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Premier Pongi backs RFC 2024 in Honiara

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RFC24 action at the east end stadium-PHOTO ELTON LONARATHA JNR

BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

RENBEL Provincial Premier Derek Pongi announced his government’s support for hosting the Renbel Football Championship 2024 (RFC24) in Honiara during the official opening ceremony at the East End Stadium yesterday. In his speech, Premier Pongi emphasized that the Renbel Province is not confined to its physical and political boundaries.

“I have noticed that some critics have pointed out that such competitions should be played back home in our province. However, I want to assure the organizers of this championship and participating teams that our government fully supports this initiative,” said Pongi.

He highlighted that the identity of the province is defined by its people, regardless of their location, whether in Honiara, overseas, or elsewhere.

“Our people define the boundaries of our province, regardless of where they reside – in Honiara or overseas or anywhere else. Their presence makes that place part of our province,” Pongi added.

Premier Pongi also spoke about the broader significance of the Renbel Football Championship. He noted that the event is not just about competition but also about the journey taken together as a community. The championship aims to build partnerships, foster relationships, and create a sense of unity among the people.

“Football can help us learn valuable lessons about teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship. These core values are essential for building strong individuals and communities,” he said.

Pongi pointed out that while the people of Renbel have a passion for sports, this interest has not been reflected in the province’s budget over the years.

“It’s a known fact that our people love to play and talk about sports. However, over the years, this interest has not been reflected in our province’s budget. This important part of our society has not been a priority when it comes to funding,” he remarked.

He assured the audience that the new government is committed to supporting sportsmen and women starting this year and into the future.

“I want to assure you all that our new government will do our best to support our sportsmen and women as of this year and onwards,” Pongi promised.

In his closing remarks, Premier Pongi expressed his gratitude to the organizers for inviting him to officially open the championship.

Pongi’s support and assurances mark a significant step towards recognizing the importance of sports within the Renbel community, both locally and abroad. The RFC24 not only provides a platform for showcasing football talent but also serves as a testament to the community’s resilience, unity, and passion for sports.

The championship is expected to foster a stronger sense of identity and community among the people of Renbel, no matter where they reside.

Asilaua optimistic the 2024/2025 budget will support MPG’s annual workplans

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Samie Waikori
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Premier of Malaita province, Elijah Asilaua.

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

Malaita’s Premier, Elijah Asilaua, is expressing optimism regarding the forthcoming 2024/2025 budget, anticipating its support for the province’s annual workplans.

Asilaua emphasizes the importance of nurturing growth within productive and social sectors across Malaita

He said as an agency administered under provincial government act 1997, close collaboration with national government is important to deliver services to communities in a unified and stable nation to accelerate economic growth for better social services in the province.

“This budget was formulated to support both our productive and social sectors. It will provide incentives and improve the resources available for local investments with strong accountability.

“That is equally important to utilize our budget to achieve a high absorption rate through the implementation of our divisional annual work plans for 2024-2025.

“Furthermore, our ward development committees’ annual work plans and three-year rolling plan for 2024-2028 with tangible benefits to address the needs of our rural population. 

“We hope that our administration through collaboration with the Solomon Islands Government will capacitate our Provincial Staff to improve areas in public expenditure management and good financial governance.

“That is very vital to access PGSP-PCDF projects for effective and efficient service delivery to address the felt needs of our ward constituents,” he said.

Renbel Provincial government donates $10,000 to support RFL24 championship

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Renbel Premier Derek Pongi delivering his speech.

BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

THE Rennell and Bellona (Renbel) Provincial Government has made a generous donation of $10,000 to support the Renbel Football Championship 2024 (RFC24). The championship kicked off with an official opening ceremony at the East End Stadium yesterday, followed by the first match.

During the opening ceremony, Renbel Premier Derek Pongi addressed the audience, acknowledging the challenges of organizing such an event outside the province.

“I want to acknowledge and recognize the tireless efforts of the Renbel Football Championship 2024 organizers. Your hard work and dedication have brought us all together on this historic occasion. I also want to express my gratitude to the sponsors of this event. Without your assistance, this event would not have been possible,” Pongi stated.

The Premier also highlighted the commitment and sacrifice required to participate in the championship.

