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MV Ortega ensures lifeline to Sikaiana amid shipping challenges

Written by
Eddie Osifelo
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By EDDIE OSIFELO

In a significant effort to address the pressing needs of the remote island of Sikaiana in Malaita Outer Islands, MV Ortega, owned by Kii Shipping, completed its twelfth monthly trip yesterday.

The Franchise Shipping scheme, overseen by the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID), facilitated this vital connection.

The MID’s decision to award a one-year contract to Kii Shipping followed a critical situation in October 2022 when the 200 Polynesia residents of Sikaiana faced eight months without shipping services, leading to severe food shortages.

Lawinter Kii, owner of Kii Shipping, acknowledged the pivotal role of the Franchise Shipping scheme in supporting both the company and the island’s inhabitants, emphasizing the uneconomical nature of the route.

He highlighted that the scheme played a crucial role in offsetting fuel costs, as the number of passengers and cargo for Sikaiana was limited.

“Sometimes, only 20 to 50 people travel on the ship with cargo,” Kii explained, noting that the scheme helped cover the financial gap incurred while servicing the remote island.

“For example, if the cost is $200,000 and I make a profit of $170,000, the scheme will cover the remaining $30,000,” he added.

However, Kii cautioned that if private shipping companies were to service Sikaiana without subsidies, the challenging economics of the route and high fuel costs might discourage continued operations.

He stressed the importance of the Franchise Shipping scheme in ensuring the sustainability of such critical lifelines.

Sikaiana, a vulnerable community in the Solomon Islands already grappling with the impacts of climate change, faced additional hardships due to the lack of consistent shipping services in the past.

Insufficient access to medicines and the closure of schools, as children accompanied their parents in search of food on smaller islets, underscored the profound impact of the shipping challenges on the daily lives of Sikaiana’s residents.

MV Carolina plans last trip to Ontong Java to alleviate food shortages

Written by
Eddie Osifelo
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Luaniua Island, Ontong Java, MOI.Photo supplied.

By EDDIE OSIFELO

In a bid to address ongoing concerns of a food shortage crisis in the Malaita Outer Islands, MV Carolina is set to embark on a final journey to Ontong Java later this month.

The move is part of the Franchise shipping scheme arrangement with the Ministry of Infrastructure Development.

Isikeli Tuwaii Vave, owner of Henderson Logistics Limited, the company that owns MV Carolina, expressed his sympathy for the residents of the islands who have been grappling with food shortages.

Vave revealed that the decision to withdraw services to Ontong Java was prompted by outstanding payments from some residents and the insufficient government subsidy of $130,000, which falls short of covering fuel costs.

Vave explained that for the company to remain profitable, it has prioritized serving economical routes in the Western Province and collaborating with the Soltuna company.

He lamented the economic challenges faced by the people of Ontong Java, attributing them to the government’s ban on bech de mers, which had previously made the route economical during harvest periods.

The residents of Ontong Java have been compelled to undertake arduous journeys, covering approximately 467 kilometers to Honiara and even to Isabel Provincial township, Buala, in search of food supplies.

The impact of climate change on their root crops has worsened the critical situation.

Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, Alenge Katoravu of the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) stated that the lack of ships servicing the islands over the past five months has left residents in dire need, particularly during the Christmas and New Year period.

Katoravu emphasized that the food shortage in Malaita Outer Islands is a longstanding issue aggravated by climate change affecting swamp taro and gardens.

The islands’ vulnerability to saltwater intrusion during high tides has further hindered their ability to replant.

Katoravu clarified that he became aware of the issue through a report in the Island Sun newspaper and highlighted the absence of a formal report from the Malaita Provincial government addressing the situation.

He noted that the food shortage was compounded by the irregular shipping services, preventing residents in Honiara from sending much-needed food supplies to the affected areas.

Despite these challenges, Katoravu acknowledged past efforts by the National Government to support vulnerable communities.

$35M SIGNED

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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Electoral Commission chair Hon Patteson Oti (centre), Chief Electoral Officer Jasper Anisi (on his right), PS Finance McKinnie Dentana (with tie), NZ High Commissioner Jonathan Schwass (on Hon Oti’s left) and Clerk of Parliament David Kusilifu (on the High Commissioner’s left) with staff of SIEC and the NZ High Commission.

