BY INDY MAEALASIA

HONIARA residents, government officials and guests gathered at the National Stadium on Monday, July 7, 2025 to mark the country’s 47th Independence Anniversary, despite the light to heavy downpour.

Celebrated under the theme “Unityand Stability for Transformation and Prosperity”, the half-day ceremony featured a colorful parade, cultural diversity and national togetherness.

Delivering his keynote address, Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele reflected on the country’s journey since gaining independence from Great Britain in 1978.

“Today, we stand on firm ground—47 years after the dawn of our freedom—to once again raise our flag and proclaim with pride that we are an independent and sovereign nation, “he said.

Touching on the nation’s motto “To Lead Is to Serve” Manele emphasised that these words are more than just a slogan:

“They are a national calling—a powerful reminder to those in public office and every citizen that leadership must be rooted in humility, sacrifice and service to our people and country,” he stressed.

The Prime Minister reminded citizens that when singing the national anthem, they do more than sing a song.

“When we sing our National Anthem— “God Save Our Solomon Islands”—we do more than sing a song. We lift our voices in prayer, in hope and in unity. We ask God to bless our isles from shore to shore, to guide our leaders wisely and to strengthen every citizen with faith and courage,” he said.

Attendees also witnessed the official presentation of the 2024 Independence Anniversary Honours and Awards, recognising individuals for their distinguished service to the nation.

The recipients are as follows;

1. Cross of Solomon Islands (CSI)

1. John Wong Aba: for long and dedicated service to economic, commerce and community development.
2. Late Chief Richard Gething Tinoni: For long and dedicated service to the government, church and community development.

• Solomon Islands Medal (Silver)

1. Henry Luito’o Fa’arodo: For long and dedicated service to the government, community and sports in the field of soccer
2. Chief Moses Loea: For long and dedicated service to community development
3. Late Stephanas Steve Machaiah: For long and dedicated service to the Correctional Service of Solomon Islands
4. Ella Keru: For long and dedicated service in the Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs

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BY NED GAGAHE

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele witnessed the official handover of several key infrastructure projects funded under the Provincial Capacity Development Fund (PCDF) and the World Bank-supported Integrated Economic Development and Community Resilience (IEDCR) program, during Central Province’s 44th Second Appointed Day celebrations in Tulagi.

The handover ceremony was officiated by the Minister for Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening, Wayne Ghemu, who formally handed over the completed projects to Premier of Central Province, Kenneth Sagupari, in the presence of Prime Minister Manele and hundreds of community members.

The projects delivered include:

• Central Provincial Government (CPG) Head Office fencing and standby generator, valued at $1,171,862

• Refurbishment of Staff Quarter 86 at a cost of $217,162

• One canoe, three outboard motors and safety equipment worth $310,000

• Solid waste management equipment, including two trucks valued at $1 million

These investments are aimed at improving government services and essential infrastructure for communities in Tulagi and surrounding areas.

Premier Sagupari, thanked the national government and the World Bank for their continued support.

“The Central Provincial Government has invested in both social and economic sectors through the PCDF over the years. We thank the national government and the World Bank for their benevolent support to our people and look forward to similar assistance in the future,” he said.

Prime Minister Manele applauded the ongoing collaboration between provincial and national stakeholders and emphasized the importance of strong partnerships in enhancing service delivery and building community resilience across the country.

The PCDF is a performance-based grant designed to encourage provinces to implement governance reforms and improve infrastructure investment and service delivery. The IEDCR program complements PCDF through additional funding and technical support to build capacity and resilience at the provincial level.

These initiatives signify the ongoing commitment to developing Solomon Islands’ rural and provincial areas, ensuring long-term growth and improved livelihoods.

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BY IRWIN ANGIKI

It is one of the traditional highlights of any Independence Day celebrations – the police brass band performance.

Since the first celebrations of our Independence Day, the programme is never complete without the beloved RSIPF Brass Band performance.

