SIBC News

01/08/2024

The Government of Solomon Islands disassociates itself from commitments made by one of the Members of Parliament of the Independent Opposition Group, the Hon. Peter Kenilorea Junior attending an Inter Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC) meeting in Taiwan, China on Tuesday.

It says Hon. Peter Kenilorea Junior’s participation at the gathering violates the one China principle, and is an attempt to harm the Solomon Islands and the People’s Republic of China relations.

The government further states that commitments made by the Member of Parliament for East Are ‘Are for Solomon Islands to be a member of the anti-China Alliance is totally refuted by the Solomon Islands government.

In a statement today, the MP for East Are Are and Leader of the Independent Group, Hon. Peter Kenilorea Jr, has described the statement by GNUT as misleading and regrettable.

"Instead of harming Solomon Islands, the summit looked at ways that we as concerned MPs of the IPAC network can continue to spread the message in our respective Parliaments about perils any unilateral change to the Taiwan strait relations could bring."

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The Government of Solomon Islands disassociates itself from commitments made by one of the Members of Parliament of the Independent Opposition Group, the Hon. Peter Kenilorea Junior attending an Inter Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC) meeting in Taiwan, China on Tuesday. Hon. Peter Kenilorea Ju...

01/08/2024

The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) and the Biosecurity Solomon Islands (BSI) are intensifying efforts to contain the spread of the Asian Subterranean Termite (AST) following its recent confirmation in Solomon Islands.

AST, identified as Coptotermes gestroi, poses a significant threat to wooden structures, crops, and natural environments due to its destructive nature.

It was first confirmed in May 2024 through joint surveillance efforts involving Biosecurity Solomon Islands and NAQS (Northern Agriculture Quarantine Strategy, Australia), with samples detected in international air cargo.

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The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) and the Biosecurity Solomon Islands (BSI) are intensifying efforts to contain the spread of the Asian Subterranean Termite (AST) following its recent confirmation in Solomon Islands. AST, identified as Coptotermes gestroi, poses a significant threat to...

01/08/2024

Coconut down streaming in Solomon Islands is poised for expansion with Australia investing in a new cutting-edge processing facility, operated by Islands’ Own, in West Guadalcanal.

Islands’ Own is a local company that processes and manufactures a range of products using coconuts sourced from local farmers.

Through its private sector initiative, Strongim Bisnis, Australia has been investing in Islands’ Own since 2022 to meet the growing demand for value-added products in the coconut sector.

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Coconut down streaming in Solomon Islands is poised for expansion with Australia investing in a new cutting-edge processing facility, operated by Islands’ Own, in West Guadalcanal. Islands’ Own is a local company that processes and manufactures a range of products using coconuts sourced from loc...

31/07/2024

SIBC TV NEWS

31/07/2024

A Plant Health Clinic (PHC) session for vegetables, fruit trees and root crop farmers from surrounding communities at New Zealand camp in east Honiara is scheduled to be held next Tuesday.

The Honiara Urban City Agriculture Extension of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock is organizing the event at New Zealand camp under its PHC roll out program.

The session will provide the opportunity for farmers to bring their pest and disease infected plants, fruits and root crops to be screened and diagnosed by plant health doctors.

It will also provide accurate advice and awareness on control and management measures such as Pest Derived Practices as the best pest and disease control and management practices.

Farmers are therefore encouraged to gather their infested crop samples (whole plant) from their farm gardens and not hand pick along the roadsides and meet the PHC team on Tuesday next week.

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A Plant Health Clinic (PHC) session for vegetables, fruit trees and root crop farmers from surrounding communities at New Zealand camp in east Honiara is scheduled to be held next Tuesday. The Honiara Urban City Agriculture Extension of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock is organizing the eve...

31/07/2024

Solomon Islands High Commissioner to India, His Excellency Anthony Makabo met with senior officials from India’s Ministry of External Affairs on Tuesday.

