Solar panels handed over to people in North Malaita rural communities

A total of 28 solar panels were handed over to the rural people of Malaita Province over the weekend by Willies Electrical and Solar Power Company.

Seven homes in Sewa Community at Malu'u station, 8 at the Faith Community in Sulagwalu and 13 homes in Aufasu community of Central Kwara'ae took delivery of solar panels under the company's Iumi Solar Home Systems program.

The community based program includes a solar panel package of 10 watts, a battery and two light bulbs to provide basic light for homes.

Under the program, community members pay two-thousand-two-hundred dollars each up front.

The remaining cost for each package is to be settled through the weekly sale of market produce.

Managing Director of Willies Company David Iro says the weekend hand-overs bring the total number of solar panels given to communities throughout the country to over 1,000.

Mr Iro says the Iumi Solar Home Systems program aims to reach another one thousand homes in the provinces next year.

Meanwhile, pregnant mothers of the North Malaita Region can now look forward to the comfort of having light at the Malu'u Clinic's Labour Ward, thanks to Willies Electrical and Solar Power Company.

The company Director announced their commitment to provide Solar lighting for the labour ward at the Clinic and for Malu'u Police Station, during the handing over of 7solar panels for Sewa Community at Malu'u Station last Friday.

Malu'u station has been without electricity for almost a year now, forcing nurses to attend to patients by lamp or torch light, and mothers at the labour ward have been no exception.

The head nurse for Malu'u Clinic Rose Liosulia says the commitment is good news for the clinic as it will meet one of it's needs to provide essential lighting which will in turn ensure that patients are looked after properly.

Malu'u, clinic's labour ward and the police station will be fitted with solar lighting next year.

Source: SIBC

Solomon Islands rated 111th least corrupt country in the world

Solomon Islands is ranked as the 111th least corrupt country in the world, equal with Kiribati by the anti-corruption group, Transparency International.

Featuring most nations in the region, the index of 180 countries places New Zealand as the World’s least corrupt country just ahead of Denmark but well in front of Australia, which was found to be eight least corrupt.

Papua New Guinea is near the bottom of the list, in 154th place.

Samoa is 56th, while Tonga and Vanuatu climbed the list significantly this year, at 99th and 95th respectively.

Transparency International says following the 2006 riots, Tonga has undergone reforms that seek to grant greater political power to popularly elected officials and its anti-corruption drive has earned the support of local civil society organisations.

It says the political stability and high fiscal freedom helped to improve perceptions of corruption in Vanuatu.

Source: RNZI

United Arab Emirates prove too strong for Solomon Bilikiki in second match at Beach Soccer World Cup

The Solomon Islands have lost 1-7 to the United Arab Emirates in their second match at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup in Dubai on yesterday.

After a dramatic 7-6 win against Urugay in their opening match on Monday, the Bilikiki could not follow that up with another win as the hosts proved too strong in front of a home crowd.

UAE, desperate for three points after a heart-breaking loss to Portugal on day one, struck moments into the match to signal their intentions, as a melodic symphony from synchronised voices and assorted instruments cascaded down from their supporters. Karim Albalooshi was the goal-getter and he struck again soon after Solomon Islands’ goalkeeper Fred Hale had slipped a long shot under UAE goalkeeper Abbas Hussain to draw his side level.

Ibrahim Albalooshi’s direct-kick could not find its way through, but UAE continued to test their luck as the first period drew to a close, sending a number of well-taken shots goalward. And with just twelve seconds gone in the second period, Ibrahim Albalooshi put one in for UAE. Crafty forays forward followed from both sides, before Bakhit Alabadla and then Rami Al Mesaabi added a couple more for UAE.

Qambar Sadeqi drew gasps as his crushing strike found the back of the net midway through the final period, as Solomon Islands were forced to grow comfortable with the idea of sharing top spot in Group B. As UAE tallied another, it hardly seemed necessary, but the flag-waving UAE supporters did not seem to mind.

UAE face Uruguay tomorrow as the group stages draw to a close, while Solomon Islands have the challenging task of contending with a Portugal side eager for another win.

Source: OFC

Solomon Bilikiki eke out Uruguayan upset in Beach Soccer World Cup opener

Solomon Islands survived a late onslaught to edge Uruguay 7-6 in what was an exhilarating start to their FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Dubai 2009 campaign.

The Oceania representatives held a five-goal cushion with just six minutes remaining, but will be mightily relieved to have put three points on the board following a spirited comeback from their Group A rivals.

The infallible Ricar gave Uruguay an early advantage, but goals from Robert Laua, Gibson Hosea, Muri and Timothy Wale sent Solomon Islands in 4-2 up at the first break. The South Americans were incapable of nullifying their underdogs’ counter-attacking style, with a quick-fire brace from Laua, which completed his hat-trick, and a strike from Omo making it 7-2 before the end of the second period.

