Worries about vaccine uptake in Solomon Islands
Health authorities in Solomon Islands are concerned about the low uptake in Covid-19 vaccinations.
The ministry is strengthening its Covid-19 response systems and infrastructure in case the delta variant of the virus gets into the country.
Solomon Islands has been Covid free for four months but the head of the health ministry Pauline McNeil said there is no room for complacency.
Solomon Islands dignitaries and health officials receive the first batch of 24,000 doses of the Astra Zeneca Covid-19 Vaccine. 19 March 2021 Photo: Solomon Islands Ministry of Health
She said it was very concerning that only 3.3 percent of the eligible population have been fully vaccinated against Covid-19.
Ms McNeil said vaccinations are the best defence against the pandemic and the poor uptake has forced the ministry to revise its lockdown strategy in the event of a community outbreak.
She said Solomon Islanders only need to look at the unfolding tragedy in neighbouring Fiji and PNG to see how close to home the threat of delta is.
Vanuatu students taken aback by jab ultimatum
Vanuatu students on government scholarships abroad are shocked by the ultimatum they have been given to get vaccinated.
In a statement on Wednesday, the Vanuatu National Scholarship and Training Board issued new directives for students.
It included a warning that anyone refusing to get vaccinated against Covid-19 could have their award terminated.
The Daily Post reports the president of the Vanuatu Student Association in Fiji, Glen Bule, saying they were shocked by the directive which gives them no choice but to comply.
The board chairman, Collin Natonga, said the directive is in line with the government's ongoing effort to keep Covid-19 out of Vanuatu.
He said any students who refuse to get vaccinated against Covid-19 will have their scholarships terminated.
Marianas order on social media use
The Northern Marianas Department of Public Safety has issued a directive that essentially orders its employees to refrain from social media activities.
The directive, signed and issued by Police director Aniceto Ogumuro, will ensure that all its personnel adhere to departmental standards, while understanding their rights as private citizens.
"The department understands that each employee is free to express themselves as private citizens, but regarding department matters, there are steps that employees can take to express their concerns.
If an employee is found to be in violation of the directive on social media or any department rules and regulations, disciplinary/adverse action steps will be taken to address the matter," he said.
One of the reasons for the issuance of directive is to prevent the over-sharing of sensitive information in ongoing cases.
For example, the Department said if an officer responds to an incident they should refrain from taking pictures, or video at the scene and making them public on social media.
It added that posting any media online with the victim exposed is uncaring toward the victim's friends, family, or loved ones.
Our correspondent said another reason is for the graduates of the police academy to acknowledge and understand the protocol on future cases.
Two arrested in Samoa rally stoush
Samoa Police have arrested two people from Salelologa village in Savaii in connection with the roadblock that forced back an HRPP car rally.
The Human Rights Protection Party organised the rally to highlight judicial decisions it sees as as flawed and against the Constitution.
The Samoa Observer reports the arrests were confirmed by Assistant Police Commissioner Auapa'au Logoitino Filipo who also said more arrests will be made as investigations continue.
He said the investigation is also looking at another roadblock at Sasina village and arrests are likely from there.
The arrested pair are facing charges for disorderly conduct in public places.
Opposition leader Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi said at the time he turned the convoy of close to 100 vehicles for safety reasons after gunshots were heard at the Salelologa roadblock.
Men at Sasina were seen on social media videos standing behind rocks lined up across the public road making threatening statements towards Tuilaepa and HRPP.
Deputy Commissioner Papali'i Monalisa Keti said social media posts are being used in their investigations to identify perpetrators.
Sista wants better breast-feeding facilities
A non-government organisation in Vanuatu, Sista, is urging the government to provide better facilities for breast feeding mothers in Port Vila.
The chief executive of Sista, Yasmine Bjornum, said it was sad to see mothers breast-feeding their children in areas in town that are not hygienic.
Ms Bjornum said spaces should be allocated in areas like markets to allow mothers to breastfeed.
Photo: RNZ / Moera Tuilaepa-Taylor
She said mothers are important in the development of Port Vila, through their role as vendors at markets.
The "Strong Mama" exhibition showcases the life of a mother with a special focus on single mothers in Port Vila.
The features art works in different media with almost 30 single mothers explore the challenges and joys of being a single mother with the purpose of showcasing to the public the issues that they face.
Ms Bjornum said this art exhibition is an opportunity for the public to understand the life of a single mothers and to encourage the community to have empathy and compassion, while calling on the government to integrate gender concerns into the country's laws and policies.
She said Vanuatu has to recognize that woman are primary caregivers of children, and in order for the country to reach its fullest potential, then planning has to be inclusive and gender sensitive.
"Single mothers face stigma and discrimination on daily basis."
