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Grade 3 students found taking copen drug

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Samie Waikori
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Copen drug.

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The use of copen drug has been going on secretly in schools in Malaita province for the past years, and last week a finding was made when teachers caught grade 3 learners at Alota’a school near Auki town were taking the drug.

The pupils, who believed to be between 8-10 years, were alleged to have been using the drug for sometimes with other students both at school and home. 

A teacher at Alota’a secondary and primary school, Mr Junior Movin Kutai posted this in social media last week in a quest to rally support from police and parents to assist the school to hold responsible those behind producing the drug.

He said it was a disturbing concern to find these grade 3 kids had taking the copen drug.

Kutai said teachers had interviewed the students, but they want police to help them identify who sold the drug to them and producers of the drug.

He described the level to which the students have taken the drug as worse, which will have serious impact on their health and demanded cooperation to address the matter.

When called PPC Malaita, Mr Tex Tafoa on the matter yesterday, he said it is his first to learn on copen drug in the province since taking office.

He acknowledged that it has been around and there shouldn’t be mistake that it would be in Malaita, but his familiarity with the drug was in Honiara.   

“In Honiara, RISPF has been working with schools on the issue through awareness and other programs primarily targeting students to address it.

“It is a real issue and the fact that it affects the health of students is an alarming matter that police, school, communities, parents and other stakeholders must cooperate to address it,” Tafoa said.

He is happy that the issue was raised in the province and his office will be working together with schools, communities and school parents on the matter.

Tafoa said RSIPF in Malaita province will not tolerate copen drug in the province, despite challenges embedded on the country’s law on the matter.

Critical need for women’s, girl’s health emphasised

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Miss Guadalcanal Ezinma Kausua presenting her speech.

BY INDY MAEALASIA

MISS Guadalcanal, Ezinma Kausua, has emphasised the critical need for a strategic and holistic approach to improving women’s and girls’ health across the nation.

She highlighted this during the pre-pageant speech competition at the Pacific Crown Hotel (PCH) last week.

Kausua said that raising awareness and advocacy are strategic approaches that can bring about changes.

“Raising awareness and advocacy about reproductive health can have profound impacts on individuals, communities, and societies,” Kausua stated. “Through effective awareness and advocacy, our women and girls will have increased self-esteem and confidence in making informed decisions.”

Highlighting the role of women as “primary homemakers and caregivers,” she noted that their unwavering dedication often leads to neglecting their health.

“Most often, women prioritize the health of their children and families and neglect their own. It is important to ensure that our women’s health is prioritized because a sick mother cannot perform her primary roles,” Kausua explained.   

She also pointed out that enhancing knowledge among women and girls will increase demand for quality reproductive health services, particularly family planning.

Moreover, Kausua emphasized that improving awareness and access to reproductive health services will lead to significant reductions in infant and maternal mortality, lower rates of STIs and other life-threatening conditions affecting women and girls.

“By investing in awareness raising and advocacy on reproductive health, we will be investing in the primary prevention of the many health issues that our women and girls face.” she said.

Kausua added that such an approach will lead to a prosperous nation, “In turn, we will be investing in being a wealthy nation because our women will be healthy. A healthy nation is a wealthy nation”.

MP Marau’s case adjourns to September 23 for interim mention

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

The matter of Member of Parliament for Ugi/Ulawa Constituency William Bradford Marau first interim-mention in court on Monday this week, where prosecutor told court they have no issue regarding the trial at this stage.

The trial for Marau was set in the previous court hearing to February 10, 2025.

Court adjourns to September 23 for another interim-mention, defence and prosecution to inform the court if they have any issues or not.

William Brandford Marau is newly re-elected as the Member of Parliament for Ugi/ Ulawa Constituency this year.

The allegation alleged that Marau is facing a count of conversion in relation to the allegation of misappropriation of $5 million designated to shipping funds in year 2016.

On April 27, 2017 constituency report was submitted to National Criminal Investigation Department which they investigate following that particular reported submitted.

