THE Government’s 2023 Pacific Games Fundraising drive has kicked off with a $2 million haul – thanks to Solomon Islands Postal Corporation, trading as Solomon Post.
The payment was made in Honiara on Monday this week.
Chief Executive Officer, Alfred Ghemu Kituru said Solomon Post is committed to supporting GOC in its preparations for the delivery of the Sol2023 Pacific Games later this year.
“We are indeed very happy to partner with the Games Organizing Committee and various other committees to ensure that the 2023 Pacific Games is a success for all of us.
“We assure you (GOC) of our support and that we are ready to participate (in) whatever and where-ever (way) we can,” Mr Kituru said.
Acting Board Chairman, James Apaniai expressed similar sentiments.
“The Sol2023 Pacific Games will be the biggest sporting event in Solomon Islands – and we are indeed proud to be one of the sponsors.”
Mr Apaniai said that the decision to support the Sol2023 Pacific Games was driven by the desire to see the Games successfully delivered through the support and assistance of all Solomon Islands’ citizens and businesses.
“We believe that it is our duty and responsibility – that of all individual and corporate citizens to come in and assist GOC to deliver what the nation wants, and that is a successful 2023 Pacific Games,” Mr. Apaniai said.”
GOC Deputy Chair Jasper Anisi acknowledged Solomon Post for partnering with the Sol2023 Pacific Games.
“We welcome such partnership as it reflects the corporate spirit, support and commitment. Such financial support and commitment will provide the financial security to GOC on behalf of the Solomon Islands Government to deliver a memorable Pacific Games this year.”
Solomon Post is the first State-Owned-Enterprise (SOE) to open the Government’s fundraising account with a donation of $2 million.
Other SOEs are on the radar of the financially-strapped GOC to raise sufficient funds to get the 23 Pacific Games over the line.
The 2023 Pacific Games (Sol2023) will run for two weeks, beginning November 19th to December 2nd this year, according to a GOC media statement.
By Alfred Sasako
