Home Blog Page 462

Fuelled by Passion: Empowering change and championing gender equality in the Solomon Islands

    Written by
    Admin
    -
    0

    BY INDY MAEALASIA

    DRIVEN by a passion for justice and a deep commitment to empowering others, 28-year-old Bezel Aonima is forging a path toward a more equitable society in the Solomon Islands.

    As a legal officer at the Women’s Rights Action Movement (WRAM), a non-governmental organization dedicated to advancing gender equality through policy and legislative reforms, Bezel is actively working to create lasting change.

    In her quest for equity, Bezel reflects on the experiences that have shaped her activism and the core values that fuel her mission.

    INSPIRATIONS

    Bezel’s journey into activism started when she moved to her village in Auruligo, West Guadalcanal, to continue her primary education. There, she encountered a different reality.

    “Life in the village opened my eyes to the challenges many people face, particularly in terms of accessibility and access to information,” she says.

    “This experience made me realize how essential it is to have the right information and to share it with others. It sparked an early interest in understanding the issues affecting our country and a strong desire to inform and empower my family and friends with the knowledge they needed to navigate these challenges,”

     Bezel’s mother also played a pivotal role in shaping her path. “Through her work with the Ministry of Women, Youth, Children, and Family Affairs, I was exposed to many strong women and men advocates who were passionately working for change at a very early age.”

    “Their dedication and commitment to making a difference deeply influenced me and fueled my own desire to contribute to the cause,” she adds

    FROM LEGAL STUDIES TO ADVOCACY

    A law graduated from the University of the South Pacific(USP), Bezel’s legal background deepened her understanding on the importance of policy and legislative reforms to address inequalities.

    During her studies, she held several volunteer leadership roles which helped her navigate complex societal challenges and broadened her views.

    One of the most significant moments in her activism came when she volunteered with the Disability People’s Association of Solomon Islands (DPASI).

    “…it opened my eyes to the harsh reality that certain groups in our society are completely left behind—denied access to basic services, education, and even vital information,” she recalls.

    Witnessing the resilience of people with disabilities while confronting the barriers, deeply moved Bezel.

    “…it solidified my commitment to fighting for inclusivity and equality. It was a powerful reminder that no one should be invisible in their own community, and every voice deserves to be heard.”

    EMPOWERING WOMEN AND CHALLENGING NORMS

    Bezel’s believes that everyone deserves a fair chance regardless of gender, background, or ability.

    At WRAM, she works on issues surrounding women’s economic empowerment, leadership, and eliminating violence against women and girls.

    “ I  take immense pride in contributing to the advocacy for the rights and needs of women and girls in the Solomon Islands. This role has taught me that behind every successful advocacy effort is a team of dedicated individuals who are deeply committed to creating positive change in their communities,”

    Bezel has been part of several successful advocacy efforts aimed at creating more leadership opportunities for women in the Solomon Islands.

     One notable achievement was WRAM’s collaboration with the Ministry of Women, Youth, Children, and Family Affairs to advocate for women’s participation in leadership roles. This led to the endorsement of a major initiative by the Cabinet, signaling a significant shift in how women’s roles are perceived at the national level.

     OVERCOMING RESISTANCE AND BUILDING RESILIENCE

    Despite her successes, the fight for gender equality, Bezel admits, is not an easy one.

    “Changing these perceptions is no small task—it takes time, persistence, and resilience. One of the greatest challenges is facing harsh criticism and resistance, which can be discouraging,”

    But Bezel finds strength in her team at WRAM and in the powerful stories of the people she works with.

    “Together, we shoulder the weight of this important work, leaning on each other for encouragement and strength. This collective commitment reminds me that change, while slow and difficult, is possible when driven by a united and determined team. It’s this shared vision of a more just and equal society that inspires me to keep pushing forward, even in the face of challenges,” she added.

    ADVOCACY THROUGH STORYTELLING

    Storytelling is central in Bazel’s advocacy “because it allows for the effective communication of important messages.”

    “When people lack access to certain media or resources, a straightforward, thought-provoking message can make a significant impact. It’s about ensuring that the right information reaches people in a way that resonates with them, often in the simplest forms of communication,” she says.

    “These messages can help inform, raise awareness, and drive action on critical issues. By making the information accessible and relatable, we can engage people more effectively, helping them understand the importance of the cause,” Bazel adds.

