BY DOUGLAS VAHIA

For copra and cocoa farmers in parts of West Makira, Wahi’a village is their crown jewel because that is where they earn their livelihood.

In Wahi’a village, there is Job Alick Waru, a trusted cocoa and copra agent who stays ready to buy copra and cocoa from farmers.

He then brings his bags of copra and cocoa to Commodities Export Marketing Authority (CEMA) to sell.

Waru said he’s content to contribute to the export volumes of CEMA.

Recalling his earlier years as an agent, he said to become a CEMA agent, he had to go through a process set by CEMA.

Among the criteria, a prospective agent must be consistent in supplying copra and cocoa to CEMA and Waru had proved to be a consistent supplier for over a period of time.

In 2023, CEMA certified Waru as an agent and he was given a modest amount of money as imprest to complement his buying power at Wahi’a village.

Since then, Waru has been supplying 60-70 bags of copra per month and 20-30 bags a month of cocoa, all to CEMA.

When asked why he chose to sell to CEMA when there are other competitive buyers out there, Waru said he chose to sell to CEMA because he wants to invest in a government-owned entity.

Prior to becoming an agent, Waru was a copra and cocoa farmer himself and he decided to abandon tilling his plantations because they were aging and he needed to replant his coconut and cocoa trees.

While waiting to revive his plantations, he decided to become an agent and buy cocoa and copra from other farmers.

Speaking of challenges, Waru said one is transportation as there are no roads to reach farmers who are further away on the other side of the island.

He added that a single outboard motor engine boat cannot transport all the cocoa and copra produce at once.

Henceforth, Waru urges CEMA to consider availing one of the two new short haul fast crafts to service the Makira Ulawa Province’s copra and cocoa farmers.

“We need it to travel to Ugi Island and the Weathercoast of Makira Ulawa Province,” he said.

Photo: Supplied

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BY TONY IROGA

The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) has taken a major step towards introducing the country’s first nationally accredited postgraduate qualification in chaplaincy.

The Faculty of Education and Humanities (FEH) yesterday held a stakeholder consultation on its proposed Postgraduate Diploma in Chaplaincy Studies.

The meeting brought together representatives from churches, government ministries, health services, correctional services, schools, faith-based organisations and community leaders to help shape the new programme, a SINU statement yesterday said.

Dean of the Faculty of Education and Humanities, Dr Patricia Rodie said the proposed diploma is aims to meet the growing demand for qualified chaplains across the country.

“The proposed Postgraduate Diploma in Chaplaincy Studies has been developed in response to the increasing need for qualified chaplains who possess not only theological knowledge but also advanced skills in pastoral care, counselling, clinical practice and psychological support,” Mrs Rodie said.

She said chaplains play an important role in providing spiritual, emotional and psychosocial support in schools, hospitals, prisons, universities and other institutions.

She noted that Solomon Islands currently has no nationally accredited postgraduate programme dedicated to chaplaincy training.

“This consultation provides an opportunity for stakeholders to contribute their knowledge and experience to ensure the programme is academically rigorous, professionally relevant, culturally appropriate and responsive to the needs of Solomon Islands,” she said.

Participants reviewed the proposed curriculum and graduate outcomes through presentations and group discussions. Their feedback will be used to strengthen the programme before it goes through SINU’s academic approval process.

The proposed one-year programme will mainly target practising chaplains but will also be open to professionals in education, nursing, social work, theology and other human service fields.

She also acknowledged the School of Humanities, led by Rev Dr Ben Wate, for developing the programme and organising the consultation.

If approved, the Postgraduate Diploma in Chaplaincy Studies will become the first nationally accredited postgraduate qualification in chaplaincy in Solomon Islands, preparing graduates to serve in churches, schools, hospitals, correctional centres and other community institutions.

Photo credit: SINU

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BY TONY IROGA

The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) has reaffirmed its commitment to nation building as the country celebrates its 48th Independence Anniversary.

In a message shared on July 7, SINU Vice Chancellor Professor Transform Aqorau congratulated the Government and people of Solomon Islands while paying tribute to the country’s leaders and citizens who have contributed to national development since independence.

