NZ Industries desperate for seasonal workers urge government to open borders
Frank Short 13-Apr-2021
In a recent letter I mentioned some 300 or so seasonal workers from Samoa, which is Covid-19 free, had flown to Australia to begin work on farms.Coronavirus pandemic has hit the SI tourism industry hard
Frank Short 13-Apr-2021
Early last month it was revealed the country lost more than $350million in revenue from international visitors last year due to international border cLaunch of a 10-year Strategy for Climate Action in the Pacific
Frank Short 13-Apr-2021
Today’s Solomon Times Online reports on the the game plan for Pacific climate action through its Nationally Determined Contributions for thA practicing tradition in the RSIPF with the wearing of name tokens – and a glimpse to the past
Frank Short 12-Apr-2021
In today’s Solomon Star newspaper there is a story of a crime report under investigation and the article is accompanied by a Chief SuperintendenRural development, growth initiatives and jobs
Frank Short 12-Apr-2021
When he delivered his budget speech in Parliament last Tuesday, the Minister of Finance and Treasury, Minister Harry Kuma, said the government had comAvoid kwaso or risk getting alcoholic fatty liver disease and serious health damage.
Frank Short 12-Apr-2021
Drinking Kwaso in the Solomon Islands still persists despite it being illegal and many interventions by the RSIPF to stop the making and selling of thUnsustainable tuna fishing in the SI Western Province, venders claim
Frank Short 12-Apr-2021
The latest news bulletin posted by Radio New Zealand claims highmarket fees imposed on tuna vendors in the Solomon Islands are forcing more fishermenSIs Leader of the Opposition reportedly worried about the state of the NRH
Frank Short 12-Apr-2021
In today’s Island Sun newspaper a brief article refers to the NRH and concern about the hospital by Hon. Matthew Wale, MP.Could we one day have vaccines for cancer and HIV thanks to the COVID vaccine?
Frank Short 12-Apr-2021
It may seem a little far-fetched to be writing about terminal illnesses being treated with a vaccine-like that created to combat Covid-19, but not accSolomon Islands joins Royal Family to mourn loss of HRH Prince Philip
Frank Short 12-Apr-2021
Beautiful floral wreaths laid today in the Solomon Islands in remembrance of His Royal Highness, Prince Philip, the late Duke of Edinburgh who passedCorporate governance of the NRH and a vital equipment requirement for the hospital in the news
Frank Short 12-Apr-2021
According to a piece in today’s Solomon Star newspaper, the Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee and Member of Parliament for East Honiara,Empowering youths to be peace builders and leaders in SI communities
Frank Short 12-Apr-2021
Solomon Times Online today re-published a press release from the UNDP which I worth sharing with readers, and I quote it here.Taxing the things that are killing us
Frank Short 12-Apr-2021
As I wrote in a letter yesterday, the SI Government has approves new tax measures and the Minister of Finance and Treasury, Harry KumaThe Duke of Edinburgh – His Royal Highness Prince Philip - has died, Buckingham Palace has said.
Frank Short 11-Apr-2021
A statement from Buckingham Palace said: "It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen has announced the death of her beloved husband, His RThe poor state of rural health clinics and rural health care facilities in the Solomons need urgent attention
Frank Short 10-Apr-2021
Easter Sunday in the Christian belief and tradition is associated with new birth and resurrection and yet here I am today writing, yet again, about dyTaking a look at the local and regional tourism sector and the way Covid-19 has impacted on the industry
Frank Short 03-Apr-2021
The tourism industry in Solomon Islands.along with several of its closest neighbours in the Pacific has been hit hard since March 2020 when the Covid-Solomon Airline’s expected loss of SBD$45 million dollars this year
Frank Short 03-Apr-2021
When Mr. Bob Pollard, the Senior Board Member of Solomon Airlines appeared before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) last Tuesday he said the nationaIt looks like vaccinated people can’t carry or spread the virus
Frank Short 03-Apr-2021
Good Friday news from the United States published in an article in Refinery 29 and written by Sarah Midkiff, today, said after initial fears thatHave confidence in the AstraZeneca vaccine and please get vaccinated
Frank Short 02-Apr-2021
PRIME Minister Manasseh (PM) Sogavare during a recent national address assured the nation about the effectiveness of the Covid-19 vaccines, AstraZenecRSIPF community awareness talks warn of the threat of Covid-19 on the Western border
Frank Short 02-Apr-2021
The operational aspects of community policing at its best was demonstrated last week when the RSIPF’ Deputy Commisioner, Juanita Matanga, OBE, QImprovement in copra and coconut oil industries gives rise to higher export prices
Frank Short 02-Apr-2021
The CBSI says the improvement in copra and coconut oil industries stemmed from rising export prices during the year which encouraged farmers to increaDiabetes type 2 symptoms: The six different types of pain associated with high blood sugar
Frank Short 02-Apr-2021
I have several times written about Type 2 diabetes because I know of the high prevalence of the condition in the Solomon Islands and I hope readers ofSolomon Island’s air links to its economic prosperity and the hospitality sector or companies with an international footprint.
