New Zealand government hands over new standby generator to SIBC
The New Zealand government today handed over a standby generator to the Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC).
The generator will ensure SIBC’s transmission and services via its medium and short wave frequencies remain operational even when there is a power outage.
SIBC Board Chair Dr William Parairato (L) and New Zealand High Commissioner to Solomon Islands His Excellency Jonathan Schwass cutting the ribbon to officially hand over the standby generator
Speaking at a brief handing over ceremony, New Zealand High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Jonathan Schwass said the donation marks another milestone in the partnership between New Zealand and SIBC.
He said it is important for SIBC to have an uninterruptible power supply during broadcasting.
“Given the power outage we are having at the moment, it is really important to have an uninterruptible power supply for SIBC broadcast.”
“That’s not just the matter of ensuring the listening pleasure of Solomon Islanders.”
“It is also a matter of guaranteeing the flow of essentials to the scattered Islands and the communities of this country especially in times of natural disasters and during crises like COVID-19,’’ Commissioner Schwass said.
Commissioner Schwass and SIBC’s Chief Executive Officer Johnson Honimae having a look at the new standby generator
He added Aotearoa New Zealand is very pleased to be able to help SIBC to keep functioning well as its medium and shortwave transmitters are really a life-line for the whole country.
Meanwhile, Chair of the SIBC Board Dr William Parairato admitted that most of SIBC’s studio equipment have overstayed their useful lives and the only option is to seek assistance from overseas, including the New Zealand government.
He thanked the New Zealand government for recognizing the important role of the public service broadcaster (SIBC) to inform, educate and entertain its population.
“ An organization like SIBC cannot do without a standby generator. Listeners don’t want to be disturbed when the main power goes off.”
“ The function of a standby generator is critical especially during times of natural disasters that affect the main power supply. SIBC needs to continue broadcasting important information during cyclones or a time of tsunami,” Dr Parairato said.
A group photo outside the standby generator site
He said SIBC continues to strengthen its relationship with New Zealand through Radio New Zealand Pacific.
“SIBC continues with its relationship with New Zealand through Radio New Zealand in the areas of news, current affairs and technical training,” he added.
He assured of SIBC’s commitment to strengthening the relationship with New Zealand.
ENDS///
By Fredrick Kusu