26 June 2017
Australian High Commissioner, H.E. Roderick Brazier visits Munda and Noro, Western Province
Australian High Commissioner, H.E. Roderick Brazier made his first visit to Munda and Noro on 14 and 15 June 2017. This follows his visit to Gizo 31 May and 1 June, to visit Australia’s development assistance projects, and consult stakeholders on challenges and opportunities in Western Province.
During his visit, Mr Brazier met with the Noro town clerk and visited SolTuna, The Noro Health Clinic, the Munda Police Post and the Kokeqolo Primary School.
During his visit to SolTuna, the High Commissioner was able to tour the processing plant, and see first-hand the country’s only tuna processing facility, and better understand the challenges facing the industry. With over 2,000 employees, of which 60% are women, The High Commissioner was encouraged to see SolTuna leading the way in Solomon Islands by incorporating gender equality reforms into its business practices.
Following a meeting with Noro’s town clerk, Mr David Mamupio to discuss the council’s 3 year outlook, the High Commissioner, visited the Noro Health Centre and Munda’s KokeQolo primary school, where Mr Brazier underlined the importance of health and education to ensure a thriving and prosperous future for Solomon Islands, and reiterated Australia’s commitment to supporting these vital sectors.
During his visit to the Munda Police Post, the High Commissioner reiterated Australia’s support to the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force, noting after RAMSI departs, Australia’s support will be provided through the Australian Federal Police’s large and continuing police development program.
Reflecting on this visit, and his previous visit to Gizo, The High Commissioner said “there is a great deal of optimism in Western Province and great potential for tourism. Australia is proud to have a long and strong history of support the Western Province and its people, and would like to be a regular visitor to this beautiful land”.