“On behalf of Solomon Islands National University, I extend warm greetings and congratulations to the Government of Solomon Islands and to our students, staff, alumni, parents, guardians, partners, communities and all Solomon Islanders as we celebrate the 48th Independence Anniversary of our beloved nation,” Mr Aqorau said.

He acknowledged the service of past and present national leaders, as well as chiefs, church leaders, women, youth, teachers, health workers, farmers, fishers, public servants, private sector leaders and development partners for their contributions to the country’s progress.

He said Independence Day is not only a celebration of the nation’s history but also an opportunity to reflect for the future.

“Independence is not only a celebration of our past. It is also a moment of reflection, gratitude, renewal and hope. Our journey as a nation has not always been easy, but our story is one of resilience, courage, faith and determination,” he said.

He stressed that education remains a key pillar for the country’s future, saying national development depends on investing in people.

“A nation is built not only by roads, buildings, resources and institutions, but by its people—their knowledge, skills, values, character and commitment to service,” he said.

As the country’s only national university, he said SINU has an important role in supporting Solomon Islands’ development through education, research, skills training and community engagement.

“We are more than an institution of learning. We are a partner in nation building. Through our teaching, research, skills training and partnerships, SINU is committed to helping Solomon Islands develop the human capacity needed for a stronger, fairer, more peaceful and sustainable future,” he said.

He also described students as the future leaders and professionals who will help shape the nation.

“Our students represent the hopes of our families, our communities and our country. Investing in them is investing in the future of our nation,” he said.

Looking ahead, he encourages Solomon Islanders to work together in unity and with a shared vision.

“The future of Solomon Islands holds great promise. If we work together with humility, discipline, unity and vision, we can build a future that honours our past and creates new opportunities for generations to come,” he said.

He concluded by reaffirming the university’s commitment to support national development.

“SINU stands ready to be part of this journey. We will continue to serve Solomon Islands by educating our people, strengthening partnerships and contributing to a sustainable and inclusive future for all.”

He wishes all Solomon Islanders a happy 48th Independence Anniversary.

Photo credit: SINU

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BY IRWIN ANGIKI

Australia was the first country to formally recognise Solomon Islands and establish diplomatic relations with it on day-one – July 1, 1978.

Australia Prime Minister Hon Anthony Albanese reflected on this with pride as he congratulated the Solomon Islands government and people on turning 48.

Addressing the official celebration at the National Stadium on Tuesday as the special guest, Mr Albanese said:

“On behalf of the people of Australia, it is my great honour to congratulate you and your country on 48 years of independence. 

“We gather today to commemorate those whose vision made independence possible, half a century ago.

“To celebrate the change and progress those five decades have brought to the life of your nation and the lives of its citizens.

“And to dedicate ourselves to building on what has gone before us.

“To realising a future of greater opportunity, stability and prosperity for all.”

Albanese shared that it is a source of pride for Australia – being the first country to formally recognise Solomon Islands, and being the Solomon Islands’ first diplomatic partner, established on the day Solomon Islands officially gained independence from the United Kingdom – July 7, 1978.

He said the comradery between Australia and Solomon Islands was forged way before 1978, during the second world war when Solomon Islanders supported Australian soldiers.

“It is an ongoing source of pride for Australia that we were the first country to formally recognise Solomon Islands through the establishment of diplomatic relations.

“And that occurred on the 7th July, 1978.

“Day one.

“Because Australia already knew the kindness and the courage that lived in these lands.

“We had learned this amidst the devastation of war. And we had pledged to remember it always in peace.

“The bravery, skill and sacrifice of Scouts and Coastwatchers. And the selfless humanity of Solomon Islanders who risked their own lives to rescue and shelter Australian sailors and airmen.

“Australia was proud to count Solomon Islands as a friend long before your first day as a member of the international community.”

Albanese touched on the geography links between the two countries making Solomon Islands one of Australia’s closest neighbours.

“And we are proud to have Solomon Islands as a neighbour, a partner, a friend and a cherished member of the Pacific Family, every day.”

