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Expert Explores Complexity of Value-Added Chain in Fisheries at EASI Gathering

Written by
Eddie Osifelo
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Xavier Vincent, a World Bank Lead Fisheries Specialist.

By EDDIE OSIFELO
Xavier Vincent, a World Bank Lead Fisheries Specialist with 30 years of experience in fisheries aquaculture in marine environments, shed light on the intricate nature of the value-added chain in the fisheries sector.


He shared his findings during his presentation at the Economic Association of Solomon Islands (EASI) gathering, held at Heritage Park Hotel last Thursday.


Vincent’s presentation delved into the complexity of the value-added chain in fisheries, emphasizing that it involves a multitude of interconnected processes.


He explained, “We are talking here about fishing a tuna, bringing it onshore, putting it into a container, running to your factory, processing it, putting it into camps, packing it, selling it to the market, selling it to a shop, and selling it to somebody.”


He likened the value chain to a string of interconnected elements, stating, “In French, the value chain is described as a string that is connected together, and we will produce this rope. So, this is a very difficult exercise, as you need to understand what I call the handset connection in order to have a vessel that is working. You need a crew, gas, ice, satellite services, and all the necessary inputs for the industry to function.”


Vincent clarified that it’s not merely a chain but a continuous flow of products and services that work in harmony to produce a final product that moves through the supply chain.


To comprehend this intricate web, he emphasized the need to consider various elements, such as organizational structure along the value chain, the flow of main products, and the market’s demands at the end of the chain.


He acknowledged that managing this complexity presents numerous challenges, particularly when considering different interests and requirements in each segment of the value-added chain. For instance, in the processing phase, factors like energy, water, labor, and more become essential components in ensuring smooth operations.


The World Bank is actively collaborating with the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources on the second phase of the Pacific Islands Regional Oceanscape Program (PROP), which succeeded the Pacific Regional Oceanscape Program for Economic Resilience (PROPER) in September 2021.


Under PROP, the World Bank is working closely with Pacific governments, regional organizations, and communities to bolster sustainable ocean and coastal fisheries management and strengthen institutions responsible for conservation.


PROP’s objectives encompass enhancing ocean management across the Pacific, with a focus on:
Promoting more sustainable fishing practices.


Enhancing surveillance of Pacific Exclusive Economic Zones.
Enforcing fishing regulations more effectively.


Improving access to regional and international markets.


Vincent’s insights underscored the importance of understanding the intricate dynamics of the fisheries value-added chain, which plays a critical role in the sustainable management of ocean resources and the economic growth of the region.

Road Improvement Project in East Malaita Commences with World Bank Funding

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Admin
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Employees of Trades Transformation Company Ltd on board a badge in Honiara before its departure to upgrade the deteriorating road in East Malaita last Thursday.

Work on a critical 21-kilometer road project in East Malaita is set to begin today, thanks to funding from the World Bank through the Ministry of Communication & Aviation and Ministry of Infrastructure Development.


This project, which is part of the Solomon Islands Road and Aviation Project (SIRAP) Phase 1, will address the longstanding challenges posed by the region’s deteriorating road conditions.
Trades Transformation Company Ltd, the company responsible for the project, successfully transported its machinery to the project site last Thursday.


The project is planned to span a period of six months, and its scope is categorized into three phases: emergency maintenance, periodic maintenance, and routine maintenance.


Billy Holosivi, Project Director/Administrator of TTC, emphasized that the project’s scope of work encompasses 19.9 kilometers of gravel road and 1.1 kilometers of concrete pavement road, particularly addressing steep hills along the 21-kilometer route.


Work is slated to commence at Fosi market in Dala and extend up to Kware’e bridge.
Ambrose Kirei of SMEC, the supervision consultant for the project, noted that mobilization efforts had already commenced last week and that actual construction was scheduled to begin today.


Kirei highlighted the project’s importance for the people of East Malaita, as it will facilitate the transport of their products to Auki, enhancing regional connectivity and trade.


Despite delays attributed to stringent measures imposed by the World Bank, Stephen Maesiola, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Infrastructure Development, expressed his satisfaction that the project was finally getting underway.


The region had long grappled with poor road conditions, and the upgrade was eagerly anticipated, especially with the Christmas season approaching.
Maesiola emphasized that the Ministry of Infrastructure Development aimed to provide a smoother travel experience for residents and visitors alike.


