Home Blog Page 601

Police yet to arrest man under warrant

Written by
Ofani Eremae
-
0

BY ROMINAH FAKA

Police are yet to arrest a man charged with sexual intercourse with an underage.

A warrant of arrest was issued on the accused, who cannot be named for legal reasons, during the previous hearing, and yesterday court was told that the accused was at his home village in the Shortlands.

Yesterday Deputy Chief Magistrate Ricky Iomea told Prosecution there must be some network coverage to contact the officer at Shortland for update on the execution of the warrant of arrest on the defendant.

Prosecution told court that according to Harapa police officers they are waiting for the Kulitalai police officers to respond, as they are closer to the defendant’s home.

DCM Iomea urged prosecution to ensure that the warrant of arrest is executed as soon as possible to have the case moving forward.

Court adjourned the matter to August 24.

Police alleged on May 22, 2022 at Vara Creek, Central Honiara the accused had sexual intercourse with a girl who was 10 years old at the time.

The matter was reported to police on October 21, 2022 and the defendant was arrested and charged. Public Prosecution appears for the Crown.

Japan to discharge ALPS treated water into Pacific ocean following IAEA safety review

Written by
Eddie Osifelo
-
0
Japans Ambassador to Solomon Islands Yoshiaki Miwa.

By EDDIE OSIFELO

THE Japanese government is preparing to release treated water from the Advanced Liquid Processing System (ALPS) into the Pacific Ocean, following a comprehensive safety review conducted by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on the ALPS Treated Water at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station in July of this year.

His Excellency Miwa Yoshiaki, the Japanese Ambassador to Solomon Islands, announced the upcoming discharge in a media briefing yesterday.

Ambassador Yoshiaki emphasized that the decision to release the treated water into the ocean adheres to international safety standards and anticipates negligible radiation effects on both humans and the environment.

“We have engaged with Pacific Islands for an extended period, discussing the matter with the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat. We’ve shared our thoughts on this issue with your government through bilateral and multilateral channels. For instance, when our Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi visited in March, he detailed this plan to Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare and Foreign Affairs Minister Jeremiah Manele,” Ambassador Yoshiaki stated.

He underscored the importance of transparency and openness due to the gravity of the issue.

“Monitoring will play a pivotal role as the discharge commences, with close attention given to the presence of radioactivity in ocean water. If any unexpected findings indicating environmental risk emerge, the discharge will be halted promptly. Moreover, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) will oversee the monitoring process.

“We will share all information on the monitoring, as it is crucial for us to understand Solomon Islands’ concerns, given the significance of the ocean to their way of life. We are a maritime country ourselves and comprehend the paramount importance of the sea,” Ambassador Yoshiaki assured.

He acknowledged the shared history of nuclear testing’s impact on Pacific nations, referring to the nuclear weapon tests conducted by France in French Polynesia and China’s atomic test in Hongyanhe NPS.

Drawing upon Japan’s own experiences and memories from the past, he expressed solidarity with the concerns of affected nations.

The discharge of the ALPS-treated water reflects Japan’s commitment to ensuring both safety and transparency, with collaborative international oversight in place to address any potential concerns that may arise as the process unfolds.

RUNAWAY SHIP

Written by
Mavis Podokolo
-
0

MV Avaikimaine leaves passengers stranded on Bellona, children unaccompanied onboard, cargoes return to Honiara

BY MAVIS N PODOKOLO

MV Avaikimaine, the ship named ‘Love of Rennell and Bellona’, has reportedly snubbed the people of Bellona over the weekend.

And, people of Bellona are calling on the MP for Rennell and Bellona to address the issue, being the second time, and ensure it does not happen again.

Renbel premier Japhet Tuhanuku is calling for calm and urges the MP, ship’s management and people of Renbel to work together.

On Sunday, around 1pm, MV Avaikimaine reportedly sailed away without notice after spending only two hours on Bellona on its return-trip to Honiara from Rennell.

It left more than 30 passengers stranded on the island.

Nearly a dozen people were taken to Honiara against their will because they were reportedly onboard when the ship bailed.

Among these were children whose parents and guardians were left behind on Bellona.

Building materials and other cargoes intended for Bellona were brought back to Honiara.

This is the second time that MV Avaikimaine has ‘mistreated’ the people of Bellona, a concerned person from Bellona requesting anonymity told Island Sun.

In the first instance, which was earlier this year, MV Avaikimaine management claimed it had run short on fuel therefore had to skip Bellona, he said.