In his meeting with India’s Joint Secretary of Oceania Territorial Division, Ms. Paramita Tripathi, His Excellency Makabo, took time to convey Solomon Islands' appreciation to the Government of India for the numerous support and financial assistance bestowed to Solomon Islands over the past years.

Makabo said now that the High Commission Office is fully operational, his mission is to fulfill the on-going bilateral programs to further advance the cordial relationship between the two countries.

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Solomon Islands High Commissioner to India, His Excellency Anthony Makabo met with senior officials from India’s Ministry of External Affairs on Tuesday. In his meeting with India’s Joint Secretary of Oceania Territorial Division, Ms. Paramita Tripathi, His Excellency Makabo, took time to convey...

31/07/2024

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele opened the National Economic Summit currently underway in Honiara today with a call on key stakeholders to uncover innovative approaches to achieve a resilient, transformative and sustainable economic growth that embraces inclusive development that leaves no one behind.

The two days summit gathered key stakeholders from the private sector, state owned enterprises, development partners and provincial governments to dialogue with the National Government on driving the overall economic growth in Solomon Islands

The outcome of the summit will produce a clear policy direction to help the Government implement measures and to prioritize resources over the short-to-medium term to achieve higher rates of sustainable growth in the post-pandemic recovery.

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Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele opened the National Economic Summit currently underway in Honiara today with a call on key stakeholders to uncover innovative approaches to achieve a resilient, transformative and sustainable economic growth that embraces inclusive development that leaves no one behind...

31/07/2024

Police officers at Taro Police Station have arrested a 23-years-old male person for house break-in at Qaloe logging camp in North West Choiseul.

It was alleged that the Camp Manager of Qaloe Logging Camp left his office and went to have his meal.

The suspect, who was an employee of the company, entered the office through a window and removed the amount of $35,000.00 and escaped.

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Police officers at Taro Police Station have arrested a 23-years-old male person for house break-in at Qaloe logging camp in North West Choiseul. It was alleged that the Camp Manager of Qaloe Logging Camp left his office and went to have his meal at the mess. The suspect, who was an employee of the c...

31/07/2024

The Australian Border Force (ABF) has delivered x-ray and substance identification training to Solomon Islands Customs, to help equip officers to screen and examine goods being imported and exported.

Being able to effectively screen and examine goods is a primary role of Customs and is critical to ensuring the integrity of the border.

X-ray technology allows for efficient screening of goods and the rapid identification of prohibited or restricted goods including narcotics and weapons.

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The Australian Border Force (ABF) has delivered x-ray and substance identification training to Solomon Islands Customs, to help equip officers to screen and examine goods being imported and exported. Being able to effectively screen and examine goods is a primary role of Customs and is critical to e...

30/07/2024

𝐕𝐚𝐧𝐮𝐚𝐭𝐮-𝐇𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐚𝐫𝐚 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐲

The Vanuatu community in Honiara celebrated Vanuatu’s 44th Independence Anniversary today at the National Auditorium.

The colorful and lively event brought together ni-Vanuatuans in the country, along with friends and supporters.

Read more here https://www.sibconline.com.sb/?p=60164

30/07/2024

Cocoa farmers in Solomon Islands will soon be benefiting from a funding assistance for tools and equipment to help improve cocoa productivity.

The exciting news was announced during a meeting held between the Minister for Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) Hon. Franklyn Derek Wasi and His Excellency Jonathan Schwass, the New Zealand High Commissioner to Solomon Islands and his Deputy, Her Excellency Elizabeth on Friday 19th July in Honiara.

Hon. Minister Wasi used the meeting to brief His Excellency on the policy priorities of the Government for National Unit and Transformation (GNUT) for Agriculture in Solomon Islands, and the general direction the Ministry is taking to achieve long term sustainability of agriculture development.

One of the main emphasis Minister Wasi made during the discussion was for support toward the cocoa industry given the current high market price globally and its potential to make a quick turnover toward improving the economy of the country.

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Cocoa farmers in Solomon Islands will soon be benefiting from a funding assistance for tools and equipment to help improve cocoa productivity. The exciting news was announced during a meeting held between the Minister for Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) Hon. Franklyn Derek Wasi and His Excellency Jo...

