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PALM Scheme is “Big Game in Town”: Sisilo

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Solomon Islands High Commissioner to Australia, Mr. Robert Sisilo, has described the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme as “the big game in town” during a high-level meeting with Australia’s peak farming body last week.

Sisilo met with the President of the National Farmers Federation (NFF), Mr. David Jochinke, to highlight the importance of the PALM Scheme to both the Solomon Islands and Australia.

“The Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme is the big game in town,” Sisilo said.

During the meeting, High Commissioner Sisilo revealed that remittances from Solomon Islands workers in Australia and New Zealand rose by 68% in 2024, reaching SBD$475.5 million—more than double the remittances of 2023.

He said these funds are now the third-largest foreign exchange earner, after logging and cocoa exports.

Sisilo urged NFF members to consider recruiting more workers from the Solomon Islands under both short- and long-term employment streams.

In response, Mr. Jochinke reaffirmed NFF’s support for the PALM Scheme, noting the value of the partnership.

“The NFF and its members are committed to working with your government and other stakeholders to build a better PALM Scheme,” he said.

“It is an important mechanism for both our countries, and its continued success will depend on it being designed to meet the needs of both workers and Australian employers.” Jochinke said.

High Commissioner Sisilo said that sustainability must be rooted in fairness and shared responsibility.

“As a sending country, we want our workers to be treated fairly in their workplaces, accommodations, pay, and overall wellbeing.

“But this must also work for employers. The only way forward is a win-win situation for all stakeholders, the workers, the employers, Solomon Islands, and Australia.” Sisilo said

The PALM Scheme continues to be a vital part of Solomon Islands’ economic development and a key pillar of cooperation with Australia.

18 fisheries officers complete public service induction training

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Eighteen officers from the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR) from the Honiara headquarters and provincial fisheries offices are now eligible for formal confirmation of their positions following the successful completion of the Knowing Your Public Service (KYPS) and Code of Conduct training held recently.

The weeklong workshop, which concluded on Friday last week, was delivered by the Institute of Public Administration and Management (IPAM) in partnership with MFMR, a statement by MFMR early this week said.

This training was initiated with funding support from the World Bank under the Pacific Islands Regional Oceanscape Program for Economic Resilience (PROPER) Project.

The programme covered a wide range of essential topics aimed at strengthening participants’ understanding of public service roles, functions, professional standards, and ethical responsibilities, the statement said.

Areas of focus included the structure of government and the public service, laws of the Solomon Islands, the role of the National Parliament, parliamentary processes, and the functions of constitutional offices such as the Attorney General’s Chambers, the Leadership Code Commission, the Office of the Ombudsman, and the Office of the Auditor General. Additionally, the training emphasized the importance of aligning public service work with the National Development Strategy (NDS) 2016–2035.

One of the key components of the training was the Public Service Code of Conduct, which has been developed to help create and maintain a professional image of the Public Service. It encourages an ethical culture that all public servants can be proud of, ensuring integrity and accountability in all aspects of their work. This code is essential for guiding public officers in maintaining the high standards expected of them and promoting trust in government services.

Bill Hana, program manager for IPAM’s Corporate Learning and Development Unit, highlighted that the KYPS training is a prerequisite for all public officers, particularly those under probation.

“KYPS is vital for building the capacity of officers and is a requirement for position confirmation and promotion,” Mr Hana said.

“It provides a clear understanding of how government systems and processes function, as well as the roles of its various institutions. From governmental structures to service delivery, this course equips participants with the knowledge and skills needed to perform their tasks effectively and ethically.”

Standard requirements for fruit export will be a thing of the past: Wasi

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The country’s Vapor Heat Treatment (VHT) has been completed, while the Fruit Fly Trial Facility is still under construction.

This means that the country’s long wait to meet international market standard requirements for the export of fruit products will soon be a thing of the past.

Franklyn Wasi, Minister for Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) expressed the above when he delivered his keynote address whilst opening the one-week MAL Annual Planning conference in Honiara on Monday this week at the Honiara Hotel.

He told the participants that the Vapor Heat Treatment (VHT) plant and Fruit Fly Trial Facility are located at the ministry’s Henderson Biosecurity Site.

“I am pleased to provide an update on the eight key policy priorities assigned to the ministry under the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT). These priorities, introduced since GNUT took office, form the bedrock of our sector-wide transformation anchored in inclusive growth, improved market access and food sovereignty,” said Minister Franklyn Wasi.

