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WAKE-UP CALL

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Irwin Angiki
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-World Bank report launched today shows dire economic situation of Solomon Islands, proposes strategy to save our future

-If no improvement, by 2050 Solomons will only just reach Vanuatu’s economic level now, 2024

BY IRWIN ANGIKI

Solomon Islands needs to start improving now in order to avoid lagging far behind in development compared with the world and the region, a World Bank report has hinted.

One possible scenario is, if Solomons continues with business as usual, by 2050 we will reach the level where Vanuatu’s economy is at now, 2024.

But, if government wakes up and improves things, by 2040 we could reach the level where Indonesia’s economy is at now, 2024.

Finance Permanent Secretary McKinnie Dentana meanwhile told media on September 17th 2024 that these gaps in comparative development can be narrowed.

The ‘Solomon Islands: Country Economic Memorandum – Unlocking New Sources of Economic Growth’ Report which is set to be launched today by the World Bank and Government looks at the main barriers to sustainable economic development in the Solomon Islands.

It focuses on ‘cross-cutting challenges of economic geography and private sector development’.

During a pre-launch plug of the report yesterday, senior economists of World Bank and key authors of the report, Lodewijk Smets and Reshika Singh provided local media with the bigger picture.

Solomon Islands economy can be summarised perfectly by six features:

-Solomon Islands is a rural and dispersed economy

-Solomon Islands is urbanising at a fast pace

-The logging sector is in decline

-Non-logging sectors remain underdeveloped

-The formal private sector is small and largely based in Honiara

-Private sector faces several growth challenges

1. Solomon Islands is a rural and dispersed economy

Seventy-five percent of the Solomons’ population live in rural areas, across hundreds of islands. This small and dispersed population constrains the size of the local market and makes it challenging to get better incomes.

Large distances between populations, compounded by poor connectivity – poor quality roads, maritime infrastructure and shipping services and limited digitalization – and a high degree of exposure to natural disasters, make it costly to move goods, people, capital, and information within the country.

2. Solomon Islands is urbanising at a fast pace

Honiara’s population doubled in 10 years from 2009-2019, which represents one of the fastest rates of urbanisation in the world.

But, instead of delivering economic benefits, this rapid urbanisation gives rise to more economic problems such as increased urban under-employment along with the lack of structural transformation (services and infrastructure to allow for added value chain).

“Honiara is one of the fastest growing capitals in the world, and if we don’t have the capacity in government to deal with this massive influx, then we’ll have these problems,” media heard yesterday.

3. The logging sector is in decline

Logging contributes 22 percent of our gross domestic product (GDP), and in 2016 round log harvesting peaked at 3 million cubic metres. Last year, production dropped to 1.6 million cubic metres, which is still way above the sustainable threshold of 250 thousand cubic metres.

4. Non-logging sectors remain underdeveloped

The saying ‘Agriculture is the backbone of our economy’ is rendered hollow by the realities in the local sector.

Solomons suffers drastically from huge yield gaps in its main agricultural commodities, with none reaching even half of their potential.

With coconut, we only manage to harvest 33 percent of the potential (17,000 tonnes versus 54,000 tonnes). Banana fares worse at 0.3 percent.

In other sectors, we have an under-resourced coastal fisheries, limited tourism sector and small mining sector.

5. The formal private sector is small and largely based in Honiara

Eighty-five percent of businesses are in Honiara. Eighty percent of formal enterprises are micro, small and medium at 10 percent, and large enterprises at only 6 percent.

6. Private sector faces several growth challenges

The main obstacle for doing business is ‘Access to credit’, with corruption coming second.

Solomon Islands has one of the highest electricity tariffs in the world, but with low access to grid connectivity.

Regarding skills, 54 percent of workforce are under-educated.

With land, 80 percent is customary, and land registration is costly and lengthy, along with land disputes.

