BY MORRIS NAFU
In Hamilton, New Zealand
More than 100 Solomon Islanders living in Whangārei, Hamilton and Auckland gathered in Auckland on Saturday to celebrate the 48th Independence Day of the Solomon Islands, reaffirming their commitment to unity, culture and nation-building.
The celebration brought together members of the Solomon Islands community alongside representatives from Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, Fiji and other Pacific nations, as well as members of New Zealand’s Pacific language communities.
Speaking on behalf of the Solomon Islands High Commission to New Zealand, senior Auckland community member Lazarus Loloselo delivered a message from His Excellency Ismael Avui, highlighting this year’s national theme, “Our Nation, Our Responsibility and Accountability – Building a GREAT Solomon Islands.”
Mr Loloselo said the theme places ownership of the nation’s future on every citizen while aligning with the government’s vision for national development.
“The theme emphasises ownership by all citizens and reflects the government’s commitment to building a stronger Solomon Islands,” he said.
He paid tribute to the country’s founding leaders, acknowledging their role in securing independence and laying the foundations for nation-building over the past 48 years.
“Our journey as a young and growing democracy has not always been easy.
“Despite many challenges, Solomon Islands has weathered the storms of nation-building and today stands as a vibrant, stable and progressive nation with many opportunities and potential,” he said.
Mr Loloselo also reflected on the long-standing relationship between Solomon Islands and New Zealand.
Since formal diplomatic relations were established in 1978, the two countries have continued to strengthen ties through education, development assistance, trade, investment and people-to-people connections.
He noted that the relationship dates back even earlier through the work of New Zealand missionaries, shared World War II history and educational partnerships.
The Solomon Islands High Commission reaffirmed its commitment to work closely with the New Zealand Government and development partners to strengthen cultural connections and support Solomon Islands communities across New Zealand.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr Kerryn Galokale, a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the School of Māori Studies and Pacific Studies at the University of Auckland.
Dr Galokale encouraged Pacific communities to continue to learn from one another and strengthen community relationships through active engagement.
“Let’s continue to learn from one another and build stronger communities through engagement,” she said.
The celebration featured speeches, cultural performances and opportunities for Pacific communities to come together in recognition of the Solomon Islands’ independence and the enduring friendship between Solomon Islands and New Zealand.
Photo credit: Elton Lonaratha Jnr
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