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Government and partners collaborate on climate change initiatives in SI

Written by
Eddie Osifelo
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Minister Rexon Ramofafia

By EDDIE OSIFELO

OVER the past two decades, the Government of the Solomon Islands, in partnership with Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and development partners, including Australia, has successfully executed projects and programs aimed at climate change adaptation and mitigation.

This significant achievement was affirmed by Rexon Ramofafia, the Minister of National Planning and Development Coordination, during the Solomon Islands – Australia Climate Change Tok Stori event in Honiara on August 18, 2023.

Minister Ramofafia highlighted the recent advancements in climate change initiatives, focusing on two pivotal areas of endeavor led by the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology (MECDM).

The first strand entails collaborative efforts with various line ministries, particularly the Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening.

This collaboration operates through the Provincial Capacity Development Fund, empowering provincial governments to undertake adaptation and mitigation projects tailored to their specific needs.

Remarkably, this approach has secured more than $US30 million to support provincial governments in their endeavors.

The second crucial strand revolves around aligning adaptation and disaster risk reduction efforts.

Minister Ramofafia emphasized the interconnectedness of these domains, as exemplified by externally funded programs like the Integrated Disaster Risk Management Project, jointly supported by Australia and UNDP.

These initiatives adroitly address both adaptation and disaster risk management needs, acknowledging their shared objectives.

Minister Ramofafia underscored the complex web of challenges the Solomon Islands faces, including non-climate hazards and development obstacles.

He noted the difficulties inherent in providing basic services to a geographically fragmented island nation with a narrow economy heavily dependent on Overseas Development Assistance (ODA), making it susceptible to global trends, conflicts, and disasters.

This situation points to the country’s overall low adaptive capacity, magnifying its vulnerability to climate change.

Ramofafia acknowledged the limitations of the Solomon Islands to single-handedly bear the costs of adaptation and addressing loss and damage.

Consequently, he expressed gratitude for the active involvement of development partners, like Australia, along with civil society organizations, NGOs, and the private sector.

The collaboration between these entities has facilitated today’s event and has the potential to contribute significantly to climate resilience and adaptation in the country.

The Minister looked ahead with optimism, envisioning meaningful partnerships and capacity-building initiatives at all levels.

He expressed the Government’s determination to enhance the country’s resilience and preparedness against the impacts of climate change and disasters.

On a concluding note, Ramofafia extended his sincere appreciation to all government officials and NGOs who have tirelessly administered and managed the Climate Change programs thus far.

Their collective efforts have laid a robust foundation for a more resilient and sustainable future for the Solomon Islands.

UNWARRANTED FEES

Written by
Eddie Osifelo
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Residents allege security guards charging unjustified payments at Nine Ridge boom gate

BY EDDIE OSIFELO

A number of residents residing at Nine Ridge area, South Honiara have raised concerns over alleged extortion by security guards stationed at a local boom gate.

The security guards have reportedly been demanding payments ranging from $300 to $400 before permitting the passage of vehicles carrying building materials.

The route to the boom gate is accessed via Zion Road in East Honiara, leading to the property owned by the Bahai church.

Previously, residents encountered no hindrances when accessing the boom gate.

However, a recent change in practice, involving the levying of fees, has caught them off guard.

Expressing their dissatisfaction, a resident who chose to remain anonymous stated, “We are hardworking individuals striving to establish our homes. Subjecting us to these charges is not only unjust but also inhumane.”

The residents are questioning the authorization behind the security guards’ imposition of fees. According to information obtained, the Ministry of Lands, Housing, and Survey had contracted the security guards to manage the boom gate and oversee activities in the South Honiara sub-division.

In response to the situation, Commissioner of Lands, Alan McNeil, has requested additional details for clarification.

McNeil has sought the names of the affected residents as well as the identities of the security guards involved.

This data is crucial for enabling a swift and appropriate response from the Ministry.

It should be noted that the residents at Nine Ridge are not currently residing within the South Honiara sub-division.

It is worth trying

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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Mavis Podokolo Suncorp stadium during the FIFA WWC 2023 matches in Brisbane

BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

AN award-winning female Journalist and dedicated health reporter Mavis Nishimura Podokolo has taken up a new challenge in her career as Journalist in the area of Sports media.

Ms Podokolo has falling in love with sports reporting after attending number of trainings introduced to Solomon Islands female Journalists through the Women’s In News and Sports (WINS) , an initiative of the ABC International Development.

These trainings have equipped her and built her confidence to venture into the sports reporting, a field that dominated by male Journalists.

