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Dala central deanery programme ends successfully 

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By RODRICK DESURI

Auki

A gathering to mark the important occasions of Saint Maria Goretti, Independence Day and Saint Peter Torot’s feast day successfully ended this week with many blessings and enjoyment. 

Many catechists, youths, Dala parishioners and visitors witnessed the closing programme, which included feasting and some entertainment after the closing mass. 

Fr John Adai, who shared his sermon during the mass to mark the closing, said they have shared the journey of faith in what they are celebrating during the three-day programme. 

“On the journey of faith that we are celebrating, it is supposed to be a give and take.

“Catechists are setting a legacy of faith and commitment to the service of God’s people and the youth have to see that they are the future of the church,” Adai said. 

Meanwhile, Adai said that they felt the presence of the spirit of the loving God upon them.

“The spirit is high, with both catechists and youth actively participating. The occasion forged unity and harmony.

“As we close our programme today, they are preparing to go out with faith and share it, impacting other young people who haven’t attended and heard the important talks,” he said. 

The closing programme began with mass, feasting and entertainment.

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Principal Kaeni shares learning experience from Honiara workshop

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By RODRICK DESURI

Auki

Principal of Gwaidingale Community High School in West Kwaio said he has learnt a lot of new things and insights from the recent teachers and school providers workshop in Honiara. 

Chrissanto Kaeni said the workshop was an eye-opener and it was the first time for him to attend.

He said the information learnt could be a bonus in strengthening his responsibilities. 

The principal also said that even though the teachers are low-salary earners, they are the hope-givers for the future leaders in the country. 

“We are the hope-givers in this nation, even though many of us receive lower salaries. 

“It is good that our work is guided by law, not like before when our work was guided by policy,” Kaeni said.

However, Principal Chrissanto Kaeni also reiterated a statement from the MEHRD that despite teachers being low-paid, they should treat their work as a sacred duty.

More than 300 school leaders and education providers from the four corners of the country attended the three-day workshop.

The theme of the three-day workshop was “Creating a Better Future for Our Children in Solomon Islands through Transformational Leadership.”

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Embassy of China donates office equipment to Foreign Affairs

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BY CHRIS ALEX

The Chinese embassy in Honiara donated office equipment and supplies to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade (MFAET) on Friday, July 11, 2025.

The donation includes 10 desktop computers, two laptops, one printer along with accessories, 80 handbags, 80 t-shirts and 72 sets of notebooks.

The aim of this contribution is to support the efficiency and comfort of the ministry’s operations, particularly as the country prepares to host high-level international events in the future.

Chinese Ambassador to Solomon Islands, Cai Weiming expressed his pleasure in contributing to the ongoing partnership between China and the Solomon Islands.

He said the donation is another step in China’s unwavering support for the Solomon Islands, following their previous assistance for the successful hosting of the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting, including a one million US dollar funding package for the procurement.

Weiming emphasised the importance of the Solomon Islands’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs in fostering diplomatic ties between the two countries, particularly highlighting its steadfast support for the One China principle, which underpins the critical foundation of the bilateral relationship.

“We deeply appreciate the firm support shown by your ministry on this matter of core interests to China,” he said.

Weiming also acknowledged the leadership of the Solomon Islands government and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for their contributions to strengthening the enduring friendship between China and the Solomon Islands.

He praised the country’s commitment to deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership that is based on mutual respect and open cooperation.

The donation follows the recent visit of Foreign Minister, Peter Shanel Agovaka to China where he attended the third China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.

The meeting produced significant outcomes and reaffirmed both nations’ commitment to furthering their ties across multiple domains, including development assistance, trade facilitation and people-to-people exchanges.

As a follow-up to the meeting, China has outlined several initiatives to further implement the agreements reached, including enhanced cooperation in areas such as trade, cultural exchanges and humanitarian support.

Weiming in further remarks, reiterated China’s commitment to being a “sincere, friendly and reliable partner” for the Solomon Islands; reaffirming the desire to continue enhancing the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations.

“Let us build on the foundation of mutual trust and respect and move forward together towards an even closer China-Solomon Islands community with a shared future,” he said.

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Strong wind warning remains effective

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

A strong wind warning from the Solomon Islands Meteorological Services (SIMS) remains effective.

On Thursday, July 11, 2025, SIMS issued “Strong Wind Warning Number Nineteen” at 4:00 pm.

SIMS said the strong wind warning is current for waters of Temotu, Makira, Rennell & Bellona, Guadalcanal, Central, Malaita and Western provinces.

The situation from this strong wind warning is a that a general easterly trade wind flow persists over the Solomon Islands.

SIMS also said southeast winds of 20 to 25 knots are expected over waters of Temotu, Makira, Rennell & Bellona, Guadalcanal, Central, Malaita and Western provinces.

Seas are also said to be moderate to rough with moderate swells at 2.5 meters.

