The US reportedly re-establishing its Embassy in Honiara and promising to aid the SI with medical aid and with unexploded ordnance

Frank Short 24-Apr-2022

“So, yeah, that was, I think, a mistake for the United States over a long time.”

Commitment to the clearing of unexploded WW2 ordinance in the Solomon Islands

Frank Short 23-Apr-2022

The high-level US delegation is in Honiara for discussions, a key concern being the recently signed security treaty between Solomon Islands and China.

Screening for cancer in the Solomon Islands

Frank Short 22-Apr-2022

 I don’t know the situation at the NRH for the testing of cervical cancer for women and PSA testing for men for the possibility of having p

A second former SI Prime Minister speaks out saying his country requires economic solutions not a security pact

Frank Short 22-Apr-2022

Mr. Lilo was supporting calls for the document to be made public in the interest of transparency and accountability.

Former SI Prime Minister, Danny Pilillip, speaks out and says it as it is

Frank Short 22-Apr-2022

“This is often our development partners left the issues for us to deal with it ourselves,” Phillip said.

West Kwaio Clinics reportedly run out of drugs and medical supplies

Frank Short 21-Apr-2022

Local Doctor Joyce Lefoto’o said she witnessed this sad situation herself, during a recent trip to her home village in West Kwaio Constituency.

Birthday of H.M. the Queen

Frank Short 21-Apr-2022

H.M Queen Elizabeth II ascended to the throne on 2 February 1952 and this year celebrates her Platinum Jubliee.

Graphic health warnings on tobacco products in effect in Solomon Islands from 2015

Frank Short 21-Apr-2022

 Images and messages include smoking causing lung cancer and blindness as well as harming unborn babies.

MFMR TRIALS JUVENILE SEA CUCUMBER TRANSFER TO OPEN REEF SYSTEMS

Frank Short 21-Apr-2022

This was announced by the Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Hon. Nestor Giro in Parliament during the current budget session this week.

Prime Minister Sogavare promises to disclose China security treaty

Frank Short 21-Apr-2022

Mr.Sogavare stated this when responding to Opposition leader Mathew Wale in parliament yesterday.

FISHERIES MINISTER OUTLINES 2022 DEVELOPMENT BUDGET SPENDING

Frank Short 21-Apr-2022

The Government has allocated a total of SB$15 million to the Ministry under the 2022 development budget to address these four policy strategic actions

Mechanisms of cancer cell killing by sea cucumber-derived compounds

Frank Short 20-Apr-2022

 Sea cucumbers are one of many potential marine animals that contain valuable nutrients and medicinal properties

Five types of bacteria linked to aggressive prostate cancer – study

Frank Short 20-Apr-2022

The bacteria were common in urine and tissue samples from men with the condition, a new study found.

Work to commence soon to replace three old and and run down road bridges in Malaita Province

Frank Short 20-Apr-2022

Junior Geranium, a crew member of Half Kas Transport serving the East Road in Malaita said he is happy that the Bio bridges will be improved.

GOV’T PLANS DEFICIT OF $972.6 MILLION IN 2022 BUDGET

Frank Short 20-Apr-2022

Minister Kuma said the Government is conscious that the two shocks including covid-19 and the recent riots will severely impact the economy in 2022.

FIFTY PERCENT DUTY EXEMPTION ON FUEL IMPORTS ANNOUNCED

Frank Short 19-Apr-2022

This is to ensure that the current increase in fuel prices does not have a serious impact on all businesses, especially those in rural areas.

Try to focus on the present during times of uncertainty and let us be given factual news leading to hope, encouragement and trust in a better future

Frank Short 19-Apr-2022

 And now with the shocking invasion of Ukraine by Russia, and despite my senior years, I relive those earlier childhood fears.

Cancer vaccine using same tech as Covid jabs could be a 'game-changer'

Frank Short 19-Apr-2022

The potential vaccines are being heralded as a 'game-changer' that could help overcome America's second-biggest cause of death.

Type 2 diabetics could add a decade to their lives, scientists say

Frank Short 19-Apr-2022

But they warned gains were much lower among older patients, underlining the need for early intervention.

129 graduate nurses on internship to boost nurse numbers

Frank Short 19-Apr-2022

He said this internship program will qualify them to undergo a part two (full) registration. 

GOV’T COMMITED TO RESUME MAJOR PROJECTS

Frank Short 19-Apr-2022

Minister of Finance and Treasury, Hon. Harry Kuma announced this resumption when tabling the 2022 Appropriation Bill in Parliament Thursday last week.

