IMF completes reviuew here, approves funding support

The executive board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on June 20 completed the third review of the Solomon Islands’ economic performance under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) arrangement. An IMF team visited Honiara, in May to conduct the third review of the ECF-supported economic program and to assess the impact on the economic outlook…

Despite the floods, it’s harvest time for Don Bosco

YESTERDAY was a joyous time for Don Bosco Rural Training Centre – Tetere, Guadalcanal Province.  This was because despite the devastating floods in April, the rice fields flourished with the harvest being made this week.  Fr. Joseph, Rector, while welcoming the guests and friends said: “It was a miracle reminding us that with rice we…

$15M LOAN, A FAIL DEAL: NPF bosses back under spotlight

THE controversial $15 million loan obtained from the National Provident Fund (NPF) by the Tavanipupu Resort owners is reportedly in tatters. A well placed source told the Solomon Star the undertaking yielded no positive returns, which resulted in the accumulation of loan arrears. “Yes, the loan is now in default with huge arrears owed to…

$14 Million partnership sealed

UNICEF yesterday signed programme agreements with key partners in the country that amounts to SBD$14.5 million. The money will help in rolling out safe water and adequate sanitation and hygiene (WASH) project in communities on Makira, Guadalcanal, Isabel and Honiara. The partners that signed the programme agreements include the Solomon Islands Red Cross, Save the…

In court for sexual abuse

A 33-year-old man who sexually abused two women at Gela, Central province last month will face the Honiara Magistrates’ Court again next month. Luke Vele who is in custody is yet to see a lawyer to assist him with his case. The court told him that he needs to see the correctional service unit to…

Economic empowerment of women is crucial

Economic empowerment of women is crucial for Solomon Islands as it depends very much on a subsistance based economy,says Dr Alice Pollard. Speaking during the launching and celebration of the womens financial inclusion initiative at the Gizo netball stadium last Friday, Dr Pollard said Solomon islands economy depends very much on subsistance economy. “This country…

Savings club impacts women’s lives

Life is much more manageable after joining our savings club, says Janeth Pitakanji. Mrs Pitakanji is the president of Zone 3 women of Gizo, Western province who have joined the savings club since last year. With more than 160 members, Zone 3 holds the largest and growing membership with a total contribution in savings of…

SIPPA training to prepare for crisis

Solomon Islands Planned Parenthood Association (SIPPA) volunteers, staffs, nurses from Guadalcanal provinces, Christian care centre and national referral hospital are under-going training in preparation towards disaster crisis. The training was facilitated by SIPPA to equip workers to get ready for any disaster that may strike in the future. This training was a review following three…

Dr Pollard urges authorities to support rural women

Dr Alice Pollard is calling on both provincial and national governments to put money where it actually grows the economy. Speaking at the launch of the Gizo women’s savings club last week in Western province, Dr Pollard said leaders should understand that women are the undisputable contributors to this economy, but yet are victims to…

Trial on burnt bulldozer’s case in August

A one week trial will kick off in August on the case of a man who allegedly set fire to the giant logging company Earth Mover’s bulldozers in August. Principal Magistrate Jim Seuika fixed the hearing date yesterday in the Honiara Magistrate’s Court. The trial will commence in August 11. The accused, John Makasi is…