Recommendations

The World Bank proposes three growth strategies which government can help Solomon Islands salvage the dire situation it is in.

-Boost the rural economy – agriculture, fisheries – and connect them to urban markets.

-Support private sector development.

-Attract investment, especially foreign.

IMPROVING DOMESTIC AIR SERVICE

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Solomon Islands eyes acquisition of Y-12F aircraft from China

BY NED GAGAHE

In a move aimed at enhancing domestic air travel and cargo transport, the Solomon Islands government is considering the acquisition of a Y-12F aircraft from China.

Minister for Foreign Affairs, Peter Shanel Agovaka, made the announcement in Parliament last week, responding to a query from Opposition Leader Matthew Wale.

Minister Agovaka highlighted that the Y-12F aircraft is uniquely suited for the Solomon Islands, capable of accessing all 22 domestic airstrips without needing to refuel while carrying a full cargo load.

This stands in contrast to the existing Twin Otter aircraft, which requires refueling, thereby limiting its cargo capacity.

“This acquisition will significantly improve the movement of our people and goods between provinces, helping to address the backlog of passengers,” Agovaka stated.

During the Prime Minister’s official visit to China in July, an MOU on the Aviation Sector was also signed between the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) and the Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA) of the Solomon Islands.

This agreement is designed to foster cooperation in aviation, facilitating the exchange of best practices, information, and expertise.

“This partnership will enhance our aviation industry, which plays a critical role in connectivity, trade, and tourism,” Agovaka added.

MV Taimareho trial to continue October 1

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

Trial into the case of MV Taimareho will continue on October 1 for prosecution to continue with the crown witnesses.

Prosecution already called two witnesses, 17 more witness will be call. Crown also reserved the right to call more.

The accused Michael Roy Galo was charged with 27 counts of manslaughter.

Prosecution alleged Galo is the captain of the MV Taimareho 1 when the incident occurred at the sea between Guadalcanal and Malaita at the early house of April 3, 2020, which took the life of the 27 passengers.

In March of 2020, the National Government at that time came up with a repatriation plan amid fears of the COVID-19 which saw a number of people in Honiara leaving to their respective provinces.

On the night of 2 April 2020, MV Taimareho 1 left Honiara with 738 passengers despite the warning from the Maritime advising all vessels not to travel to provinces due to Clyclone Harold.

However, Mv Taimareho on its voyage to Are-are in Malaita.

It was alleged a huge wave struck the ship during the night and swept 27 people overboard.

The ship however, continue voyage and arrived at Su’u harbour on morning of April 3, 2020.

There the ship rested and head count conducted and were found that 27 passengers were missing.

Most of these missing passengers were mostly high school students.

Only six bodies were recovered after the search.

Steward Tonowane appears for the crown and George Gray appears for accused Galo.

Defence case for MHMS million-dollar scheme commences Monday

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

Trial of the Ministry of Health and Medical Service million-dollar scheme has adjourned for Monday September 23 for the defence’s case.

The defence counsel will call two witnesses the accused Robert Manu and one other witness.

On the last occasion, court make directions for the defence case to commence on November 18 however, defence lawyer for accused Manu inform the court he wants to continue with the defence case before he went for his medical checkup.

Prosecution charged Robert Many with four counts of Official Corruption contrary to section 91 (a) of the Penal Code Cap 26.

Manu pleaded not guilty to all the charges and trial was conducted.

Prosecution alleged between 2012 and 2013, the Ministry of Health and Medical Service (MHMS) has suffered from a 10-million -dollar conducted by officers within the ministry.

Within that same scheme between November 2012 and August 2013, MHMS also made 15 payments totaling 47,301,453.40 to two shipping companies, Eroba Shipping Services (Eroba) and Joke Shipping (Joke). Both companies were managed by John Biliki and Wesley Poloso.

An internal audit by MHMS in August 2013 uncovered significant irregularities with these payments.

