SIBC celebrates 72 years of broadcasting
By Alfred Pagepitu
The Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) is celebrating its 72nd Anniversary of broadcasting today.
This year’s event celebrates SIBC’s achievements and challenges it overcomes in fulfilling its roles to inform, educate and entertain citizens through its radio, TV and social media platforms.
SIBC Chief Executive Officer, Johnson Honimae said SIBC continues to be resilient despite the challenges it faced over the years.
“For 72 years, SIBC has encountered obstacles but remains operational from 6am to 11pm, thanks to the continued support from our key partners.”
Honimae expressed gratitude to listeners across the country who tune in daily, often staying engaged until nightfall.
“Without you, SIBC would not exist.”
SIBC Chief Executive Officer Johnson Honimae
He also thanked the Solomon Islands government for supporting the corporation with annual funding as mandated by the Broadcasting Act.
International donor partners, including Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and China were also acknowledged for their crucial support.
Recently, SIBC signed a Memorandum of Understanding with a Chinese media group, ensuring editorial independence, which is vital for the organization’s longevity.
“Under the MOU with ABC, SIBC has established FM transmitters for 96.3 and 107, expanding its reach in Auki.
He highlighted a significant milestone for SIBC is the launch of SIBC TV, which debuted during the 2023 Pacific Games, enabling the corporation to broadcast the event live on channel TTV1.
Staff having their launch
“We have the equipment in place for our TV studio; however, we still need to establish transmission capabilities to reach our viewers via linear TV and satellite.”
“Funding remains a challenge, as revenue primarily covers operational costs, and SIBC is hopeful for government support to complete the TV project.”
“While our country faces challenges, it has also experienced successful events, with SIBC at the forefront of celebrating national achievements through various platforms, including radio.”
Recent major events, such as the Pacific Games and joint elections, were highlighted as remarkable successes.
Honimae thanked citizens for their continued support towards the national broadcaster.
“Thank you for your ongoing support as we work on these exciting developments.”
Staff posed for a photo
He also mentioned SIBC’s significant strides in expanding its power supply, particularly benefiting the people of Honiara.
Among the major upcoming projects, the transition from analog to digital broadcasting stands out as a notable achievement in SIBC’s 72-year history. The station’s studios are now fully equipped with digital technology, moving away from outdated tape systems, which enhances efficiency and improves broadcast quality.
He expressed appreciation for the staff’s dedication in fulfilling SIBC’s roles. “These achievements are a testament to our commitment to improving our staff’s capacity and enhancing our equipment.”
“While challenges will always exist, how we navigate them enables us to fulfill our mandate to inform, educate, and entertain.”
“Your efforts are invaluable, whether as presenters, producers, news staff, or technical officers,” Honimae said
ENDS///