However, it’s essential to note that contracts have not yet been awarded for the central and eastern sections of the road, extending up to Atori.


These areas have been severely affected by continuous rainfall, resulting in challenging travel conditions for vehicles.


Disturbing images shared on social media showed vehicles mired in mud, prompting local residents to employ ropes to free them onto a flat surface.


This outcry on social media has prompted calls from public to the Member of Parliament for East Malaita, Manasseh Maelanga, for swift action from the government to address the road conditions in these sections.


The road improvement project is expected to have a significant impact on the region’s transportation infrastructure, promising smoother travel and delivering substantial benefits to local communities and businesses.


The upgraded road is poised to enhance connectivity, support economic activities, and provide a more comfortable travel experience for residents and visitors in East Malaita.

Historic ecumenical women’s gathering unites denominations in Hogo District

Written by
Jennifer Kusapa
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Women from different denominations gathered at the Anglican Koilovala Church, Hogo District.

BY JENNIFER KUSAPA


WOMEN from various denominations in Hogo District, within the Diocese of Central Solomons, recently came together to break barriers and collaborate for the betterment of their communities.


The village of Koilovala in Hogo District, Central Islands province, witnessed the inauguration of the first-ever ecumenical women’s gathering, marking a historic moment for the district.


Hogo District Priest Mathias Sasarau emphasised the historical significance of the event, saying that it brought together women from sister churches, including the United Church, South Seas Evangelical Church, Roman Catholic, Seventh Day Adventist, Anglican Church of Melanesia, and Rhema Family Church.


The primary goal of the Women’s Ecumenical Programme was to foster unity among different denominations, breaking down barriers and promoting fellowship, he adds.
The district priest expressed hope that the programme would create a new beginning, promoting unity within churches and eliminating disunity.


He acknowledged that such gatherings were unique at the district level and highlighted the importance of women from diverse denominations coming together for a common purpose.


Rev Sasarau noted that in the past, women from different churches within the district did not work together to build a better community, as they had different ideas and agendas.


However, with the initiative to bring women together, they would now share and respect each other, learning from one another.


Damaris Pulo, president of the Women’s Ecumenical Gathering and a member of the Rhema Family Church in Koilovala, spoke passionately about the programme’s significance.


She said the initiative empowered women in their ministries to grow spiritually and serve their families, communities, and nation. Pulo noted that it was the first-time women in Hogo District had united across denominations, setting aside doctrinal differences to work together.


Pulo acknowledged the challenges of past divisions based on varying doctrines and beliefs. She expressed confidence about the newfound collaboration, asserting that women, regardless of their denominational affiliations, would now come together to contribute positively to their community.
The ecumenical gathering in Koilovala aimed to break the tradition of separate programmes within individual churches.


Pulo said historically, women in different denominations, including Anglican, Rhema Family Church, and Seventh Day Adventist, had conducted their own programmes independently, but this Ecumenical program opening marked a transformative moment, symbolising a commitment to collective efforts for community betterment.


As the Women’s Ecumenical Gathering sets a precedent in Hogo District, it signals a positive shift towards collaboration, unity, and a shared commitment to serve the greater good of the community. The participants believe that this historic event will pave the way for more joint initiatives, strengthening the bonds between different denominations for the well-being of their shared community.
More than 500 people were part of the gathering over the weekend.

COLLIE BUDDZ AND DMP TO TOUR USA

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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0
DMP are in the first round of voting for the Grammy best reggae album and is confirmed to tour the US early next year by international reggae artist Collie Buddz..PICTURE DMP

.. ‘Long Way Home’ album reaches Grammy’s

BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR
DOOR Man’s Project commonly known as DMP continues paving the way forward for Solomon Islands and the South Pacific music to the world.


The Solomon Islands reggae boy-band for the first time will be touring the United States of America alongside renowned reggae artist Collie Buddz, in his first leg tour of his “Take It Easy” world tour, February next year.


An official statement from DMP said they are excited and honored to be invited by the Bermudan Reggae artist for his tour of the USA and to wave Solomon Islands flag overseas.


“Big praise to the most high for his blessin!… We are speechless! Words can’t describe what we’re all feeling right now, on behalf of the group ‘Tagio Tumas Collie Buddz’ for inviting us to be a part of your ‘Take it Easy’ US tour in February 2024.


