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Tavuli’s remarkable journey to success

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    BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

    Tavuli News, established in 2022, has quickly become a cornerstone of independent and relevant television news for the Solomon Islands.

    Operating with a modest team of seven employees, the organization delivers daily news and digital content across platforms such as its website, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

    This year, Tavuli News earned recognition at the Business Excellence Awards, a testament to the team’s dedication and significant progress as a business. Reflecting on the achievement, News Director Georgina Kekea shared, “For me, it’s a validation of our efforts to build an independent, sustainable media outlet. For the team, it’s a reflection of the collective dedication and teamwork that goes into every task.”

    Kekea highlighted that Tavuli News remains committed to providing meaningful news to the Solomon Islands community while upholding values of integrity, transparency, and independence. The recognition underscores the importance of balancing sound business operations with editorial integrity in running a successful media organization.

    (Right -Left) Ana Do’oro (News Intern) , Ursula Nongebatu and George Noda.

    At the community level, Tavuli News serves as a trusted source of information, fostering civic dialogue and keeping the public informed on governance, social issues, and more. Nationally, the organization enhances the media landscape by promoting independent journalism and providing a platform for diverse perspectives.


    The journey to success has not been without challenges. One of the most significant hurdles was developing a sustainable business model. Kekea explained the necessity of balancing high-quality journalism with the financial realities of operating a media business.

    “We faced challenges in securing reliable revenue sources, managing resources efficiently, and navigating a competitive media environment. Innovation, adaptability, and a focus on long-term growth were crucial to overcoming these obstacles,” Kekea stated.

    A key turning point for Tavuli News was recognizing that journalism is only part of what sustains a successful media organization. By focusing on financial management, marketing, and audience engagement, the team made notable advancements in growth and sustainability.

    (Left to Right) Ema Emma Komasi and Lisa Osifelo during the Business Excellence Night this year.


    Kekea emphasized the need for greater advocacy and support for small businesses, particularly those owned by indigenous Solomon Islanders.

    “This award highlights the challenges small enterprises face in a competitive market. We urge the government and other authorities to prioritize policies and initiatives that provide tangible support for local businesses. Creating a favorable environment for small enterprises can unlock opportunities that benefit the entire community,” she appealed.

    Kekea concluded by encouraging aspiring journalists and media professionals to adopt a comprehensive approach, focusing on both editorial and operational aspects of the business.

    “Determination, creativity, and dedication to independence are vital for building a successful career in this field,” she said.

    MPG and stakeholders celebrate International Children’s Day

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    BY SAMIE WAIKORI

    Schoolchildren from primary schools in and around Auki joined the Malaita Provincial Government (MPG), Save the Children, and other stakeholders to celebrate International Children’s Day in Auki.

    The celebration, themed ‘Evri Pikinini Garem Sem Right’, emphasized the recognition of children’s rights to live in an environment where their rights are protected and not exploited.

    Guest speaker Chief Education Officer of the Malaita Education Authority, Mr. Andy Siarani, highlighted that the principle of “all children having the same rights” is enshrined in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), to which Solomon Islands is a signatory.

    He explained that the CRC outlines fundamental rights every child should enjoy, including the right to survival, education, protection from exploitation and abuse, and participation in decisions affecting their lives.

    Siarani further emphasized that the CRC stresses non-discrimination, ensuring no child is excluded or treated unfairly due to race, religion, disability, or social status. It also acknowledges the importance of family, culture, and community in children’s lives, ensuring they can express their views and be heard on matters that impact them.

    “These rights aim to provide children access to opportunities for development, care, and protection, enabling them to reach their full potential,” Siarani said.

    He also noted the challenges in upholding these rights globally, particularly in situations of poverty, conflict, or discrimination. Nevertheless, he underscored the universal goal: to ensure all children, regardless of their circumstances, have equal dignity, rights, and opportunities to thrive.

    As part of the celebrations, children toured public offices and facilities, including the Malaita Provincial Office, magistrate’s office, correctional center, and police station. Skits were also performed, highlighting societal practices that undermine children’s rights.

    Mataniko river clean-up attracts youths

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    BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

    A significant number of young people participated in the voluntary clean-up initiative at Mataniko River on Saturday.

    The clean-up effort, aimed at removing debris from the river, commenced at 8 a.m. and concluded at 1 p.m.