Prosecution further alleged from the investigation it was revealed that on January 22 of 2016, Solomon Island Government deposited $ 5 million into Ulawa Constituency account with Bank of South Pacific (BSP) for shipping fund.

It was further alleged, on February 17, 2016 the defendant instructed the BSP Bank to transfer the entire sum of said amount $ 5 million into his own personal account with ANZ Bank.

Prosecution also stated, 65 withdrawals which total to $ 6,023,326.70 has been made from the defendant personal account.

In addition to that, ten withdrawals amounting to $ 4,550,00 deposited into the business account of Aslan Stationaries with ANZ a private company owned by the defendant.

And at the end of 2016 the remaining balance in the defendant personal account was $ 27,868.87.

Fransica Luza of Office of Public Prosecution appears for the Crown and Jillian Soaika of Rano and Company law firm appears for the defendant.

Sipi’s case suspended for September 2

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

The case of Pauline Peqoa Sipi has moved to September 2 for oral sentencing submissions by the counsels.

The matter was heard in court on Monday this week where prosecution updated court that they had filed and served their sentencing submissions and will rely on their written submissions.

In addition, defence also file and serve their written submissions however, defence did not provide instructions to the court in ensuring whether he will rely on the written submissions or will made an oral submission in court.

Therefore, court suspends to September 2 for counsels to confirm their positions regarding their submissions hearing and bail for Sipi extended.

Pauline Peqoa Sipi is charged with false pretence, she pleaded not guilty and a trial was conducted in magistrate court.

After the trial court find Sipi guilty for false pretence charge which laid against her.

It was alleged the defendant Pauline Peqoa Sipi at Henderson area, Guadalcanal Province on 3rd of July 2019, she false pretence with intend to defraud and obtained from the complainant a sum of $ 5000 for the first payment for a single cabin, white Ute Vehicle, which she claimed to have won it through the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force vehicle tender bidding process to be delivered to her for her benefit.

Again, on August 2, 2019 defendant Sipi by false pretence with intent to defraud and did obtain from the same complainant the sum of $ 20,000 for the second payment for the same vehicle she claimed.

The matter was reported to the police and defendant charged for false pretence by defrauding and obtaining from the complainant a total sum of $ 25,000 SBD.

Sabrina Habu of Office of Public Prosecution appears for the Crown and Donation Houa of Public Solicitor Office appear for defendant.

SINU sets legacy

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Three teachers share a moment of joy.

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The Solomon Islands National University has set a legacy for its first Doctor of Philosophy degree graduate at its 11th graduation this year 2024.

Madam Mary Tahu Paia has being the first PhD graduate in the country’s very own national university.

According to SINU chancellor sir Dr. Nathan K. Kere, this is the highest award, that can be offered by any prestigious university anywhere in the world.

“SINU has today set not only history, but a delightful legacy graduating our first Doctor of Philosophy degree, the highest accolade, that can be offered by any prestigious university anywhere in the world,’’ said Dr Kere.

“Madam Mary Tahu Paia, my sincere congratulation to your being our first PhD graduate in our very own national university. I commend all your supervisors both local and overseas for this successful journey you have taken,’’ Kere added.

“I am very privileged to be here to witness that today you have planted this legacy that many of our upcoming bright citizens will do nothing else but emulate and grow,’’ he said.

He said that this is living proof that the Solomon Islands National University has literarily been transformed.

“The happiness I feel is amplified by the fact that many of these PhD graduates, some of whom are present with us today, have chosen to return and contribute to our wonderful nation. This includes Dr. Mary Tahu Paia, who has joined the ranks of our esteemed pioneers, Professor David Qeqeo and Professor Transform Aqorau,’’ he stated

“I have no hesitation, but to say the future is promising, when more and more young smart Solomon Islanders, trekking along the path now set by Mary Tahu Paia, and revealing to all of us, especially leaders, the infallible guarantee that the future for our nation is indeed bright,’’ said Kere.

He said the Solomon Islands witnessed tremendous achievements many would have thought not possible in a mere five years ago.