“I would like to thank the team officials, players, and supporters of all participating teams for their availability to take part in this competition. For now, even amid our financial situation, we will donate $10,000 to help support the organizers of the Renbel Football Championship 2024 in the administration of the championship,” he announced.

Pongi encouraged all participants to enjoy the games, emphasizing the celebration of football, the joy of competition, and the spirit of good sportsmanship.

“To all the players, coaches, and supporters who are here today, I urge you to enjoy the games. Let us celebrate the beauty of football, the joy of competition, and the spirit of good sportsmanship,” he added.

The Premier then officially opened the Renbel Football Championship 2024, marking the beginning of what promises to be an exciting tournament.

In addition to the Provincial Government’s support, the Renbel Constituency Member of Parliament (MP) and his office also contributed significantly to the championship. This support included funding for prizes, the opening ceremony, and a one-off cash payment. The MP’s office provided $1,000 to each of the 15 participating clubs to assist with essential needs like water and other supplies.

The substantial support from both the Renbel Provincial Government and the MP’s office underscores the importance of community and teamwork in making the RFC24 a success. Their contributions ensure that the championship not only showcases the best football talent from the province but also strengthens community ties and fosters a spirit of unity and sportsmanship.

Gov’t officers equipped with workforce planning skills

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Participants with their certificates.

BY INDY MAEALASIA

MORE than thirty (30) Human resource officers working for government ministries have successfully completed a three-day training on workforce planning.

Speaking during the closing ceremony at the Iron Bottom Sound yesterday, Permanent Secretary (PS) of the Ministry of Public Service (MPS), Luke Cheka shared his optimism about the impact of the newfound knowledge.

“I think the last three days has been a learning process for all of you. You are definitely learning new things from the courses that APS has delivered, so I hope that the training we are giving now will help the ministries to improve, especially in workforce planning” PS Cheka said.

He promised the participants that his ministry is willing to commit in upskilling them by delivering more similar trainings/ workshops in the future.

PS Cheka also announced that the Ministry is at the early stage of developing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Australian Public Service Commission, underscoring their dedication to fostering partnerships that facilitate such invaluable training opportunities.

The training itself was facilitated by three officers from the Australian Public Service (APS) Center of Excellence for Workforce Planning.

Representing the APS, Assistant Director International, Bronwyn Armstrong expressed hope that the workshop has established network among their ministries.  

“I really hope that you’ve all been able to engage and build that HR network between your ministries with each other and I want to really remind you that this relationship doesn’t just stop here between your peers here within your ministries and with the Australian Public Service” Armstrong said.

Now equipped with the necessary foundation skills in building a robust workforce in the government ministries, Armstrong encouraged the participants to translate the theories of the training into practice.   

A representative speaking on behalf of the participants extended his appreciation to the MPS and the APS for facilitating the workshop, echoing a collective enthusiasm for future engagements and learning opportunities.

RFC24 KICKS OFF

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BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

THE Renbel Football Championship 2024 (RFC24) officially kicked off yesterday at the East End Stadium, marking the beginning of an exciting tournament that brings together the best football talent from the Renbel Province. The opening ceremony was attended by key figures including the President of the Honiara Football Association (HFA), representatives from the 15 participating teams, and a large crowd of enthusiastic fans, supporters, families, and friends.

The event started with a vibrant parade of the teams, showcasing the unity and spirit of the championship. This was followed by a series of speeches from distinguished guests, setting the tone for the tournament. Eric Tema, Chairman of RFC24, spoke passionately about the importance of the championship, emphasizing that it goes beyond just football. He highlighted the championship as a celebration of community sport, a platform for showcasing potential talents, and a symbol of unity.

“I wish all the teams and officials the best of luck in the championship,” Tema said, encapsulating the hopeful and competitive spirit of the event.

Steward Baiabe, representing the Renbel Constituency, also addressed the gathering. He reiterated the commitment of the office of the Member of Parliament and the Minister for Public Service, Hon. John Jnr. Tuhaika, to the development of sports in the Province. Baiabe expressed his best wishes to all participating teams, encouraging them to seize the opportunity to display their talents.