Frank Short 02-Apr-2021
Whether such a system will eventuate in the Pacific Region will remain to be seen, but already “bubble” air travel arrangements are in plaAstraZeneca vaccine hailed as a success in the UK
Frank Short 30-Mar-2021
Yesterday in Honiara, the Prime Minister was the first to have the AstraZeneca vaccine and he was followed by several of his cabinet, government membeVaccination necessary for international trade and travel
Frank Short 30-Mar-2021
Much as I have been writing recently, the Solomon Islands is suffering economically and the situation can be resurrected only if international trade iProper hygiene facilities provided for Bilua school
Frank Short 30-Mar-2021
I was pleased to learn today that the United Church Education Authority which owns Bilua School has acknowledged Save the Children and DFAT for aCOVID-19 vaccinations progressing and church leaders given awareness sessions
Frank Short 30-Mar-2021
In the Solomon Islands the Governor-General, His Excellency Sir David Vunagi, GCMG, received the AstraZeneca vaccine today at the Central Field HospitDigital Covid-19 vaccine passport likely to be essential for future international travel
Frank Short 30-Mar-2021
A subject matter that I have written about several times recently, the likely requirement for air travellers in future to have a digital Covid-19 passDemonstrating faith in the AstraZeneca vaccine
Frank Short 30-Mar-2021
I was very pleased to read an article in today’s Solomon Times Online that on day 4 of the AstraZeneca vaccine rollout the number of people thatHigh Blood Pressure warning
Frank Short 30-Mar-2021
With the general health of Solomon Islanders again very much in mind, especially as I am aware of the high level of Non-Contributable Disease (NCDs inAre things changing for the better? A personal reflection.
Frank Short 30-Mar-2021
I would like to think that I have recently seen changes for the better in the Solomon Islands with some movement on building projects, employment gainUnveiling of a Pacific War Memorial in Aoterroa NZ honouring those who died during the Second World War
Frank Short 30-Mar-2021
At Aotearoa in New Zealand yesterday, the New Zealand Prime Minister, the Right Honourable Jacinda Ardern, MP, unveiled a Pacific Pacific War Memorial“Towards a Path to Economic Recovery: Advancing Growth and Service Delivery through Better Partnerships”.
Frank Short 30-Mar-2021
The title of this piece is the 2021 National Budget Theme, as highlighted by the Permanent Secretary to the Ministry of National Planning and DevelopmTangible evidence of rural development needs to be the result of the 2021 Development Budget
Frank Short 30-Mar-2021
When Permanent Secretary Ms Susan Sulu appeared last week before the PAC she told the Committee of the total Development Budget Estimates foDomestic and possible future international air travel considerations
Frank Short 30-Mar-2021
Solomon Airlines currently has some great domestic holiday special fares and offers advertised on its website with images of beautiful local travel deCould we see a total reform of the health sector follow the successful hosting of the 2023 Pacific Games?
Frank Short 29-Mar-2021
Last October the Solomon Islands and China officially sign an agreement to build the 2023 Pacific Games venues.The extent of ADB support for solar development projects in the Solomon Islands
Frank Short 28-Mar-2021
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has supported Solar Development Project in five provinces in the country. and this was revealed by Elmir Elbling, theJapan reported wanting to upgrade the Kilu’ufi Hospital
Frank Short 28-Mar-2021
According to an article in today’s edition of the Island Sun online newspaper, the Japanese Government is conducting internal discussions wThe Prime Minister takes the lead and become the first person to have the AstraZeneca vaccine in the Solomons
Frank Short 28-Mar-2021
The SIBC has reported that Prime Minister Sogavare was the first in line to get the AstraVeneka jab as the country begun its COVID-19 vaccine rolloutFirst Solomon Islander Barrister and Solicitor of the Cook Islands High Court
Frank Short 28-Mar-2021
The Island Sun newspaper today, Thursday, gave news of the success of Rose Strickland, a Solomon Islander becoming admitted to the High Court in the CAustralia announces its withdrawal from support of the National Transport Fund (NTF)
Frank Short 24-Mar-2021
It has been claimed in the Solomon Star newspaper today, Wednesday, that the Australian High Commission Head of Mission Sally-Anne Vincent has announcA Lot of Changes to Lifestyles and The Way Things Are Done After a Year with the Covid-19 Threat
Frank Short 23-Mar-2021
Georgina Kekea writes today in the Solomon Times on Line after chatting with Anna Maesioa the General Manager of United Risk Services Limited in HoniaA National and Border Security Policy Validation Process Underway in Honiara
Frank Short 23-Mar-2021
The process of validating the draft implementation plans for the National Security Strategy (NSS) and the National Border Strategy (NBS) is underway iThe CBSI Governor speaks to the PAC on the state of the economy and refers to “dead money”
Frank Short 23-Mar-2021
According to a news story in today’s edition of the Solomon Star newspaper, the Governor of the Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) Dr. LukeGood news for Solomon Airlines its passengers and for Solomon Islands
Frank Short 23-Mar-2021
The national flag carrier Solomon Airlines will continue to be able to operate its Friday weekly service in April.Helpful Resources You Can Use to Boost Your Business Right Now
Frank Short 23-Mar-2021
Elena from New Zealand, a follower of my website, has contributed the following piece in the hope it might offer some assistance to small business own"Don’t be afraid to take the Covid-10 vaccine", Prime Minister Sogavare assures.