This time round, Avaikimaine management blames bad weather plus fuel shortage.

However, an Avaikimaine employee who was onboard wrote on social media that the weather was fine and that there was enough fuel onboard. ‘No excuse’, he said.

MP Tautai did not answer his mobile phone when called for comments yesterday.

The ship’s clerk told Island Sun yesterday that they had left Bellona suddenly because they were fearful of the weather and fuel shortage.

“Not all cargoes were unloaded, cargoes like bags of cement and some passengers were left behind and taken back to Honiara.”

He also confirmed bringing along children whose parents were left behind, saying that they had not been aware of this when they decided to set sail.

He said they were floating at Bellona Island for only two hours and decided to leave for Honiara due to shortage of fuel.

“We left early because we might run short of fuel whilst anchoring,” the clerk said.

Premier Tuhanuku decries the incident, saying that sadly it is not the first time for it to happen.

He calls on the ship’s owner, management and the people of Renbel province to work together to ensure it does not happen again.

“On behalf of the Renbel provincial government I call on the ship owner, the shipping management and people of Rennell and Bellona province to work together to address this matter.

“This is a serious matter and a very sad situation that our very own people are faced with.

“Apart from that, the shipping management and the ship owner is also answerable to the people of Rennell and Bellona province,” he said.

MV Avaikimaine services the Rennell and Bellona province roughly after every three months.

The ship was purchased by government in the name of Rennell and Bellona constituency in late 2016. It has since been managed by family members of MP Tautai.

On paper, MV Avaikimaine is run by the company called Rennell and Bellona Shipping Ltd.

According to Company Haus records, Rennell and Bellona Shipping Ltd was registered on May 2, 2016.

The directors are; Timothy Johnston, Tautai Agikimua Kaituu, Willie Sau Kaituu, Eric Tema, Walter Tangai Tesuatai, Evans Tuhagenga, George Tuhaika, Ajilon Jasper Nasiu, Rex Pugeika, Warren Pungetonu Pugeva, Bari Saukiu, Mathias Taieha.

Recorded contact person is Derek Tenoaika Pongi.

Rennell and Bellona Shipping Ltd is registered as a private company.

“Ark Peace” a height of SI and China friendship

Written by
Mavis Podokolo
-
0
One of the eight operating theatre or operating suite inside the Ark Peace hospital ship. The Ark Peace will be docking at Honiara Port from 19th to 26th August. Photo credit MAVIS PODOKOLO --

BY MAVIS N PODOKOLO

THE Chinese Hospital Navy ship “Ark Peace” current visit to Solomon Islands to deliver health services was described as an epitome of the friendship between China and Solomon islands.

This is according to the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Solomon Islands Li Ming during the welcome ceremony of Ark Peace over the weekend.

“Ark Peace is an epitome of the friendship between China and Solomon Islands,” Ming said.

A female health worker inside Ark Peace explains which body parts to massage if experiencing different types of body aches.

He said the bilateral relation has made strides forward, standing at the forefront of China’s relations with pacific island countries and has been upgraded to comprehensive strategic partnership featuring mutual respect and common development for a new era since the establishment of diplomatic ties between the Solomon Islands and China.

Ming said on behalf of all the officers and men onboard the Ark Peace, commander he pays their highest tribute to honorable deputy prime minister and cordial people in Solomon Islands.

Peace Ark hospital ship.

“I want to also pay our most sincere gratitude to Chinese embassy, Chinese enterprises and institutions, overseas Chinese and China-sent medical team in Solomon Islands,” he said.

Ming said for this visit, they have brought the first-class seaborne platform.

“Ark Peace the hospital ship, with a full-load displacement of 14,300 tons, is developed and built independently by China. Since entering service in December 2008, she has carried out “Mission Harmony” for 9 times, paid 65 port calls to 45 countries and regions, administered more than 260,000 treatments and performed nearly 1600 surgeries. The Ark Peace is acclaimed as the ship of peace, ship of life, ship of friendship and ship of culture, enjoying widespread reputation around the world.

“We’ve brought first-class equipment and apparatus. The 4000-square meter medical area of our seaborne hospital contains 8 operating theatres, 226 beds, 250 types, and altogether 2030 pieces or sets of medical apparatus, 10 lifeboats and 1 ambulance helicopter. They are providing solid hardware support to our medical services.

Some of officers inside the Ark Peace hospital ship.