GOV’T APPROVES $200 MILLION REHABILITATION PACKAGE FOR BUSINESSES DESTROYED DURING CIVIL UNREST

Frank Short 19-Apr-2022

Minister of Finance and Treasury, Hon. Harry Kuma announced this resumption when tabling the 2022 Appropriation Bill in Parliament Thursday last week.

Call for free education for students with special needs

Frank Short 18-Apr-2022

e Malaita Province Youth Council (MPYC) has called on all school Administrations and Boards in the country to consider offering free education to all

Cancer diagnosis and treatment breakthroughs offering hope to suffers of the often killer disease

Frank Short 18-Apr-2022

The Solomon Islands has a high rate of cancer disease and being a sufferer of advanced, progressive cancer myself I have empathy for those suffering t

Immune cells in prostate can be activated to destroy cancer cells, research shows

Frank Short 17-Apr-2022

As one now battling with advanced prostate cancer and having to deal daily with the very severe side effects of hormone therapy, I found the following

PM SOGAVARE CONVEYS EASTER GREETINGS TO THE NATION

Frank Short 16-Apr-2022

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare on Friday conveyed his Easter Greetings to the Nation, with a special thought for the sick in hospitals and frontline

Could traditional medicine be incorporated as part of the national health care system?

Frank Short 16-Apr-2022

Last month Georgina Kekea writing in the Solomon Times Online told how many individuals on Wagina said their recovery from COVID-19 was because of her

Will we eventually see Covid-19 treated as just another endemic illness like the flu?

Frank Short 16-Apr-2022

The WHO has warned against treating COVID-19 as endemic, saying there is still a 'huge amount of uncertainty and a virus that is still evolving.

MAL outlines key projects for 2022

Frank Short 16-Apr-2022

The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock recently outlined key projects to be implemented this year which would enable the country to start exporting

Covid reportedly easing but the threats of diabetes remains

Frank Short 15-Apr-2022

According to an expert, here are some telltale signs to look out for - 

The bonds of friendship between the SI and Australia should be furthered strengthened in assessing rheumatic heart patients and giving them hospitalization and treatment in Australia

Frank Short 15-Apr-2022

Solomon Islands and Australia held productive discussions on Wednesday 13 February in Honiara regarding the security concerns of the two countries inc

Cancer breakthrough could see people live years longer without side effects

Frank Short 15-Apr-2022

The scientists at the University discovered the impact of the new drug after a trial of 150 patients

The illegal consumption of home brew as a factor in public order disturbances

Frank Short 14-Apr-2022

In the Solomon islands in recent years, public order breakdown led to similar occurrences, notably last November and in 2006.

Opdivo May Bring Survival Boost for Lung Cancer Patients

Frank Short 14-Apr-2022

Lifelong smoker Mike James had quit the habit for nearly three years when, through fluky circumstances, he found out that he had a small tumor in his

Dreamcast and photographers to host virtual exhibition

Frank Short 13-Apr-2022

DREAMCAST Theatre Solomon Islands and One More Shot (#OMS) will host a virtual photo exhibition, a first of its kind online showcasing in the country.

Australia Has Asked PM Sogavare to Consider Not Signing the Draft Security Agreement With China

Frank Short 13-Apr-2022

He says for many years, Australia has stood strong as a partner and a friend of Solomon Islands.

Fred Hollows Foundation donates over $2 million worth of eye care equipment to the REC in Honiara

Frank Short 13-Apr-2022

The equipment was handed over today in an official ceremony attended by Dr John Szetu, Medical Director for The Fred Hollows Foundation NZ, and repres

STATUS OF CHINA’S REQUEST FOR DIPLOMATIC SECURITY PERSONAL

Frank Short 13-Apr-2022

The Government clarified that it is a receiving State’s obligation under Article 22 of the Vienna Convention to protect all sending State’

Lee Kwok Kuen and company support completion of new Special Care Nursery building Project

Frank Short 13-Apr-2022

In his remarks, Dr. George Malefoasi thanked Lee Kwok Kuen and Company for their continuous demonstration of kind heart towards the hospital.

The map of our DNA is finally complete. Here's what that means for humanity.

Frank Short 12-Apr-2022

If genetics were a detective story, "precisely the pages where you would find out who the murderer is were missing," he said.

MEHRD has provided Home Learning Booklets to provincial Education Authorities as part of its Covid response.

