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MFC salutes Peter Shanel Agovaka

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Team captain Jemina David and MFC womens team players were pleased to receive the cash donation from the MP for CG. Photo supplied.

BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

The MALANGO Women’s Football Club (MFC) has expressed their heartfelt gratitude to Honourable Peter Shanel Agovaka, Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, for his timely and generous support during their campaign at the second edition of the Guadalcanal Football Association (GFA) Women’s Championship, currently underway in East Honiara.

As the week-long tournament unfolds at the DC Park, the MFC team is not only grateful for the Agovaka family’s hospitality but also for the substantial cash donation of $2500 provided by the MP for Central Guadalcanal. Team captain Jemina David and her teammates are energized by the support, which has boosted their morale as they continue their journey in the championship.

In a statement released by the club, they shared: “We are immensely thankful to Honourable Peter Shanel Agovaka and his family for their incredible support. Their donation and hospitality have made a significant difference to our team, and we are determined to showcase our skills and represent our community with pride.”

The club also extended their appreciation to the MP for Vulolo Ward for a separate $500 cash donation and the MPA for Malango Ward for their ongoing support, which has further fueled their passion and motivation.

MFC has had a strong start to the GFA Women’s Championship, with impressive results so far. They commenced their campaign with a dominant 6-0 victory over Dusty FC, followed by another convincing 6-0 win against East Frigates FC. Their resilience was tested in a close match against Nahonia’ar FC, which resulted in a narrow 1-0 defeat. However, the team quickly bounced back with a spirited 3-1 win over Northern Forest FC.

As the tournament progresses, MFC remains focused and ambitious. With a total of six teams vying for the title, the competition is fierce, and MFC is committed to giving their all.

“We are thrilled with our performance so far, and we aim to keep the momentum going. The support we have received has been incredible, and we are determined to make our community proud,” shared a club spokesperson.

The MFC’s statement concludes with a sentiment of gratitude and a call for continued support for women’s football: “We are deeply thankful to our supporters, who have believed in us and empowered us. We hope that our journey inspires others to rally behind women’s sports and help us break new ground.”

CRY-OVER PRIZES

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HFA GS and Vice President Redley S Raramo.

.. HFA 2019 season winners still await prizes

BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

THE Honiara Football Association (HFA) is facing inquiries from teams regarding the distribution of prizes for the 2019 season, which remains unresolved.

Real Burns FC, one of the teams during the season, has taken the initiative to seek answers from the current HFA executives.

In a recent development, the current HFA General Secretary and Vice President, Redley S. Raramo, expressed his unawareness of the issue.

He shifted the responsibility to former HFA leaders, Baddley Alaha and Matai Vave, suggesting they should provide answers.

Raramo also urged the Chairperson of Real Burns FC to submit a formal letter to the current HFA executives regarding the matter.

However, Baddley Alaha, who served as HFA President during the 2019 season, responded by assuring that the matter is now in the hands of the current HFA executive. “Check with the HFA President regarding the issue. I had a meeting with him and other executive members, and we discussed this.

As far as we are concerned, the ball is in their court now,” Alaha stated. He encouraged the Chairperson of Real Burns FC to send a formal letter to the current HFA executive and referred them to the meeting minutes for more information.

The former HFA General Secretary, Mr. Aloysio Ma’ahanoa, was also present at the meeting mentioned by Alaha, adding credibility to his statement.

Raramo provided some reassurance by confirming that the matter has been referred to the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF). He expressed confidence that a resolution would be forthcoming with their involvement.

The Chairperson of Real Burns FC expressed gratitude for the responses received from both Raramo and Alaha. However, they also emphasized the need for proactive follow-up from the current HFA executive, especially considering that the issue was referred to SIFF a year ago. “We hope that the current HFA executive will help us pursue this matter and keep us updated on any progress,” they added.

As the situation stands, the winning teams from the HFA 2019 season are still awaiting their rightful recognition and prizes. The current HFA executives are now tasked with resolving this long-standing issue and bringing a positive conclusion to the teams’ persistent inquiries.

Usohenua  grateful for Sandre Gold

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Usohenua FC player with Club Tresurer Jemimah Baiabe-PHOTO ELTON LONARATHA JNR.

BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

THE Usohenua Football Club (FC) is expressing gratitude for the support received from Licensed Gold Dealer, Sandre Golds, who sponsored the club’s uniforms for the Renbel Football Championship 2024 (RFC24). Club Treasurer Jemimah Baiabe shared with SunSPORTS that the backing from Alisson Stephens of Sandre Gold has been a significant boost for the team’s morale.

“We are proud to promote the Sandre Gold brand whenever we play our matches with pride and respect,” said Baiabe. “The support from our sponsors and our Provincial Member (MPA) since day one has been invaluable.” USO Constructions is also recognized as a major sponsor for the club.

Usohenua FC had a challenging start to their campaign, suffering a 4-2 defeat to Tematangi FC in their opening match. However, the team demonstrated resilience and bounced back with a well-deserved 3-2 victory over Taisu’a FC in their second Pool C match, played at the East End Stadium last Thursday.

As the Renbel Football Championship progresses into Match Week 6, teams will be vying for a spot in the quarterfinals, with intense competition expected. Usohenua FC, with the support of their sponsors and a newfound sense of determination, will be aiming to go further in the tournament.

Baiabe also took the opportunity to promote Sandre Gold as a trusted gold buyer, encouraging readers to consider them when assessing the value of their gold possessions.

With the tournament heating up, fans can expect exciting matches and a display of sportsmanship as the teams battle it out for Renbel Football Championship glory. Usohenua FC, sponsored by Sandre Golds, will undoubtedly be a club to watch, showcasing their skills and determination on the road to victory.

SIFF unveils final 18-Women’s futsal squad for Oceania nations cup debut

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IFF Womens Futsal Challenge action at SIFF Academy. Photo supplied.

BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

The Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) has unveiled the nation’s first women’s futsal squad, comprising 18 talented players selected from a pool of over 40 competitors in the SIFF Women’s Futsal Challenge. This milestone achievement signifies a significant step forward in promoting and developing women’s futsal in the Solomon Islands.

According to a statement from SIFF, the final squad was chosen after two highly competitive trial sessions, with the players demonstrating exceptional skills and potential. The selected athletes have already commenced their training on July 6 at the SIFF Academy Futsal Court, gearing up for the upcoming Oceania Futsal Women’s Nations Cup, which will be held in Honiara this August.

“This training is a critical step in preparing the team for the inaugural OFC Women’s Futsal Nations Cup,” SIFF stated, emphasizing the importance of this initiative in fostering the growth of women’s futsal in the country.

The Solomon Islands’ establishment of a national women’s futsal team is a testament to the nation’s commitment to gender equality in sports and the development of futsal, a variation of football that is rapidly gaining popularity worldwide.

As the team embarks on their journey towards the regional tournament, the support and recognition from SIFF and the wider community will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in their success.

Meanwhile, the Oceania Futsal Women’s Nations Cup will run from the 18th to the 24th of August 2024 in Honiara.

The training squad is as follows: Serah Alpefolocia, Joyce Lekani, Lisa Solo, Grace Takeni, Bethy Dalo, Vallery Wale, Madelyn Arukau, Claudia Votu, Stella Niu, Delin Kali, Sharalyn Kofe, Ileen Peqi, Angie Gitolo, Agie Kofe, Shalish Siru, Mali Liva, Florence Aretoro and Gertrude Oritaimae.

SWEET REVENGE

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Vanuatu's Jean Patriano Natou & Solomon Islands' Paul Francis at theOFC Men's U-19 Championship 2024, Solomon Islands v Vanuatu, FFS Football Stadium Apia, Friday 5 July 2024. Photo: DJ Mills / www.phototek.nz

… U19 men’s team seeks revenge in Oceania championship

BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

THE Solomon Islands national U19 men’s football team is out for revenge at the Oceania U19 Championship, currently taking place in Apia, Samoa. Head Coach Batram Suri made this clear after the team’s thrilling 1-0 victory over Vanuatu in their Group A opener on Friday.

“I reminded my boys before the game that Vanuatu had beaten our senior men’s team, and now it was time for revenge,” Suri told the media following their win. “It worked out well, and we earned our first three points in the tournament. I’m proud of the effort and hard work the players put in.”

The Solomon Islands’ victory over Vanuatu was not only a step towards redemption but also a strong start to their campaign in this important tournament. Coach Suri acknowledged the intensity of the match and praised their opponents while also recognizing areas where his team can improve.