“On behalf of the office of the Renbel Constituency MP and Minister for Public Service, Hon. John Jnr. Tuhaika, we wish all the teams the best performance in this championship. We came from two islands in the province to host this tournament in Honiara. I encourage the players to look further and make use of this opportunity to expose the talents we have in the Province,” Baiabe added.

He assured the audience of ongoing support for various sports initiatives, not just football, aimed at empowering the youth in the Province. Baiabe urged players to enjoy the game, demonstrate good sportsmanship, and make their communities proud.

“Let us work together to show our friends in Honiara the passion and love we have for the sport, not only in rugby but football as well,” he said, encouraging a spirit of unity and pride.

The RFC Organizing Committee expressed their gratitude to Hon. John Jnr. Tuhaika for his invaluable support, which has been instrumental in making the championship possible.

The highlight of the day was the thrilling opening match between Tematangi FC and Usohenua FC. The game lived up to the high expectations set by the opening ceremony, delivering a nail-biting contest that kept the spectators on the edge of their seats. Tematangi FC emerged victorious with a 4-2 win over Usohenua FC, setting a high standard for the matches to follow.

As the championship progresses, anticipation builds for the upcoming matches. The next round of competition will take place next week, promising more exciting football action and the continued celebration of community, talent, and sportsmanship.

RFC24 is set to be a memorable event, not just for the quality of football on display, but for the spirit of unity and community it fosters among the participants and supporters alike.

MPG prioritizes education, health and agriculture as key initiatives under its 2024/2025 budget

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Ofani Eremae
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BY SAMIE WAIKORI 

Malaita provincial government prioritizes education, health and agriculture sectors as key initiatives under its 2024/2025 original budget.

Minister for Finance and Treasury under Malaita provincial government, Hon Lemuel Kevianga announced this during the start of the full assembly that is currently in Auki.

“I also want to affirm to my honourable colleagues some Key Initiatives for 2024/2025.

  • Malaita Education Excellence Program (MEEP) – A comprehensive initiative aimed at improving the quality of education in the province. This includes the construction of new schools, provision of modern teaching aids, and extensive training for educators.
  • Rural Health Expansion Project – Focused on expanding healthcare services to remote areas, ensuring every Malaitans has access to quality healthcare.
  • Agricultural Innovation and Support Scheme – Designed to boost agricultural productivity through the introduction of modern farming techniques, provision of high-quality seeds and equipment, and access to financial services for farmers.

Since the inception of the PCDF program in 2007, Malaita province government has implemented number of school infrastructure projects such as classrooms, staffs, etc…

Under the similar program, Malaita province has also implemented number of healthcare infrastructure projects such as clinics, staff houses and sanitations in rural communities in the province.

Agriculture sector is one of the sectors Malaita provincial government has supported under the PCDF program. The recent support is the funding of machineries for Obafau cattle farm project in Central Kwara’ae.

Apart from these, Malaita provincial government has also been supporting communities in the province with projects under other sectors such as climate change, economic empowerment and etc…

Seghe airport to reopen next month

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Minister Frederick Kologeto.

BY NED GAGAHE

Minister of Communication and Aviation (MCA) Frederick Kologeto has announced that Seghe airport was closed on the 3rd of May for upgrade and is expected to be reopened after the 16th of July 2024.

Speaking during a media conference last week Minister Kologeto stated that the upgrade of Sege Airport includes sealing of the runway, installation of ground lighting system and new terminal which is to be constructed on a later date.

“As of 23rd, May. Project Manager on the ground had reported that construction is smoothly going and expecting to complete preparation for sealing in the next 3 weeks.

“The upgrade of the Seghe runway and lighting system should be completed on the 16th of July, 2024. That will enable Seghe to be an all-weather airport creating a safer and more efficient travelling.

“For Seghe airport upgrade, I am once again grateful to take this chance to thank the New Zealand Government and Australian Government for the support rendered through the Solomon Islands Provincial Airport Upgrade program, the western provincial government, all customary land owners and the contractor who continue to support to the project implementation at Seghe. “Finally, let me sincerely thank all citizens of Solomon Islands for your continuous support to my Ministry and I look forward for a more cordial working relationship with all stakeholders to achieve a connected and accessible aviation and communication service in Solomon Islands.” Minister Kologeto said

New police boss for Malaita

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Samie Waikori
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PPC Lesly Kili.

