Home Blog Page 406

Man gets 11 years prison time for rape and assault of daughter

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY ROMINAH FAKA

A man has been sentenced to 11 years’ imprisonment for the rape and assault of his daughter in Temotu province.

The sentence was delivered on March 26 at a High Court Lata Circuit by Justice John A Keniapisia.

The man, who cannot be named to protect the identity of the victim, was charged with two counts of rape and one count of assault causing actual bodily harm and he pleaded guilty to all three counts on March 20.

Court heard that the first rape incident occurred between January 1 and December 31, 2020 at their home. The incident occurred when the mother was out, attending to a gathering to mourn a death.

After the incident, the defendant warned the victim not to tell anyone, otherwise he would kill her.

However, the next day the victim reported the incident to her mother but she did not do anything about it.

The victim was 14 years old.

The second rape incident occurred between April 1 – 30, 2023, at their home. The victim was 17 years old. The mother was out of the home when the incident occurred.

When the victim’s mother arrived, the defendant told her that he had seen the victim having sex with another boy.

That night the defendant took all the victim’s clothes and burnt them. The victim was naked and stayed in her room the whole time.

She later found a bag to wrap around her to cover her nakedness.

On April 30, 2023, the defendant whipped the victim’s backside with a stick continuously leaving her bleeding and in pain from back injuries which became swollen.

Next day the complainant went to the police station and reported the matter.

Aggravating factors included – breach of position of trust, abuse happened in the comfort of the home at night, pre-planning, psychological harm and trauma the complainant faced, physical harm and injury, young age of the victim, weak and vulnerable, disparity of age, repetition and used of weapon, force and threat and lastly the defendant pretended, lied, faked discipline and destroyed the victim’s clothes.

Mitigating factors included – guilty plea, first time offender, delay, time spent in custody and personal circumstances of the defendant and rehabilitation and cooperation with the police.

Court said that the 11-year sentence should give out a powerful deterrent factor to prevent the commission of such offences.

“Offenders must receive harsher punishment to make society outrage and denunciation against sexual abuse of women and girls.

“The main purpose for this punishment court deliver to condemn defendant actions and to protect the public from the commission of such crimes by making it clear to defendant and others with similar impulses, that anyone who yield to this kind of crime will meet with severe punishment,” Court said.

Monica Rehomora and Myrella Cleven prosecuted the case and Waroka acted for defence.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

Labour mobility to Federated States of Micronesia discussed in ambassador’s visit to PM Manele

Written by
Admin
-
0

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele yesterday received a courtesy call from visiting Federated States of Micronesia’s (FSM) non-resident ambassador to Solomon Islands, His Excellency (HE) Carson Sigrah.

HE Sigrah, who is based in Suva, Fiji, oversees FSM’s diplomatic relations with all South Pacific countries including Solomon Islands, a statement from the Prime Minister’s office yesterday said.

During their discussions, Manele and Sigrah explored the possibility of establishing a labour mobility cooperation agreement between FSM and Solomon Islands.

Manele expressed Solomon Islands’ willingness to share its human resources, particularly in the health sector, to serve in FSM.

He noted that a similar pilot arrangement is currently in place with Niue, the statement said.

Manele suggested that once all formalities are completed the agreement could be officially signed on the sidelines of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Leaders’ Meeting in Honiara in September 2025.

On trade, Manele highlighted the potential for expanding economic partnerships between the two countries. He stated that Solomon Islands has an abundance of agricultural products such as taro and cassava, which could be exported to FSM, the statement said.

The Prime Minister also acknowledged FSM’s contribution to the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI), which played a crucial role in restoring peace and security in the country.

Manele expressed Solomon Islands’ anticipation of hosting the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting in September and looked forward to FSM’s participation, the statement said.

In response, Sigrah reiterated FSM’s need for support in the health sector, particularly in securing more nurses, the statement said.

He assured PM Manele that he would consult with his government to pursue the proposed labour mobility arrangement.

Sigrah also welcomed the prospect of strengthening trade relations with Solomon Islands and looked forward to formalizing this endeavour, the statement said.

Additionally, he expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality he has received since his arrival, describing his visit as an enjoyable experience.

Makira-Ulawa passes $25m budget

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

Makira Ulawa provincial assembly passed its budget of $25,492,292.78 at the full provincial assembly held last week in Kirakira, Makira Ulawa province.

The budget will support Makira Ulawa provincial government to translate its policies to deliver needed services to the people of MUP in 2025/2026 financial year.

Premier of Makira Ulawa Stanley Siapu stressed the budget is not merely a financial document, but a manifesto for change.

“The budget is designed to align every resource with our bold strategic priorities, whether in infrastructure, healthcare, education, or social services.