The audit found all 15 payments to be fraudulent and suspected collusion between MHMS officials, as well as shipping agents, to defraud the Solomon Islands Government by bypassing application for project proposals.

The accused Robert Manu, who was a Procurement Officer at MHMS, was involved in raising 12 of these 15 payments.

Office of Public Prosecution appears for Crown and Jim Seuika for the accused Manu.

Closing submission for rape case adjourned for Oct 4

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

THE closing submission for a case against a man accused of raping his niece is expected to return in court on October 4.

The accused who cannot be named to protect the identity of the victims pleaded not guilty to one count of sexual intercourse with a child under 15 and one count of persistent sexual abuse of a child.

The trial was held in the High Court where prosecution called three witnesses, the two victims and another witness.

After the prosecution completed its case, the accused opt to remain silent and his defence lawyer called one other witness only.

Court adjourns to October 4 for parties to file their closing sentencing submissions.

The two victims were aged 8 and 14 when the offences occurred in 2022 and 2023. The accused is their uncle.

Court heard the first victim who 8 years old at the time of the incident, was sweeping outside of their house, when the accuse showed his private body part to her.

When she tried to escape, the accused allegedly shot her leg with a stone, causing her to fall.

When she was on the ground, the accused went to her and carried her into his house there he sexually abused and raped her.

After the incident the accused gave the victim money.

The second victim was aged 14 years old when the incident occurred, and the accused threatened her with a bush knife and raped her in two occasions in 2022.

In January 2023, the accused again committed the offence on the 14-year-old again when she was on her way home after selling cassava at the Kastom Garden market.

Prosecution stated that after these incidents, the accused fled into hiding.

Seven months of hiding, he returned at 4am on August 21, 2023 to his sister’s house where he indecently assaulted his other niece.

That was when people living in the area spotted him and captured him.

Defence lawyer Delilah Kukura of Public Solicitor’s Office represents the accused whilst Prosecutors Hellen Naqu and Georgina Oroi act for the Crown.

Malaita government issues $800k grant to wards

Written by
Samie Waikori
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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

Malaita provincial government has so far dished out about $800,000 ward grants to 33 ward development committees (WDCs) in the province.

The grant is to implement WDC’s annual work plan for the last financial year, 2023-2024, even some WDCs begin implementing projects under their annual plan for this financial year 2024-2025.

Acting Provincial Secretary of Malaita province, who is the province’s Deputy PS Peter Herehura said WDCs are engaged in implementing projects in their wards.

He said MPG will continue to issue ward grants to WDC if they complete implementing funds issued to them on quarterly basis.

Herehura however said that depends on reports of how the previous grant was used as detail of the report will be subjected to monitoring and evaluation.

He said MPG considered ward development grant as a second priority to staff salaries and with that commitment a separate account has created for ward grants.

Herehura said this is to avoid delay of ward grant and other issues faced with issuing of ward grants as experienced in the past years.

He said MPG is committed to ensure flow of ward grants to WDCs with mechanisms in place despite challenges of fund as always experiences.

Herehura said this is to ensure WDCs implement services captured under the work plans for the benefit of rural communities.

Ward development grants made up of 15 percent of the provincial service grant and 85 percent of revenue from the province.

High Court welcomes two new puisne judges

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The High Court of Solomon Islands.

BY ROMINAH FAKA


High Court have welcomed Justice Augustine Sylver Aulanga and the Justice Michael Collin Pitakaka as Puisne judges.


Speaking in the welcoming ceremony on Friday last week, Chief Justice Sir Albert Palmer thanked them sincerely for accepting the offer of appointment “not only to further their career development in the high office of a judge, but also as contribution and service to this beloved country”.


Palmer in his remarks said the number of cases annually filed is between 500-600 and so the need for more judges is an ongoing concern.


