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MALAITA DRUG CRISIS

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Samie Waikori
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Malaita Province faces critical drug shortage

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

Malaita Provincial Health is on the brink of a crisis as public health clinics across the province face a severe shortage of essential medical supplies.

Reports indicate that even major facilities like Auki’s Kilu’ufi Hospital and Auki Clinic, central to drug distribution in the region, are running critically low on basic medications.

This week, patients visiting Auki Clinic, particularly those needing treatment for malaria, were only given paracetamol and instructed to seek malaria medication like Coartem at local pharmacies or elsewhere.

The Malaria Vector Borne Disease Control office in Auki, which focuses solely on malaria prevention and does not supply treatment drugs, is also overwhelmed and unable to assist.

The shortage is not limited to malaria drugs but extends to other essential medications, putting lives at risk from preventable and curable diseases.

Community leader Mr. Robert Ludae from Kunu residential area in Auki described the situation as dire and in urgent need of intervention.

Ludae recounted his recent experience at Kilu’ufi Hospital, where he was shocked to find that his cousin, who was admitted for treatment, received only temporary relief drugs.

Despite being under medical care, no specific medications were provided for his illness. Health workers at the hospital confirmed the severe shortage, highlighting the critical nature of the problem.

“This is a significant setback for provincial health services,” Ludae warned. “If the situation continues, preventable deaths are likely to occur in both hospitals and clinics across the province.”

Ludae stressed the grim reality: “The best medication we can hope for right now is not to get sick. This is the only option left for people. We must do everything possible to avoid illness, though it is quite challenging.”

He has urgently appealed to Malaita Provincial Health and the Ministry of Health and Medical Services for immediate action to address the crisis.

An email was sent to Dr. David Danitofea, Director of Malaita Provincial Health, seeking a response, but no reply had been received by the time of publication.

MAL supports farmers field school

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Franklyn Derek Wasi, Honourable Minister for the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock.

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Minister Franklyn Derek Wasi has reaffirmed his support for the Farmers Field School (FSS) which concluded recently in Honiara.

Mr Wasi made the statement during the closing event of the two-week training of facilitators for Farmers Field Schools being held here in Honiara from July 15-27.

“The government of the Solomon Islands is a signatory to several important global agreements and instruments that commit ourselves to deliver in support of increasing agriculture productivity, environmental protection, and transformation of entire agri-food systems towards greater sustainability,” he said.

“For that reason, we are proud to collaborate with local NGO partner Kastom Gaden Association (KGA) and take an active part in the implementation of this EU-funded and FAO-implemented project which aims to promote environmental sustainability in Africa-Caribbean-Pacific (ACP) countries by strengthening environmental governance and the implementation of Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs),” said Minister Wasi.

He stated that the specific capacity-building activity, implemented within the context of the above-mentioned project, is focused on developing a core team of facilitators for initiating a Farmers Field Schools program in Solomon Island.

“Farmers Field Schools are globally recognized as a relevant, innovative, and empowering tool for ensuring that smallholder farmers can acquire and master the required knowledge and skills for transitioning towards a more productive and environmentally sustainable agriculture sector. Therefore, the Ministry of Agriculture is committed to supporting the implementation of this innovative education and rural development program and working with you to provide the necessary support, including fostering an enabling policy and regulatory environment for this program to develop and flourish,” said Wasi.  

“At this juncture, I wish to inform all of us that the Solomon Islands Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) through MAL, is doing its best to resource our Field Experiment Stations (FES) and reestablish the national agriculture research center, which I believe will contribute toward the further development of FFS.

“And on a personal note, I am truly proud and feeling so satisfied, to stand before all of you today to witness in person, the successive conclusion to the first ever Farmer Field Schools training of facilitators, as it was during my time at FAO that the LOA for this training was developed.  

“Therefore, to all participants graduating from the course today, I would like to congratulate all of you on the successful completion of this course. I wish you all good luck with the next steps to be taken to put your follow-up plans into action and to continue developing your FFS knowledge and implementation skills.  I must sincerely acknowledge all the stakeholders who have contributed in one way or another to the success that we are witnessing today. Let us all continue to work together in this space as we endeavor forward to develop our agriculture sector as the basis for our livelihood and economic growth,” he said.