“The opportunity to acquire the highest university accolade, for example, has been brought home. Well, done hard- working SINU team members, the collaborating universities, and institutions. Today you have transformed and uplifted SINU to this new level of academic quality,’’ he said.

He also said that the plan to establish the 4th SINU Campus on Malaita serves as a further demonstration of the vision to physically broaden SINU, providing an increasing number of Solomon Islanders with easier access to the highest opportunities for tertiary education available in the country.  

“As the successful graduates of your university, I urge you to serve with professional expertise, with high ethical standards, with high levels of confidence, honesty, and inclusivity, the very people and community you serve,’’ said Dr Kere.

“Though today we happily grace ourselves on what high academic standard we have transformed SINU, please be reminded of one solemn fact, that this, high standard will only be revealed by your very performances as you serve our people in any place in this tiny world you work in.

Increase women’s participation in environmental decision-making processes

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Miss Tulagi Jayn Soakai

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Miss Tulagi Jayn Soakai has appealed for more women’s participation in environmental and climate change policy decision-making processes.

Miss Soakai said during the Miss SI Pageant 2024, a pre-pageant speech competition held at the Pacific Casino Hotel in Honiara Friday last week.

She said that women in the country are challenged by the rising negative consequences of climate change and environmental degradation and do not have much ability to raise their voices about the changes they seek.

“The expectation to provide for the household continues to grow under these pressures and along with it, the added burden from our ultimately changing environment, we become underrepresented in most decision-making conversations towards issues such as the rising sea level, intensified tropical cyclones, declining marine ecosystem and loss of fertile land is causing more social tensions,’’ she said.

She said that the roles women perform through these changes therefore become a critical turning point to help create solutions that reflect the needs of our communities to offer a way forward.

“Firstly, we can increase their participation in decision-making processes where environmental and climate policies are shaped and also invest in women-led initiatives focused on environmental sustainability, sustainable agriculture, and climate adaptation,’’ said Miss Jayn.

“Furthermore, this support must also come from our men. Finally, recognizing and celebrating the contributions of women as we progress is also important to build women who feel valued and inspired to get involved more,’’ she said.

She stated that Women have always been the backbone and the heart of the communities, deeply connected to the land and the natural resources that sustain us.

According to Miss Jayn, while some have the comfort to make ends meet, the majority remains the most vulnerable.

She said that the role of women is known to be more home-oriented, to leave and, sorry, to build a safe home.

“Today, I see beyond a mother, a sister, a grandmother tending to the needs of her family.  I see working-class women, young and senior, breaking barriers in participation in society. From the very few in male-dominated occupations and leadership positions to the many who work off the land as farmers and cleaners.

“I genuinely admire our women for all their immense effort, their display of generational care and cultural continuity demonstrates our natural ability to be community leaders in promoting sustainable practices,’’ Miss Tulagi, Jayn Soakai said.

Empower women in the agricultural sector

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Miss Lauru now the newly crowned Miss Solomon Islands.

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Miss Lauru now, Miss Solomon Islands 2024, Elsie Polosovai has called for the empowerment of women in the agricultural sector.

Ms. Polosovai said during the Miss SI Pageant 2024 pre-pageant speech competition held at the Pacific Casino Hotel in Honiara on Friday last week.

She said that implementing policies that open doors to provide access to vital information and offer the resources and training needed for our women to thrive in agriculture is vital.

 “And as women, we must rise and take our place in leadership in the agricultural sector to shape a healthier, prosperous, and sustainable future, not just for ourselves, but for the generations to come,’’ she said.

She said that when women are empowered to have the innovation their challenges will be turned into opportunities, ensuring better nutrition and livelihood for all.

“The 2022 National Assessment of Food Systems in the Solomon Islands highlighted that location, poverty, and gender discrimination barriers have affected our national and nutritional health outcomes. Empowering women in agriculture addresses these barriers, fostering a more inclusive and sustainable food security system,’’ said Ms. Polosovai.

“Let’s look at the bigger picture. The concept of food security in agriculture for the Solomon Islands is not only about increasing agricultural output. However, it must be considered as fundamental to the livelihood of Solomon Islands as a nation,’’ she said.