The mesmerising rhythmic marching in line with the music beat, uniform march patterns and the occasional solo performances of one or two hyped up band members who step out in front and put on an extra show, catching the attention and amusement of the crowd.

RSIPF brass band never cease to live up to expectations.

This year is special as the ADF brass band again joins its RSIPF comrades, turning up the vibe.

Police media describes it well in its statement yesterday, Monday, July 7, 2025.

“The Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) band and the Australian Defence Force (ADF) brass band rocked the crowd with their famous dancing patterns as the country marked the 47th Independence Day of Solomon Islands in Honiara on July 7, 2025.”

The RSIPF and ADF formed part of the official parade, which consisted of members of various national institutions both government and private sector who made up the parade formation.

RSIPF/ADF brass band collaboration provided some entertainment music after the official parade completed.

“The vibrant atmosphere was further enhanced by the cheers of the spectators, who enjoyed the lively tunes of the performance,” police media said.

During the official parade, Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele stood with the RSIPF Commissioner Mostyn Mangau on the dais and gave three happy cheers for the country turning 47 years old.

RSIPF and the Correctional Service of Solomon Islands (CSSI) mounted a colourful parade to commemorate the 47th anniversary of the Solomon Islands.

The guests, platoons and the crowd who were present during the event paid respect to our national flag when raised by our RSIPF police maritime officers.

Commissioner Mangau said Honiara City Council (HCC) Law Enforcement and community groups took part in the parade.

Mangau said the parade for them is a way to demonstrate through their discipline that they honour the country and are ready to serve our people.

“It is a way we build pride in the police force,” he said.

The RSIPF brass band started in the 1960s but grew dormant by the early 70s, according to a statement by the police media unit in 2009, published by Solomon Times Online.

It was however revived in 1976 with one of the main purposes being – Independence Day celebrations – as the country prepared for its independence from Great Britain in 1978.

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BY INDY MAEALASIA

IN his national address to mark the country’s 47th independence anniversary yesterday, Monday, July 7, 2025, Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has called on all Solomon Islanders to take ownership of their national journey, urging unity across provinces, political lines and generations to build a stronger future.

He said the country is blessed with natural beauty, rich cultures and a young, vibrant population, but emphasised that progress requires collective effort.

Speaking directly to the nation’s youth, Manele said they are not just the future but the present.

“To our young people: You are not just the future—you are the now. Take pride in your nation. Study hard, dream big and lead with integrity,” he said.

To the elders, he paid tribute for their enduring wisdom, calling it the foundation of the country. He urged them to continue teaching younger generations the values of peace, respect and community.

The Prime Minister further reminded citizens that independence is not just a gift, but a responsibility to uphold.

“Let us honour it—not only on this day, but every day,” he added.

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BY INDY MAEALASIA

BUSINESSMAN John Wong Aba has been awarded the Cross of Solomon Islands (CSI) for his four decades of contribution to job creation and the national economy.

Aba was one of six recipients of the 2024 Independence anniversary honours and awards who was given one of the country’s highest honours during the 2025 47th Independence Day celebrations yesterday.

A proud Solomon Islander of Chinese descent, Aba established the well-known Aba Corporation in 1982. He now owns Top Timber, a wholesaler and retailer specializing in downstream timber processing.

Upon receiving the award, Aba dedicated the honour to his employees and local timber suppliers.

“Today, I want to thank my employees—from Isabel, Choiseul, Makira, Temotu, Malaita and other provinces—for their dedication and hard work over the years,” Aba remarked.

“I would also like to acknowledge the local timber owners and suppliers who have supported Top Timber over the years. Without you, I would not have received this award,” he said.

Expressing his gratitude, Aba added:

“I’m honoured to receive the Cross of Solomon Islands. I was nominated back in 2024, but I truly didn’t expect this recognition.”

Aba also acknowledged former Member of Parliament, Danny Phillip for nominating him and expressed appreciation to the Solomon Islands Government and the Governor-General.

“I sincerely thank the government and the Governor-General for this honour. I am truly speechless and deeply grateful,” he said.

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