However, midway through the concluding period, Uruguay found their rhythm, and four goals within three minutes – Martin and Ricar both completed doubles, while Pampero and Fabian were also on target – made for a thrilling last few minutes. Las Charrúas threw everything forward in search of an equaliser, but the Bilikiki Boys ultimately escaped with the victory.

The teams will return to action tomorrow, when Uruguay will meet Portugal and Solomon Islands take on United Arab Emirates.

Squad List
1 Henry PADAVERANA
2 Timothy WALE
3 Franco NEE
4 Eddie NGAITIN
5 Hickly RENCE
6 Muri MAKAA
7 Michael TAEMAN
8 Gideon OMOKIRIO
9 Robert LAUA
10 James NAKA
11 Gibson HOSEA
12 Fred HALE

Source: FIFA

Malaita Eagles team avoid ban, Solomon Cup to continue today

It is old news that the Solomon Cup will proceed as planned after Saturday nights riot. SIFF and the police have reassured fans that security will be beefed up and fans closely monitored during the event.

Eagles Team Manager and Vice-President of Malaita Football Association, Eddie Misite'e yeterday said, "We had raised the issue of security on Friday's technical meeting with SIFF. SIFF at that time assured us that security would be provided even saying thousands will be deployed. On Saturday only 18 personnel's showed up."

Mr. Misite'e also emphasized that in a quick emergency held on Sunday the major sponsor of the event, Our Telekom remained unfazed by the incident and reaffirmed their support for the tournament.

"On the issue of a possible ban; we argued that SIFF must take responsibility for their failure and I think they have accepted that fault. We also argued that unlike 1993 where the players provoked the fans into rioting when they walked off the field, this team accepted the decision and had vowed to continue playing. It was the fans who took advantage of the situation. Therefore it will be very unfair for the team or Malaita to be banned. Then we must also acknowledged that Malaita team management had done all it can to avoid this situation but the fault lies squarely on SIFF's shoulder for their failure to meet their obligation to provide security." Mr. Misite'e said.

Mr. Misite'e stressed that he and coach Toata Molea fought hard for the team and it has been accepted by SIFF that the Malaita team will not be fined. "In 1993 we were handed a 2 year ban but this time it would be very unfair for SIFF to do that to us."

The Malaita team plays its second game today at 2pm when the competition resumes.

Mr. Misite'e also revealed that 'the outcome of Saturday's game will be decided in a future technical meeting. We do not know what decision may be reached but the possibility that a replay will be made is likely unless SIFF decides to award the win to Honiara or an unlikely draw. Bear in mind the goal had been awarded then retracted so a good analysis must be made with a good decision reached. Either way, the Malaita team still has 3 games to play and we will make sure we win all remaining games to put ourselves in a position to qualify for the semi finals."

Source: Lifhaus

Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) offices looted and burnt down

The SIFF office at Lawson Tama was burnt down yesterday evening by a mob of angry Malaita Eagle fans who rioted at the Lawson Tama stadium after the Eagles lost to Honiara.

It appears that fans were unhappy with a disallowed goal by the Malaita Eagles and started shooting stones into the stadium.The referee decided to abandon the game but relented to a call to complete the game.

Six minutes before full time the Honiara squad scored and that was when disgruntled fans went into a mayhem. They stole the gate takings at the gate and then broke into the Sports shop where someone lit the fire and as a result the office was burned down.

The car park and much of the road to China Town was strewn with empty boxes.

Reports from eye witnesses at the scene indicated that certain shops at Chinatown were also looted.

RAMSI Police have been deployed at Lawson Tama and are currently monitoring the situation. Police presence has been stepped up. Eye witnesses also alluded that RAMSI fired blanks at the advancing crowd at Chinatown yesterday evening.

Innocent bystanders and passing vehicles were also threatened and stoned during the chaos.

It is still unclear what this latest incident will do to the Solomon Cup but there are already strong indications that our reputation in OFC has just hit another low point and we have not done much to improve anything including soccer.

This morning (Sunday) the shop owners were standing around with security guards. It was all quiet.

Sources: Lifhaus & Clive Moore

TARD ended 2009 with farewell function for its graduating members

The To'abaita Authority for Research and Development (TARD) farewelled its graduating students in a meeting and function on Saturday (07/11/09) evening at the USPSA Conference Room.

Meeting date: Saturday (07/11/09)
Venue: USPSA Conference Room
Time: 5 – 8 pm.

