Australia has announced a major new initiative: the Solomon Islands – Australia Media Sector Partnership (SIAMSP), which will provide SBD$11 million over four years to support a free and vibrant media sector in the Solomon Islands. 

Australia, through ABC International Development, will partner with media outlets across Solomon Islands, particularly the Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI).

The first major activity under the partnership will see each MASI member organisation receive a mobile journalism – or MoJo – kit to support digital transformation in the media sector. 

Ofani Eremae, President of MASI, said he was pleased to see all its members receive a MoJo kit each under this latest Australian Government support.

Eremae said a MoJo kit is essential for modern journalism, particularly in this digital age. 

“It equips journalists and media professionals with the tools and techniques needed to report effectively in an increasingly mobile, fast-paced, and technology-driven environment,” he added.

“I’m glad to see Australia responded positively to MASI’s request to provide each of our members with the MoJo kits.”

^{_{Australian High Commissioner His Excellency Rod Hilton, Media Association of Solomon Islands President Ofani Eremae and Board Member Eddie Osifelo, ABC International Development mobile journalism trainers, and members of the media sector. Credits: PACMAS.}} 

Mobile journalism is a fast-growing area of storytelling – it uses a smartphone, mobile apps, and equipment that are much more affordable and transportable than traditional broadcast equipment, enabling content makers to produce material on the move. 

The smaller, lighter kit makes content creation easier and more accessible for people such as women and people living with disability.

It is ideal in emergencies and disasters, as it enables broadcasting from unlikely locations inaccessible to traditional broadcast crew and is particularly relevant for organisations with smaller budgets and limited resources, making it a perfect match for Solomon Islands’media landscape.

Australian High Commissioner, Rod Hilton, said Solomon Islands media sector is bursting with talent, creativity, and motivation.

 ^{_{Australian High Commissioner His Excellency Rod Hilton with ABC International Development mobile journalism trainer Julie Hornsey. Credits: PACMAS.}} 

“The vibrancy of the sector is evident in the news and stories produced every day that contribute to an informed community,” High Commissioner Hilton said. 

“It’s great to be working with MASI to support this important work supplying modern equipment, funding, and domestic and international training,” he added.

“The Solomon Islands – Australia Media Sector Partnership complements Australia’s regional media programs – the Pacific Media Association Scheme and the Indo-Pacific Broadcasting Strategy – which will continue to provide training, equipment, and funding.

“The combined impact of these programs will make a meaningful and significant contribution to the local media sector.”

From 18 -27 November, ABC International Development trainers are in Honiara to deliver MoJo equipment and training at the new MASI office space in NPF Plaza, also funded under the partnership.

_{Media enquiries: Ms Litonya Shallcross, Australian High Commission, 7737294}