“This will be our very first time on tour in the USA and it’s such an honour for us to be given the opportunity to make “HISTORY” n’ come perform and wave our nations flag up high out there alongside Kash’d Out & our idol ‘Collie Buddz! LOCKIM LO DEA,” DMP said in an official statement.


The band meanwhile is currently on their “Long Way Home” album tour which started in September. They are currently in Thailand and leaving Australia Wednesday last week.


Countries DMP will be touring to promote the “Long Way Home” album are Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, Cook Islands, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Thailand, Japan and the United States of America.


The “Long Way Home” album which features some renowned world reggae artists such as Anthony B, Daville and Iyaz has also been gaining attraction.


The band announced that their album is currently the first round of voting for nominees for the Grammy’s Best Reggae Album.


DMP said they are honored to have their album considered for the Grammy award dedicating the recognition to all those involved in making the “Long Way Home” album.


“We are truly grateful & humbled that our album ‘Long Way Home’ is being considered for this year’s #GRAMMY Awards! First round voting to determine the nominees is live through October 20.


“Thank you so much to all the producers, engineers, musicians, and artists that worked on the album with us, before I list everybody involved, we would like to thank our late brother “Sasa Cuzz” who passed a few months after the release of this album!


“Sasa Bwoy was extremely instrumental in our career from day 1 and we are deeply grateful for the timeless hours he spent working on this project with us.


“This album would not exist if it wasn’t for you brother ‘Sasa’ we love you dearly and we miss you so very much’ this album and all our achievements are dedicated forever in your honour!
“Anthony B, R. City, Demarcodadon, Diction Edwards, Konshens, Benny Demus, Deli Banger, Da’Ville, Iyaz, Dj Liamz, Huddz Son Matai, Khazin, Small Jam, Simon Maston, Baka Solomon, Casper Luiramo, Scar Reeze and Solomon Airlines.


“Honour & blessings to our Ineffable Records family for having faith in us local island boys from this small nation in the south pacific called ‘Solomon Islands’, thankyou for your guidance throughout the creative process of this album and overall believing in our vision Ineffable Music Group, Adam Gross, J.Lately, Igor Katz & Thomas Cussins.


“Last but not least thank-you to all our family, fans and friends for all the support throughout the years, We love each and every one of you for life, without you guys we wouldn’t be here today!” the statement adds.

Gov’t vows strong support for SINU

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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Manasseh Sogavare Ownership, Unity and Responsibility (OUR) Party Parliamentary Wing Leader.

BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR


PRIME Minister Manasseh Sogavare has assured strong support for Solomon Islands National University (SINU) to ensure it attracts fellow regional students in the near future.


Sogavare made the assurance during the official handing over of the SINU Panatina campus project funded by the Australia Government for the upcoming Pacific Games, last week.


The event was held at Pavilion hall, SINU Panatina campus, Friday last week.


Prime Minister saluted the Australian Government for its ongoing partnership since the University’s established back in 2013.


“It’s been a challenge but after all, I think it’s indeed a great decision to let the country have its own University to cater for the growing population to access higher learning experience.” PM Sogavare said.
“On April 10 this year we celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the University. I recall my speech that day that emphasize my call to our developing partners to make their legacy at SINU.


“The Australia Government responded to this call through providing funding support to repair the selected facilities at the national University,” he said.


Sogavare on behalf of his Government and the people of Solomon Islands said they appreciate the Government and people of Australia, for their support.


“We thanked you so much for the continuous support not only on Education, but Health, Security and other areas we cannot reach out.


“The Government will continue to work with our Development partners to improve the infrastructures at the National University.


“So we may attract fellow regional students and knowledge seekers. This includes improving the course contents with quality lecturers and curriculum,” Sogavare adds.


The SINU Panatina dormitory refurbishment Project costs SBD14.9 million dollars.

World Bank fisheries specialist presents on value-added chain in SI’s fisheries sector

Written by
Eddie Osifelo
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World Bank Lead Fisheries Specialist Zavier Vincent, third right with members of Economic Association of Solomon Islands (EASI) after his presentation at Heritage Park Hotel last Thursday.

By EDDIE OSIFELO
The Economic Association of Solomon Islands (EASI) recently hosted a distinguished guest, World Bank Lead Fisheries Specialist Zavier Vincent, who delivered an insightful presentation on the topic of value-added chains in the fisheries sector.