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

ROYAL Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) in Malaita province are anticipating the arrival of the new police commander for the province.

He is Mr Tex Tafoa, who will officially take on the PPC post replacing Mr Lesley Kili who had been supervising the position for the past 3 years.

On Friday, a function to farewell Mr Kili was held at Auki provincial police headquarter, where officers shared time together with him prior to his departure.

Kili’s leaving is to take on a new role at the government’s house as formalities had already met. He is still in Auki awaiting handing over of the PPC position to Tafoa prior to his departure.

Tafoa, on the other hand, has a wide experience on force both locally and internationally. He was among several local officers who served in Sudan some years ago.

He is also not new to RSIPF in Malaita, as he’s a Malaitan himself while he also served in the province. Tafoa will soon take on the PPC post for Malaita, while formalities had already done.

He will be co-leaded by Mr Michael Ramosaea as Operation Manager and Mr Andrew Siriurao as Operation Support.

The trio will be leading RSIPF in Malaita province starting from now, after the leadership of Lesley Kili and team.

Mala I Tolo to roll-out module course 2

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One of Mala I Tolo’s mentors is assisting students with laptops and other IT equipment donated by Mala I Tolo to Auki Community High School.

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

MALA I Tolo Indigenous Guardianship Trust gears up for a comprehensive roll out of its module courses for 2024 in six selected secondary schools in Malaita province.

The course formed integral aspect of Mala I Tolo education initiative to enhance capacity of students on other significant areas they need learn in life.

Also, the course is one of the primary and significant objectives of Mala I Tolo to which ICT supports have been provided to the schools. 

Project Coordinator of Mala I Tolo, Mr William Abuinao said this as they are gearing for the comprehensive roll-out of the module courses this year

He said the 6 schools are among 12 secondary schools they engaged under their education program, as they planned similar courses to other schools later.

Abuinao explained that the module course for 2024 will target forms 4 and 5, where the two forms share 2 semesters of the year.

He said this is to allow form 5 classes to concentrate on their study, since they have national exam in the second semester of the year.

Abuinao said the course will carry out by mentors hire by Mala I Tolo, and engage students on afternoon classes with maximum of 2 hours on certain days of the week.

He said topics to cover under the module course for 2024 include; basic IT, entrepreneurship and marketing, governance, research, culture and innovation.

According to the project coordinator, Mala I Tolo valued the importance of injecting students with ideas and information that will help them in life.

He said the school curriculum doesn’t delve much or even not into these areas, and its good to let students know other areas affecting their society that don’t provided by the curriculum.

Abuinao said there are also rewards like $1000 school fees for students who would successfully complete the course. It happened last year and will continue.

He thanked schools in the province for cooperation on the education initiative and look forward for continues support to schools on the program.

FUNDED TOWERS GO ONLINE

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The 4th communication tower project has gone online at Koleasi. Photo credit – CHINESE EMABBSSY SI.

BY NED GAGAHE

Miniter for Communication and Aviation Frederick Kologeto has announced that four of the 140 Telecommunication Towers funded by People’s Republic of China have gone online as of Sunday last week.

Minister Kologeto announced this during a press conference last week whiles announcing that the Solomon Islands National Broadband infrastructure project implementation is going on well and on schedule.

“The project implantation is its first phase of implementation which includes construction of towers on Guadalcanal province, Central province and Isabel province.

“Since March 2024, 3 towers are already online and 10 towers are still under construction and should be completed and commissioned by the end of June.

“If the implementation goes smoothly, we will expect to complete 42 towers in phase of the project by the 31st of August and hope fully complete the project by December 2025.

“Subsequent to completing phase one, our contractors will move to phase 2 which includes tower construction in Choiseul province, Western Province and Malaita Province and phase 3 including, Makira, Temotu and Renbel Province.

“In conjunction with the SINBIP project, I am grateful to take this opportunity to thank all stakeholders to this project including

“The People’s Republic of China, all land-owning groups of project sites throughout the Solomon Islands, Solomon Telekom Limited, Solomon Tower Limited, Telecommunication Commissions of Solomon Islands, Government Ministries, and Huawei and China Harbor Engineering.

“Who continue to support the implementation of this project since commencement of the project.” Minister Kologeto said.

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