“People in those areas should take precautionary measures, as such strong winds have the potential to impact lives and properties. Sea travellers are urged to consider safety actions as such winds can produce dangerous wave conditions which are hazardous to small boats,” the statement said.

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Bail application for Supreme murder case adjourned

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

High Court has adjourned the bail application hearing for defendant Zayn Taisia Gegeu to August 11, 2025.

Bail application was scheduled for Friday, July 11, 2025, however, it was adjourned following an issue that arose in a separate matter involving the same defendant at the Magistrate Court.

Defendant, Gegeu had been convicted of assault causing bodily harm and sentenced to 17 months’ imprisonment, with the sentence backdated to account for the time already spent in custody.

Prosecution also objected to defence’s bail application and defence needed time to finalise its bail applications considering the defendant’s sentence at Magistrate Court as well.

Prosecution charged Zayn Taisia Gegeu with one count of murder and one count of driving without valid licence.

Prosecution alleged between 3am to 5am on January 1, 2024, he drove a vehicle through Supreme Casino’s second boom gate at the Eastern side and then made a quick turn heading back in the westerly direction at a very high speed.

Prosecutor further alleged that the defendant drove straight towards a group of girls, including the deceased.

When the group of girls saw the vehicle moving towards them, they jumped out of the way but unfortunately it hit the deceased.

After Taisia hit the victim, he reversed the vehicle and escaped out of the Supreme Casino area.

The deceased was transported to the National Referral Hospital (NRH) where she was later pronounced dead.

The accused was arrested and charged with one count of murder and one count of driving without a valid licence.

John Wesley Zoze from Public Prosecution Office act for the Crown and Chris Rarumae act for Zane Taisia Gegeu.

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Stolen gold ash case to return to court July 14

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

The Magistrate Court has administratively adjourned the gold ashes theft case to Monday next week, July 14, for sentencing submissions for Peter Olben, who previously pleaded guilty to the offence.

Two individuals, a couple, Max Gura and Mirriam Keni Sasau, also charged in connection with the stolen gold ashes, are scheduled to appear in court on the same date to enter their pleas to an amended, lesser charge of receiving from simple larceny which they were both initially charged with.

The incident occurred on September 24, 2024, when the principal accused, Peter Olben, stole eight plastic bags of gold ashes weighing 8,992.10 grammes.

On September 26, 2024, Gura allegedly transported Olben in his vehicle to help him evade police and hid him at his village in Guadalcanal.

It is further alleged that Gura received a portion of the stolen gold ashes from Olben after dropping him off at the hideout.

Sasau allegedly sold a portion of the stolen gold ashes and collected approximately $160,000, which she then returned to her husband, Gura and Olben.

Police also alleged that Olben gave Gura and Sasau an additional $10,000.

On October 3, 2024, Sasau was intercepted by officers from Henderson Police at the Henderson area while attempting to sell another plastic bag containing gold ashes, which she had received from Gura and Olben.

Olben later escaped to Auki and handed the remaining gold ashes to Gura, who sought a buyer. Gura allegedly sold the gold ashes in portions.

Police investigations later discovered that Gura had used the proceeds to purchase several vehicles and distributed them among his family members. He is alleged to have bought a three-door RAV4, a two-ton vehicle and a Hilux, all of which were shipped to Auki.

Gura and Sasau are also alleged to have purchased a piece of land at Tasahe B, where they are currently building a home.

On December 5, 2024, police executed a search warrant at the residence of Gura and Sasau in Lunga.

During the search, officers reportedly found a small Szeba bottle containing several grams of gold ashes, $6,317.60 in cash and small medicine-like plastic containers used to store and weigh gold ashes, which still contained gold residue.

Police also discovered police uniforms and other property belonging to the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF).

Iete Tebakota from the Police Prosecution Department is prosecuting the case. Donation Houa of PSO is representing Max Gura, Syvia Pitamama is acting for Peter Olben and Roria Sikua is representing Mirriam Keni Sasau.

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‘Past governments overlooked annual trade fair’

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The reason for not hosting the Annual National Trade Fair (ANTF) for the past 14 years is due to the government’s failure.

The Deputy Secretary Technical for the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration (MCILI), Mr Donga, said that when he delivered his remarks at the NTF closing ceremony held on Thursday this week at Solomon Islands National University (SINU), Panatina village.

“But I would like to say thank you to the current government of National Unity and Transformation. We did not have it during the past 14 years because successive governments overlooked us when we requested the funds to host the event,” he said.

“The current government sees that this is a very important event and so on behalf of the Minister of Commerce, I would like to thank the government of National Unity for seeing this fit, including us and giving us the funds to organise this year,” said Donga.

He said they have been asking the previous government every year to host this important event.

“The Ministry of Commerce and the National Government will continue to support you, so that your products will develop, that you continue to provide employment and expand your businesses, so that you can contribute to the welfare of the people of Solomon Islands,” he said.