This event marked a significant milestone for EASI, as it was their second gathering since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic.


EASI President, Rueben Tovutovu, highlighted the importance of such presentations and the organization’s commitment to promoting informed decision-making.


Tovutovu emphasised that EASI’s goal extends beyond information dissemination; they aim to engage stakeholders involved in policy formulation and decision-making, ultimately serving as a professional body of economics.


He stressed the significance of basing decisions on research and facts, encouraging both the private and public sectors to adopt a data-driven approach to their operations.


“As an organization, we have been pondering over the sources of potential growth. It’s a big question that we, as the highest economic body in the country representing professionals in the economic analysis space, need to address and find answers to. For instance, the logging industry, often regarded as a sunset industry, is on the decline. The pertinent question is, what can replace this fading industry, and what is our long-term plan?” Tovutovu expressed.


He highlighted that presentations like Vincent’s bring experts in their fields to share knowledge not only with EASI members but with the public at large.


Prominent figures from various sectors attended the presentation, underlining the event’s significance.
The guest list included former Prime Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo, Solomon Islands National Provident Fund (SINPF) General Manager Mike Wate, Annette Leith from World Bank, and Smiley Giobauta from the International Finance Corporation also contributed their insights to the discussion.


EASI’s initiatives, such as these presentations, serve as platforms for experts to share their knowledge and experiences, fostering a culture of informed decision-making, and helping to shape the future of the Solomon Islands’ economy.


The engagement of prominent figures from both public and private sectors further underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in enhancing economic development and sustainability in the region.

World Bank fisheries specialist presents on value-added chain in SI’s fisheries sector

Written by
Eddie Osifelo
-
0

By EDDIE OSIFELO
The Economic Association of Solomon Islands (EASI) recently hosted a distinguished guest, World Bank Lead Fisheries Specialist Zavier Vincent, who delivered an insightful presentation on the topic of value-added chains in the fisheries sector.


This event marked a significant milestone for EASI, as it was their second gathering since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic.


EASI President, Rueben Tovutovu, highlighted the importance of such presentations and the organization’s commitment to promoting informed decision-making.


Tovutovu emphasised that EASI’s goal extends beyond information dissemination; they aim to engage stakeholders involved in policy formulation and decision-making, ultimately serving as a professional body of economics.


He stressed the significance of basing decisions on research and facts, encouraging both the private and public sectors to adopt a data-driven approach to their operations.


“As an organization, we have been pondering over the sources of potential growth. It’s a big question that we, as the highest economic body in the country representing professionals in the economic analysis space, need to address and find answers to. For instance, the logging industry, often regarded as a sunset industry, is on the decline. The pertinent question is, what can replace this fading industry, and what is our long-term plan?” Tovutovu expressed.


He highlighted that presentations like Vincent’s bring experts in their fields to share knowledge not only with EASI members but with the public at large.


Prominent figures from various sectors attended the presentation, underlining the event’s significance.


The guest list included former Prime Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo, Solomon Islands National Provident Fund (SINPF) General Manager Mike Wate, Annette Leith from World Bank, and Smiley Giobauta from the International Finance Corporation also contributed their insights to the discussion.


EASI’s initiatives, such as these presentations, serve as platforms for experts to share their knowledge and experiences, fostering a culture of informed decision-making, and helping to shape the future of the Solomon Islands’ economy.
The engagement of prominent figures from both public and private sectors further underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in enhancing economic development and sustainability in the region.

PREP FORDISASTER

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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0

Australia helps churches to be ready to respond

BY NED GAGAHE

Churches have been further prepped on how to respond to disasters and help save lives.
This is made possible with the help of Australia under its sponsored programme CANDO [Church agencies network disaster operations].


Church leaders attending a day-long retreat meeting on October 11 at Honiara Hotel were given a comprehensive overview of CANDO operations and programmes in Solomon Islands.


CANDO Programme Coordinator Lionel Dau presented a summary on the key focus areas CANDO has been implementing, and principles and core values CANDO has abided with.


Mr Dau touched on the activities and responses CANDO has been doing in phase-1 over the last five years and the current activities the organisation will continue to implement in phase-2 for the next five years.