FINANCE STICKY,VEHICLE STICKY

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Police traffic operation uncovers mass selling of illegal licence stickers by officers of MOFT

BY MORRIS NAFU

Illegal licence stickers are being sold by workers in the ministry of finance and treasury (MOFT), it is reported.

A major police traffic operation yesterday exposed this illegal activity, with a lot of unlicensed vehicle owners owning up to police officers that they had bought their licence stickers at $300 each from finance officers working in the department that deals with licences.

Dozens of vehicles were impounded, it was reported.

The traffic operation demanded vehicle drivers produce licence papers to support the purportedly valid licence stickers on their wind screen – however, many of the drivers did not have any.

Licensed vehicles should have two items – licence papers and licence stickers, Kukum traffic police officers told Island Sun.

“Many vehicles caught today had licence stickers on their windscreen which purported validity on the vehicle, but when we asked the drivers for their licence and registration documents, they did not have any.

“And, these drivers tell us that they bought only the licence stickers over the counter from officers in the ministry of finance dealing with issuing of licences.

“This shows the vehicle owners had short-cut the process and bought these illegal licence stickers, which are meant to deceive traffic police officers doing road checks. Because, during normal road checks, traffic officers usually just look at the licence stickers on the windscreen and once the stickers are valid, they allow the vehicle to pass through.

“However, with today’s operation, all vehicle drivers were asked to produce licence and registration documents even though their licence stickers purported validity.

“And, as a result, we found that many vehicles were unlicensed and were carrying illegal licence stickers only.

“This corrupt practice was once rife at the ministry of finance, but was halted when JANUS cracked down on that crook network in 2016.

“Our traffic operation has proven rumours that this corrupt practice has again returned and is being carried out by corrupt finance officers,” the police officers tell Island Sun.

One of the drivers who wishes only to be called by his first name, Brian, said he was misled to buy the illegal licence sticker.

“A friend told me that the new process only required paying the licence sticker from the ministry of finance, and I was introduced to this young man at the desk there, and I gave $300 and he gave me this sticker.

“There should be awareness done for public, because it is easier now to buy vehicles, and many of us, we don’t know the process,” Brian said.

Following yesterday’s apprehension, Brian now knows the process to acquiring a licence for his vehicle.

Traffic officers told Island Sun that using evidence from yesterday’s operation, police will launch an investigation on this illegal sale of licence stickers by officers at the finance ministry.

SI EYES JAPAN PARTNERSHIP

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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PM Manele.

SI expressed interest in partnering with Japan on Bina Harbour project

BY INDY MAEALASIA

The Solomon Islands has expressed interest in partnering with Japan on the Bina Harbour Project in Malaita, a development initiative expected to boost employment and stimulate sustainable economic development.

Prime Minister(PM) Jeremiah Manele shared this with Japan’s Prime Minister(PM), Fumio Kishida, in a bilateral meeting last week in Japan.

According to Manele, the interest has been “well-received” by Kishida and he is confident that there is possibility of cooperation can be explored between both governments.

The Bina Harbour Development Project, a Solomon Island Government effort led by the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR), will see the country establish a world class tuna processing facility based on sustainable resources at a climate resilient port.

In addition, Manele conveyed the country’s interest in reciprocal visa exemptions for ordinary passports.

Manele also acknowledged Japan’s support over the past 46 years, including the Kukum Highway Project worth of SBD$243 million, the International Airport project worth SBD$300 million, the Honiara Port project, Malaria and TB eradication projects, Agriculture and the SINU fisheries project.

Local farmer intends to impart his knowledge

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    Local farmer Lionel Maeliu.

    BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

    Lionel Maeliu has been involved in farming activities for quite some time in Gwaunafiu, Central Kwara’ae, Malaita province.

    Since starting farming in 2021, the father of six has been questioning whether he is utilizing the correct farming knowledge.