“For this visit, we’ve brought first-class expert teams. The 126 medical personnel who are to attend to the local patients are not only established and experienced clinical experts, but also professors from China’s Naval Medical University. Some of our clinical departments are top-ranking in China, such as traditional Chinese medicine, gynecology and obstetrics and endocrinology,” he said.

Ming adds they have also provided first-class medical services for this visit.

“In the following 7 days, apart from our main medical platform open to local patients, we will send medical teams to churches, communities and school, and also send ambulance helicopter to other islands, to provide medical consultation and treatment, give health lectures and conduct cultural exchange activities,” he said.

The helicopter that will be used to bring health services to provinces.

On the same event Deputy Prime Minister Manasseh Maelanga welcomes the Peace Ark hospital ship of the Navy of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army to the beautiful shores of the Solomon Islands.

“This momentous occasion marks a significant step towards strengthening the bonds of friendship, cooperation, and solidarity between our two great nations.

“We embrace your arrival here, we are thankful that our leaders, government officials and ordinary citizens of our country will have the equal opportunity to do medical check-ups and surgery on board

“As we welcome the Peace Ark to the Solomon Islands, we acknowledge the shared commitment of our nations to upholding peace, stability, and mutual understanding. This ship is a testament to the power of international partnerships in addressing humanitarian crises, promoting public health, and fostering cultural exchange,” Maelanga said.

Moreover, Ark Peace will be docking at Honiara Port from 19th to 26th August with the focus to provide free medical services to the people of Solomon Islands.

Government and partners collaborate on climate change initiatives in SI

Written by
Eddie Osifelo
-
0
Minister Rexon Ramofafia

By EDDIE OSIFELO

OVER the past two decades, the Government of the Solomon Islands, in partnership with Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and development partners, including Australia, has successfully executed projects and programs aimed at climate change adaptation and mitigation.

This significant achievement was affirmed by Rexon Ramofafia, the Minister of National Planning and Development Coordination, during the Solomon Islands – Australia Climate Change Tok Stori event in Honiara on August 18, 2023.

Minister Ramofafia highlighted the recent advancements in climate change initiatives, focusing on two pivotal areas of endeavor led by the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology (MECDM).

The first strand entails collaborative efforts with various line ministries, particularly the Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening.

This collaboration operates through the Provincial Capacity Development Fund, empowering provincial governments to undertake adaptation and mitigation projects tailored to their specific needs.

Remarkably, this approach has secured more than $US30 million to support provincial governments in their endeavors.

The second crucial strand revolves around aligning adaptation and disaster risk reduction efforts.

Minister Ramofafia emphasized the interconnectedness of these domains, as exemplified by externally funded programs like the Integrated Disaster Risk Management Project, jointly supported by Australia and UNDP.

These initiatives adroitly address both adaptation and disaster risk management needs, acknowledging their shared objectives.

Minister Ramofafia underscored the complex web of challenges the Solomon Islands faces, including non-climate hazards and development obstacles.

He noted the difficulties inherent in providing basic services to a geographically fragmented island nation with a narrow economy heavily dependent on Overseas Development Assistance (ODA), making it susceptible to global trends, conflicts, and disasters.

This situation points to the country’s overall low adaptive capacity, magnifying its vulnerability to climate change.

Ramofafia acknowledged the limitations of the Solomon Islands to single-handedly bear the costs of adaptation and addressing loss and damage.

Consequently, he expressed gratitude for the active involvement of development partners, like Australia, along with civil society organizations, NGOs, and the private sector.

The collaboration between these entities has facilitated today’s event and has the potential to contribute significantly to climate resilience and adaptation in the country.

The Minister looked ahead with optimism, envisioning meaningful partnerships and capacity-building initiatives at all levels.

He expressed the Government’s determination to enhance the country’s resilience and preparedness against the impacts of climate change and disasters.

On a concluding note, Ramofafia extended his sincere appreciation to all government officials and NGOs who have tirelessly administered and managed the Climate Change programs thus far.

Their collective efforts have laid a robust foundation for a more resilient and sustainable future for the Solomon Islands.

UNWARRANTED FEES

Written by
Eddie Osifelo
-
0

Residents allege security guards charging unjustified payments at Nine Ridge boom gate

BY EDDIE OSIFELO

A number of residents residing at Nine Ridge area, South Honiara have raised concerns over alleged extortion by security guards stationed at a local boom gate.