    In addition to the youth, the initiative attracted a diverse group of dedicated volunteers from the Non-Government Organization (NGO), Honiara City Council (HCC), students, and community members from Honiara.

    To improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the operation, the river was divided into designated zones: Zone 1 stretched from the river mouth to the Rainbow Shop, Zone 2 from the Rainbow Shop to the old bridge, and Zone 3 from the old bridge to Number 3, reaching as far as the Tuvaruhu area.

    Each zone was equipped with a boot for waste storage, which was weighed before being transported to a rubbish bin vehicle for disposal at Ranadi.

    The clean-up, which focused on eliminating plastic waste from the Mataniko River, saw participants utilizing boats to retrieve plastic bottles, butane gas canisters, and other debris.

    The collected waste was subsequently transported by the Honiara City Council to the Ranadi dumping site in East Honiara for proper disposal.

    Foursquare Gospel Light school closes 2024 academic year on a high note

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    BY NED GAGAHE

    Foursquare Gospel Light Christian School in Henderson, East Honiara, celebrated the successful close of the 2024 academic year on Wednesday, November 20, hosting distinguished guests from the Ministry of Education, the PNG High Commissioner, and the private sector Bemobile.

    The event was attended by distinguished guests, the school community, parents, teachers, and supporters.

    Deputy Secretary for Corporate Services of the Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development (MEHRD) Coldrine Kolae, PNG High Commissioner to Solomon Islands Moses Kaul, and Chief Executive Officer of Bemobile Devan Kula were among the guests at the event.

    A key highlight of the day was the presentation of dux awards to three top students from grade six, form three, and TVET. The awards were sponsored by Bemobile.

    Foursquare Gospel Light School provides Early Childhood Education up to Form Three level, as well as Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

    The school was founded by PNG missionaries to Solomon Islands, Reverend Titus Luther and his wife Aiva Luther, who have been serving with the Foursquare Mission since 2005. For the past 19 years, they have dedicated their lives to empowering, inspiring, and fostering social change and development through the transformative power of God’s word.

    Speaking at the event, Reverend Titus Luther acknowledged God for His faithfulness.

    “Let us begin by acknowledging the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We serve a truly good and faithful God, one who remains faithful to us even when we fall short. He is good at all times, even when we fail to do what we should. We are grateful for His presence here today, especially in this Christian country, where we enjoy freedom in Him.”

    Reverend Titus Luther also expressed his deep appreciation for the hardworking teachers, emphasizing that without their dedication, the professionals shaping the nation and the world—such as engineers, doctors, pilots, pastors, and more—would not exist. He added that every individual has been touched by a teacher, for which they are truly thankful.

    “By the grace of God and with His help, we began this journey on the right path. With the support of our dedicated teachers, board members, and parents, we were able to establish a strong foundation for this education center.

    “Last year, we were blessed to see our efforts bear fruit, culminating in the commissioning of our facility in July. This year, we faced many challenges, but we embraced them as opportunities to grow. Despite setbacks, our committed staff worked tirelessly, teaching and inspiring our students while navigating the challenges. Their dedication has been a powerful motivator, continuously driving us forward in our mission to provide quality education,” Reverend Titus Luther said.

    Guest of Honor, MEHRD Deputy Secretary for Corporate Services Coldrine Kolae, congratulated the school leaders, including the ECE, Primary and Secondary teachers, Education Provider, the school board, parents, guardians, and supporters.

    “The 2024 year has been one of the most successful for our education system. Despite the challenges of the past few years, including the impact of COVID-19 and the hosting of the Pacific Games, our education system was disrupted.

    “However, I am proud to say that we were able to complete the academic year successfully, maintaining high educational standards. One thing I am particularly proud of is that we were able to finish our schools in line with the school calendar set by the Ministry of Education,” Kolae said.

    His Excellency Moses Kaul, Papua New Guinea’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, said today is a special day for Foursquare Gospel Light School.

    “I am incredibly proud to be part of today’s celebration. Congratulations! You truly deserve it, and you deserve a loud round of applause.”

    Excellency Moses Kaul inspired the students by sharing how, during his primary school days in PNG, he would walk long distances to school every morning.

    “It’s not easy; it requires hard work. I never imagined that one day I would be where I am today. I stand here with deep pride, thanking God for the blessings He has bestowed upon me,” High Commissioner Kaul said.

    Devan Kula, Chief Executive Officer of Bemobile Solomon Islands, inspired the students by sharing the story of the lion as the king of the jungle.