Participants:

1 John Konofilia
2 George Ganiau
3 Brian Mangi
4 Ruth Ramo
5 Patricia Sango
6 Blondie Akwasia
7 Lizzie Tegu
8 Donna Rilangi
9 June Atomea
10 John Buata
11 Joe Kelesi
12 Jennifer Delemani
13 Elton Etega
14 Nixon Osiniu
15 Peter Danitofea
16 Robert Iromalefo
17 Roland Delemani
18 Ricky Ganisua
19 Enly Saeni
20 Michael Suinao
21 Simon Fiuniau
22 Rolland Filia
23 Linda Tonawane
24 Jillian Fa’afunua
25 Frederick Iro
26 Milfred Delemani
27 Rexon Ramofafia
28 Lawrence Lugitau
29 Joel Kalafiu
30 Pressly Fafoekona
31 Fletcher Fulairara
32 Mathew Oli
33 Frank Daukali

Meeting Minutes

1. Opening Word of Prayer: Jones Otafalu

2. Word of Welcome: George Ganiau (TARD Chairman – Suva Committee)

3. Update and Report on TARD Projects from November 2008 to December 2009:

a. Successful coordination of 3-week Soccer & netball coaching workshop at three key centers in North Malaita (Malu’u, Bita’ama & Walo) from late November to early December 2008. TARD hired the services of a volunteer soccer coach from New Zealand sponsored by Mahitahi Organization and two Malaita Netball Provincial Trainers to lead the coaching workshops.

b. TARD donated free soccer balls and netballs to rural club representatives in North Malaita who participated in the 3-week coaching workshop.

c. Successful organization of the TARD 2008 Christmas Games at Bita’ama in partnership with the Green Snails Club which took place in mid December 2008. Sports played included Soccer, netball and volleyball.

d. Completion of 4 signboards in late December planned for the boundaries of the North Malaita Constituency to welcome and farewell visitors to the region. This is yet to be installed due to lack of funds to do this.

e. Formal launching of TARD vision in February 2009 to To’abaita elites working in Honiara. This was coordinated by TARD Chairman – Honiara Committee Peter Fairamoa and the event took place at the Museum grounds in Honiara.

f. Delivery of 26 boxes of medical supplies in March 2009 to Malu’u Mini Hospital. The supplies were donated to TARD by the Medical Aid Abroad in New Zealand (MAANZ).

g. In August 2009, TARD provided $2000 to the organizing committee of the North Malaita Zone 1 School Sports Carnival. This support was utilized to meet medals for the primary school and secondary school athletes. The 1-week school sports carnival was completed in mid September 2009 at Walo Community High School and attended by all the schools between Manakwai (To’abaita) and Madalua (West Baelelea).

h. In October 2009, TARD provided ~$4,040 to support the North Malaita Soccer and Netball League at Malu’u.

i. In October 2009, TARD secured support as the first local association to benefit from the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) with the Honiara Committee collecting 15 beach soccer balls which were already delivered to support the North Malaita beach soccer league at Malu’u. Another additional 5 soccer balls is expected to be collected by TARD from SIFF in November 2009 awaiting arrival from New Zealand.

j. From December 16 – 19 2009, TARD will be organizing the 2009 Christmas Games at Malu’u. Sports to be played include soccer, netball, volleyball and beach soccer.

4. Other Matters:

a. Appointment of new TARD office bearers for 2010. Chairman is George Ganiau, Treasurer is John konofilia, Secretary is Ruth Ramo, and Fundraising Leader is Ken Finet. The new committee is expected to be the new signatories to the current TARD bank account with ANZ Bank, USP Branch.

b. Updates on the proposed constituency boundaries for North Malaita and Lau/Baelelea. Stressed the importance of TARD to be a neutral and independent body free from political interference or manipulation.

c. TARD Plans for 2010 – Cultural dances to hotels on Viti Levu (ET to draft letter during holidays for this to happen); Hiring of night club for fundraising; Set-up of a TARD Credit Fund; Set-up of a mechanism so that TARD can support members that are in emergency cases, loss of loved ones, sickness and hospital admission etc; and TARD mailbox number.

5. Closing Prayer and vote of Thanks – Enly Saeni.

6. Refreshment and informal speeches.

The TARD graduating students are Milfred Delemani, Enly Saeni, Donna Rilangi & Patricia Sango.

Local Solomon Star Journalist wins ADBI Award

Two Pacific journalists who took part in this this year's Development Asia Journalism Award have both scooped awards in the Climate Change Adaptation category.

Solomon Star journalist Moffat Mamu received the winning award, while Fiji's Samasoni Pareti got the second runners up award.

The trophy and certificates were awarded by the Asian Development Bank Institute, a sister organisation of the Asian Development Bank.

