SIBC CELEBRATES 63 YEARS OF BROADCASTING

The Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) celebrates 63 years of broadcasting this week.

There are two broadcasting anniversaries in September. The Solomon Islands Broadcasting Service – a department of Government – began broadcasting in September 1952.

In September 1976, the Legislative Assembly passed the Broadcasting Act authorising the Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation to operate independently of government.

SIBC’s Chief Executive Officer, Ashley Wickham says, on this anniversary SIBC remembers composers, musicians and singers who left us with fond musical memories.

Mr. Wickham thank the many people who respond to SIBC questionnaires and help the Corporation’s staff who toured village communities several times each year.

He says, SIBC is aware that many rural people have difficulty buying reliable radio receivers and SIBC plans to do something about it.

Meanwhile, the CEO explains, the Corporation is expanding its FM coverage to provide more access to CD quality reception with the installation of a new FM station in Kirakira and upgrade its Gizo FM transmitter to cover the wider Western Province.

Mr Wickham says SIBC plans to install more FM transmitters in provincial headquarters and major communities including three FM transmitters in strategic locations on Malaita where there is a large and dispersed population.

He thank the National Government and the Ministry of Finance for duty exemptions for the equipment needed to serve the nation.

The Executive Officer says, the SIBC Board of Directors with the Prime Minister’s approval plans to launch a national public television service within the next two years.