“Every allocation is a decisive step toward revolutionizing our economy and uplifting our communities.

“Fiscal discipline is transformed into a dynamic platform for innovation, ensuring that every investment directly contributes to radical and inclusive progress.

“We have successfully aligned our budget to spearhead the PACRA policy, and today, we stand firm in our commitment to effective governance,” he said.

Siapu furthered that as they convened for the assembly meeting, they stand at the crossroads of tradition and transformation.

“In a province yearning for renewal, our collective courage and unwavering commitment are the catalysts that will redefine the future of Makira Ulawa.

“We must seize this moment to challenge the status quo and pave the way for a new era of sustainable growth and accountable governance,” Siapu said.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Loan refresher training for women in Guadalcanal communities

Written by
Admin
-
0

The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA), through its Soul Cocoa Livelihood Project (SCLP), has successfully completed a three-day refresher training for women’s savings groups in Guadalcanal Province.

The training sessions were held at Ghombua on March 23, Geza on March 25, and Govu on March 26 in Northeast and East Central Guadalcanal.

Mac Joe Luvu, a private consultant hired by SCLP, facilitated the loan refresher training.

The primary objective of the refresher training was to assess and reaffirm the savings groups’ rules and guidelines regarding their savings and loan activities which SCLP had initiated for women in the communities that ADRA SCLP is working closely with in the cocoa livelihood project.

A total of 36 women from Ghombua, 26 from Geza, and seven from Govu attended and participated in the training sessions, which were conducted in their respective villages.

The refresher training was fully funded by ADRA Australia through the Soul Cocoa Livelihood Project.

Reidly Harold, project officer for the Soul Cocoa Livelihood Project (SCLP) said the refresher training was successful.

“This training was essential in reaffirming the rules and guidelines. Some of these were not being strictly followed by certain groups, so the women’s groups were very happy to have this refresher training.

“The training covered savings techniques, loan rules, loan commitments, timelines, the sustainability of savings, savings rules, updated savings memberships, and the latest updates on savings cash at hand.”

Meanwhile, Jerolyn Jim, a member of the Saving Group from Ghombua, thanked the ADRA SC Team for the refresher training.

“Thank you, ADRA SCLP, for visiting us again after such a long time. We had not met for a while and had even breached some rules of the saving scheme.

“This refresher training will help us get back on track after being inactive for some time. It allows us to reunite as a group,” Ms Jim said.

Mabel Gogoni from the Geza Women Saving Group shared similar sentiments.

“We are happy that ADRA SCLP came back to help us revisit the saving loan scheme, as some of us had forgotten important aspects of it.

“It’s good that we reviewed the requirements of the savings loan scheme again and reminded ourselves of our responsibilities as members of the team,” she said.

Liean Patterson from Govu, the centre leader of her saving group, also expressed her gratitude to ADRA for the refresher training.

“To be honest, it has been a long time since we last gathered to discuss this scheme due to our various commitments.

“Most of us women live far apart, making it difficult to meet regularly. But thank you, ADRA, for organizing this refresher training and bringing us together to revive this saving loan scheme,” Ms Patterson said.

The initiative aims to help cooperative members develop a savings and loan culture so that profits from cooperative proceeds can be saved.

The collective funds can then be used to provide small loans, enabling individual members to improve their farming processes.

These loans will be repaid to the group, ensuring that other members also benefit in a continuous cycle.

SINU drives for vibrant research culture

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY INDY MAEALASIA

Solomon Islands National University (SINU) is striving to foster a vibrant research culture vital for national progress.

Speaking at the Family Farming, Lifestyle and Health (FALAH) Research Seminar yesterday at SINU’s Ranadi campus, Pro-Vice Chancellor Dr Eric Katovai emphasised the role of research in addressing pressing socio-economic challenges.

“Through research, we can generate knowledge that informs policies, strengthen industries, in addressing social, economic, and environmental issues that impact our people.

“Whether it is improving healthcare, advancing agriculture, enhancing education, or tackling climate change, research must be at the forefront of our national development agenda.”

Recognising the connection research has with developing national policies, Katovai said that a strong research culture fosters innovation, critical thinking, and problem-solving

“All of these values are essential for nation building. Our university must be a hub where ideas are explored, tested, and translated into real world solutions that benefit our people.”

He also spoke on the disconnection of research and policies in the country.

“As a researcher, one thing that I can attest to when I reflect on my research in the Solomon Islands is that sometimes we do research, we collect data, we publish papers, but there is a very huge disconnect between that body of knowledge and the policies that we develop.”

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

There is more to do for education in SI: Leokana

Written by
Admin
-
0

By Loretta B Manele

The biggest education support programme by Australia and New Zealand, ESSP, has ended but there is more that needs to be done for schools, teachers and students.