30/07/2024

Launch of the Rapid Assessment on the Situation of Children Working and Walking on the Streets.
International Day Against Trafficking in Persons

29/07/2024

The People’s Republic of China (PRC) will be providing a funding assistance of more than SBD100 million for the Tar sealing of Auki road and other priority projects.

Prime Minister, Hon. Jeremiah Manele confirmed this to local media last week.

He said whilst in Beijing, his delegation met with both Premier Li Qiang, and President Xi Jinpin on separate occasions to discuss matters of mutual interest to both countries.

“I am very happy to inform you that during these meetings China confirmed it will provide grant funding exceeding $100 million dollars to finance the Auki Road tar sealing project and other priority projects agreed between the two governments,” he said.

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By Ian Kaukui The People’s Republic of China (PRC) will be providing a funding assistance of more than SBD 100 million for the Tar sealing of Auki road and other priority projects. Prime Minister, Hon. Jeremiah Manele confirmed this to local media last week. He said whilst in Beijing, his delegati...

26/07/2024

𝐓𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐤𝐮𝐥𝐚 𝐅𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐥 𝐤𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐬 𝐨𝐟𝐟 𝐢𝐧 𝐇𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐚𝐫𝐚

The popular Tinakula Festival, a celebration of Temotu Province’s rich and diverse culture kicked off in Honiara today.

The two-day event is being held at the FOFA Village and will run until tomorrow, Saturday, July 27th, 2024.

The official opening ceremony showcased vibrant cultural performances from different dance groups, followed by an address from the Temotu Province Premier, Hon. Stanley Tehi.

Read more here https://www.sibconline.com.sb/?p=60148

26/07/2024

The Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) and Solomon Power signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on a Solar Farm Project.

Prime Minister, Hon. Jeremiah Manele, Deputy Prime Minister, Hon. Bradley Tovosia and board members of both parties were present during the signing at the Prime Minister’s Office today.

The project aims to establish a 5-Megawatt solar farm at SIBC’s transmission site in East Honiara, to enable the organisation to sell renewable energy to Solomon Power.

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By Andrea Ma'ahanua The Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) and Solomon Power signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on a Solar Farm Project. Prime Minister, Hon. Jeremiah Manele, Deputy Prime Minister, Hon. Bradley Tovosia and board members of both parties...

26/07/2024

The Commodities Export Marketing Authority (CEMA) has condemned reports of farmers harvesting unripe cocoa beans to local buyers.

This comes after farmers in certain parts of North Malaita were said to sell unripe cocoa beans to buyers.

Our stringer in the region, John Andrew Kiri reported that such action could be a result of the current high price of cocoa beans that tempted farmers to harvest unripe cocoa fruits.

In response, George Tuki from CEMA’s Operations and Outstation Division called on farmers to immediately stop such practice.

Mr Tuke said such practice is concerning as it will affect the quality of products for export to the world market.

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By Alfred Pagepitu The Commodities Export Marketing Authority (CEMA) has condemned reports of farmers harvesting unripe cocoa beans to local buyers. This comes after farmers in certain parts of North Malaita were said to sell unripe cocoa beans to buyers. Our stringer in the region, John Andrew Kiri...

26/07/2024

The Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) and the Solomon Islands Government (SIG) have signed a modification to the Threshold Program Grant Agreement, a move that will further enhance tourism investment and economic development in Solomon Islands through allowing more flexible usage of USD$2.3 million (SBD19.2 million) contained in the Grant Agreement.

Minister for the Ministry of National Planning and Development Coordination (MNPDC), Hon. Rexon Ramofafia signed the grant agreement modification on behalf of SIG at the MCC headquarters in Washington DC on July 23.

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The Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) and the Solomon Islands Government (SIG) have signed a modification to the Threshold Program Grant Agreement, a move that will further enhance tourism investment and economic development in Solomon Islands through allowing more flexible usage of USD$2.3 mil...