“So, with the addition of these two new judges, the capacity and responsiveness will be enhanced,” he said.
“Remember the role of a judge is not merely to interpret the law but to uphold the very principles of justice and fairness. Your decisions will have a profound impact on the lives of individuals and the integrity of our legal system. So, approach each case with open mind and a deep sense of responsibility.


“Embrace the importance of empathy in your deliberations. Understand the human stories behind the cases as it will guide you towards decisions that reflect not only the letter of the law but also its spirit. Justice must be accessible and compassionate, and tempered with mercy.


“Always remain committed to continuous learning. Law is ever-evolving and staying abreast of new development, both in legislation and societal values will enhance the ability to render informed judgments. Engage with your colleagues, participate in seminars, and seek mentorship, never underestimate the value of collaboration and shared wisdom. Be assured that your brother judges and sister judge are always available to provide a helpful advice or guidance in decision making and judgment, or in any other issue that you have be confronted with,” Palmer said.


Palmer urged the two new judges to maintain integrity and independence in all their dealings.


“The judiciary is the cornerstone of our democracy, and your role is crucial in safeguarding its principles. Let your judgment be guided by the law and your conscience, free from external pressures or influences. Always remember to maintain your objectivity and impartiality in the hearing process and decisions that you two make.


“We look forward to working closely with you two as you contribute towards developing the jurisprudence of a small emerging nation, striving to preserve peace and stability, and to help build a fairer and just society for the people of Solomon Islands.”

Waneoroa’s strike-out application of petition adjourned Sept 23

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

The hearing into MP Daniel Waneoroa’s application to strike out the petition against him has been moved to September 23.

The matter was listed for hearing yesterday, but the Attorney General’s chambers representative did not turn up in court.

There are also outstanding documents that are yet to be settled before the hearing takes place.

The petitioner Jimmy Lusibaea filed a total of four grounds against MP Waneoroa (two for bribery, one tampering and one unlawful voting).

And for the second respondent, which is the electoral commission, represented by the Attorney General’s Chamber, Lusibaea filed two allegations against them – first for tampering of voters’ lists and secondly, the petitioner claimed presiding officer give ballot papers to cash multiple votes during the election.

Waneoroa’s lawyer filed an application to have the petition struck out saying the petition’s case was frivolous and vexatious, and cannot be sustained in a trial.

Waneoroa is the newly elected Member of Parliament for North Malaita Constituency.

L& L Lawyers represents Waneoroa the first respondent, and Attorney General’s Chamber represents the second respondent, and Taupongi Law Practice represents Lusibaea.

PM Manele urges fresh approach to innovation within legal services

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Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele.

BY NED GAGAHE

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has called on the Office of the Attorney General to embrace innovation to address the challenges posed by modern technology and climate change.

He made the call at the opening of the Inaugural Attorney- General’s Conference of Parties 2024 at Mendana Hotel, yesterday.

The event is the first of its kind to be hosted by the Attorney General Chambers from 16 – 18 September 2024.

Prime Minister Manele also pointed out that embracing new technologies and approaches will strengthen the Office’s ability to respond to the dynamic landscape of legal and environmental challenges.

The Prime Minister stated that the Attorney General’s Chambers is essential in advising the government on legal strategies for managing environmental risks, including the development of environmental protection laws and participation in international agreements to meet our global obligations.

He stated that the rise of the digital age has brought about new legal challenges, particularly in areas like cybersecurity and data protection.

Manele said the Attorney- General’s Chambers must navigate these issues to ensure that our laws protect against cyber threats while promoting digital innovation.

He reminded the Attorney General’s duties as the guardianship of the Constitution and rule of law.

“It is the Attorney General’s responsibility to ensure that the government’s actions comply with constitutional principles and that citizens’ fundamental rights are protected,” Manele stated

“The Chambers also ensures that legal services are delivered efficiently across the public sector, working with Government Ministries and Provincial Governments to improve governance and public administration.

“As the nation continues to grow, the role of the Attorney General remains vital in shaping our legal landscape.