Tozen Leokana, minister for the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) raised this at the ESSP, Solomon Islands (Education Sector Support Programme) closing programme at Mendana Hotel yesterday.

He voiced that there are more schools that need classrooms, communities that need better equipment, better teachers and there are children that still face risks to access quality education.

Leokana stated that these are challenges that must fuel determination and the Government of National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) remains resolute in its commitment to strengthen our partnership with Australia and New Zealand.

He said together we can will build education or build upon the strong relationship that has been developed by the ESSP programme.

“Together, we can ensure that the education continues to become a beacon of hope and a driver of progress in the Solomon Islands.

“Our children are the future of our nation. Through education, we are given the power to become leaders, innovators, and change makers.”

He expressed that they owe it to the children of Solomon Islands to keep moving forward, to keep investing and to keep believing in the limitless possibilities that education brings.

Leokana whilst addressing students, he said they are the heart of everything they do.

In this regard, he urges students to remember that education is their greatest weapon, strongest shield and brightest light.

“Use it or use all of it at your disposal so that you will embrace it to the full and know that we stand beside you every step of the way to your success.”

He stated that we must continue to champion education as the key to unlocking the full potential of our people and country.

Leokana said many of the successes of ESSP inspires us all to work even harder to ensure that every child in the Solomon Islands seeks the education that they rightfully deserve.

The minister also shared his gratitude to Australian and New Zealand governments for their work and support in the ESSP (Education Sector Support Program).

“On behalf of me as the minister and of course the government of Solomon Islands, through the Ministry of Education, we would like to extend our deepest appreciation to the Government of Australia and New Zealand.

“Thank you for your relentless commitment.”

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Bulk Shop to address price mix-up problem in its outlets

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Leading locally-owned food retailer Bulk Shop has said it will address price discrepancies in its outlets in response to complaints raised on social media.

Acknowledging and apologising in a statement yesterday, Bulk Shop underscored that the discrepancies were ‘not intentional’ and were due to ‘system updates, promotional adjustments, or human oversight’.

On Sunday a dissatisfied customer posted on facebook that prices displayed on shelves for goods were less than the prices paid for the goods at the cashier. The prices on the shelves were lower than prices stated in the receipts. This reportedly happened at the KG Home Shop and Crossroad Bulk Shop.

Following this, many people on facebook also shared having experienced the same.

Habibi (not his real name) told Island Sun, showing his receipt (pictured) that the shelf price per packet of mince was $20, but he ended up paying $22.

“My wife gives me $200 to purchase 7 packets of mince. The price tag is $20, and the Cashier $22 and she expects $60 change because 7 x $20 should be $140,” Habibi said.

This happened at the Bulk Shop Payless branch front of Koloale road Tuesday this week.

Bulk Shop’s full statement is as follows:

“Dear Valued Customers,

“We appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback regarding the pricing discrepancies experienced at our KG Home Shop and Crossroad Bulk Shop locations, as raised on social media.

“Please accept our apologies for the inconvenience and frustration this has caused, whether at these locations or any of our other Bulk Shop outlets in Honiara.

“First and foremost, we want to assure you that this was not intentional – such errors are unintentional and often stem from system updates, promotional adjustments, or human oversight. We take full responsibility for these inconsistencies and regret any inconvenience or mistrust they may have caused.

“To all our customers who may have experienced similar issues, we extend our apologies. We understand that some concerns may require further attention. Should any customer feel their issue was not adequately resolved on-site, we encourage you to use soon to be displayed escalation options to ensure your matter is addressed promptly and fairly.

“While we cannot guarantee that such errors will never occur, we are committed to continuous improvement to minimise them and enhance your shopping experience. Your feedback is invaluable in helping us identify and rectify these gaps.

“Thank you for your patience and understanding. Your trust is important to us, and we are dedicated to serving you better.”

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

BSP enters new era, championing prosperity for South Pacific

Written by
Admin
-
0

By Loretta B Manele

Bank of South Pacific (BSP) is entering a new era in its aspirations to champion prosperity for the South Pacific region.

Rohan George, group general manager for treasury and markets for BSP Financial Group Limited highlighted this at BSP’s launch of its new logo on Monday evening at Heritage Park Hotel.

Mr George voiced that as they step into a new era, their purpose is clear and is to champion prosperity for the South Pacific.

Speaking of prosperity, the bank is currently implementing a number of initiatives in its quest to provide more efficient and inclusive services.

These services include making significant investments to enhance financial accessibility and improve experiences and expanding digital banking services to provide 24-7 convenience.

BSP is also strengthening financial literacy programs to empower individuals and businesses and is increasing its presence in rural communities ensuring that nobody is left behind.

To add on, BSP is also launching customer-centric innovations that simplify and enhance banking interactions.