    “Why is it the lion seen as the king of the jungle?”

    “The lion is not the biggest animal, the smartest animal, or the fastest animal, but still, it is seen as the king of the jungle.

    “Because lions have an attitude and mindset to be the king of the jungle,” Mr. Kula said.

    CEO Kula encouraged students to have the right attitude.

    “Graduates, as you move into this new stage of your life, remember: you must strive to be better than you are today. Leave behind any misbehavior and embrace change, especially in your attitude. Be kings and queens in your community, adopt the mindset of a lion, and lead with strength. This is a new chapter for you, and the future begins now.

    “Don’t wait for tomorrow—be the leaders of today, in your classrooms, homes, and communities. Our country needs you to rise up and contribute to a brighter future. Congratulations on reaching this milestone, from early childhood through to secondary and TVET. Enjoy your celebration, but come back next year with renewed energy and purpose!” Mr. Kula said.

    Foursquare Gospel Light Christian School was founded in 2007 as a Bible school, and in 2014, it expanded with the opening of a kindergarten.

    Since then, the school has grown to include both primary and secondary education. In 2018, the school further broadened its offerings by establishing a TVET Centre.

    Looking ahead, the school plans to expand its secondary sector to include Form Four next year.

    Drunken person arrested for damaging counter

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    By Loretta B Manele

    A drunken person was arrested by police in Tulagi for damaging the counter of a canteen at Salesapa village, Central province on 17th Nov.

    Police Commissioner Mostyn Mangau said the incident happened on 13th Nov around 10 am in the morning.

    During this time, the suspect was drunk and entered the victim’s private area without consent.

    He then threw half a brick towards front of the canteen that was attached to the dwelling house of the victim causing damage to the counter of the canteen.

    The motive behind this issue was that the suspect disagreed that the complainant delayed his payment.

    This matter was reported to the police and the suspect was arrested and is being dealt with by the police.

    Mangau said issues like this comes back to us people in the sense that we must have an understanding that it’s better to approach each other when we have any disagreements rather than resorting to drinking alcohol and taking the laws into our own hands while under the influence of alcohol.

    Ruling for grievous harm case bail application Nov 27

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    BY ROMINAH FAKA

    Ruling for the case of a man accused of intending to cause grievous harm on his niece will be made on November 27.

    James Sugegeo is charged with one count of intent to cause grievous harm.

    Ruling was administratively adjourned from Thursday this week.

    The defendant in this matter is the uncle of the victim. He resided with the complainant’s family.

    Allegations said on November 10 the defendant was drinking kwaso and an argument broke out between him and the complainant.

    He then tackled his niece to the ground and took out a kitchen knife from his bag and stabbed her right thigh twice and her right-side ribs.

    The defendant then escaped when the girl’s mother shouted at them and rushed in.

    The mother then rushed her daughter to the National Referral Hospital with the help of the police.

    Later the defendant was apprehended and charged.

    Jeremy Oiofa of Office of Public Prosecution act for crown.

    Angel tree program brings smiles to children’s faces

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    By Loretta B Manele

    The Prison Fellowship Solomon Islands’ (PFSI) Angel Tree program brought smiles to the children of inmates yesterday at the Rove Correctional centre.

    They received bible teachings from the Child Evangelical Fellowship Program, entertainment and later Christmas presents.

    This program aims to connect inmates with their children through Christmas gifts.

    Gabriel Bate’e, president of PFSI whilst speaking at the occasion said the primary purpose of the Angel Tree program is to foster and heal the relationships between an inmate and his or her child.

    He stressed that children of inmates are often overlooked, forgotten, rejected and scorned by society.

    Bate’e however, pointed out that children should not be punished by their parents’ mistakes.

    He said the program provides the opportunity to demonstrate the tangible love and compassion of Jesus Christ to children and families in need and to help restore damaged child-parent relationships through the separation caused by imprisonment.

    Chris Bwekuli, who represented the office of the police commissioner and executive voiced that a simple gift can remind a child that they are seen, valued and loved.

    He added that it can also remind a parent that they are not alone in their journey toward redemption.

    Inspector Jimmy Aega, RISPF Director for programs and rehab acknowledged PFSI for their support of the Angel Tree program.

    “We would also like to extend our deepest appreciation to Prison Fellowship Solomon Islands (PFSI) for their ongoing support of the Angel Tree Program”

    He said through their dedication and effort, they have been able to provide gifts and bring smiles to so many faces.