Frank Short 12-Apr-2022

 MEHRD produced the Home Learning Booklets in 2020 with assistance from Australia and New Zealand under the Education Sector Support Program

Cancer detection and cancer care needing support at the SI National Referral Hospital (NRH)

Frank Short 12-Apr-2022

Each year to celebrate Pink-tober BSP staff normally wear something pink and then make a small donation for funds to be used for cancer research. 

GOV’T CAUTIONS AGAINST FAKE NEWS AFTER LEAKED DOCUMENTS

Frank Short 12-Apr-2022

There is nothing to be concerned about” the Government further stated.

Freight Assistance Package Reopens to Pacific Exporters

Frank Short 11-Apr-2022

Caleb Jarvis, PTI Australia’s Trade and Investment Commissioner, said the package has been well received by Pacific exporters, providing tangibl

A Pathway to Permanency for Pacific Meat Workers

Frank Short 11-Apr-2022

Pacific Labour Scheme (PLS), Pacific and Timor-Leste nationals can work in Australia for up to four years in a range of occupations in regional areas.

FARMERS RECEIVE CHINA-FUNDED MACHINES TO BOOST PRODUCTION

Frank Short 11-Apr-2022

COVID-19 has hurt the local economy and China’s support is in line with the government’s redirection policy that will help economic recove

Wishful observations for greater stability in the SI

Frank Short 11-Apr-2022

NZ industry leaders are saying apprentice numbers are spiking in industries associated with home building.

Cancer therapy using body's natural 'killer' immune cells gives hope

Frank Short 10-Apr-2022

Professor Kristian Helin, chief executive of the Institute of Cancer Research said: "So far, we've only seen initial findings in a small gro

Breakthrough to help spot ovarian cancer in the UK, but is essential screening undertaken in the Solomon Islands?

Frank Short 10-Apr-2022

Researchers have discovered that women at risk of developing the deadly disease have high levels of a specific protein in their bodies.

Riot damaged Honiara High School assisted with re-building materials

Frank Short 10-Apr-2022

On the 7th of April, Hon Efona adjourned his meetings at the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) to hand over the building materials to the Principal and

SIG AND WORLD BANK CONCLUDES NEGOTIATIONS ON IEDCR PROJECT

Frank Short 10-Apr-2022

And with the Board's approval, the IEDCR Project shall be rolled out by September 2022.

New ‘killer’ cancer treatment stops one in three tumours from growing

Frank Short 09-Apr-2022

A “killer” cancer treatment could stop one in three tumours growing, according to trials in those with some of the deadliest conditions.

Positive news stories from home and regionally

Frank Short 09-Apr-2022

New 110 positions for nurses with the Ministry of Health

A lack of national unity, political differences, and lack of work, jobs and infrastructure development believed causes of claimed security threats

Frank Short 09-Apr-2022

The security threats as claimed by the government were not actually identified and one was left guessing as to the true nature.

NZ High Court rules vaccine mandates justified for doctors, teachers

Frank Short 08-Apr-2022

The group claimed the vaccination mandate is not a "demonstrably justified" breach of the Bill of Rights, namely the right to decline medica

Without an immediate and significant reduction in emissions across all sectors and regions, that 1.5°C goal is out of reach.

Frank Short 08-Apr-2022

As we have always said in the Pacific, one point five to stay alive!

A CT scan machine at the NRH is likely to be operational and in use at the hospital in May

Frank Short 07-Apr-2022

I hope once operational the CT scan will be covered by an operational warranty to ensure proper maintenance and operational use for any years to come.

Solomon Islands PM: Country will never host any military base

Frank Short 06-Apr-2022

“As a country, we can never repay the costs and sacrifices made by these countries to support us,” PM Sogavare stated.

Total Covid-19 case count 11,856 and 236 additional cases in past 72 hours

Frank Short 06-Apr-2022

‘One more COVID-19 related death recorded in the past 48 hours bringing the total COVID-19 related deaths to 134’, stated Dr. Togamana.

Diabetes and me: Wrestling with the causes of diabetes

Frank Short 06-Apr-2022

In Diabetes and Me, RNZ's Megan Whelan shares her journey of learning to live with type 2 diabetes.