George emphasised that BSP is not just a bank but a trusted partner in financial empowerment.

“Our commitment to championing prosperity for the South Pacific means providing customers with the tools they need to succeed.”

George said the new brand and look is a revitalised identity and symbol of the region’s origins, transformation, ambition and excellence.

“It represents our ambitions to be South Pacific’s international bank. This is more than a logo; it represents our unwavering dedication to our customers. Our refreshed identity has been designed with contributions of many customers and staff across the South Pacific.”

Explaining the logo, George said four elements of it tell a story.

“Firstly, the stylised Kundu, is a drumbeat reverberating across the Pacific, reminding us of our heritage, calling us together.

“The hoop symbolises strength, stability and prosperity, anchoring us to the region. The South Pacific is our home. Waves represent the oceans that connect us and to the world.

“A bird in flight propels us forward on our journey to a shared prosperous future, supported by modern banking services.”

He expressed that their journey would not have been possible without BSP customers, communities and partners.

“You have been at the heart of everything we do and this transformation is as much yours as it is ours.

“We recognise that businesses have trusted us with their growth, the families rely on us for their financial needs and communities that we proudly serve.”

George said this moment belongs to everyone.

He furthered that looking into the future, BSP is stronger, bolder and more committed than ever to shaping the future of banking in the South Pacific.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Toiraena appeals to PRC embassy to support school

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Member of Parliament (MP) for East Honiara Constituency Morris To’iraena has appealed to the Chinese embassy to transform the future of Burns High Creek School.

Mr To’iraena appealed last Thursday at the handover of the China-donated basketball court to Burns Creek School at the school compound in East Honiara.

He said that the brand-new basketball hall, a gift made possible through the generosity of the Chinese government and the people of China, represents more than just a place to play – it is a symbol of friendship, support and shared commitment to the growth and success of young people.

“The school also needs specialised classrooms, such as industrial technology workshops and home economics labs, to equip students with practical skills to empower them for the workforce and entrepreneurship. There is also a need for a modern library to provide students with access to books research materials and even to broaden their knowledge and critical thinking skills,” he said.

“As we continue to improve our schools, we hope for further support in other critical areas of development. Burns Creek High School has been here for the past 60 years, and as you see, that’s the facility they have. In other words, the school also needs a fully equipped science laboratory to encourage hands-on learning and innovation in science and technology,” said MP To’iraena.

Mr To’iraena said that with continued support, Burns Creek High School can transform into a modern institution that will excel not only in sports but in academic and technical skills and personal development. 

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

Seminars vital in fostering interest in research: SINU

Written by
Admin
-
0

BY INDY MAEALASIA

A local academic at the Solomon Islands National University (SINU), Dr Vaeno Vigulu, has emphasised the importance of research seminars in fostering interest in academic research and building students’ capacity for future pursuits.

Speaking after the Family Farming, Lifestyle, and Health (FALAH) seminar held yesterday at SINU’s Ranadi Campus, Mr Vigulu, who also serves as Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry (FAFF), highlighted the role of such seminars in sparking curiosity and promoting knowledge sharing.

“These seminars are vital for sharing knowledge with staff and students while opening university students’ minds to explore potential research topics that ignite their interests,” Vigulu said.

He stressed that these events inspire young students to pursue advanced degrees in the future, including Masters and PhDs.

Vigulu noted that many students might have limited knowledge of conducting proper research but emphasized how seminars like these could serve as a stepping stone.

“Through these seminars, they gain insights into academic research and learn how to begin their own journeys.”

The FALAH seminar featured eight local academics who presented impactful research topics aligned with themes of family farming, lifestyle, and health. The diverse studies highlighted key issues affecting the Solomon Islands and their communities:

  1. Dr Hugo Bugoro – The role of traditional food preservation methods in strengthening food security and health resilience of small island communities in the Solomon Islands.
  • Dr Vaeno Vigulu – Root architecture of teak and fluggea in mixed species systems in the Solomon Islands.
  • Alex Maikini- Building Health and resilience; Improving food security and reducing non-communicable diseases through urban agriculture in Honiara.
  •  Dr Lindon Havimana- White-tailed crescent (Variola albimarginata): A preliminary study on size at sexual maturity, seasonal gonadal, variation and growth.
  • Dr Mary Tahu- Gender, Climate Change and indigenous ecological knowledge in the Solomon Islands Mangroves.
  • Patrick Miniti – Positive impact of teaching physical education and physical activities using locally available equipment and indigenous games in the Solomon Islands.
  • Marineth Magi- Personal factors affecting adherence in hypertension patients in the Solomon Islands
  • Danny Shadrech- the influence of ENSO on the rise of equatorial waters in the pacific and its impact on fishing.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]

1...405406407...1,671Page 406 of 1,671