PM Albanese encouraged Solomon Islanders to be proud and continue to uphold the country’s sovereignty which was “brought to life by a thousand different acts of leadership, imagination and co-operation, from the people of these islands”.

“Because the sovereignty of independence is not a condition that one country can bestow on another.

“It is a right and a responsibility. Sovereignty, stability, prosperity and peace are not born of one moment in time.

“They are built, maintained and secured down the generations. Not just in the high principles of global forums but in the universal building blocks of a good life.

“A healthy family, a secure home, a safe community. The opportunity of education and the dignity of work. The connections to region, culture and the great blue Pacific.

“These are the continuing acts of independence that bring power, progress and sovereignty to individuals and nations alike.”

PM Albanese attended this year’s anniversary celebration as our special guest. He was accompanied by Australia Foreign minister Hon Penny Wong.

Albanese held a bilateral meeting with prime minister Matthew Wale upon arrival at the Honiara international airport before joining the celebrations at the national stadium.

Both leaders then hosted a press conference.

Albanese and Wong officially handed over the Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre before departing Honiara.

Photo: Supplied

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

ASSOCIATE Professor Gordon Nanau says Solomon Islands’ Independence Day is not only a celebration of the nation’s sovereignty but also an opportunity for citizens to reflect on the country’s journey and plan for a better future.

Nanau made the remarks in response to a question from a New Zealand-based media outlet on the significance of Solomon Islands’ annual Independence Day celebrations.

He said the occasion provides an important moment for the nation to look back on its achievements, challenges and the lessons learned since gaining independence.

“Every year, we have the opportunity to reflect on what the country has gone through and what we have achieved so far.

“Solomon Islands has experienced a difficult past, so it is important that we take this opportunity to reflect as a nation and ensure that the mistakes of the past are not repeated,” Nanau said.

He said reflection is an essential part of nation-building, allowing leaders and citizens alike to assess the country’s progress while identifying areas that still require improvement.

According to Nanau, Independence Day should inspire Solomon Islanders to renew their commitment to unity, good governance and sustainable development for future generations.

He added that the annual celebrations feature cultural performances, sporting events and official ceremonies, but the true significance of Independence Day lies in remembering the country’s history and drawing on those experiences to build a stronger and more prosperous future.

Nanau encourages Solomon Islanders to embrace the spirit of unity during the celebrations and work collectively to achieve aspirations of the nation.

Photo: Inside Government

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People of Simbo question TC Maila recovery efforts for Western province

BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

COMMUNITIES in Simbo are questioning when the government will kick off recovery efforts following Cyclone Maila as many families continue to struggle months after the devastating disaster.

Provincial Member for Simbo, Gideon Tuke, said he received numerous phone calls from concerned residents seeking answers about the promised recovery assistance.

He said many households that lost their livelihoods during the cyclone are still waiting for food supplies and other support to rebuild their lives.

“My people are asking when the next supply of food items will arrive, and we are also in a state of confusion about the recovery plan. Is there going to be any assistance from the government at all?” Tuke said.

He also questioned the purpose of the post-cyclone damage assessments, saying communities expected the information collected to lead to immediate recovery assistance.

“We question what the assessment was for. Was it done only to provide information to the government, or was it intended to serve as a baseline to help communities rebuild damaged infrastructure? How long will it take? People are confused,” Tuke said.

Tuke said communities welcomed the assessment teams that visited affected areas after the cyclone, but they are now disappointed because the government is yet to begin visible recovery activities.

He said families continue to face challenges in restoring their gardens, repairing homes, and rebuilding community infrastructure damaged by the powerful Category 5 cyclone.

Tuke calls on the government and relevant authorities to provide clear information on the recovery timeline and ensure that affected communities receive the assistance they were promised.

He said regular communication with affected communities is important to reduce uncertainty and restore public confidence in the recovery process.

Cyclone Maila caused widespread destruction across Western Province earlier this year, damaging homes, food gardens, public infrastructure and livelihoods in several island communities, including Simbo.

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