    Maeliu, aged 56, recently participated in a program known as the Farmer Field School, organized by the Kastom Gaden Association (KGA) and led by KGA consultant Jan Willem Ketelaar from the Netherlands.

    Following his participation in the two-week Farmer field school training workshop at the KGA office in Burns Creek from 15-26 July, 56-year-old Maeliu realized that he had been on the right track.

    “I have been engaged in the practice of farmer field schools for a significant period, and I am well-versed in its implementation in my capacity as a farmer. Therefore, I have come to participate in this highly significant workshop, as it can assist me in enhancing the effectiveness of my farmer field school practices in Gwaunafiu within the Busurata Area,” Maeliu expressed.

    “I’m genuinely happy because I’ve been practicing many of the topics we covered in the training workshop daily,” he said.

    He explained that the farmer field school training focuses on farmers participating in organic farming, which was the traditional farming method used by our ancestors.

    “The key difference here lies in how to effectively manage land in light of the growing population, which will inevitably result in land scarcity and the need to address it. Furthermore, I have gained knowledge in soil management, enabling me to optimize the use of specific land areas over the long term, ensuring higher yield and healthy food production despite the high population,” he explained. “Moreover, all of this is achieved using organic methods without the use of fertilizers,” he added.

    Maeliu, a 56-year-old farmer from Malaita province, is also passionate about planting trees and cultivates tilapia, various types of taros, and a variety of root crops.

    “In my area, I hold the record for planting the most trees. This training will be very beneficial for me because I have been seeking additional information on various farming skills and techniques,” he explained.

    As a father of six, he is convinced that sharing the knowledge he acquires will greatly benefit the younger generation and his communities.

    “After completing this training, I plan to return to my community and share the valuable knowledge I’ve gained with my fellow farmers. I urge the young people in my area to step forward and acquire this essential farming expertise to contribute to food production and income generation,” Maeliu highlighted.

    The training he received fulfilled his dream of enhancing his farming knowledge and skills.

    Maeliu urges young people living in urban areas to utilize the available resources for farming.

    Sentencing adjourned for man guilty of arson

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    BY ROMINAH FAKA

    Sentencing on a man found guilty of arson has been adjourned for July 29.

    This is for defence to complete its mitigation submission.

    The matter was mentioned at the magistrate court yesterday, where defence sought for adjournment.

    Court extended the bail for Jade Kekea.

    The agreed facts court heard is that Jade is the grandson of the complainant, Jude Kekea.

    Jade’s parents separated and the complainant and his wife took Jade and looked after him when he was about 2 years old.

    Prior to December 26, 2021 there was three houses at Betinivua Settlement.

    On that date December 26 2021, Jade willfully set fire to a house at Betinivua settlement, Foxwood. The

    house was built by the complainant in 1989 purposely for a canteen.

    That the house was a semi-permanent house and was completely burned to the ground by Jade.

    The house was occupied by the children of Georgina Kekea the complainant daughter.

    Two of her children Bradford Noda and Gelisara Noda would sleep in the house almost every night in the years prior to the burning. Their mother Georgina lives in town and would visit them sometimes.

    Jade did not live at the house that was burnt. He lived with the complainant Jude Kekea and his wife at a different house.

    Jade was interviewed by Henderson police officer on the 17th May 2022 and said he had his reasons why he did it.

    Fransica Luza act for crown and Emy Rusi act for Jade Kekea.

    Three people plead not guilty to Koivo killing

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    BY ROMINAH FAKA

    The three people accused and charged jointly with one count of murder and one count of grievous harm in relation to the incident that took place in May this year at Koivo village, Central Guadalcanal pleaded not guilty to the two counts at the Magistrate court before Deputy Chief Magistrate Ricky Iomea.

    The defence counsel Emy Rusi elected a short form Preliminary Inquiry for committal hearing.

    Crown tender to court their committal deposition and court suspends to July 29 for ruling on the committal hearing short form.

    Prosecution alleged on the evening of May 6, 2024 between 7pm and 8pm, the two victims were reportedly having a few beers following a celebration of a local church saint’s day at Koivo village.