    LESSON LEARNED

    Bezel’s journey in activism has been shaped by invaluable lessons from her time with DPASI and WRAM. These lessons have guided her approach to driving meaningful change:

    Keep messaging simple and inclusive: Craft clear, concise messages that resonate with diverse audiences and inspire action.

    Be strategic in advocacy: Effective advocacy requires understanding processes and systems, challenging them strategically with clear objectives.

    Persevere and find a way: Persistence is key in advocacy, whether engaging with leaders or communities, by understanding perspectives and finding common ground to connect your message to the cause.

    A CALL FOR ACTION

    Bezel urges individuals and groups to actively share information on gender, environmental, and human rights issues in all aspects of life, from dinner tables to workplaces, to raise awareness and drive change.

    She emphasizes the importance of addressing gender-based violence, engaging in difficult conversations, and ensuring respect for all individuals.

    She envisions a successful outcome where young women confidently take up leadership roles and contribute to decision-making across all sectors, breaking barriers and creating inclusive environments.

    “Ultimately, I envision a shift in societal attitudes, where respect and equality form the foundation of how we treat one another. While I recognize that changing societal attitudes is a complex challenge, as advocates, giving up is simply not an option,” she adds

    Free clinics conducted in Choiseul Province

    Written by
    Admin
    -
    0

    BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

    Choiseul Province is one of the provinces that faces challenges with transportation, underdeveloped healthcare, and shortages in medicine and medical services due to its remoteness.

    This year, 2024, the Choiseul Provincial Government invited and warmly welcomed the 3rd China Medical Team (CMT) to conduct free clinics in the province from December 3 to 10.

    The visit was the first large-scale visit by a specialized medical team to the province and marked the eighth medical outreach visit to provinces in the Solomon Islands by the CMT since 2022.

    The eight-member team included Team Leader Dr. Mu Mao, Urologist Dr. Zhong Quliang, Cardiologist Dr. Wei Bo, Nephrologist Dr. Tang Yinqian, Acupuncturists Dr. Xu Ming and Dr. Li Danmao, Interpreter Mr. Huang Bailin, and Chef Mr. Zhang Yuangang.

    Mr. Harrison Pitakaka, Premier of Choiseul Province, highlighted the visit as a testament to the strong bilateral relations between China and the Solomon Islands and China’s commitment to building a community with a shared future for humanity. He expressed gratitude for the specialized medical services brought by the CMT and his belief in the success of the medical trip.

    In response, CMT team leader Dr. Mu Mao expressed his honor at visiting the province and conveyed the team’s passion for providing high-quality medical services in acupuncture, cardiology, urology, and nephrology. He emphasized the event’s potential to deepen mutual understanding and strengthen the traditional friendship between the two nations.

    The team conducted medical consultations at Taro and Sasamunga Hospitals from December 4 to 9, offering services in acupuncture, cardiology, urology, and nephrology. The activities included specialized medical consultations, clinical experience sharing, rural clinic visits, and donations of medicines and supplies.

    A total of 461 medical treatments and consultations were provided to residents, with local doctors and nurses actively collaborating and contributing to the success of the free clinic services.

    During the visit, 243 patients were treated with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) using acupuncture. Mr. Watson, a patient, shared his story of enduring hand and foot pain for four months, which left him unable to sleep or function normally. After receiving acupuncture, he reported immediate relief, expressing gratitude to the medical team for easing his suffering.

    Dr. Gift, a general practitioner at Taro Hospital, expressed appreciation for the opportunity to learn about cardiovascular clinical experience and skills from Dr. Wei and hoped to gain further expertise in the field upon returning to the National Referral Hospital.

    The team donated essential medicines to Taro Hospital and presented T-shirts on behalf of Guizhou Province, China, extending the goodwill of the people of Guizhou Province. They also assessed the primary healthcare conditions at local rural clinics, donating items such as blood pressure monitors and herbal patches during the visit.

    William Timba, a health official in Choiseul, thanked the team for the donations, emphasizing their importance in improving hospital and community healthcare services.

    The Choiseul Provincial Government farewelled the team on December 9, where Premier Pitakaka thanked the medical team for their dedicated work and high-quality free services. He expressed hope for future visits by the CMT to enhance healthcare services and foster people-to-people exchanges and cooperation between the two countries.

    The CMT plans to continue its outreach efforts in other outer-island provinces and grassroots communities, leveraging their expertise to benefit local health and further strengthen the China-Solomon Islands friendship.

