17 October 2022
Today, I read a lengthy article in the Solomon Times Online about alleged disinformation in news coming out of the Solomon Islands of late, and the news story has prompted me once again to refer to what I consider my own contribution, free of disinformation, to give newsworthy support to the people of the Solomon Islands
More than eight (8) years ago I introduced my website – www.solomonislandsinfocus.com, as a genuine and purely voluntary contribution to try and assist the people of the Solomon Islands.
The introductory page of the website reads -
“As a longtime friend of the Solomon Islands, let me say the aim of this website is to bring you news about the Solomon Islands, promote tourism to the "Happy Isles” and generate donations for causes in the Solomons that will provide income for charitable institutions dependent on aid and help to give much needed money for local craftsmen and women.
“I would encourage you to see for yourself a most unique and different part of the world and meet friendly, hospitable people while enjoying the sheer delights and beauty of a easy accessible Pacific paradise.”
The website paved the way for direct medical assistance and supplies for the National Referral Hospital (NRH), the SIPWD, the SIDT, Women’s Refuge Centres and, over time became the vehicle for information, encouragement and support for all aspects of local health services, disability support, conservation and environmental concerns, unemployment and job placements and training, agricultural development with ideas on crops, fruits and flowers for export, on bee keeping, aquaculture, hydroponics, youth affairs, including music education and training for students of the Solomon Islands Piano Association (SIPA), dealing with domestic violence, advice on the incidence and threats to health of Non-communicable diseases, particularly diabetes and cancer, also the continuance of the fight against kwaso, the illicit growing and use of marijuana, the promotion of community policing and boat safety, reconciliation and peace building.
My letters to the local media and shared on Facebook and Linkedin. a practice I have followed for 23 years daily to-date since leaving the Solomon Islands in mid July 1999 have all been in keeping as a remaining friend of the Solomon Islands and written without political motivation or intent.
Let us keep disinformation out of the Solomon Islands news and instead concentrate on the true facts in the hope of allowing the world to see the genuine developments taking place for the betterment of all its citizens.
Yours sincerely
Frank Short
