MEMBERS of Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry [SICCI] and Young Entrepreneur Council of Solomon Islands [YECSI] in Malaita Province have acknowledged the SICCI and YECSI secretariates for connecting Malaita-based business operators.
Members acknowledged that SICCI/YECSI events have encouraged business operators, provincial government officials, government officials and Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) to create connections that would boost the business environment in Malaita Province.
“This is a rare opportunity where you have every stakeholder together where provincial business owners and operators, Government officials and NGOs connect and network together.
“We’ve been living and operating business here, but often do not get to meet and chat like what’s happening now” Auki Motel owner Collin Ramo said.
Malaita Provincial Assembly Member Shadrack Fisango shared similar sentiment saying that the SICCI/YECSI visit to Auki spoke volumes of the much preached about the “bottom-up approach”.
“Most business in the rural areas are not aware of what is going in the wider business environment.
“Our business are operating as usual, not knowing the changes in the country’s business regulations or opportunities that are available and would add value to their business.
“I must say that SICCI/YECSI’s visit to Auki is very important because it gives us the opportunity to access the latest information about the country’s business environment as well as opportunities that SICCI/YECSI can offer,” he said.
Team SICCI/YECSI, which was led by SICCI’s Membership Officer Amanda Korinihona was in Auki last week, engaging in a series of activities that coincided with the celebration of Malaita’s Second Appointed Day.
The team participated in the Auki Mini-Trade Show conducting education and awareness sessions for small business holders and also the general public who visited SICCI/YECSI stall.
SICCI’s popular networking event “Business After Five” was also organized for the purpose of creating network and connectivity among business operators, Malaita Provincial Assembly Members, NGOs and other corporate institutions.
Auki BA5 was well-received, fostering stronger relationships between SICCI and its provincial members.
Ms Korinihona said the Provincial Outreach to Malaita Province was successful.
“Although we were only there for two days, our presence at the Mini-Trade show was greatly appreciated by participants who were eager to know more about SICCI and how to become a member.
“The ‘Business After 5’ networking event was a highlight because we had members from Auki and Honiara, SICCI board members and CEO who were present.
“I hope this initiative of our outreach programs continues as we involve provincial members as much as we can in our calendar of events,” she said.
YECSI’s Membership and Communications Officer Eunice Philip Misi also said the Malaita Provincial Outreach Program was a success.
She said the combination of YECSI and SICCI under one tent at the mini-tradeshow ground proved to be effective, allowing people to access information from both organizations smoothly.
“This setup allowed the team to have valuable interactions that resulted in 2 members registering with YECSI.
“The feedback given from those who visited our tent was encouraging, expressing their appreciation for the opportunity to learn about the support that is available at YECSI to grow their businesses.
“I hope that YECSI will have more provincial outreaches such as this to expand our presence in the provinces as I believe it would be beneficial, especially for businesses based in the provinces both in the informal and formal sectors.
“It can also expand YECSI’s membership database to properly reflect Solomon Islands as a whole,” Ms Philip Misi said.
SICCI Board Chairlady Namoi Kaluae said the Auki Provincial Outreach Program was the first for this year and there will be more visits in the future.
“It was productive and fulfilling, successfully meeting our outreach objectives by fostering meaningful connections and most importantly to understand local needs.
“The experience reinforced our commitment to collaboration and support to our members wherever you are.
“To our members in the provinces: Your active participation is vital for our collective success.
“We look forward to working together to strengthen our communities and build a brighter future for all,” Ms Kaluae said.
Ms Kaluai said SICCI remains committed to fostering an enabling environment for businesses throughout the country, contributing to the overall economic development of Solomon Islands.
She said the chamber will continue its provincial outreach to strengthen the bonds between the Chamber and the business community, and ensuring that all members benefit from the resources and opportunities that SICCI has to offer.
- SICCI