“Let me now inform you of our progress of the Vapor Heat Treatment (VHT) and Fruit Fly Trial Facility at our Henderson Biosecurity Site. We now have a completed VHT plant and are awaiting final electrical modifications before commissioning by Japanese engineers,” he said.

Wasi added that there is also a fruit fly breeding and heat trial facility under construction to simulate infestations on papaya, mango and melon and to test export treatment protocols.

He emphasized that these facilities are critical in accessing high-value fruit export markets.

The building complex and vapor heat treatment project costs around SB$7 million and is fully funded by SIG through the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) and the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID).

The vapor heat treatment plant was purchased in 2022.

The operation of this treatment facility will enable Solomon Islands to meet international market requirements standards for fruits and vegetables, particularly those that are susceptible to fruit flies.

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Nomination open for Australia alumni climate warrior award

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Nominations are now open for the Australia Awards Alumni Climate Warrior Award.

This award recognises Australia Awards Solomon Islands alumni who show exceptional leadership in climate intervention, environmental protection, and sustainability, a statement by the Australian high commission yesterday said.

The Alumni Climate Warrior Award celebrates alumni who address climate change and environmental challenges through innovative, sustainable solutions, activities, or policies for a cleaner, healthier, and more resilient environment.

The alumni must demonstrate positive change to address environmental security challenges including climate change, pollution reduction (air, land, water, and marine), waste management, biodiversity conservation, renewable energy and the sustainable use of natural resources.

Australia’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton said Australia is committed to supporting and recognising the outstanding achievements of our Australia Awards alumni who are leading efforts to protect the environment and promote sustainability.

“Through the Alumni Climate Warrior Award, we celebrate the innovative actions of alumni who are driving positive environmental change and contributing to a more sustainable future for Solomon Islands and our shared Pacific region,” Hilton said.

To be eligible for the Alumni Climate Warrior Award applicants must be a Solomon Islands citizen who has graduated from a tertiary institution with the Government of Australia’s scholarship, fellowship, or short course programmes including Australia Awards Scholarships, Australia Awards Pacific Scholarships, Australia Awards Fellowships, Australia Awards Short Courses.

The award includes SBD25,000 for professional development.

Applications close 5pm on May 28.

The 4th China medical team conducts free clinic to Gilbert Camp community

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The 4th China Medical Team (CMT) successfully organized a special free clinic in Gilbert Camp Community of Honiara, in collaboration with China Police Liaison Team and Solomon Islands Chinese Women’s Association on Saturday.

This event not only provided local residents with professional and efficient medical services, but also raised awareness about safety and protection, and extended care and warmth to women and children, fully demonstrating the humanitarian spirit and sense of mission of the CMT.

The 4th CMT is composed of specialists in infectious and hepatic diseases, cardiovascular diseases, urology, nephrology and traditional Chinese acupuncture. During the event, all team members utilised their solid professional expertise and rich clinical experience to offer a wide range of services, including screenings for hypertension and diabetes, malaria testing, diagnosis and treatment of common chronic diseases, and general health consultations. Personalized guidance and treatment plans were provided based on individual patient needs.

The clinic served approximately 130 local residents in total. Among them, over 90 received hypertension and diabetes screenings, more than 40 underwent acupuncture treatment. Over 50 sets of medications—including hypoglycemic drugs, antihypertensive drugs, and traditional Chinese medicines were distributed on-site. This initiative effectively eased the challenge of limited access to medical care and was widely praised by the local community.

A member from the Solomon Islands Chinese Women’s Association said that the coming of 4th CMT to the community and the access of top doctors to the people greatly benefited the people in the community and they were happy to support CMT deliver the free clinic.

“We are happy to see a lot of people getting free medical treatment,” she added.

Chairman of Christ the King Vestry Alvin Ramo said that it is very fortunate to have access to the CMT to provide unmatched medical services to the people for the community hardly have the opportunity to access good medical services and don’t have the means to pay for such services. “We are so excited to benefit from free medical consultations provided by the 4th CMT, and people are grateful for such services,” he said.

With the support of Norman Palmer Anglican College, the team based at the school to provide medical services to the community.

“This kind of medical service is very helpful, and I wish it can become a regular practice,” said another leader of the community Peter Kennedy Bubulu.

Rotaract Club seeks support to restore Su’u national school’s library

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From half- empty book shelves, to worn out furniture and a slowly deteriorating rooftop that barely holds, through the years Su’u National secondary library has slowly eroded away.