    The victims involved were uncle and nephew.

    It was further alleged that the first victim (the nephew), who was having drinks with loud music, noticed a torchlight coming towards him from behind.

    When the first victim got up to see who is holding the torchlight coming towards him from behind, one the accused allegedly struck his left leg with a bush knife.

    After the first victim fell to the ground and lay helplessly, he allegedly saw accused Stanley Norman and Steward Philip Tiva holding bush knives in their right hands beside him.

    The allegation stated that Steward Philip Tiva lifted his right hand with a bush knife and struck the victim’s backside with it. Tiva allegedly continued by stabbing the victim’s backside and also cutting the victim’s right arm with the same bush knife.

    The second victim(uncle) who was also having beers, intervened to stop Stanley Norman from cutting the first victim with a bush knife. However, Timothy Sagia allegedly struck the second victim twice with a bush knife on his backside during the intervention.

    The second victim escape the crime scene for safety.

    The nearby villagers see and notice that first victim was seriously injured so they assist both victims to the Good Samaritan Hospital and then transferring them down to the National Referral Hospital.

    Late during their admittance in the NRH for seven days from 6 to 13 May 2024, the first victim which is the nephew passed away from the serious injuries sustained from the knife cuts.

    John Wesley Zoze appears for the crown and Emy Rusi act for Norman, Benham Ifuto’o act for Sagai and Rochella Palmer act for Tiva.

    Sentencing for men guilty of stealing July 29

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    BY ROMINAH FAKA

    Sentencing against two men accused of stealing $100,000 from another man has been set for July 29.

    Junior Sifoni and Jackson Bakewa are accused of stealing from the complainant at the Kukum area in September last year.

    Court was to deliver the sentence on Friday July 26th however co-accused Mr Bakewa did not appear in court. So, court adjourned to Monday next week for sentence.

    Bakewa and Sifoni pleaded guilty to simple larceny.

    Prosecution alleged Sifoni on September 2, 2023 accompanied the complainant. The complainant then told Sifoni that he had money in his car because he trusted Sifoni.

    They had few beers and Sifoni stole the complainant bag of money in his car which equivalent to $100,000.

    Sifoni took the bag of money into a car alone with the co-defendant Bakewa and they shared the money among themselves.

    The matter was reported to the Naha Police on September 4 and the defendants were arrested.

    Upon the investigation $30,000 were taken from the defendant Mr. Sifoni wife at Vura one.

    Herrick Lautalo act for the Crown and L&L Lawyers act for Sifoni and PSO act for Bakewa.

    Solomon Islands Journalists honored at MASI awards night

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    Group photo.

    BY MORRIS NAFU

    The Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI) hosted its award night at the Heritage Park Hotel, celebrating the achievements of local journalists amidst challenges in the media landscape.

    The event, themed “Celebrating the Strength and Spirit of Solomon Islands Media,” brought together media professionals from print, radio, and television sectors to recognize outstanding contributions in journalism.

    New Zealand’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Jonathan Schwass, himself a former journalist, commended Solomon Islands journalists for their dedicated coverage of the recent National Joint Elections.

    Addressing attendees, Schwass acknowledged the evolving nature of journalism, which he described as placing increasing demands on media practitioners.

    “Journalism has changed significantly over the years, making the work of journalists much more challenging,” Schwass remarked.

    He highlighted the persistent pressures faced by the media, citing attempts by governments and corporations to limit freedom of speech.

    “In many parts of the world, journalists continue to face risks, with some paying the ultimate price for simply doing their job,” Schwass added.

    The High Commissioner also drew attention to a perennial issue affecting journalists globally — low pay.

    “One thing that hasn’t changed is the issue of low pay in newsrooms around the world, including here in Solomon Islands,” Schwass noted, underlining the financial challenges journalists confront in their profession.

    It’s a passion that strives journalist to keep going though facing financial challenges.