Attending the meeting were United Church of Solomon Islands (UCSI), Moderator Rev Armstrong Pitakaji, Catholic Archbishop Chris Cardon, ACoM Archbishop, the Most Rev Leonard Dawea, ACoM General Secretary Dr Abraham Haruiasi, UCSI General Secretary Mr Braena Bird, SSEC General Secretary Mr Thomas Weape and the SICA General Secretary Dr Edward Kolohai.


Speaking to Island Sun, SICA General Secretary Mr Kolohai said, “we come together to meet and to discuss disaster resilience in Solomon Islands.


“The project on disaster is funded by CANDO Australia where it helps us in the Solomon Islands especially with what the churches can do in face of disasters and how they can work together as partners.”
Kolohai said apart from the presentation the leaders also used the meeting to discuss other internal issues of the association.


Chairman of SICA, Rev Armstrong Pitakaji said, “as Chair of SICA, I would like to acknowledge our SICA General Secretary Rev Dr Edward Kolohai for arranging this one-day SICA Executive Meeting.


“It was a successful meeting for us as we reflected on the mission entrusted to us. And thank you to you all our Church General Secretaries who attended this meeting.


“Finally thank you CANDO officer Mr Lionel Dau for supporting the meeting.”


In Solomon Islands, CANDO is supported by the Australian Government and is an Australian Government initiative through Disaster READY program under the Australian Humanitarian Partnership (AHP).


Disaster READY is focused on ensuring disaster preparedness is localised and led by relevant local and national stakeholders by working to ensure that disaster preparedness and management is inclusive of all within a community, including women, children and people living with disabilities, involving them in preparedness activities so their specific needs are understood and accounted for.

MFAET on labor mobility survey in Malaita province

Written by
Samie Waikori
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Acting premier, Edward Misite'e (second from right) joins members of a team from Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade in Auki.

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

AUKI

MALAITA Provincial Government is grateful to a team from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade (MFAET) that was in the province this week on a survey of labor mobility.

The survey, as reported by acting Premier of Malaita province, Hon Edward Misite’e is to ascertain impacts of labor mobility on individuals, families and communities in the province.

He said during the team’s visit to Auki, a courtesy visit was paid to his office and he was happy to discuss and learn from the team on the survey.

Misite’e said the survey is to go to the people and find-out from them what they like, challenges and benefits encountered or achieved from the mobility program.

He said areas of pursue under the survey include; what they are doing back home when they left the program? Or whether they are applying what they learn from the program at home or not?

Misite’e said program also captured socials impacts experienced on the programs like; divorce (02) and other negative social impacts.

He said the survey was conducted in Auki and its suburb communities.

Meanwhile, Misite’e said MPG is happy to learn on the program and look forward to partner with Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFAET) on the future of the program.

He said MPG is eager to learn on the outcome of the survey’s report, so they can look at how to support the program for the province.

Misite’e added that from the report, MPG will also understand impacts of labor mobility on families, communities and province as a whole.

He reiterated MPG’s commitment to partner with MFAET to support Malaitans on the labor mobility program.

Tender for Kilu’ufi hospital next month

Written by
Samie Waikori
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Rep from JICA (left) joins the acting premier Edward Misite'e (middle) and a staff from the province displaying the design for Kilu'ufi hospital project.

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

MALAITA provincial government is thrill to learn on the progress of Japanese $120 million funded project to upgrade Kilu’ufi hospital in Auki, Malaita province.

This week a team from Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) was in Auki and briefed the acting premier, Hon Edward Misite’e on project’s progress.

“Upon what my office had learned from them, the design stage of the project is almost finish whilst they also working on the cost of the project.

“According to their schedule, tender for the project will be done toward the end of November in Japan.

And the tender will be done internationally, as I learned during discussion with them,” he said.

Misite’e said Malaita provincial government is supportive of the project and they will work closely together with JICA to make it happens.

He said the project is one of the major developments MPG is look forward to that will benefit Malaitans when completes.

Misite’e said being the most populated province in the country, Malaita province continue to lot of health challenges and the project will help in trying to address them.

He said reiterated MPG’s support for the project and thanked the people and government of Japan for continues support to the country especially Malaita province.

Beside the upgrade of Kilu’ufi hospital, Misite’e said his office was also informed on Japan’s continue support under the grassroot program for the country.

He said Malaita province is among other provinces that continue to benefit greatly from the program.

Misite’e said that under the program, water supplies, classrooms, staff houses and other infrastructure projects were implemented in communities in the province.

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