    Principals, teachers suspended over exam paper leakages

    Written by
    Admin
    -
    0

    BY INDY MAEALASIA

    THE principals and several teachers from three schools, allegedly involved in leaking national examination papers have been suspended, a tough move the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) recently made to tackle exam leakages.

    Minister Tozen Leokana gave this update during a committee of supply session in parliament on Wednesday.

    As part of the suspension, the ministry has given the affected individuals 28 days to respond, after which further deliberation on actions to be taken will follow.

    The Minister also confirmed that “appropriate actions” would be taken against students found to be involved in the leakage.

    As part of the ministry’s effort to prevent leakages, CCTV cameras had been installed in the printing rooms to closely monitor the printing and packaging of all examination papers. 

    Additionally, a new security measure enforced involved the coding of exam papers with the school, a system the minister emphasized as effective for tracking potential leakages if allegations arise.

    In response to questions from the Chair of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) and MP for Central Honiara, Gordon Darcy Lilo, regarding the printers contracted to print the papers, Leokana clarified that the printers were not the source of the problem. “So far, no issues have arisen from the printers,” he added.

    SADE SWORN IN

    Written by
    Admin
    -
    1

    BY INDY MAEALASIA

    IN its latest show of political stability, the Government of National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) has appointed the Member of Parliament (MP) for North West Guadalcanal, Francis Sade, as the new Minister of Public Service yesterday.

    This follows the resignation of former Public Service Minister and the MP for Renell and Bellona John Tuhaika Jr on Friday night just hours after GNUT described itself as “rock solid’, ahead of the Motion of No Confidence (MONC) on Monday.

    Sade’s sworn-in took place before the Governor-general, David Tiva Kapu, and was witnessed by Prime Minister, Jeremiah Manele, Deputy Prime Minister Bradley Tovosia, and other ministers at the government house.

    In a press statement, the government stated “Sade’s appointment will ensure continuity and, most importantly, task him with the implementation of government policies under the 2025 budget.”

    GNUT emphasized that ‘stable leadership’ is vital for implementing ‘its transformative projects and programs.”

    Before his ministerial appointment, Sade served as the Deputy Speaker of the National Parliament and was also the former premier of Guadalcanal province. 

    BUDGET PASSED

    Written by
    Admin
    -
    0

    Parliament passes $4.83 billion budget for 2025

    BY NED GAGAHE

    After five days of intense debate and scrutiny, the 12th Parliament yesterday officially passed the 2025 Appropriation Bill 2024, which allocates over $4.83 billion for government operations in the upcoming fiscal year.

    The Bill, which was tabled by Minister of Finance and Treasury, Manasseh Sogavare, on Monday, underwent rigorous scrutiny, beginning with the first and second readings in the past days.

    Following these readings, it was reviewed and amended during the Committee of Supply throughout the week.

    Yesterday, the Bill went through its final scrutiny at the committee stage before proceeding to the third and final reading.

    Minister Sogavare moved the motion during the third reading.

    “I move that the 2025 Appropriation Bill 2024, as amended, be read for the third time and do pass.” Sogavare said.

    The motion was met with unanimous support from all Members of Parliament, and the Bill was successfully passed at around 4:30 pm.

    The approved Bill authorizes a total expenditure of Four Billion, Eight Hundred and Thirty-Two Million, Two Hundred and Seventy-Three Thousand, Seven Hundred and Thirty-Nine Dollars ($4,832,273,739).

    This budget will be used to support the Government’s operations and services for the fiscal year 2025.

    MONC deferred to Monday

    Written by
    Admin
    -
    0
    Solomon Islands National Parliament

    By Ned Gagahe

    The debate on the Motion of No Confidence (MONC) in Parliament has been postponed to Monday, December 16, with Parliament prioritizing the completion of the budget process first, according to Clerk to Parliament, Jefferson Hallu.

    Speaking to Island Sun yesterday, Clerk Hallu explained that the MONC will follow the standard parliamentary procedure. The mover of the motion will present it, Members of Parliament (MPs) will debate it, and then it will be put to a vote.

    Hallu noted that under the Constitution, the motion requires an absolute majority to pass—at least 26 votes. Unlike routine votes in Parliament, the MONC vote will be conducted via roll call to ensure accuracy in the tally.

    When asked about the delay in tabling the motion, which matured on Thursday, Hallu clarified that while the MONC was due to be presented on Friday, there was no constitutional or procedural barrier preventing its deferral.

    He stated that the decision to delay the debate was made to avoid leaving the country in suspense over the national budget, which took precedence.