“We took a lot of positives from the match and will look to build on them going into our next game,” Suri said. “Playing against Vanuatu is never easy, and we know that Fiji, our next opponent, will also be a tough challenge.”

The team’s preparation for the tournament was impacted by travel issues, with the players unable to train for the last four days before their departure. Suri emphasized the need for proper recovery and rest ahead of their upcoming match against Fiji on Monday.

“Fiji and Vanuatu will always be our rivalries,” Suri added, anticipating another intense encounter. He also expressed gratitude for the team’s safe arrival and participation in the tournament despite the recent challenges they faced with their travel arrangements.

The Solomon Islands U19 men’s team is determined to make a statement at the Oceania U19 Championship, and their first win has set the tone for what they hope will be a successful and revenge-filled campaign.

Keep going and don’t quit

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    Caption Jimmy Rex, 65 from Kekena village, North East Tasimboko.

    BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

    Jimmy Rex, born in 1969, ventured into Cocoa farming at the age of 12, where he learned valuable lessons. Upon completing his education, he was one of 12 students from his school in Kekena village, North East Tasimboko.

    Despite considering himself an average student, Rex always strived to achieve good grades. His late father, a hardworking individual who earned his livelihood from a coconut plantation, supported him through his education. Following his departure from school, Rex transformed into a hardworking and determined young man, cherishing the values instilled in him by his late father.

    Rex mentioned that his late father always emphasized the importance of hard work and perseverance, especially in plantation work. His father’s constant advice to him was “Don’t give up.” In 1985, to expand his knowledge of cocoa products and farming, Kekena Man decided to participate in a one-week cocoa certificate training. The training, led by the CEMA General Manager, Mr Moses Belomo, and one of his colleagues, took place in Batuna. As a result of this training, Rex shifted his focus towards gardening and cocoa farming.

    “Struggling began when I acquired the cocoa seed from the Late Sir Jacob Vusa. During that period, earning money was challenging. I could only manage to make $80-90 for a bag, as the price was $1.50 per kilo back then,” he recounted.

    For Rex, the establishment of a cocoa plantation, which now consists of 15 thousand trees, was not accidental but rather stemmed from his late father’s inspiration.

    Due to continuous expansion throughout the years, Rex Cocoa farm now spans across ten hectares.

    “I ventured into farming after completing that training,” he mentioned.

    “Before expanding my Cocoa farm, I took the time to count the plants. I had to pick one leaf from each plant and place it in a bag. After counting each leaf individually, the total count reached 8,000 bottoms. Currently, the count has risen to 15,000 bottoms,” he remarked.

    With Rex’s extensive involvement in cocoa planting and production, he possessed considerable knowledge about the peak and off-peak months for cocoa.

    “It takes 5-6 years for Cocoa to bear its first fruits. The fruit takes 5-6 months to ripen and become ready for harvest. The peak period is when cocoa plants have flowers before producing their fruit. It differs from coconut and oil palm,” he explained.

    Rex, a 65-year-old farmer, is currently dealing with the challenge of ensuring proper air drying for cocoa and seeking support from the relevant ministry to aid local rural farmers.

    Rex emphasized the importance of having proper cocoa air driers and fermentation casings for ensuring the quality of cocoa products that are exported, urging the ministry to acknowledge these needs and provide essential materials to support farmers in their work.

    Rex noted that the current year has seen an unprecedented rise in cocoa prices, which he views as a significant source of encouragement for local rural cocoa farmers.

    “In 1998, the price of cocoa started at $12-20 per kilo, but this year it has risen to $50,54 – $55 per kilo. This reflects the history of the Solomon Islands. I used to earn $100,000 annually, but with the recent increase in cocoa prices, my annual earnings have typically ranged from $300,000 to $500,000.” Said Rex.

    Rex primarily used most of the income from his cocoa sales to cover his family’s essential needs, school fees, and the maintenance of his plantation.

    “Facing financial challenges in hiring labor for pruning and cleaning the farm is common, along with dealing with pests and rats. The earnings from the farm are primarily meant for the family’s necessities and desires. Despite these challenges, I remain persistent. Now, I can provide support not only for my family but also for my extended family through cocoa farming,’’ said Rex.

    Mr. Rex encourages others not to give up in life and to engage in activities that benefit themselves, their families, communities, and countries.