New Zealand supports Solomon Islands’ elections

High Commissioner Jonathan Schwass says New Zealand is pleased to be able to meet the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission’s (SIEC) request for assistance to help deliver this year’s general, provincial and city council elections.

“New Zealand has a long history of supporting elections in the Pacific, including in Solomon Islands,” Mr Schwass says.

“We’re very pleased to be able to support SIEC to organise free and fair 2024 elections in which every voter can cast their informed vote.

“This is a key part of the democratic process.”

New Zealand’s support will help train civic coordinators and educators, recruit and train polling booth staff and set up an operation centre.

SIEC Chair Taeasi Sanga thanked the New Zealand Government, on behalf of the Solomon Islands Government, for its support.

“New Zealand has always been a friend to Solomon Islands,” Mrs Sanga says.

“This is not the first time the New Zealand Government has supported the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission.

“The Electoral Commission is grateful for this funding support, which will go towards the preparation and management of the simultaneous elections in 2024.”

New Zealand will provide separate funding of up to SBD $15 million to cover technical support from the New Zealand Electoral Commission, transportation of election materials and personnel during the election period, and provision of New Zealand election observers.

–NZHC PRESS

Legal ambiguity surrounds DCGA Ministers in caretaker mode following parliament dissolution

Written by
Eddie Osifelo
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0

By EDDIE OSIFELO

Ministers of the Democratic Coalition for Government Advancement (DCGA) currently carrying out their duties in caretaker mode are not explicitly defined by the laws of this country.

This situation arose following the dissolution of the 11th Parliament on December 31, 2023.

The caretaker government will remain in place until the synchronized elections for National and Provincial Governments (excluding Western and Choiseul) and the Honiara City Council, scheduled for April this year.

The election is set to take place after the expiration of the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2022 on January 1, 2024, allowing section 73 (3) of the Constitution to come into effect.

Despite the circumstances, a senior Parliamentary officer informed the Island Sun that the roles and powers of Ministers functioning in caretaker mode are not defined in the Constitution, any Acts of Parliament, or any statutory instruments.

Nevertheless, the senior Parliamentary officer emphasized that it is only a matter of good conventional practice to allow Ministers to oversee the implementation of decisions made prior to the dissolution of Parliament.  

This means ‘caretaker’ Crown Ministers should not commit the state to any new undertaking until a new government is elected.

This includes entering into any new international relations arrangement or committing state resources in one way or the other.

This also brings into question whether or not a ‘caretaker’ Minister should also enjoy remuneration entitlements previously enjoyed by a Minister before the dissolution of Parliament.

A clear rule is required to draw the line between what a ‘caretaker’ Minister can or cannot do during the ‘caretaker’ period.

WHERE IS THE REPORT?

Written by
Eddie Osifelo
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Luaniua Island, Ontong Java in Malaita Outer lslands.Photo supplied.

National Disaster Management Office awaits reports on Ontong Java food shortage

By EDDIE OSIFELO

The National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) in Honiara is yet to receive any reports from Malaita Province concerning the food shortage crisis in Ontong Java, Malaita Outer Islands.

Lawrence Makili, Chairman of the Lord Howe community in Honiara, attributes the ongoing food shortage to the Electoral Commission and lack of consistent shipping to the islands.

Islanders have embarked on perilous journeys, covering approximately 467 kilometers to Honiara and even to Isabel Provincial township, Buala, in search of food supplies.

Climate change has ravaged their root crops, exacerbating the critical situation.

The lack of ships servicing the islands over the past five months has left residents in dire need during the Christmas and New Year period.

NDMO’s Alenge Katoravu mentioned that he only became aware of the issue through a report in the Island Sun newspaper yesterday.

Katoravu emphasized that there has been no formal report from the Malaita Provincial government to address the situation.

He highlighted that the food shortage in Malaita Outer Islands is a longstanding issue resulting from climate change affecting their swamp taro and gardens.

The vulnerability of the islands, which experience saltwater intrusion during high tides, has further hampered their ability to replant.