26/07/2024

The Inter-Agency Understanding (IAU) which governs the Niue-Solomon Islands Labour Mobility Pilot is being signed today in Tamakautoga, Niue by the governments of Niue and Solomon Islands.

The Pilot is the first managed intra-Pacific labour mobility programme for the Pacific and is facilitated through the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations (PACER) Plus Labour Mobility Secretariat under the framework of the PACER Plus Arrangement on Labour Mobility (ALM).

The movement of Pacific workers to find employment in other Pacific countries is not new. For centuries, this has been the practice and in recent history was largely subject to individuals responding to job opportunities advertised or inter-departmental arrangement for Pacific individuals.

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The Inter-Agency Understanding (IAU) which governs the Niue-Solomon Islands Labour Mobility Pilot is being signed today in Tamakautoga, Niue by the governments of Niue and Solomon Islands. The Pilot is the first managed intra-Pacific labour mobility programme for the Pacific and is facilitated throu...

26/07/2024

The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) under the capable and visionary leadership of Honourable Minister Franklyn Derek Wasi is taking immediate steps in addressing the Solomon Islands cocoa industry which holds significant potential to contribute to the economy of our country.

In recognition of this potential along with the current high market price of cocoa globally, the Ministry has been consulting relevant stakeholders over the past weeks and has now successfully developed the “Cocoa Sector Intervention Strategy 2024 (CSIS)” which, Hon. Minister Wasi is set to launch in due course.

Hon. Minister Wasi said “This strategic framework aims to strengthen and enhance the country’s cocoa industry amidst current challenges and future opportunities.

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The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) under the capable and visionary leadership of Honourable Minister Franklyn Derek Wasi is taking immediate steps in addressing the Solomon Islands cocoa industry which holds significant potential to contribute to the economy of our country. In recogniti...

25/07/2024

The Solomon Islands Government delegation to the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF) in New York recently, have successfully presented the country’s second Voluntary National Review (VNR) on the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The report is a requirement for all UN member countries that have agreed to report on their progress towards the 2030 Agenda.

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By Alfred Pagepitu The Solomon Islands Government delegation to the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF) in New York recently, have successfully presented the country’s second Voluntary National Review (VNR) on the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)....

25/07/2024

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele says the government encourages the forging of provincial sister relationship with other countries, apart from the Peoples republic of China (PRC).

Mr. Manele made the statement after his recent visit to China, where several provinces in China signed agreements of sister relations with provinces in the country.

He said in his earlier visit to Australia, he also met with the Brisbane Deputy Mayor, where a potential Provincial sister relationship was discussed.

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By Ian Kaukui Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele says the government encourages the forging of provincial sister relationship with other countries, apart from the Peoples republic of China (PRC). Mr. Manele made the statement after his recent visit to China, where several provinces in China signed agree...

25/07/2024

In an effort to incorporate the concept of 6Cs into teaching, a workshop on Integrating the concept into teacher training in the Solomon Islands was organized for educators on 24 July 2024 at the Mendana Kitano Hotel. The workshop would run for five days.

Facilitated by Professor Esther Care from the University of Melbourne and organized by Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD), Solomon Islands National University (SINU) and UNESCO, the workshop aims to provide knowledge and tools necessary to effectively incorporate 6Cs into teacher training in the country.

The 6Cs are; (1) Critical thinking, (2) Collaboration, (3) Communication, (4) Creativity, (5) Character and (6) Citizenship.

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In an effort to incorporate the concept of 6Cs into teaching, a workshop on Integrating the concept into teacher training in the Solomon Islands was organized for educators on 24 July 2024 at the Mendana Kitano Hotel. The workshop would run for five days. Facilitated by Professor Esther Care from th...

25/07/2024

The Honiara City Council (HCC) Deputy City Clerk, Jefferson Patovaki has clarified concerns regarding the ongoing demolition of illegal markets within the city.

Patovaki stated that the actions are part of their efforts to maintain order and legality within Honiara, and to ensure the city remains clean and safe for all residents.