On the 21st of July 2023 she was so fortunate to be part of the ABC International Development, FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 training program  in Brisbane through the Women and News and Sports Initiative (WINS) which I’m a member of.

She said this program initially comes with serious of virtual trainings. After completing the online trainings she was selected to do further intensive training incorporated with the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 in Brisbane, Australia with 3 other female Journalists from Solomon Islands.

Mavis Podokolo with Tracey Holmes an Australian journalist during the FIFA WWC 2023 matches in Brisbane.

“I’d say I’m blessed and so fortunate to be part of this program. It is also an eye opener for me in the area of sports media. I believe so much that knowledge and skills I have acquired will enhanced my skills not only in the area sports media but other sectors inside our country,”Ms Podokolo said.

She said one of her highlight she was given the chance to interview the Captain of team France and team Brazil.

“For me this is a breakthrough in this training to have the confidence to walk straight to these two stars and asking them for an interview.

“Apart from that, I have also learnt the basics of how to use the Mobile Journalism kits to shoot videos. I have also built networks and connection with other Pacific sisters, the first nation women’s and also the different trainers and speakers.

“I’m very much looking forward to put these acquired knowledge into practice when doing news reporting,” Ms Podokolo said.

She adds covering sports for her as female would be challenging but she is willing to take up this challenge and give it a try.

“I’d say here, it is worth trying, if others can do it, we can do it too,” Ms Podokolo said.

Mavis has been in the media industry for seven years. She started her Journalism career with Sunday Isles Newspaper in 2016 and later joins Island Sun Newspaper in 2017 up until now. Ms Podokolo was recently awarded with an award on Excellence in Reporting on the Pandemic 2022 and also was awarded with the Young Journalist of the Year award by the Media Association of Solomon Islands.

She is from the beautiful Western Province in Solomon Islands

Sogavare missed meeting with US Republican senators

Written by
Eddie Osifelo
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Sogavare. Photo credit- MAVIS PODOKOLO

By EDDIE OSIFELO

In an unexpected turn of events, Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare of the Solomon Islands was unable to honour an appointment with two visiting Republican Senators from the United States, Deal Dunn and Amata Radewagen, along with their accompanying delegation.

The meeting was scheduled to take place in Honiara on Tuesday.

The reasons behind Prime Minister Sogavare’s absence from the meeting remain undisclosed.

Republican Senator Deal Dunn, when approached by the media, attributed the Prime Minister’s absence to a busy schedule.

“Unfortunately, he couldn’t fit us into his tightly packed agenda. We conveyed our warm regards and appreciation through a note and a gift, thanking him for his hospitality during our stay in the country,” Senator Dunn stated.

Senator Dunn further acknowledged the constraints of the Prime Minister’s schedule, noting, “While we flew thousands of miles for this engagement, we do understand that leaders have numerous commitments demanding their attention. Our gift and note express our gratitude for the opportunity to visit this country.”

During their visit, the US Congress delegation, which included Senators Dunn and Radewagen, took part in solemn ceremonies at the American War Memorial on Monday. They laid wreaths to honor the memory of both American and local Solomon Islanders who valiantly fought during the pivotal Battle of Guadalcanal in 1942.

The delegation’s tribute was a poignant acknowledgment of the historical ties between the two nations.

In addition to the memorial visit, the delegation sought to gain firsthand insights into the operations and resource needs of the National Referral Hospital.

This effort to connect with local institutions underscored the cooperative spirit of the diplomatic visit.

As the circumstances surrounding Prime Minister Sogavare’s scheduling conflict remain shrouded in mystery, the overarching message of gratitude and cooperation from the visiting US delegation serves to strengthen ties between the United States and the Solomon Islands.

SINU eyes Malaita Campus at Fote

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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0

BY NED GAGAHE

Solomon Islands National University (SINU) has set its eyes on establishing its Malaita Campus at Fote, West Kwara’e, at the former National Agriculture Training Institute (NATI).

In a statement yesterday SINU Vice Chancellor Professor Transform Aqorau issued the call for the occupants and land owners of the site to make way for the institution’s plan

The SINU Vice Chancellor said the site which once served as an education hub for the former Solomon Islands College of High Education’s (SICHE) NATI institute was a prime location and SINU aims to establish its Malaita Campus there.

Furthermore, Aqorau clarified that SICHE never withdrew the institute from Fote. SICHE only withdrew the programme and not the institute.

The reason behind the move was because it was supported in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock.