Frank Short 23-Mar-2021
Solomon Islands' Covid-19 vaccination programme will begin tomorrow, Wednesday, in Honiara.Keeping Our Tradition and Culture Alive in Schools
Frank Short 22-Mar-2021
Jimmy Nolan writing in the Solomon Times Online last Friday wrote saying in many developing countries entire indigenous cultures are disappearingWorking together on community projects in Guadalcanal
Frank Short 22-Mar-2021
Georgina Kekea writing in the Solomon Times Online at the weekend wrote a piece saying a village elder of Riva community in South Guadalcanal had saidCOVID-19 vaccines arrive in the SI and the PM will be the first to have the vaccine.
Frank Short 22-Mar-2021
Solomon Islands became the second country in the Pacific islands to receive COVID-19 vaccine doses shipped via the COVAX Facility, a partnership betweMalaita looks forward to more funding from USA, Malaita’s Premier has announced
Frank Short 22-Mar-2021
It was reported in today’s edition of the Island Sun newspaper that the Malaita Provincial Government is looking forward to more funding suLessons for the Solomon Islands in a report on hearing loss in New Zealand
Frank Short 22-Mar-2021
I spent some considerable time recently overhearing loss by people in the Salmon Islands and how an offer I raised with the Ear Science Institute in PWriting of magnesium with the general health of Solomon Islanders in mind
Frank Short 21-Mar-2021
Magnesium is an important mineral that has many roles in the body including helping with muscle and nerve function, blood pressure regulation, and supSolomon Islands government aiming to vaccinate its entire adult population
Frank Short 21-Mar-2021
Such a mammoth and appreciative effort of the government I feel is worthy of being shared and I quote from the particular newspaper story.Funds raised for the Gizo Hospital by visiting musical artists
Frank Short 21-Mar-2021
A group of contemporary musical artists from Honiara who are presently visiting the Western province as part of a tour have raised $2,029 for the GizoReflecting on the needs and rights of people with disability and with an eye on the Solomon Islands.
Frank Short 21-Mar-2021
My concern over disability and disability rights in the Solomon Islands led me to read through an article published by Radio New Zealand, today, SaturThe cause for medical services and delivery and the pursuit by those with constitutional rights
Frank Short 21-Mar-2021
It has been over two decades since I last served in the Solomon Islands and now with age I have succumbed to the deadly disease of advanced prostate cA successful clean-up initiative in Honiara
Frank Short 21-Mar-2021
It was pleasing to have noted that hundreds of citizens turned up yesterday in Honiara in what was dubbed ‘CleanOp.”Direct funding of Ward Development Committees with budgetary funding for constituency projects
Frank Short 18-Mar-2021
Writing in today’s Solomon Star newspaper Alfred Sasako gives details of a new kind of funding proposal about to be considered in the West GeorgBuri School in the Western Province is seeking help to fix the school’s critical water supply problem
Frank Short 18-Mar-2021
A report published today, Friday, in the Island Sun newspaper has claimed the Buri Community High School in Ranongga Island, Western Province is calliNZ sends PPE to PNG for Covid crisis
Frank Short 18-Mar-2021
Late news from Radio New Zealand this afternoon has reported that New Zealand is sending Personal Protective Equipment to Papua New Guinea to assLauru people plead for improved health and medical infrastructure at Taro hospital and Wagina clinic.