The Library, once the lifeblood of academic pursuit now sits in a state of disrepair.

“A crucial component of school” is what both old and new scholars of Su’u School describe the library as being, and seeing the current state it is in is really disheartening, one scholar added.

In an effort to restore the school’s central learning hub, the Rotaract Club of Honiara in partnership with the Rotaract Club of Paddington have launched Project RISE (Renovation in Su’u for Education).

An initiative that aims to repair the library, donate 4,500 books and supply 50 new desks which will help revive the school’s library.

The big goal

The one-and-a-half-week project, which is set for June 2025, will bring together 25 volunteers from the Rotaract Clubs of Honiara and Paddington as they travel to Su’u Secondary School to carry out the initiative.

The team of volunteers will include skilled professionals, including roofers, plasters and electricians who will be working alongside local experts to help repair the library.

The big goal is to repair the Su’u’s library structure, install new roofing, repaint walls and provide 4,500 books, 50 desks and chairs which will help create a conducive learning environment for the students.

Ebony McNaughton, president of the Rotaract Club of Paddington, emphasised that the project’s impact extends well beyond the present moment.

“This project is about more than us; it’s about transforming the lives of children and creating lasting change for future generations.”

The Final Stretch

Through tremendous efforts, $55,000 AUD has been raised so far.

An additional $10,000 AUD is still needed to fully finance the renovations and material transportations.

Both clubs are actively seeking sponsors and donations to help bridge the financial gap and ensure that Project RISE is a success.

Zashua Hall, the past president of Rotaract Paddington spoke on the club’s motivation behind Project RISE.

“We believe you are a product of your surroundings, so in the short term, we hope being in a nicer environment will make the students and teachers excited about being there.

“In the long run, we hope this attitude carries forward into the students’ learning, specifically the ability to use their knowledge to create a positive impact in their communities and the rest of the Solomon Islands.”

Community-led conservation efforts receive praise

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BY INDY MAEALASIA

COMMUNITY-led conservation efforts nationwide have been praised for their role in protecting and preserving biodiversity.

Environment Minister Trevor Mahaga saluted individuals and local groups, describing them as “community champions” who have driven successful conservation initiatives within their communities.

“I am inspired by our communities, where local leaders and families are taking active steps to plant mangroves, clean our beaches and preserve our natural heritage,” the Minister said in a speech aired during the International Biodiversity Day Talkback show on SIBC yesterday.

He stressed that simple conservation efforts such as protecting coastal mangroves and seagrasses, restoring degraded reefs, supporting ecotourism and implementing nature-based solutions demonstrate stronger community resilience and can make a “profound difference.”

“These efforts demonstrate that change begins with us. When we work together, respecting our traditions and integrating our knowledge with modern practices, we can protect and restore our environment,” said Minister Mahaga.  

He further reminded local groups and individuals that their efforts are “vital steps to preserve the remaining biodiversity.”

Recognizing that the preservation of biodiversity can only be achieved through shared vision and collective action, he called for continuous support:

“May our call to leaders at the national and provincial levels, as well as our communities, be heard. It is our responsibility to champion these initiatives, foster cooperation and ensure that our sustainable development visions and plans reflect our commitment to maintaining the natural beauty and resources of the Solomon Islands for generations to come,” he added.

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Wasi highlights donor-funded projects

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Minister of Agriculture, Franklyn Wasi, has highlighted some of the ministry’s achievements through the donor-funded projects when he opened the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock’s (MAL) Annual Planning conference this week.

He said over the past years, they have made several important strides through donor-funded projects.

One example highlighted is that through World Bank’s support, there is the implementation of the Agribusiness Producer Group which as reached new milestones in enhancing value chains for cocoa and coconut farmers.

Wasi said lessons from the program are informing future investments in agribusiness partnerships.

Speaking about another project, Wasi said their long-standing partner, the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), continues to provide technical assistance in areas such as food system transformation, climate-smart agriculture and the development of E-Agriculture Strategy.

He also said the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), through AIMN, will be supporting initiatives targeting rural inclusivity, investment in markets and nutrition, especially for women and youth which is set to be implemented in Isabel, Western and Choiseul Provinces.

He furthered that through UNICEF’s support, MAL sees stronger cross-sectoral collaboration between agriculture, nutrition and health; ensuring that food security translates into improved well-being for communities, particularly school children.

Wasi said these investments ensure a strong technical and leadership base for the future.