Aqorau emphasised that the main intention to establish a campus in Malaita is aligned with the University’s ongoing expansion plans throughout the country and Fote reflects an ideal setting due to its rich history and suitable infrastructure.

“The establishment of a SINU Campus in Malaita is not just a boom for the institution, but a significant catalyst for the socio-economic growth of the province. It has the immense potential the campus brings in terms of economic benefits for Fote and the wider Malaita community.

“As envisioned, SINU will invest heavily in specialized programs such as agriculture, agroforestry, land management, and other related fields.

“These programs are anticipated to inject new life into the local economy and provide vast opportunities for the inhabitants as well as the Province.

“In light of the above, I earnestly calls upon the, landowners, the people of Malaita and the Malaita Provincial Government to rally behind this transformative initiative.

“This is a call to action for the greater good of our community, and we believe that with unified support, we can create an institution that not only educates but also empowers and uplifts.”

Meanwhile, SINU remains committed to its mission of providing unparalleled education and research.

“With the Malaita Campus, SINU aims to create a legacy of academic excellence while simultaneously fostering sustainable economic growth for Malaita and its people.” the Vice Chancellor said.

GP commits huge portion of budget to build Mamara HQ

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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Francis Sade.

BY NED GAGAHE

THE current Premier of Guadalcanal Francis Sade has shown great eagerness and commitment to fast-track the provincial Headquarter (HQ) project at Mamara, Northwest Guadalcanal materializes soon.

His current led government has proven it by committing a huge portion of its 2023-2024 financial year budget that would soon see a Provincial Assembly Complex and Agriculture Pack house constructed on the recently acquired 20 hectare land given by Metropolis Pacific Ltd at Mamara.

GP Media revealed this in a statement following the signing of the $40m Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA) between Metropolis Pacific Ltd and Guadalcanal Province yesterday.

In a statement after the signing, Premier Sade expressed excitement saying that the partnership between the two organization has come a long way where previous government have opened discussion with Pacific Metro for the possibility to acquire only 5ha of land.

Sade adds that the push to have a much bigger area that aligns with the development aspiration of the province birthed when he come to power in 2019.

The Premier expressed great confidence that the decision to establish the HQ at Mamara is a right decision and one that reflects the choice of the people of Guadalcanal themselves.

Sade emphasized that the people of Guadalcanal have waited for a long time, over 30 years for this to happen.

On that note, the signing marks an important tri-partnership the SIG, Metropolis Pacific Ltd and Guadalcanal Province have developed and nourished over the years.

Furthermore, Sade appealed to the SIG through the Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening (MPGIS) to support Guadalcanal Province ensure that the development of its HQ materializes soon.

Man sentenced to 18 months in jail for obstructing police during 2021 riot

Written by
Jennifer Kusapa
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BY JENNIFER KUSAPA

A 21-year-old man, has been sentenced to 18 months in jail for his involvement in obstructing police officers while executing their duties during a riot on November 24, 2021.

This is the case of Ruebenson Kedi, who pleaded guilty to the charge of obstructing Police officer while in execution of his duty.

The sentence was handed down by Chief Magistrate Emma Garo.

CM Garo said the offense of obstructing a police officer in the execution of their duty carries a maximum penalty of two years imprisonment.

However, she acknowledged Kedi’s guilty plea and his status as a first-time offender.

“I am of the view that the starting point should be the maximum of two years imprisonment. I deduct 6 months to reflect the mitigating factors that support a reduction in sentence. I impose a sentence of 18 months imprisonment. Time spent in custody is taken into account,” stated Ms. Garo.

Addressing Kedi directly, Garo pointed out that he had taken part in setting up a roadblock during a period of unrest in Honiara. The riot had resulted in property damage, arson, and theft, causing significant losses for businesses and families.

Garo said that Kedi and his group could have aided the police by refraining from participating in the disturbance, but they chose not to. The court underlined that at times of community crisis, citizens should assist law enforcement by staying home and avoiding trouble.

The court’s findings established that on the night of November 24, 2021, Kedi and others erected a roadblock in the Henderson area between 10 pm and 11 pm. When a police vehicle approached, they fled toward the GBR road. Kedi’s reasoning for his involvement was that he had heard about the riot and went to observe the situation.

Upon arriving at Henderson Court and witnessing the chaos, he took part in setting up the roadblock by carrying a table to obstruct the road. The court noted that such group offenses often occur during riots.

The court highlighted the importance of not obstructing police officers in their duty to maintain peace and security, especially during times of unrest.

The verdict aimed to discourage young individuals like Kedi from participating in such activities, emphasizing the necessity of supporting law enforcement efforts.

