Time to move on: out-going SMEC Chairman

Chairman of the Small & Medium Enterprises Council (SMEC) of Solomon Islands, Mr Michael Maena, has resigned from the position as Chairman of SMEC after serving for the last two consecutive terms.

Mr Maena officially tendered his resignation on the 26th of August 2008, saying that he decided to move on and allow others who also have the potential to contribute further to SMEC's future development.

"It has been indeed a pleasure having to contribute a little to SMEC's development during its early years of inception. It was pretty tough attuning to someone else dream, putting your minds together in realizing something tangible in the end. It was a long walk and a journey of its own. It was not always smooth sailing, given the hurdles and the so many challenges faced. I have learnt a great deal during those experiences. Those were indeed worthwhile experiences".

Mr Maena says SMEC's success is attributed to team work and staying focus.

Today SMEC has contributed significantly to the government and the private sector through its various initiatives. It also has gained wider support and recognition within the region.It now has a total of 210 members, all of whom are small business operators.

In addition, SMEC has successfully hosted the Techmart 2006 Mini Trade Show in Honiara and the 2007 National Trade Show in Auki, Malaita Province.

One of its main objectives is promoting and facilitating trade in terms of imports and exports beside other services like providing training and financial services to its members through the commercial banks.

"Over the years the biggest hurdle and set back to businesses is accessing credit and financial services. Today we are so thankful to the banks and especially ANZ for recognizing SMEC and the plight of its members".

Mr Maena wishes the Small & Medium Enterprises Council (SMEC) and its board all the best for the future.