UK medics provide training for Atoifi and Kilu’ufi frontline workers in Malaita

Frank Short 06-Apr-2022

Team Leader and Public Health Specialist, Ms Eunice Chege says:

How Vanuatu’s COVID-19 Policies Can Catapult Economic Recovery Through the Private Sector in 2022

Frank Short 06-Apr-2022

We propose four areas to enhance a value chain policy approach for the productive sector to catapult economic recovery in 2022:

Tensions are high between China and Australia over Solomon Islands, but it’s in everyone’s interests to simmer down

Frank Short 06-Apr-2022

 In part of their joint article, I noted the following comments, which I quote.

Water reservoirs project awarded

Frank Short 06-Apr-2022

Pacific Engineering is a New Zealand-based engineering and construction company.

BROADENING SECURITY PARTNERSHIP IS NECESSARY FOR INTERNAL PEACE

Frank Short 05-Apr-2022

This means the scope of the country’s needs can be best addressed if the government works with various partners to address certain security issu

Hospital matters and health related updates in todays news stories

Frank Short 05-Apr-2022

This was confirmed by Dr. Janella Solomon, medical superintendent for the NRH.

Plans in hand to rethink Solomon Islands security

Frank Short 05-Apr-2022

More of that miscalculation and failure, however, to follow from my personal account of what happened.

Rearming the RSIPF with powerful weapons and the policy of community policing

Frank Short 04-Apr-2022

I found the article interesting but seize upon just two of the comments in a couple of paragraphs which I quote in part.

Royal Navy Patrol Vessel Will Transit Solomon Islands Today

Frank Short 04-Apr-2022

I am delighted to welcome HMS Spey to the Solomon Islands

Disabled people excluded by government's Covid-19 response

Frank Short 04-Apr-2022

Ultimately, the government should continue with vaccine passports, masking, and scanning requirements until we reach the much-hoped-for green light se

Covid-19: Longer needles needed to vaccinate larger people

Frank Short 04-Apr-2022

But there is no exact criteria in New Zealand saying who needs this and who doesn't - it's up to vaccinators to decide.

A connection between weight and severe Covid19 symptoms

Frank Short 04-Apr-2022

Inlay terms, the study says that body fat functions as a holiday destination for the coronavirus

Fears China military presence in Solomons misguided – Academic

Frank Short 04-Apr-2022

He spoke to RNZ Pacific regional correspondent Kelvin Anthony

Payments claimed to have been affecting NRH with shortages of food and oxygen bottles said to being addressed

Frank Short 01-Apr-2022

In a statement, the Ministry said it is addressing shortages of some food items and oxygen bottles at NRH as reported earlier this week.

SOLOMON ISLANDS AND CHINA INITIAL FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT ON SECURITY COOPERATION

Frank Short 31-Mar-2022

The draft Framework Agreement will be cleaned up and await the signatures of the two countries' Foreign Ministers.

Health services receives 7 brand new ambulances for the provinces from Japan

Frank Short 30-Mar-2022

In a brief ceremony to officially hand over the vehicles, Mrs. Pauline McNeil, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health expressed heartfelt thank

PM SOGAVARE SPEAKS WITH NATIONAL SOCCER TEAM AHEAD OF FINAL

Frank Short 30-Mar-2022

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare this afternoon spoke with members of the Solomon Islands National men’s soccer team via zoom from Honiara to co

New Zealand Supports Solomon Islands with COVID-19 Vaccines through the COVAX Facility

Frank Short 30-Mar-2022

Solomon Islands has received COVID-19 vaccines from the Government of New Zealand through the COVAX Facility – a partnership co-led by the Coali

Kevin Rudd, former PM of Australia in a new book refers to the Solomon Island signing of a MoU with China

Frank Short 30-Mar-2022

In a lengthy and wide ranging report released by Radio New Zealand today there is a reference to SI signing a MoU with China. Mr. Rudd said this, a

Security Agreement with China Finalized by Solomon Islands Government

Frank Short 30-Mar-2022

 “We know our boundaries, and we will not do anything that will cause unnecessary discomfort to our partners in the region and as a member

PS Dentana rebuts any claim of Government financial distress

Frank Short 29-Mar-2022

The Permanent Secretary (PS) of Ministry of Finance and Treasury (MOFT) Mckennie Dentana has refuted claims on the front page of Solomon Star article

Beijing-Honiara “pact” raises concern over neglect of traditional security partners such as the Solomon Islands

Frank Short 29-Mar-2022

Solomon Islands Prime Minister Mannasseh Sogavare says the leak of a draft security pact between Beijing and Honiara was done by "lunatics and ag

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