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PM Manele Reaffirms Support for SI–Australia Partnership

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Prime Minister, Jeremiah Manele has reaffirmed the importance of strategic partnerships in supporting Solomon Islands’ national development, as 50 new community infrastructure projects were unveiled this evening under the Solomon Islands–Australia Community Partnership Programme.

Speaking at an awards night hosted by the Australian High Commission, Prime Minister Manele congratulated the newly selected project coordinators and beneficiaries, and welcomed Australia’s ongoing collaboration with Solomon Islands.

“Australia remains one of Solomon Islands’ major and most committed development partners,” the Prime Minister said. “The Solomon Islands–Australia Development Partnership Plan 2024–2029 reflects our shared priorities and is aligned with our National Development Strategy and the Government for National Unity and Transformation’s (GNUT) policy priorities.”

The 50 new projects—valued at over SBD 11 million—span eight provinces and 33 constituencies. They include multipurpose community halls, improved water supply systems, sanitation facilities, rural health posts, solar lighting installations, and community footpaths. These build upon the 100 community projects already funded in early 2024, which were valued at over SBD 23 million.

“These small-scale infrastructure investments are meaningful and life-changing for many of our people, especially those in rural and remote areas,” the Prime Minister said.

He further highlighted the need for strong community involvement and sustainability in project implementation.

“Communities and project coordinators must work closely with the Australian High Commission to ensure projects are delivered effectively. Equally important is the ongoing care and maintenance of completed infrastructure so that it benefits future generations.”

A second round of project applications is expected to open in July. The Prime Minister encouraged national and provincial leaders to assist communities in preparing their proposals and to consider co-financing opportunities to maximise the reach and impact of the program.

This growing partnership reflects the GNUT Government’s foreign policy vision—anchored in mutual respect, shared responsibility, and practical cooperation to support the country’s development aspirations.

Court remands 5 accused in Mamulele murder case

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

The Magistrate Court has remanded five people for the alleged killing of a 24-year-old person from Star Harbour, Makira/Ulawa province.

On Wednesday this week prosecution remanded three defendants namely; Junior Danganabe’u, Richard Sangula and Kevin Sibele before Principal Magistrate, Elma Veenah Rizzu Hilly and yesterday afternoon court remanded another two defendants namely, Hudson Eddie Asuani and Greg Metefaka.

These five defendants were charged together for murder contrary to section 200 of Penal Code [Cap 26].

Prosecution seeks to remand these defendants on the grounds of the nature and seriousness of the offence murder, as it carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

Also, in regards to the strength of the evidence, post-mortem revealed that the deceased sustained severe head injuries, including two cuts, a star-shaped wound to the back of the head, a cracked scalp and injury above the left eye.

The injury is consistent with being struck with a blunt smooth object, such as a stone or brick and strong kicks to the left side of the stomach and left side of the back.

Further to that, there is risk of interference with the witnesses and risk of flight, as the accused may abscond.

As for further investigations, as suspects are being identified and located, forensic analysis of the scene and recovered clothing is pending as well as additional witness statements.

The matter has been adjourned to June 4, 2025 for further mention and remand for the accused has been further extended.

Prosecution alleged that on the evening of Friday 16, May 2025, the five defendants were seen drinking and causing disturbance at the Mamulele water catchment area, near a bridge and Jacob ladder leading up to Milestone.

At approximately 3am on Saturday, 17th of May 2025, it was alleged that a body of a male person was discovered lying on the steps of the Jacob ladder. The male person was not responding but still breathing.

An eyewitness stated the defendant was running down the Jacob ladder shortly before the body was found.

Witnesses heard defendant Richard Sangula saying in pidjin “boy ba, ting mas die naya”.

Shortly after, Richard met with defendant Kevin Sibele’s girlfriend and the two swapped shirts. He gave her a red T-Shirt he was wearing at the time.

The reason for this act remains suspicious and unexplained, however with the use of ultraviolet, it was later confirmed that the shirt had blood stains on it.

Police further alleged that defendant Kevin also prevented his girlfriend from viewing the body, by attempting to hide evidence or details of the crime scene.

Post-mortem revealed that the deceased sustained severe head injuries including two cuts, a star shaped wound to the back of the head, a cracked scalp and injury above the left eye.

This injury is said to be consistent by use of a blunt smooth object, such as a stone or brick along with a strong kick to the left side of the belly and left back.

On Monday, 19th of May, police arrested the five defendants and remanded them. Investigation into the matter continues.

Jonathan Auga from Public Prosecution Office appears for crown.

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