The recent operation saw the demolition of Betelnut markets at Mamana Water, Fijian Quarter, and Whiteriver 01 bus stop, which has generated reactions from vendors and stall owners.

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By Alfred Pagepitu The Honiara City Council (HCC) Deputy City Clerk, Jefferson Patovaki has clarified concerns regarding the ongoing demolition of illegal markets within the city. Patovaki stated that the actions are part of their efforts to maintain order and legality within Honiara, and to ensure....

24/07/2024

A new cohort of Solomon Islanders have embarked on an internship program supported by the Australian Government to develop job skills and gain work experience through placements with local businesses and organisations.

A total of 15 interns were welcomed into the program during a ceremony in Honiara on Thursday 18 July 2024.

Facilitated by Pasifiki HR through Australia’s Strongim Bisnis initiative, the internships have been offered to people with disabilities, recent graduates from local universities including Solomon Islands National University, University of the South Pacific, the Australia Pacific Training Coalition, and prospective and returning workers of the Pacific Australia Labor Mobility scheme.

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A new cohort of Solomon Islanders have embarked on an internship program supported by the Australian Government to develop job skills and gain work experience through placements with local businesses and organisations. A total of 15 interns were welcomed into the program during a ceremony in Honiara...

23/07/2024

Malaita Province and its sister province, Jiangsu Province of China signed a three-year action plan for friendly exchanges and cooperation at the Chinese Embassy in Honiara yesterday.

The signing was done by the visiting Vice Governor of Jiangsu Province, Fang Wei and Malaita Premier, Elijah Asilauwa.

Speaking after the signing, Asilaua said the action plan covers areas such as agriculture, economic trade and cultural exchange.

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By Ian Kaukui Malaita Province and its sister province, Jiangsu Province of China signed a three-year action plan for friendly exchanges and cooperation at the Chinese Embassy in Honiara yesterday. The signing was done by the visiting Vice Governor of Jiangsu Province, Fang Wei and Malaita Premier,....

23/07/2024

The 23rd Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Committee and the 5th Regional Fisheries Ministers’ Meeting commenced in Honiara today.

All seventeen members of the Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) are present for the meeting this week.

Delivering the opening remarks, Acting Prime Minister Hon Bradley Tovosia said the region’s tuna fishery resource is now the focus of intense discussions and negotiations at the global level.

Hon Tovosia called on leaders and officials to ensure the tuna fishery resource is managed sustainably for the region’s future generations with innovative and collective efforts.

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By Sharon Nanau The 23rd Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Committee and the 5th Regional Fisheries Ministers’ Meeting commenced in Honiara today. All seventeen members of the Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) are present for the meeting this week. Delivering the opening remarks, Acting Prime Minister Ho...

22/07/2024

𝐑𝐞𝐧𝐛𝐞𝐥 𝐇𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐚𝐫𝐚 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝟑𝟏𝐬𝐭 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐃𝐚𝐲

The Rennell and Bellona Honiara Community celebrated the provinces 31st Second Appointed Day in Honiara today.

The day was marked with a float parade from Lawson Tama to the National Auditorium where an official program was held.

Read more here https://www.sibconline.com.sb/?p=60079

22/07/2024

The Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI) over the weekend awarded journalists with special recognition for their outstanding work in the media industry.

11 awards were presented to journalists and media organizations during the MASI Media Excellence Award ceremony held at the Heritage Park Hotel on Saturday with the theme “Celebrating the strength and spirit of Solomon Islands Media.”

Speaking at the event, Keynote Speaker and New Zealand High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Jonathan Schwass, commended journalists for their hard work in reporting on national events.

“I would like to commend all the journalists for your excellent work under the conditions that are not easy. Reporting on the Pacific Games and the combined joint election has shown your dedication,” he added.

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By Alfred Pagepitu The Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI) over the weekend awarded journalists with special recognition for their outstanding work in the media industry. 11 awards were presented to journalists and media organizations during the MASI Media Excellence Award ceremony held at t...