    “The idea is that there is a general consensus within Parliament to pass the budget first,” Hallu said.

    He emphasized the importance of completing the budget process without interruption before addressing the MONC in Parliament.

    The rescheduled debate on the MONC is now set for Monday, December 16, with attention shifting to how the proceedings will unfold following the budget’s passage.

    Meanwhile, Parliament officially passed the 2025 Appropriation Bill 2024 yesterday. The Bill allocates over $4.83 billion for government operations in the upcoming fiscal year.

    The approved legislation authorizes a total expenditure of Four Billion, Eight Hundred and Thirty-Two Million, Two Hundred and Seventy-Three Thousand, Seven Hundred and Thirty-Nine Dollars ($4,832,273,739).

    This budget will support the Government’s operations and services for the fiscal year 2025.

    Outgoing Japanese Ambassador Miwa Yoshiaki farewelled

    Written by
    Admin
    -
    0

    BY NED GAGAHE

    At a farewell reception held on Wednesday, Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Peter Shanel Agovaka, bid a warm farewell to Japan’s Ambassador to the Solomon Islands,Miwa Yoshiaki, who is concluding his nearly three-year tenure in the country.

    A farewell reception was held on Wednesday to honor Miwa Yoshiaki, with the event attended by prominent dignitaries, including senior government officials, heads of diplomatic missions, provincial premiers, the Leader of the Opposition, and other distinguished guests.

    Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele was unable to attend the event due to a Parliament sitting; however, Minister Agovaka represented the government at the ceremony.

    In his keynote address Minister Agovaka expressed his gratitude to Ambassador Miwa for his dedicated service, acknowledging the strengthening of ties between the two nations since the establishment of their diplomatic relations in 1978.

    “Japan is one of the few countries that Solomon Islands forged diplomatic relationships with when we gained our political independence, and our relationship has stood the test of time.

    “It has grown from strength to strength, and Ambassador Miwa has played a crucial role in this continued growth.”

    Agovaka commended Miwa for his contributions, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, when Japan demonstrated its support for the Solomon Islands.

    “Within three months of his posting in 2022, Ambassador Miwa delivered on Japan’s commitment to assist our COVID-19 efforts with a grant worth $10 million Solomon dollars,” Agovaka said.

    Over the course of his tenure, Miwa’s efforts have contributed significantly to the ongoing development cooperation between the two nations.

    The Minister highlighted key milestones, including the historic visit of Japan’s Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi in March 2023, marking the first visit by a Japanese foreign minister to the Solomon Islands since diplomatic ties were established.

    Under Ambassador Miwa’s leadership, Japan also provided vital assistance to various projects in the Solomon Islands, such as the establishment of the Solomon Islands National University Fisheries Research Centre and numerous grassroots human security projects.

    Miwa was frequently present at handover ceremonies, engaging with local communities and becoming a familiar face in the Solomon Islands.

    A particularly memorable event was the Ambassador’s visit to Wagina last month, where he attended a graduation ceremony and witnessed the completion and handover of the Japanese-funded Nikumaroro Community Hall “Te Maneaba.”

    “I am sure that over the time you have spent in Honiara, you have built many good relationships and friendships with the people of the Solomon Islands. For this, and many other reasons, you will be dearly missed.” Agovaka said.

    Speaking to the Island Sun, Ambassador Miwa expressed his heartfelt thanks to the Solomon Islands government and people for their warm hospitality and support throughout his tenure.

    “It has been an honor to serve as Japan’s Ambassador to the Solomon Islands. The friendship between our two countries has grown stronger every year, and I am proud to have played a part in furthering this important relationship.” Miwa said.

    Miwa reflected on the moments that had left a lasting impact during his time in the country, including the challenges posed by the global pandemic.

    The Ambassador also expressed his admiration for the Solomon Islands’ people.

    “The warmth, kindness, and resilience of the people here have deeply touched me. I will always carry these memories with me,” Miwa added.

    “I truly hope that the relationship between Japan and the Solomon Islands will continue to flourish in the years to come.” Ambassador Miwa said.

    In concluding his speech, Minister Agovaka raised a toast in honor of Ambassador Miwa’s service.

    “On behalf of the government and the people of the Solomon Islands, I wish you all the best in the next chapter of your life,” he said.

    “May our countries continue to deepen our friendship for many years to come.” Agovaka said.

