MASI mourns unexpected loss of media colleague

THE Media Association of Solomon Islands is mourning the unexpected loss of one of its dedicated members the late Atenia Tahu.

The late Tahu was a kind hearted, hardworking, committed and unique individual, MASI Vice President, Douglas Marau said.

“We pay tribute to one of our very own. A dedicated member, brother and father. Late Tahu was loved by all and he was a well respected individual in the media fraternity,” Marau said.

The late Atenia was the media advisor to the ministry of health and medical services until his passing.

He also held previous media posts as a journalist at SIBC, Communication Officer at UNICEF Solomon Islands and was a former CEO of the MASI Secretariat.

Mr. Marau said late Atenia was instrumental in developing a comprehensive media strategy for the ministry of health in becoming one of the most proactive government ministries.

“The late Atenia was a proud recipient of the MASI Public Relations Award 2022. An award in recognition of his leadership role in advocating, promoting and leading the ministry’s communications team during the Covid 19 pandemic,” Marau said.

The late Atenia was also a recipient of the prestigious UK Chevening Scholarship in 2018 where he gained his Masters in Communication at the University of Westminster.

The MASI President Ms. Georgina Kekea who is currently out of the country on work engagement, also conveyed her condolences to the family of the late Atenia Tahu.

She said it is with regret that she learnt of the demise of such an instrumental person in both the media industry and the communications department of the government.

Ms. Kekea said her thoughts are with the members of MASI and family of the late Tahu as they gather to reflect and remember the life and legacy of their media colleague.

MASI also conveyed the deepest sympathies to his wife Bezel Tahu and children, his parents, siblings, families and work colleagues.

“May our good Lord grant us all comfort during this time of sorrow. Rest easy dear colleague and brother.”

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– MASI PRESS RELEASE