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High-level delegation to visit Western province for school meal project

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

A high-level delegation from the Embassy of Japan (EoJ), UNICEF and the Solomon Islands Government (SIG) will visit Western province next week.

The visit is part of “The Project for Nutrition Improvement through School Meals,” which is being implemented in Isabel and Western Provinces to improve children’s health, school attendance and learning outcomes through proper nutrition.

The delegation will pay a courtesy call on Western Province Premier Billy Veo upon arrival on Monday, July 14, 2025.

The team will also visit key institutions in Gizo, including the Gizo Hospital, the Provincial Education Office and the Agriculture Division of the Western Provincial Government.

On Tuesday, the delegation will travel to schools participating in the project.

These include RC Nicolson College in South Vella La Vella and Patupaele Community High School in North Kolombangara.

The school meal program is a collaborative effort aimed at improving nutritional standards for students while also boosting agricultural production and promoting healthy eating habits.

It also looks at supporting the local economy by sourcing produce from nearby communities.

The visit signifies the joint commitment of international and national partners to advance education and health outcomes for children in rural communities.

Furthermore, the visit highlights the importance of strong collaboration between government agencies, development partners and communities to ensure the project’s long-term success.

It is expected to bring fresh insights and further strengthen coordination among stakeholders involved in the school meal initiative.

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MCILI acknowledge NTF contributors

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration (MCILI) Deputy Secretary Technical, Mr. Cornelius Donga, has thanked those who made this year’s National Trade Fair (NTF) a success.

Speaking on behalf of the MCILI Permanent Secretary during the closing ceremony on Thursday, July 10, 2025, Mr Donga said that it was not easy for a ministry to host such a big event.

“Ministry of Commerce wants to convey our sincere thanks and gratitude to all of you. It has not been easy, it was challenging for a ministry to host such a big event,” said Mr Donga.

“We thank the government that they allocated funds to support us,” he added.

Mr Donga said that the Ministry of Commerce is also engaged with the World Expo, currently going on in Osaka, Japan.

“It has started in April and it’s ending in October. So, the ministry is stretched in terms of manpower and financial support and so we are very grateful that we have a very successful National Trade Fair,” he said.

Mr Donga mentioned that the previous Trade fair was held back in 2014, 14 years ago.

“I would like to thank all those who have committed,” he said.

Mr Donga said although the weather was not very friendly during the week, participants stayed on and continued with the exhibitions.

“We learned from what we have done today, this year and we promise that next year we will have a better one,” he noted.

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Solomon Islands and China grow cooperation

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BY CHRIS ALEX

The strong diplomatic relations between Solomon Islands and China continues to deepen.

This was highlighted by the donation of essential technology and supplies to the Solomon Islands Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade (MFAET) on Friday, July 11, 2025, ahead of major international events, including the upcoming 54th Pacific Island Forum (PIF) Meeting in September this year.

MFAET Permanent Secretary, Collin Beck, in a statement expressed deep gratitude for China’s ongoing assistance, particularly emphasising the symbolic meaning of ongoing assistance from the Chinese government.

“Let me put this into perspective by using the word “China” as an abbreviation that captures the essence of our relationship,” Beck said.

“C for Cooperation – It reflects the close friendship and solidarity between Solomon Islands and China. Our relationship is built on mutual respect and equality.

“H for Hand of Friendship – Beck highlighted China’s unwavering support for Solomon Islands and the Pacific region, describing it as a true gesture of friendship.

“I for Indispensable Gifts – The donation, which includes ten desktop computers, two laptops, a printer, accessories, 80 handbags, 80 t-shirts and 72 sets of notebooks, is intended to enhance the ministry’s efficiency and comfort. This support also comes at a pivotal time as the country prepares to host several high-level international events.

“N for Enabling Relations – This donation strengthens the relations between our two countries and enhances our ability to maintain global multilateral standards based on international law.

“A for Appreciation – Beck expressed sincere thanks for the timely assistance that will help the ministry to manage the fast-changing international landscape, particularly with cutting-edge technology,” he stressed.

Beck highlighted that the gifts are more than just tools as they are also enablers of growth and progress.

“This generosity supports our national development goals and ensures that we can contribute to a united and prosperous global community,” he added.

The relationship between Solomon Islands and China has been growing stronger over the years, with China emerging as one of the Pacific region’s largest trading partners. The donation also aligns with broader infrastructure initiatives in the region, such as the 161 telecommunications towers currently under construction, marking a significant step forward in improving connectivity and fostering development in the Pacific.

“China has consistently shown that it is a trusted dialogue partner and we deeply appreciate their role in our growth.

“As we prepare for the Pacific Island Forum and continue to strengthen our bilateral ties, we remain committed to upholding the principles of sovereignty and the One-China Policy”, said Beck.

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