Prime Minister Manele stated the conference reflects the Chamber’s commitment to fostering dialogue, building partnerships, and creating a more just and equitable legal system.

The Inaugural Attorney- General’s Conference of Parties 2024 is a three days conference of legal stakeholders and partners, amongst other important deliveries, the desired outcome is to ensure legal services are delivered effectively for the good of our citizens.

The primary objective of the conference is to deepen participants understanding of the crucial role the Attorney- General Chambers plays in government.

It also encourages dialogue and coordination between the Chambers and other government bodies, improving the effectiveness of public service delivery.

Another objective is to explore how the Attorney- General’s Chambers can adapt to the rapidly changing landscape of modern governance.

Prime Minister Manele wrapped up by stating, “Let this conference be a foundation for enacting policies and reforms that will enhance our institutions, support our people, and uphold the rule of law across our esteemed nation.”

AG Chambers hosts first-ever conference of parties

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BY NED GAGAHE

The historic Attorney General’s Conference of Parties kicked off at Solomon Kitano Mendana Hotel yesterday, themed “The Role of the Attorney-General in the Provision of Legal Services in Contemporary States.”

The three-days conference will run from September 16 – 18, 2024, is the first of its kind hosted by the AG’s office, marking a significant milestone for both the office and the nation.

The event was graced by Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele where he delivered the keynote address.

In his welcoming remarks Attorney General John Muria Jnr warmly welcomed the attendees of the inaugural Attorney-General’s Conference of Parties.

The Attorney General thanked the Government and People of Australia for funding the event through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), Australia through the Australia Solomon Islands Partnership in Justice Sector.

Attorney General Muria Jnr said the idea to host the event was conceived in 2018, however, due to COVID -19, the 2023 Pacific Games and Joint National General Election discussion on the conference was sidelined until this year.

“But that did not prohibit discussions on possible ways to realize this vision.” He said.

“Discussions continued and with the assistance Australia Solomon Islands Partnership in Justice through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Australia, progress was made and we are here today because of the generosity of the Government and People of Australia.

“For my staff and myself, today is a historical moment. It is the first ever occasion, in which the Attorney-General’s Chambers is able to provide to the whole of Government Machinery, “what we do, how we do and why we do.” The Attorney-General’s Chambers is a service provider. We provide critical legal services to the Government. We are mandated by the Constitution.

The Attorney General said the theme of this conference, “The Role of the Attorney-General in the Delivery of Legal Services in a Contemporary State,” reflects the desire to build a responsive legal system, highlighting the necessity for legal services to adapt to globalization, technological advancements, and societal shifts.

He said this event is not just about addressing current challenges but about laying the groundwork for the future.

“It is about setting the foundation of an efficient and structured approach to addressing legal issues and challenges both present and future.

“The Government of National Unity and Transformation has two important themes in its name, they are National Unity and Transformation. We believe this conference is the Attorney-General’s Chambers input into a transformational pathway for Solomon Islands.

“There is no doubt that the Attorney-General’s Chambers will play an important part in the implementation of the Government’s plan or policy for National Unity and Transformation. We all know that the Government cannot do anything unless there is law governing its acts and law is what we do.

“So, the next two days, we will all be interacting as the whole of Government Machinery in a bid to enable our service users a better understanding of our roles, your roles and how we interact.

“Thank you for choosing to become part of this momentous occasion. For national unity to begin, whole Government must first be united. For transformation to take place, we must first all understand our respective roles.

“Law responds to Context. The next three days, we will understand that context and what it means.

“Once again, Hon. Prime Minister, Distinguished Guest, Ladies and Gentlemen Welcome everyone to the Inaugural Attorney-General’s Conference of Parties.

“It gives me great honour and pleasure to welcome to give his keynote address, Hon. Prime Minister of Solomon Islands Hon. Jeremiah Manele.” Attorney General John Muria Jnr said.

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