    Salau’s celebration of Independence Day on July 78th

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    Robert Salau

    BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

    When the Solomon Islands became independent of the British Protectorate in July 1978, Robert Salau was between seven and eight years old.

    54-year-old Salau, who was born in Dovele village in North Valle Lavella, recounted his experiences during the historic moments before the nation’s initial independence.

    “It’s among the most significant occasions in our nation’s history. Mr. Salau says, “At that time, I was in Batuna Marovo Lagoon, a Mission place owned by SDA.”

    Two ships were acquired in the years preceding 1978: the Campus Rose in 1974 and the M.V. Independence in subsequent years.   

    “The M.V. Independence was an incredibly luxurious vessel. It is a blessing for many of us to go aboard the M.V. Independence. It arrived in 1978, just as the nation was getting ready to gain independence. Thus, the boat was named Independence when bought it in 1976. Before July 1978, M.V. Independence reached the Solomon Islands in 1977, he stated.

    “Thus, we eagerly await that July 1978 day. Our elders instructed us to tune in to the Honiara broadcast to hear the gun salute. There were the Australian, British, American, and other Navies. As a result, everyone had some emotion as the British flag was down because the British were leaving the Solomon Islands to allow it to become an independent nation, according to Salau.

    The 54-year-old claims that not every one of the nations supports the steps the Solomon Islands took to become an independent nation.

    “Some of our districts do not agree for the country to gain its independence. And for us in the Western province, our leaders want us to go into state government. That’s why in 1978, the western province boycotted the Independence. We did not part of the independence at that time, independence only happened for the Eastern part of the country. Because the West wants to separate. Those are some of the historical things that happened at that time.

    Due to the concept of state governance, the Late Sir Hon. Peter Kenilorea visited the Western Province in 1979 and held meetings with every resident in Gizo and Vella la Vella. After that, all of the Westerners united and decided to form the Solomon Islands as a single nation.

    “Years later, our grandfather, the late Zaza Lore, who was in favour of the western province’s independence and union with the Solomon Islands, called a meeting. Clezy Rore, the present MP, was his son.

    “Umi Nao” was the next ship the Solomon Islands purchased. 

    “It has to do with our freedom. In our late grandfather’s words, “Umi Nao” means to unite after independence. to unite as one.  That’s what the boast means. Our grandfather from North Vella La Vella used to say, “Iumi Nao.”

    “I was therefore lucky to witness those developments as a child. Britain gave us money, specifically for the government to run its operations, so we did well for the first ten years. Thus, at that moment, it’s kind of a unique feeling. Beautiful Honiara is a town.

    However, according to Mr. Salau, the Solomon Islands began to see and experience some economic issues in the 1990s after a change of governments, and later in 2000, the nation even began to face more significant obstacles.

    “Up until this point, when both our government and we, the people, are still struggling, the government started to revive our economy. That, I believe, is what I like to share, and I would want to wish everyone a happy 46th birthday of independence.

    “I’m looking forward to it; maybe our government is closing every loophole we frequently hear about, which is something we want them to do. Even though we have a powerful government in place for the past four years, they have never bothered to identify the numerous leakages in our primary revenue-generating activities. But for the time being, the current administration is making every effort to reach out to the general public,’’ he said.

    On Monday, July 8, this year, the Solomon Islands celebrate their 46th birthday. The 54-year-old wished all of the islanders a happy Independence Day.

    Emergency roadwork on South road begins

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    Premier of Malaita province, Elijah Asilaua.

    BY SAMIE WAIKORI

    The emergency road upgrade for South Road from Auki through Central Kwara’ae, West Kwaio to West Are Are in Malaita province has begun.

    The project is funded by DFAT Australia and implemented by TTC road construction company.

    Premier of Malaita province, Elijah Asilaua confirmed to this paper on Friday as work on this emergency project started.

    Asilaua said work has started and within few months time trucks from along south road as far as west Are Are will be accessing road service to Auki.

    Asilaua said it is nearly seven months since communities along south road didn’t access the road that had also caused them lots of challenges and inconveniences.

    He said work on the road had begun and soon road transport service will resume for people along south road and even southern region.

    Asilaua also said that the road upgrade is the beginning toward the proposed Auki-Bina tar-seal that will be funded by the Australian government.

    He said his government is grateful for the projects and even committed to support donor partners and all stakeholders to ensure the projects are delivered to the people of Malaita province.