Frank Short 18-Mar-2021
The Island Sun newspaper today in a lengthy article recounted the issues highlighted in title to this story of mine.“To lead is to serve.” in practice
Frank Short 18-Mar-2021
During the official opening of Parliament last Monday, His Excellency the Governor-General, Sir David Vunaki, GCMG, give an address from the Throne an20,000 doses of Astra-Zeneca Covid-19 vaccine to arrive in Solomon Islands today
Frank Short 18-Mar-2021
The first batch of the 20,000 doses of Astra-Zeneca Covid-19 vaccine will arrive at 2 pm today at the Honiara International Airport and likely be receAustralia sending coronavirus vaccines to Papua New Guinea amid outbreak of Covid-19
Frank Short 17-Mar-2021
According to a news article in the Canberra Times today, Australia will ask AstraZeneca and the European Union to fast-track the export of one millionUniform Dress Standards in Keeping with a Desired Professional Image
Frank Short 17-Mar-2021
From all accounts it was a sunny and pleasant morning yesterday when His Excellency the Governor-General, Sir David Vunaki, GCMG, reviewed the traditiStringent new anti-Covid-19 measures being introduced in PNG
Frank Short 17-Mar-2021
In the latest news relayed by Radio New Zealand this afternoon, Tuesday, Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister has announced the country will go intoHistoric learning institution, Selwyn College, to launch Golden Jubilee celebration this year
Frank Short 17-Mar-2021
One of the Solomon Island’s historic learning institutions, Selwyn College National Secondary School, will be celebrating its Golden Jubilee inAustralian and the UNDP Jointly Give a New Mobile Emergency Operation Centre to SI.
Frank Short 17-Mar-2021
According to today’s edition of the Solomon Times Online, the Solomon Islands Government has received a much-needed boost to their disasterCommunity Challenges Faced by The Women of Ngalipapa Village in South Guadalcanal
Frank Short 17-Mar-2021
Writing in today’s Solomon Times Online, journalist Georgia Kekea, paints a grim picture of life for the women in Ngalipapa village in South GuaSI’s PM congratulated on choosing to be first to be vaccinated and other related news on Covid-19
Frank Short 17-Mar-2021
The British High Commissioner to the Solomon Islands, H.E. Dr, Brian Jones yesterday made a courtesy visit to the Prime Minister, Manasseh Sogavare anSI’s PM congratulated on choosing to be first to be vaccinated and other related news on Covid-19
Frank Short 17-Mar-2021
The British High Commissioner to the Solomon Islands, H.E. Dr, Brian Jones yesterday made a courtesy visit to the Prime Minister, Manasseh Sogavare anPlans Under Way for Trans-Tasman Bubble by End of April
Frank Short 17-Mar-2021
Jane Patterson, Political Editor writing for Radio New Zealand this morning, Thursday, wrote in an early news item that government plans for a trPracticing What it Preaches
Frank Short 17-Mar-2021
I am not given to writing about politics in my ongoing charity and encouragement support to the Solomon Islands but feel I should just say a word abouAn Inclusive Workshop Held for People Living with a Disability but Much More Needs to Be Done about Disability Rights
Frank Short 16-Mar-2021
More than 10 persons living with disabilities in Honiara for the first time participated in an inclusive three days workshop which ended last Friday.Changes for The Better Witnessed Over Two Decades Much More Still to Be Done
Frank Short 16-Mar-2021
Compared to 22 years ago when I last worked in the Solomon Islands successive governments with the help of traditional donor partners and internationaSolomon Islands Business Magazine Online
Frank Short 16-Mar-2021
The Solomon Islands has its own fine Business Magazine (SBM) published online where one catches up on the latest business news relating to the SolomonConsistently helpful donor assistance principally from Australia, New Zealand, and Japan turning the tide for the better in SI
Frank Short 16-Mar-2021
The Solomon Islands is looking to be Covid-19 free again very soon after many tests of those held in quarantine proved negative. The news is welcome aThe Government of Japan aids the MHMS with centrifuge technology and blood pressure equipment
Frank Short 16-Mar-2021
According to reports in both the Solomon Star newspaper and Solomon Times Online today, Friday, the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) hasA Pioneer Fruit Industry Proving Beneficial to Noni Farmers in Northwest Guadalcanal
Frank Short 16-Mar-2021
The good news about the pioneering fruit farming venture was relayed by the SIBC this afternoon, Wednesday, and said, quote.Latest news should help to lift people’s spirits in the Solomon Islands
Frank Short 15-Mar-2021
According to Dr. Gregory Jilini, the Deputy Secretary of Health Care in the Solomon Islands speaking at the weekend, the country has not recorded anyCan we expect to see Honiara a transformed city lined with trees and landscaped areas?
Frank Short 15-Mar-2021
I understand that skilled Chinese construction workers are being brought to the Solomon Islands to start work on the USP’s 4th Campus and to kic