    “Your work makes a tangible difference in the lives of these children and we thank you for your steadfast commitment to this cause”

    RSIPF receives three firetrucks

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    BY INDY MAEALASIA

    The Fire and Rescue Service of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) will soon receive three fire trucks to enhance services across three provinces.

    In a contract signing earlier this week between the Fire Service and the Japanese Embassy in the Solomon Islands, Japan will provide USD 89,705 to procure second-hand vehicles. These trucks will be allocated to Western, Guadalcanal, and Malaita provinces.

    Donated by Japan’s Firefighters Association, Japan’s Ambassador, Miwa Yoshiaki, expressed his hopes that the vehicles would be put to good use by the communities. He emphasized Japan’s deep interest in fostering strong community commitment, stating, “We are looking forward to seeing the successful completion of this project in the near future, resulting in a stronger relationship between Japan and the Solomon Islands.”

    Director of Fire-Supervising, James Ketaru, described the assistance and donation as a “milestone” for the Fire Service.

    “I applaud the government and the people of Japan for your continuous support,” he remarked.

    Ketaru emphasized that the donation is timely, as some of the vehicles are experiencing mechanical faults, making it difficult to respond to emergencies in a timely manner.

    “But with your generous donation, it will help alleviate and boost fire and emergency responses to the expected standard, thus saving lives, protecting government properties, business houses, and the properties of the people of Solomon Islands,” he said.

    Ketaru also expressed his appreciation to the Japanese government and its people for their support.

    “I acknowledge and salute them for this generous gift,” he added.

    Fauabu clinic receives ambulance

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    BY INDY MAEALASIA

    FAUABU Rural Health Clinic in Malaita Province is set to receive a much-needed ambulance, a significant boost to improving emergency healthcare services for the local population.

    Earlier this week, a contract was signed between the Japanese Embassy of the Solomon Islands and representatives of Fauabu Clinic, which will allow Japan to fund the logistics and shipment of the second-hand ambulance, amounting to USD 31,346.

    Japan’s ambassador, Miwa Yoshiaki, announced the honor of supporting such a project, emphasizing that it will improve the lives of the people.

    “This project is a very good example of how the people of Japan can cooperate with the people of the Solomon Islands for its development, and we believe this gift will have a positive impact,” Ambassador Miwa said.

    Situated in West Fataleka, Fauabu Clinic is one of two health centers managed by the Anglican Church of Melanesia (ACOM) and is estimated to serve 6,000-7,000 people.

    A key challenge currently faced is transporting patients in critical condition safely to the provincial hospital, Kilufi.

    “The need arises when referring patients in critical conditions to Kilufi,” Oeta said. He pointed out that patients usually travel on public transport but, at times, are unable to make it.

    “We have been losing lives along the way,” he remarked. However, with the recent signing allowing Japan to come on board, Oeta expressed his hopes of seeing positive changes.

    “It is a great relief for the clinic,” he said. “It is not just a vehicle, but a life-saving piece of equipment that will save lives in that area.”

    Chairman of the operating officer of ACOM, Pete Pitia, expressed his appreciation to Japan for the timely assistance and pledged to work closely with the Japanese government.

    2 chiefs arrested for demanding money

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    Police Commissioner Mostyn Mangau.

    By Loretta B Manele

    Police officers in Tulagi arrested two chiefs from Salesapa village in Central province for demanding money.

    According to Police Commissioner Mostyn Mangau, the arrest was done during police patrol in Small Ngella on the 17th of this month.

    It was alleged that the two chiefs were drunk and approached the victim and his family and demanded SBD $10,000 for compensation.

    The two suspects demanded money from the family because one of the sons of one of the family members had an affair with a girl.

    These chiefs claimed that the girl was pregnant so they were drunk and went to the family and demanded money from them.

    However, there was no proof of pregnancy as reported by the medical authority so the two suspects were arrested and will appear court at a later date.

    Mangau appeals to elders in communities, especially to chiefs as well as church leaders and community leaders to deal with such matters using our traditional practices.

    “As a chief demanding compensation is not a good look in our culture. As chiefs we are the ones to solve such matters according to our traditional practices rather than taking the law into our own hands and demanding our people to pay compensation.

    I urge our community leaders to try and apply our cultural ways of sorting out such matters”

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