The security guards have reportedly been demanding payments ranging from $300 to $400 before permitting the passage of vehicles carrying building materials.

The route to the boom gate is accessed via Zion Road in East Honiara, leading to the property owned by the Bahai church.

Previously, residents encountered no hindrances when accessing the boom gate.

However, a recent change in practice, involving the levying of fees, has caught them off guard.

Expressing their dissatisfaction, a resident who chose to remain anonymous stated, “We are hardworking individuals striving to establish our homes. Subjecting us to these charges is not only unjust but also inhumane.”

The residents are questioning the authorization behind the security guards’ imposition of fees. According to information obtained, the Ministry of Lands, Housing, and Survey had contracted the security guards to manage the boom gate and oversee activities in the South Honiara sub-division.

In response to the situation, Commissioner of Lands, Alan McNeil, has requested additional details for clarification.

McNeil has sought the names of the affected residents as well as the identities of the security guards involved.

This data is crucial for enabling a swift and appropriate response from the Ministry.

It should be noted that the residents at Nine Ridge are not currently residing within the South Honiara sub-division.

It is worth trying

Written by
Ofani Eremae
-
0
Mavis Podokolo Suncorp stadium during the FIFA WWC 2023 matches in Brisbane

BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

AN award-winning female Journalist and dedicated health reporter Mavis Nishimura Podokolo has taken up a new challenge in her career as Journalist in the area of Sports media.

Ms Podokolo has falling in love with sports reporting after attending number of trainings introduced to Solomon Islands female Journalists through the Women’s In News and Sports (WINS) , an initiative of the ABC International Development.

These trainings have equipped her and built her confidence to venture into the sports reporting, a field that dominated by male Journalists.

On the 21st of July 2023 she was so fortunate to be part of the ABC International Development, FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 training program  in Brisbane through the Women and News and Sports Initiative (WINS) which I’m a member of.

She said this program initially comes with serious of virtual trainings. After completing the online trainings she was selected to do further intensive training incorporated with the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 in Brisbane, Australia with 3 other female Journalists from Solomon Islands.

Mavis Podokolo with Tracey Holmes an Australian journalist during the FIFA WWC 2023 matches in Brisbane.

“I’d say I’m blessed and so fortunate to be part of this program. It is also an eye opener for me in the area of sports media. I believe so much that knowledge and skills I have acquired will enhanced my skills not only in the area sports media but other sectors inside our country,”Ms Podokolo said.

She said one of her highlight she was given the chance to interview the Captain of team France and team Brazil.

“For me this is a breakthrough in this training to have the confidence to walk straight to these two stars and asking them for an interview.

“Apart from that, I have also learnt the basics of how to use the Mobile Journalism kits to shoot videos. I have also built networks and connection with other Pacific sisters, the first nation women’s and also the different trainers and speakers.

“I’m very much looking forward to put these acquired knowledge into practice when doing news reporting,” Ms Podokolo said.

She adds covering sports for her as female would be challenging but she is willing to take up this challenge and give it a try.

“I’d say here, it is worth trying, if others can do it, we can do it too,” Ms Podokolo said.

Mavis has been in the media industry for seven years. She started her Journalism career with Sunday Isles Newspaper in 2016 and later joins Island Sun Newspaper in 2017 up until now. Ms Podokolo was recently awarded with an award on Excellence in Reporting on the Pandemic 2022 and also was awarded with the Young Journalist of the Year award by the Media Association of Solomon Islands.

She is from the beautiful Western Province in Solomon Islands

Sogavare missed meeting with US Republican senators

Written by
Eddie Osifelo
-
0
Sogavare. Photo credit- MAVIS PODOKOLO

By EDDIE OSIFELO

In an unexpected turn of events, Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare of the Solomon Islands was unable to honour an appointment with two visiting Republican Senators from the United States, Deal Dunn and Amata Radewagen, along with their accompanying delegation.

The meeting was scheduled to take place in Honiara on Tuesday.

The reasons behind Prime Minister Sogavare’s absence from the meeting remain undisclosed.

Republican Senator Deal Dunn, when approached by the media, attributed the Prime Minister’s absence to a busy schedule.

“Unfortunately, he couldn’t fit us into his tightly packed agenda. We conveyed our warm regards and appreciation through a note and a gift, thanking him for his hospitality during our stay in the country,” Senator Dunn stated.

Senator Dunn further acknowledged the constraints of the Prime Minister’s schedule, noting, “While we flew thousands of miles for this engagement, we do understand that leaders have numerous commitments demanding their attention. Our gift and note express our gratitude for the opportunity to visit this country.”

