed at improving urban mobility, flood resilience and public service delivery.

Maelanga said some of the priority projects in the pipeline under the above initiative include; upgrading and rehabilitation of key urban roads, improving drainage systems in Honiara City, development of public facilities and green spaces and rehabilitation of small bridges and coastal protection infrastructure.

He stressed that under “upgrading and rehabilitation of key urban roads”, MID will upgrade over 12.8 kilometres of secondary roads; improving connectivity between urban and peri-urban areas.

Maelanga said the above will include climate resilient road sealing, pedestrian walkways and accessibility improvements in high traffic areas.

Under “improving drainage systems in Honiara City”, he stated that one of the most pressing challenges in Honiara is poor drainage which contributes to severe flooding, road deterioration ad public health risks.

“CAUSE 2 will support stormwater drainage upgrades in flood prone areas including the rehabilitation of critical drainage”.

He added that the ministry will also work closely with Honiara City Council (HCC) and engineering experts to ensure that drainage improvements are integrated into road rehabilitation projects.

As for “Development of public facilities and green spaces”, Maelanga said the CAUSE 2 project will finance the construction and improvement of public open spaces in key urban centres to enhance urban liveability and economic activity.

He mentioned that this will support local vendors, commuters and community gatherings thus creating more inclusive public spaces.

Last but not the least, there is the “Rehabilitation of small bridges and coastal protection infrastructure” initiative.

Through this channel, Maelanga said MID will oversee the replacement and strengthening of small bridges and culverts, ensuring that transport networks remain functional during extreme weather events.

Also noted is that coastal protection projects along pre-identified locations will be implemented to safeguard vulnerable urban communities from erosion and rising sea levels.

The member of parliament for Small Malaita constituency said these projects were carefully selected based on technical assessments, prioritizing cost-effectiveness, population impact and long-term sustainability.

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Labour Mobility explains seasonal work procedure, calls on public to report concerns

BY IRWIN ANGIKI

The Labour Mobility Unit (LMU) has defended its seasonal work application and selection process in response to Opposition MP Derick Manu’ari’s accusations last week.

LMU also called on public to report any ‘irregularities’ within its process.

Opposition MP Manu’ari last week called on LMU to ‘step up in monitoring of applicants’, labelling its application and selection process as having ‘weak and ineffective’ monitoring measures which also lacked ‘fairness and objectivity’.

Mr Manu’ari was concerned that many applicants under the labour scheme used forged documents.

“It is concerning that there are reports of many applicants that have forged documents under the Labour Mobility Scheme.

“Reports of applicants forging school certificates and even police clearance is concerning,” Manu’ari said.

Manu’ari in accusing LMU and relevant authorities of not having proper mechanisms in place to carry out due diligence checks, called on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFAET) as the responsible ministry to investigate.

“It is more concerning that authorities especially the Labour Mobility Unit (LMU) has no proper mechanisms in place to do proper due diligence.

“These issues only proved that the monitoring mechanisms in place are weak and ineffective. There is lack of fairness and objectivity.

“I am calling on the foreign affairs to investigate this matter and to make sure tougher measures are put in place.”

Manu’ari then called for ‘fairness and objectivity with selections of applicants’.

“To date most of the regions around the country are also under-represented,” he said.

In its response, LMU said it has partners in the process, and that each partner is responsible to ensure due diligence when an applicant is using its service.

It is understood LMU partners include offices in Immigration, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Health, National Referral Hospital, Police and some private practices of medical doctors.

The process to acquire seasonal work involves steps in which an applicant gets tested or an endorsement document from each of these LMU partners.

The LMU statement said: “… other government agencies … are in a better position to respond to reports of fraud, documentation of certificates or Police clearance. We encourage those with evidence of wrong-doing to report it to our office or relevant partners within the LMU process.

“We would also like to clarify that selection of workers is done by Approved Employers, each industry with a different list of specific criteria and with that, LMU does not have the final decision on who gets selected to participate in the Labour Mobility Programmes.

“On the current process of selection, all candidates are interviewed and screened into the Solomon Islands Government work ready pool. They are then given equal opportunity to be selected by employers.

“Here, LMU puts forward application profiles to employers, who then makes the final selection of workers based on industry needs.

“Accessing the Labour Mobility Programmes is free, there is no fee paid to licensed agents or any LMU staff. Money is only paid to services providers, passport, police clearance, panel doctors for medical screening.

“The recent comments by Manuari and apparent feedback by the public, reiterates our continuous call for those concerned to report irregularities within our process to assist in improving our systems. If any candidate has submitted questionable documents, please report that and allow us to carry out necessary reviews, verification and investigation,” the LMU statement said.

According to MFAET, from 2008-2024, the Australian Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme has seen 8,203 Solomon Islander workers.

New Zealand’s Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Scheme from 2017-2024 has seen 8,501 workers.

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