Chief Willie Lianga of Ughele village celebrated his 85th Moonstone birthday and a lifetime of legacy services to his country and community on December 30, 2024.
The colourful event was held at the Ughele Dorcas Hall in South Rendova, Western Province.
While Chief Lianga’s birthday fell on Sunday, December 29, the celebrations were held the following day.
The event’s guest speaker was the Member of Parliament (MP) for South New Georgia Rendova & Tetepare Constituency, Hon. David Gina, who is also Chief Lianga’s nephew.
Hon. Gina expressed surprise at being enlisted as the guest speaker, recalling how he received multiple calls from Chief Lianga while touring Lokuru village to join the celebration.
In his speech, Hon. Gina praised Chief Lianga’s remarkable journey, stating, “You have gone through a marathon life, a journey and experience that you have with the government and community. You are our big picture to serve people, government, and our community, and I am very happy to join your birthday.”
Chief Lianga explained his decision to invite Hon. Gina, emphasizing their familial ties and his respect for Gina’s role as an honorable leader. “Your presence at my birthday party is important because people admire your coming,” Chief Lianga said.
In his birthday address, Chief Lianga expressed heartfelt gratitude to God for His guidance and blessings throughout his life and leadership. He said, “I thank God for blessing me with another 15 years so that I can manage to reach 85 years old. I praise the Lord for what He has done in my life.”
Chief Lianga’s life has been marked by dedication to his family and community. Born on December 29, 1939, in Batuna village within the Marovo Lagoon, he is the son of Seventh-Day Adventist Pastor Pr. Lianga Romity and Diu of Ughele Moka and the Kasu Tribe. This upbringing instilled in him a strong moral foundation and deep cultural ties.
Educationally, Chief Lianga attended King George VI School in Auki, Malaita Province, and Betikama School before furthering his studies at Jones Missionary College in Kambubu, Rabaul, Papua New Guinea. This rigorous training prepared him for a career as an educator and a pioneer in the Seventh-Day Adventist Mission.
He was among the first Solomon Islanders to serve as an SDA teacher in Vanuatu, specifically on Malekula Island, where he showcased exceptional teaching abilities and a commitment to new challenges.
In 1978, Chief Lianga was made chief of Ughele village, a role he has embraced with unwavering integrity and dedication. Married to Daerin Tingo, he is a proud father of five daughters: Joyce, Bilevuru, Tiro, Merigolo, and Mayleen. He cherishes the opportunity to witness the growth of his family, including grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Chief Lianga’s legacy of leadership and service continues to inspire those around him. His life is a testament to commitment, resilience, and the uplifting of one’s community, ensuring that his contributions will resonate with future generations in the Solomon Islands.
By Lachlan Shyves Eddie
Solomon Star, Honiara