    From Spectator to Competitor: Sharllyma Aruhane’s Journey to the Miss Solomon Islands Pageant

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      Miss Coral Sea Sharllyma Aruhane with Coral Sea Staff.

      BY INDY MAEALASIA

      GROWING up, 20-year-old Sharllyma Aruhane was captivated by the glitter and glam of the Miss Solomon Islands Pageant, eagerly following it year after year. It had never crossed her mind that she would one day compete herself.

      However, fast forward to 2024, and Aruhane finds herself vying for the prestigious title, competing as Miss Coral Sea Resort & Casino.

      As a young woman, Aruhane is driven by a fiery passion to help others of her gender.

      “I have a passion to help other young girls and women realize their worth,” she remarked.

      Upon her return from the Marshall Islands earlier this year, where she spent eight years, Aruhane soon realized her calling to advocate for ending violence against women and girls.

      “I realize that domestic violence is an issue, and this has motivated me to join the pageant and try to advocate for the issue,” Aruhane said.

      Hailing from East Are’Are, Malaita Province, and Simbo, Western Province, Aruhane is a first-year law student at the University of the South Pacific (USP), the second of three siblings, and is making history for her family.

      “I would be the very first one in my family to ever contest in the Miss Solomon Islands Pageant,” she said proudly.

      Aruhane’s journey to the pageant was inspired by her mother, Esther Aruhane, whom she sees as a “role model” and deeply adores.

      “My role mother is my own mother; she is hardworking; she has gone through a lot of struggles, but she has never shown this to her children and kept it all to herself.” Aruhane beamed while describing her beloved mother.

      “As I grew older, I started realizing what she went through and regarded her as a strong woman. I want to have those qualities,” she said.

      Her mother initially pushed her to give it a try. “I was hesitant at first because it would be my first time and I didn’t know what to expect, so eventually afterwards, I decided to participate,” Aruhane said.

      Reflecting on the memorial moment she was selected as a contestant, Aruhane felt a surge of shock, excitement, and worry all at the same time.

      “I was worried, as I have always struggled with self-doubt. I thought I wasn’t good enough to join, but when the feedback came and I was accepted and I was representing Coral Sea Resort, I was happy. I was like, is this real?” she said.

      The journey ahead to the crowning night on August 31st proves to be an exciting but competitive one; however, Aruhane is excited for what is to come.

      “For me though, if i do not take the crown; it is still okay because I have learned something from the show, and I could keep that for the rest of my life,” she said optimistically

      Reconciliation held over fatal accident at Fauambu

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      BY SAMIE WAIKORI

      A reconciliation ceremony between parties related to a fatal accident at Faumbu, in west Kwara’ae was held on Friday June 5 at the Auki police station.

      The traffic accident happened on Wednesday June 3 night between 11pm-12pm, when a man in his early 20s was allegedly ranover by a 3-ton passenger truck.

      According to Auki police, it was alleged that the decease was drunk and slept in the middle of an iron bridge at Faumbu area, when the truck ranover him.

      Auki police said the truck was heading on the northern direction when the accident happened. The truck took a high speed, and has problem with its light that avoided the driver to see clearly ahead.

      They said only when the truck approached the decease, the driver tried to brake and even turned the truck to avoid hitting him but its too late.

      Auki police said the bridge was also narrow and any attempt to turn on either side of the bridge to avoid hitting the decease would be catastrophic for passengers in the truck.

      They said the truck was unfortunately took the decease starting from his legs to his head and pronounced death on the spot.

      Auki police was later alerted and deployed a team to the scene around 1pm on the night. The driver was later arrested by Malu’u police, while the truck was also detained.

      In a reconciliation to cement relationship between parties to the accident, party representing the suspect presented 20 shell monies and $SBD10,000 to the party of the decease.

      The party representing the decease also presented a shell money to the party of the suspect as gesture of accepting the reconciliation.

      Both parties apologised to each other, united together and vowed to work toward peace among them and their relatives and tribes.

      Auki Operation Manager, Mr Michael Ramosaea thanked the parties for portraying the spirit of forgiveness, reconciliation and unity in addressing the incident.

      Premier Elijah Asilaua also thanked the parties for their heart to accept each other amidst the darkest moment they face in life.

      He also assured them to relay what had happen to relatives especially on the decease’s side to refrain from taking any further action on the matter, while it is now before the police.

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