    The top Journalists and organisation awarded in the MASI 2024 award night are as follows:

    • Print Journalist of the Year – Ulutah Gina (Solomon Star)
    • Online Journalist of the Year – Fredrick Kusu (SIBC)
    • TV Journalist of the Year – Chrisnrita Leong (ABC Pacific)
    • Radio Journalist of the Year – Eliza Kukutu (SIBC)
    • Court Reporter of the Year – Assumpta Buchanan (Solomon Star)
    • Sports Reporter of the Year – Elton Lonaratha Jnr (Island Sun)
    • Broadcaster of the Year- Elizabeth Osifelo (Tavuli News)
    • Production Award – Cheryl Bera (SIBC)
    • Technology Award – Tavuli News – Solomon Islands
    • Editor of the Year Award – Mavis Nishimura Podokolo (Island Sun)
    • Organisation of the Year Award – Tavuli News – Solomon Islands

    Special Recognition Awards are

    • Sunday Isles
    • In-depth Solomons
    • SIBC

    MASI Congratulates all the award winners of the Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI) Media Excellency Awards 2024!

    “Your dedication and outstanding contributions to journalism are truly commendable.

    Your work not only informs but also inspires and shapes our community” MASI expressed.

    Jayn Zayniellar Soakai: A Beacon of Hope and Change as raise to the podium approach

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    BY MORRIS NAFU

    Meet Jayn Zayniella Soakai as one of six contestants of the Miss Solomon Island Pageant(MSIP) 2024.

    with a passion for her country and a deep commitment to social change, Zayniellar journey towards the prestigious title of Miss Solomon 2024/2025 is capturing attentions and stirring hope for a brighter future.

    Born to a mother from South Malaita and a father with roots in Tonga and the Western Province, her upbringing has been rich with cultural heritage and a profound sense of national pride.

    Jayn’s story is as diverse as the islands themselves.

    It is this pride that fuels Jayn’s ambitions to represent her nation on the national stage, advocating for issues close to her heart.

    Her education begins at the Rhema Primary school, and then to Bishop Epalle and finished off at Bech Primary school and further moved on to Tonga to begin her High school level.

    She completed her Form seven foundation in 2023 and she is looking forward to further her studies at Auckland University to study law by 2025.

    Central to Jayn’s platform are women and youth empowerment, domestic violence prevention, and the promotion of tourism—a trio of causes she passionately believes can shape a more inclusive and prosperous Solomon Islands.

    Her advocacy is not merely rhetoric but stems from personal experience and a desire to see tangible improvements in the lives of her fellow citizens.

    At the core of Jayn’s advocacy is her mother’s legacy in sexual abuse prevention—a cause that has deeply influenced her perspective and ignited her empathy towards marginalized groups.

    “My Mother is role model for me and that I want to become as such a person one day.

    Her vision for the Solomon Islands is one where every citizen, regardless of gender, age, or background, can thrive in a society built on equality and justice.

    “I believe in transforming our mindset towards our environment and our fellow citizens,” Jayn remarks, emphasizing the need for collective action to address pressing challenges and foster a sense of national pride.

    Her campaign is not just about winning a crown but about using her platform to effect meaningful change and inspire others to join her in shaping the future of their country.

    Jayn’s journey to Miss Solomon 2024/2025 is supported by a community that shares her vision.

    Sponsors like Avi Avi Marine, Cowboys Bar & Grill, and FCL Construction recognize her potential to lead and make a positive impact.

    Their support highlights Jayn’s credibility and the belief that she has what it takes to be a voice for all Solomon Islanders.

    As she prepares for the pageant, Jayn remains focused on her goals: to champion equality, advocate for justice, and pave the way for a prosperous future for the Solomon Islands.

    Her youthful enthusiasm, coupled with a mature understanding of the challenges her country faces, makes her a formidable candidate—one whose journey promises not just a title, but a legacy of hope and change.

    In Jayn Zayniellar Soakai, the Solomon Islands may have found not just a beauty queen, but a future leader whose passion and commitment will continue to inspire generations to come.

    Come August 31, 2024, as the final crowning approaches, Zayniellar stands composed not only to compete for a title but to continue her journey as an advocator, a cultural ambassador, and a catalyst for positive change in her beloved homeland and the country as a whole.

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