The competition organised annually by ABDI aims to recognise print journalists who have contributed to four issues relating to Poverty, Infrastructure Development, the Impacts of the current Global Financial Crisis and Climate Change Adaptation.

It was the first time Solomon Islands participated in the competition since its inception five years ago.

Both Mamu and Pareti traveled to Tokyo to receive their awards on Friday.

Their winning articles talked about the impacts of climate change in Solomon Islands, Fiji and the region, in relation to sea level rise.

Source: SIBC

North Malaita Students Association at USP elect new executive for 2010

The North Malaita Students Association (NMSA) at USP's Laucala Campus in Suva has elected a new executive to lead the group in 2010.

In a general meeting held at the Orange Lounge on Sunday 18th October, the following students have been elected to lead NMSA over the next term.

- President: Brian Mangi
- Vice-president: Ruth Maealatha
- Treasurer: June Atomea
- Secretary: Joe Kelesi
- Fundraising Chairpersons: John Buata & Elton Etega
- Social Welfare: Peter Danitofea & Ruth Ramo
- Cultural Leaders: Barbra Akao & Ken Finnet
- Education Chairperson: Jones Otafalu

The official handover and final get-to-gether is scheduled for this Saturday where graduating students will also be farewelled.

TARD founding member selected for Emerging Pacific Leaders Dialogue 2010

A TARD founding member, Mr Exsley Taloiburi who hails from North Malaita, has been selected as one of the representatives from Solomon Islands to participate in the second Emerging Pacific Leaders Dialogue (EPLD) scheduled to take place from 11th to 23rd March 2010 - opening in Samoa and closing in Tonga.

Mr Taloiburi holds two Masters Degrees – a Master of Environmental Management from the University of Tasmania in Australia and a Master of Science in Marine Science from the University of the South Pacific in Fiji. He has also been instrumental in voluntary community development work in North Malaita through TARD since 2006.

Core of the EPLD 2010 program involves ten study tours to ten separate locations throughout the Pacific region, each of one week duration.

The Emerging Pacific Leaders Dialogue (EPLD) 2010 is an event of national and regional significance and is designed to inspire and uplift individuals with proven leadership experience or potential to contribute to leadership and governance in the Pacific Region, the long-term development and stability of the region, and promote regional understanding and cooperation.

The program will focus on a number of areas of strategic significance including economic growth; regional co-operation and infrastructure; governance and leadership; security, stability and strengthening communities; climate and environment; industry education and health.

EPLD was initiated by the highly respected and long-established Commonwealth Study Conference (CSC) organisations and CSC alumni in Australia, New Zealand and across the Pacific with the inaugural EPLD 2006 opening in Brisbane and closing in Auckland with 10 study tour locations around the Pacific including Solomon Islands.

EPLD 2010 is sponsored by government agencies and private sectors across the Pacific, particularly the Australian Government.

Participants will come from Australia, Cook Islands, East Timor, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, French Polynesia, Kiribati, Nauru, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Republic of the Marshall Islands, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu.

The local EPLD 2010 organizing committee includes Mr Paul Tovua (chairman), Mr Priestley Habru (EPLD 2006 alumni), and Mr Desmond Nimepo (CSC alumni 2007).

In total, more than 600 applications had been received for this second pacific region leadership conference via the EPLD website on line application system.

TARD supports North Malaita Sports League

The To’abaita Authority for Research and Development (TARD) student volunteer group provided more than four thousand dollars ($4,038.50) yesterday to help complete the 2009 North Malaita Soccer and Netball League at Malu’u.

According to TARD Project Coordinator Mr Exsley Taloiburi, the funds were transferred to the Malu’u Football League Chairman Jimmy Tonowane in response to a proposal submitted to TARD by the league committee.

Taloiburi says the funds are intended to support the league committee with the administration and prizes for soccer and netball league.

The 2009 sports league at Malu’u which is a voluntary initiative by the North Malaita Sports Association was started early this year, but had to be placed on hold due to the recent Malaita Cup in Auki and lack of financial support.

Mr Taloiburi adds that it is TARD’s desire that its latest financial support will enable the league committee to revive the league games, which in turn will engage the rural youths of North Malaita in sports rather than resorting to illegal activities.

With the latest funding support, the sports league is now expected to be completed by late November.

TARD has been very instrumental in organising Christmas Games and sports coaching workshop for North Malaita youths over the last four years since 2006. Recently, the student group supported the North Malaita School Sports Carnival held in September at Walo School. In December, TARD will also organise the 2009 North Malaita Christmas Games, a sporting initiative in its fourth consecutive year.

Mr Taloiburi says all of these activities were made possible through generous project funding from the Australian Government under the Australian Sports Outreach Program (ASOP) 2008-2009 projects.