Katoravu noted that the food shortage was compounded by the absence of consistent shipping services to the islands, preventing people in Honiara from sending food to the affected areas.

Despite these challenges, he acknowledged past efforts by the National Government to support the vulnerable communities.

Makili pointed out that franchised ships under the Ministry of Infrastructure Development have failed to serve Ontong Java and Sikaiana adequately.

He stressed the importance of franchises adhering to their commitments, suggesting that regular monthly services to the Atolls are essential.

According to Makili, the route for Sikaiana is serviced by MV Ortega, operating smoothly, while the route for Ontong Java, serviced by MV Carolina, has been problematic for almost five months.

The franchise’s failure to fulfill its commitment has created difficulties for the people of Ontong Java.

Contrary to Makili’s claims, the Permanent Secretary of MID, Stephen Maesiola, expressed unawareness of franchise ships neglecting Ontong Java and Sikaiana.

He asserted that franchise shipping services for Malaita Outer Islands are still operational.

Panatina ridge robbery case returns to court today

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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0
In-court

BY ROMINAH FAKA

The case of defendant Samson Damisulia who was charged with one count of armed robbery comes back to court today for the defendant to take his plea.

In the previous hearing the matter was called before Principal Magistrate Dalcy Belapitu Oligari where the Public Solicitor duty lawyer for that day told court the defence counsel was still sick and he provided his medical report to the court. Defence counsel also sought the court for the matter to be mentioned in court today as his client will be ready for arraignment.

Magistrate Oligari adjourned the matter for today for the hearing of the defendant’s plea. Remand warrant for the defendant was extended.

Prosecution alleged the complainant are husband and wife aged 62 and 59 and they are from Korea but Solomon Island citizen.

On September 7, 2023 both were having their peaceful sleep at their home at Panatina Ridge, East of Honiara. Around 2 to 3 am early in the morning, the first victim was awoken following popped up message via his mobile phone from his son from Korea. Whilst reading the message he heard noises coming from their living room, he taught his wife must have awoken because they were sleeping in two separate room.

Prosecution stated, the victim did not close his door and when he looks outside, he saw two unknown male walking around in their living room. He quickly approached them and both defendants allegedly confront the victim.

The allegation stated that one of the defendants pull out an object from his bag believed to be a screw driver and attack the victim. Victim tried to reached out for his golf bat and tried to defend himself with it unfortunately, the victim sustained a heavy blow of an object on his left eye. Victim shout out loudly and fell on the floor unconsciously.

Prosecution stated that the victim wife woke up from his husband’s shout and rushed outside and saw her husband has been attacked and that he was holding onto his left eye, bleeding.

As the wife switched on the light to assist her injured husband, she also attacked by one of the defendants which she also received a wound on her right-side head. Bleeding helplessly, she tried to call the police for help but no one was able to assist her since her.

The two defendants fled the scene with 3 mobile phones and cash of SBD $1200.00.

The wife assists her husband inside their private car to the National Referral Hospital. The matter was later reported to the police the next morning.  

Prosecution alleged the defendant escaped to his home province Malaita but was arrested by the police on the 15 September and were escorted back to Honiara on September 17, where he been placed in custody at Rove.

Office of Public Prosecution appears for the Crown and Public Solicitor Office appears for the Defendant Damisulia.

Infrastructure challenges delay Kalenga Community High School

Written by
Jennifer Kusapa
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BY JENNIFER KUSAPA

THE commencement of the 2024 academic year at Kalenga Community High School in Isabel Province is expected to be delayed due to necessary renovations required for the dormitories and some staff houses.

A concerned parent informed the Island Sun that the girls’ dormitories at Kalenga School urgently need renovation, as the current building is deemed unsuitable for accommodating girls.

Nester Diana highlighted that the girls’ dormitory was built several years ago and has not undergone any renovations since its construction.

She said the new school principal visited the school last week, and seeing the poor state of the infrastructure, the school principal decided to return home, awaiting the completion of the necessary renovations before resuming academic activities.

The girls’ dormitory, constructed with traditional materials, requires significant repairs to create a safe and conducive living environment for the students. Ms. Diana pointed out that the previous school management neglected to take appropriate measures by opting for a permanent building for the girls instead of continuing to use the aging leaf-house dormitories.