Ruebenson Kedi’s case serves as a reminder that the public interest lies in upholding law and order and aiding the police in their mission to protect the community, especially during challenging security situations.

The court’s decision reflects the need for immediate punitive measures to deter such actions and promote social responsibility.

Public Prosecutor Lindsay Temaika of the Director Public Prosecution appears for the crown while Roria Sikua of Public Solicitor’s Office represents the accused.

Prosecution’s application to suppress identity of witnesses rejected

Written by
Jennifer Kusapa
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0

BY JENNIFER KUSAPA

CHIEF Magistrate Emma Garo has denied the application made by the prosecution in the case involving two men charged in connection with the November 2021 riot incident.

Prosecution had sought to suppress the identities of their nine witnesses, citing concerns about the safety and security of both the witnesses and their families at the hands of the defendants.

Public Prosecutor Dalcy Oligari argued that the identities of these nine witnesses should remain undisclosed to the defendants, and requested a suppression order to prevent the public and the defendants from accessing any information regarding the names, identities, and addresses of these witnesses.

After thoroughly considering the arguments presented by both the Prosecution and the Defence concerning this application, Ms Garo emphasized that the prosecution failed to provide concrete evidence demonstrating any instances of harassment or threats originating from the defendants or those acting on their behalf.

Ms Garo noted that while there were rumors and allegations concerning potential threats or intimidation, it was the duty of the police to thoroughly investigate such claims and verify their authenticity.

Ms Garo stressed that the prosecution bore the responsibility of establishing the reliability of the allegations of witness intimidation and the genuine fears experienced by the witnesses. She highlighted that the evidence required to reach a definitive conclusion was lacking in the case at hand.

“In this case, what has been presented to the court are general claims of witness intimidation and harassment attributed to unnamed members of the M4D over a span of three months. However, the necessary evidence to substantiate such assertions and allow the court to make a conclusive determination is notably absent,” stated CM Garo.

Chief Magistrate Garo ruled that the evidence provided by the prosecution to support their application was insufficient to warrant the issuance of the requested orders.

” I dismiss the application by the prosecution for suppression of the identity of witnesses, use pseudonym, audio video link and use of screens”, Ms Garo adds.

Japan to deliver stand on ALPS discharge tomorrow

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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0
Japans Ambassador to Solomon Islands Yoshiaki Miwa.

BY NED GAGAHE

Japan will deliver its official stand on the Discharge of Advanced Liquid Processing System (ALPS) treated water from Fukushima Daiichi at a media gathering tomorrow.

His Excellency Miwa Yoshiaki, the Ambassador of Japan to the Solomon Islands is expected to make statements explaining the Japan’s official stand on the issue for Solomon Islanders, the embassy has confirmed.

The issue has been a center of heated debate after Japan revealed its plan to commence dumping the ALPS treated water from its Fukushima Daiichi reactor earlier this year.

According to media reports nearly 12 years ago, a massive earthquake and tsunami triggered a nuclear catastrophe at Japan’s Fukushima Daiichi plant.

The nuclear reactors have been decommissioned – a process which will take 40 years to complete.

But the shutdown has stalled over the build-up of vast quantities of water used to keep the damaged reactors cool.

To free up space, operator TEPCO want to release 1.3 million tonnes of the wastewater into the sea.

They claim that the water is filtered to remove most radionuclides, making the release safe.

NPF closes whole day due to power black-out

Written by
Ofani Eremae
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0

BY NED GAGAHE

The country’s National Provident Fund (NPF) main office experienced total power black-out the whole day yesterday.

Reports reaching Island Sun said NPF’s standby generator experienced problems due to Solomon Power’s ongoing load-shedding exercise.

As a result, repair works led to the whole NPF headquarter office closing for the whole day.

A frustrated NPF customer shared to Island Sun yesterday he has never seen this happening to the Fund, and is ‘very unfortunate’ that it coincided with the very day he needed NPF’s service.

NPF, when contacted yesterday for comments, refuted the narrative that yesterday’s whole-day black-out was caused by Solomon Power’s load shedding.

Instead, NPF said it was a ‘normal routine maintenance work’ on their standby generator which has been the practice even before the load shedding began.

NPF media then went on to express sympathy and understanding on the impacts the load-shedding has on businesses in Honiara.

“Well in every business as affected by load shedding, so as NPF, no one can deny that.

“Almost 80 percent of businesses in town were affected,” NPF Media said.

Meanwhile, NPF Media confirmed that the power resumed yesterday evening.

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