She stated that the Solomon Islands has an alarming rate of non-communicable diseases, whereby 67% of these are dietary-related NCDs.

“Empowering women with nutritional knowledge and healthy cooking skills enables them to prepare balanced and nutritious meals for their families and encourages their families to buy from local food markets. By promoting locally-based diets, we can reduce the consumption of highly processed foods, the key contributors to NCDs,’’ she said.

She also highlighted the importance of seeking economic alternatives for women in the country.

“Agriculture promotes a flourishing mixed economy that includes both government and small-scale farming. Through inclusive political will and supportive policies, our women can benefit from expansive employment opportunities created by our agri-manufacturers,’’ she said.

She said that this would enable women to thrive and engage fairly in trade and the exportation of agricultural products, driving our economic growth.

“Our women are at the heart of these efforts, and they are the cornerstone of agriculture and societal traditions. If we empower them with the capacity, they will transform lives and build more resilient communities,’’ said Ms. Polosovai.

MMERE confirms Isabel Nickel Projects remain operational despite challenges

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Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Mines, Energy, and Rural Electrification (MMERE), Dr. Chris Vehe

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Mines, Energy, and Rural Electrification (MMERE), Dr. Chris Vehe, recently stated that the two nickel mining projects in Isabel are still operational.

Appearing before the Public Accounts Committee, Dr. Vehe mentioned that the Ministry is closely monitoring these operations.

PS Vehe said this when he responded to MP for Maringe Kokota, Cathy Nori when asked about the operations of the two nickel projects.

Nori’s question came following numerous sources claiming that one of the two companies showing signs of closing down.

The Permanent Secretary noted that there are two licenses issued for nickel mining in Isabel: one for Kolosori and the other for Suma.

“Both companies are still in operation, despite some issues that may have arisen with one of them,” Dr. Vehe said.

“However, we continue to monitor these projects closely. Our staff visit the sites regularly, although we sometimes face challenges due to weather conditions.”

Dr. Vehe also mentioned that some royalty payments from shipments have already been received by the Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) and are awaiting disbursement.

He added that there has yet to be confirmation from the local communities on how they will share the royalties among themselves.

Judgment for Forau adjourned again

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

The judgment in the case against former Member of Parliament for Temotu, Clay Forau Soalaoi, has been adjourned to September 6.

The judgment was initially set for last Friday, but it was not ready for delivery, leading to the postponement.

Clay Forau Soalaoi has pleaded not guilty to all 14 counts of conversion charges brought against him by the prosecution.

 The trial is being overseen by Principal Magistrate Fatimah Teaburi.

Forau faces allegations of misusing $350,890 belonging to his constituents between 2012 and 2014 while serving as the MP for Temotu VATUD Constituency.

The funds were intended for the 2012 Cocoa Industry Support Scheme and the Rehabilitation of Coconut Industry Programme for his constituency. However, it is alleged that on 14 occasions between October 19, 2012, and October 31, 2014, he fraudulently converted the funds for personal use.

Vernon Taupongi from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions represents the Crown, while Jim Seuika from DNS & Partners Law Firm represents Forau.

Judgment for Forau adjourned again

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

The judgment in the case against former Member of Parliament for Temotu, Clay Forau Soalaoi, has been adjourned to September 6.

The judgment was initially set for last Friday, but it was not ready for delivery, leading to the postponement.

Clay Forau Soalaoi has pleaded not guilty to all 14 counts of conversion charges brought against him by the prosecution.

 The trial is being overseen by Principal Magistrate Fatimah Teaburi.

Forau faces allegations of misusing $350,890 belonging to his constituents between 2012 and 2014 while serving as the MP for Temotu VATUD Constituency.

The funds were intended for the 2012 Cocoa Industry Support Scheme and the Rehabilitation of Coconut Industry Programme for his constituency. However, it is alleged that on 14 occasions between October 19, 2012, and October 31, 2014, he fraudulently converted the funds for personal use.

Vernon Taupongi from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions represents the Crown, while Jim Seuika from DNS & Partners Law Firm represents Forau.

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