Ms. Diana said that in addition to the dormitories, several staff house also require renovation before the school year can commence.

Therefore, she said the delay in the commencement of the academic year at Kalenga Community High School emphasizes the importance of addressing infrastructure challenges to ensure a suitable and secure learning environment for students.

“Efforts should be made to prioritize the necessary renovations by previous school management, allowing for the timely start of the academic year,” Ms. Diana adds.

Judgment for counterfeit money case moved for Jan 19

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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0

BY ROMINAH FAKA

The case of two men accused of using fake hundred-dollar notes has been moved for Friday, January 19 for judgement.

Yesterday the matter was listed for judgment at Honiara Magistrate Court before Deputy Chief Magistrate Ricky Iomea however he was yet to complete his judgement.

Paul Olofia, 28, and Mark Naku, 39, were charged with one count of uttering contrary to section 343(1) of the Penal Code.

Both accused entered not-guilty pleas and a trial was conducted last year from August 28 to September 1.

Prosecution completed their case and defendants opted to remain silent which their defence lawyer submit to the court the sentencing submission for their clients Olofia and Naku.

Court extended the bail for both defendants.

It was alleged on the 25th of July 2022 defendants Olofia and Naku at Titinge Road they paid with a fake hundred dollar note to the complainant with intend to defraud with Solomon Islands hundred dollars notes.

Luckily, on that same instant complainant able to recognized that uttering note and call the police and report the matter.

Both defendants arrested and charged accordingly.

Office of Public Prosecution appear for the Crown and Public Solicitor Office appear for both Defendants.

Concern over increase of dog attack in West province

Written by
Jennifer Kusapa
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0
Dog ready to attack. Photo supplied.

JENNIFER KUSAPA

CONCERNS have been raised over the increase in dog attacks in Western province.

Some of these attacks have resulted in deaths, while many have led to victims being left in critical conditions.

Over the weekend one of the similar incident of dog attack happened in Munda Western Province which left the victim suffers from the attack for almost five days now.

A concern person who wishes anonymity conveyed to Island Sun paper that the recent dog attack occurred on Saturday morning around 8am when the victim is on his way to work. He was attacked by four dogs and had several dog bite on his butt and wounds on his legs.

He said this issue should be addressed because it poises risk to both domestic and international visitors and tourist following the opening of the new Munda international airport.

The concerned person said, it will be great if the Provincial governments adopted and do have the similar dog ordinance like the Honiara City Council have at the moment. But if our provincial governments do have one already, it will be fine if they implement it.

Case of former health workers adjourns for Jan 18

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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0

BY ROMINAH FAKA

The case involving four former health workers accused of false pretence has adjourned for January 18 for pre-trial conference.

Defendants Stephen Dalipanda Kido, Robert Manu, Dalcy Maena and Randy Hatigeva are charged each with two counts of False Pretence contrary to section 308 (a) of the Penal Code, Cap 26.

The matter was listed in court for pre-trial conference (PTC) at the magistrates court, however, prosecution told the court it is yet to receive any response from the defence regarding PTC disclosures it had sent them.

Court adjourned for January 18 for oral PTC. Bail for all defendants were extended.

Prosecution alleged the matter was remitted back to the Magistrate Court last year and a joint charged amended and filed with two counts of False Pretences against the four defendants Dalipanda, Maena, Hatigeva and Manu.

It was alleged in both counts that the defendants caused a total sum of $1,594,935.10 to be paid to Joke Shipping Services by False pretence.

Prosecution further alleged Dalipanda approved some payments that form part of the said amount while Hatigeva allegedly endorsed the payments and other documents.

Maena allegedly processed fictious quotes, invoices and claims for non-executed services or duplicated payments from fake shipping including a private company that she set up and   

Prosecution further stated, Manu processed some payments to two non-genuine shipping companies.

It was alleged that these millions of dollars were aid donor funding and Solomon Islands Government money purposely to support and improve rural health services.

Public Prosecution Office appears for the crown whilst Public Solicitor Office appears for Dalipanda and Maena and Private law firm appears for Manu and Hatigeva.

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