    Design for Kilu’ufi hospital project unveil

    Written by
    Admin
    -
    0
    Exif_JPEG_420

    BY SAMIE WAIKORI

    Architectural design for the Japanese funded $120 million project for the improvement of Kilu’ufi hospital in Auki, Malaita province has unveiled.

    The design will see improvement to some of the current infrastructure at Kilu’ufi hospital even an expansion to provide more space for services at the hospital.

    The plan for the expansion of the hospital will mostly cover its eastern wing, where a soccer was located on the edge of the hospital.

    This is where most work of the project will focus. According to a senior staff at the hospital, the design for the project has gone through lots of review till this final design.

    He stressed that one important area the hospital management had discussed with Japan when designing the project is the operational cost of the hospital.

    “We try as much to ensure the project is design in a way where require health service is offer to people with less operational cost.

    “This is important for better management of the cost to run the hospital. Now, Kitano is here and has began work on the project,” the staff said.

    The staff added that the current design has also considered rooms for further expansion and development of Kilu’ufi provincial hospital.

    According to Japanese Ambassador, His Excellency MIWA Yoshiaki, the project will not only offer clinical services but bolster infrastructure at the hospital.

    While the project will provide central clinic and delivery departments, it will also strengthen water supply system, electricity and sewerage at the hospital.

    The project is also designed as an alternative to National Referral Hospital, where it will help a lot in off-loading burdens from NRH in Honiara.

    He project has already been implemented and expect to complete in the first quarter of 2026.

    $300 Police clearance fee

    Written by
    Admin
    -
    0
    Chairperson Kolombangara Development Advisory Committee (KDAC), Hon. Jimson Fiau Tanagada MP, during discussions held this week.

    By Ned Gagahe

    The fee for police clearance certificates is set to increase from $90 to $300 next year, as announced by the Minister for Police, National Security, and Correctional Services, Jimson Fiau Tanangada, during a parliamentary session yesterday.

    Opposition Leader Matthew Wale raised concerns during the Committee of Supply session, questioning the significant $5.3 million in revenue allocated under the Police Ministry’s budget for police services.

    Wale specifically asked about the services provided by the police, focusing on the revenue generated from police clearances. He noted that the current cost for a clearance is approximately $100 and sought clarification on whether other services contribute to the $5.3 million revenue.

    In response, Minister Tanangada confirmed that the current fee for a police clearance is $90. However, he announced plans to raise the fee to $300 next year under new regulations, explaining that the increase would modestly boost police revenue.

    The Opposition Leader strongly opposed the proposed hike, emphasizing the financial strain it would impose on individuals, particularly aspiring Labour Mobility Unit (LMU) workers, who may struggle to afford the higher fee.

    Wale argued that the existing $100 fee was reasonable and sufficient, urging the government to reconsider the proposed increase. He highlighted the additional financial pressures many people already face, including medical expenses.

    “Times are tough, and it’s already hard for people to come up with $100,” Wale said. “The proposed $300 fee will place an undue burden on the public. I urge the Minister to review this decision and keep the fee at $100.”

    The Opposition Leader’s plea underscores concerns about balancing revenue generation with affordability for the public.

    MILLION-DOLLAR SUPPORT

    Written by
    Admin
    -
    0

    MPG to receive $11 million PCDF funding

    BY SAMIE WAIKORI

    AUKI

    The Malaita Provincial Government (MPG) is set to receive $11 million in funding from the national government through the Provincial Capacity Development Fund (PCDF) program this year.

    This allocation follows the province’s recent qualification for the PCDF program after nearly three years of disqualification from this critical government funding initiative.

    Malaita Provincial Secretary, Mr. Eric George, announced the funding after attending a Joint Oversight Committee (JOC) meeting in Honiara, where the PCDF program was a key topic of discussion.

    George confirmed Malaita Province’s $11 million allocation, commending the collective efforts that led to passing the recent PCDF assessment.

    However, he emphasized that further improvements are necessary, particularly in areas that affect the performance measures of the PCDF program.

    “The province hasn’t done enough, as reflected in the recent assessment report, but qualifying for the PCDF program is far better than being disqualified,” George admitted.

    He explained that the $11 million funding is based on the points scored by the province in meeting the minimum conditions of the PCDF program, with higher-scoring provinces receiving larger allocations.

    George stressed the importance of improving the province’s performance in future assessments and highlighted the need for a disciplined approach in utilizing the $11 million funding effectively.

    1...461462463...1,662Page 462 of 1,662