During their visit, the US Congress delegation, which included Senators Dunn and Radewagen, took part in solemn ceremonies at the American War Memorial on Monday. They laid wreaths to honor the memory of both American and local Solomon Islanders who valiantly fought during the pivotal Battle of Guadalcanal in 1942.

The delegation’s tribute was a poignant acknowledgment of the historical ties between the two nations.

In addition to the memorial visit, the delegation sought to gain firsthand insights into the operations and resource needs of the National Referral Hospital.

This effort to connect with local institutions underscored the cooperative spirit of the diplomatic visit.

As the circumstances surrounding Prime Minister Sogavare’s scheduling conflict remain shrouded in mystery, the overarching message of gratitude and cooperation from the visiting US delegation serves to strengthen ties between the United States and the Solomon Islands.

SINU eyes Malaita Campus at Fote

Written by
Ofani Eremae
-
0

BY NED GAGAHE

Solomon Islands National University (SINU) has set its eyes on establishing its Malaita Campus at Fote, West Kwara’e, at the former National Agriculture Training Institute (NATI).

In a statement yesterday SINU Vice Chancellor Professor Transform Aqorau issued the call for the occupants and land owners of the site to make way for the institution’s plan

The SINU Vice Chancellor said the site which once served as an education hub for the former Solomon Islands College of High Education’s (SICHE) NATI institute was a prime location and SINU aims to establish its Malaita Campus there.

Furthermore, Aqorau clarified that SICHE never withdrew the institute from Fote. SICHE only withdrew the programme and not the institute.

The reason behind the move was because it was supported in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock.

Aqorau emphasised that the main intention to establish a campus in Malaita is aligned with the University’s ongoing expansion plans throughout the country and Fote reflects an ideal setting due to its rich history and suitable infrastructure.

“The establishment of a SINU Campus in Malaita is not just a boom for the institution, but a significant catalyst for the socio-economic growth of the province. It has the immense potential the campus brings in terms of economic benefits for Fote and the wider Malaita community.

“As envisioned, SINU will invest heavily in specialized programs such as agriculture, agroforestry, land management, and other related fields.

“These programs are anticipated to inject new life into the local economy and provide vast opportunities for the inhabitants as well as the Province.

“In light of the above, I earnestly calls upon the, landowners, the people of Malaita and the Malaita Provincial Government to rally behind this transformative initiative.

“This is a call to action for the greater good of our community, and we believe that with unified support, we can create an institution that not only educates but also empowers and uplifts.”

Meanwhile, SINU remains committed to its mission of providing unparalleled education and research.

“With the Malaita Campus, SINU aims to create a legacy of academic excellence while simultaneously fostering sustainable economic growth for Malaita and its people.” the Vice Chancellor said.

GP commits huge portion of budget to build Mamara HQ

Written by
Ofani Eremae
-
0
Francis Sade.

BY NED GAGAHE

THE current Premier of Guadalcanal Francis Sade has shown great eagerness and commitment to fast-track the provincial Headquarter (HQ) project at Mamara, Northwest Guadalcanal materializes soon.

His current led government has proven it by committing a huge portion of its 2023-2024 financial year budget that would soon see a Provincial Assembly Complex and Agriculture Pack house constructed on the recently acquired 20 hectare land given by Metropolis Pacific Ltd at Mamara.

GP Media revealed this in a statement following the signing of the $40m Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA) between Metropolis Pacific Ltd and Guadalcanal Province yesterday.

In a statement after the signing, Premier Sade expressed excitement saying that the partnership between the two organization has come a long way where previous government have opened discussion with Pacific Metro for the possibility to acquire only 5ha of land.

Sade adds that the push to have a much bigger area that aligns with the development aspiration of the province birthed when he come to power in 2019.

The Premier expressed great confidence that the decision to establish the HQ at Mamara is a right decision and one that reflects the choice of the people of Guadalcanal themselves.

Sade emphasized that the people of Guadalcanal have waited for a long time, over 30 years for this to happen.

On that note, the signing marks an important tri-partnership the SIG, Metropolis Pacific Ltd and Guadalcanal Province have developed and nourished over the years.

Furthermore, Sade appealed to the SIG through the Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening (MPGIS) to support Guadalcanal Province ensure that the development of its HQ materializes soon.

1...600601602...1,677Page 601 of 1,677