CSSI 48^th Independence Anniversary Greetings

The Commissioner of Correctional Service Solomon Islands, Deputy Commissioners, Assistant Commissioners, Provincial Commandants, Directors, Correctional Officers and their Families.

I extend warm greetings to;

• His Excellency the Governor-General, Sir David Tiva Kapu, Lady Kapu and Family;
• The Honourable Prime Minister and Family;
• Former Governors-General and their Families;
• The Honourable Speaker of the National Parliament and Family;
• The Honourable Chief Justice and Family;
• The Honourable Deputy Prime Minister and Family;
• Honourable Cabinet Ministers and their Families;
• The Judges & Court of Appeal and their Families;
• The Attorney-General and Family;
• The Leader of the Opposition and Family;
• Leaders of Independent Groups and Political Parties and their Families;
• Heads of Diplomatic Missions and their Families;
• Heads of International and Regional Organisations and their Families;
• Provincial Premiers, Members of Provincial Assemblies and their Families;
• Heads of Religious Denominations, including SICA and SIFGA, and their Families;
• The Deputy Speaker of Parliament and Family;
• Honourable Ministers & Members of Parliament and their Families;
• Paramount Chiefs, Traditional Leaders and Community Leaders;
• Constitutional Post Holders, Chairpersons of Constitutional Commissions and their Families;
• The Lord Mayor of Honiara City Council, Councillors and their Families;
• The Permanent Secretaries, Heads of Statutory Authorities and their Families;
• Members of the Diplomatic Corps, the Public Service, Disciplined Forces, Non-Government Organisations, Civil Society Organisations and the Media Fraternity;
• Women, Men, Youths and Children throughout Solomon Islands;
• Farmers, Fishermen, Patients in Hospitals and Rural Health Clinics;
• Persons Living with Disabilities;
• Our Brothers and Sisters inmates in Correctional Centres throughout the country;
• And all Citizens and Friends of Solomon Islands.

As a nation, we proudly celebrate forty-eight (48) years of independence, progress, resilience, and unity. Since attaining independence in 1978, Solomon Islands has continued to grow and develop through the determination, faith, and collective efforts of its people. Today, we honour the sacrifices of our forefathers and pioneers who secured the freedoms, democratic values, and national identity that we enjoy as a sovereign nation.

As we commemorate our 48^th Independence Anniversary under the theme, “Our Nation, Our Responsibility and Accountability – Building a GREAT Solomon Islands,” we are reminded that nation building is a shared responsibility. The continued success of our country depends on every citizen embracing accountability, integrity, and a commitment to serving the common good. These values are equally important within the correctional environment, where individuals are encouraged to take responsibility for their actions, pursue positive change, and contribute meaningfully to society.

The Correctional Service Solomon Islands remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding justice, protecting human dignity, and promoting community safety. Through rehabilitation, reintegration, vocational training, education, and restorative programmes, we strive to transform lives and provide opportunities for individuals to rebuild themselves as productive and law-abiding citizens. We firmly believe that while accountability is essential, every person should also be given the opportunity for reform and a second chance.

Independence is not only a celebration of our past achievements but also a call to action for our future. As correctional professionals, community leaders, families, and citizens, we all have a role to play in fostering peace, strengthening respect for the rule of law, and building safer and more inclusive communities. Together, we can create an environment where individuals are empowered to contribute positively to national development.

I pay tribute to the dedicated men and women of the Correctional Service Solomon Islands whose professionalism, sacrifice, and commitment continue to make a positive difference in the lives of those entrusted to our care and in the safety of our communities. I also acknowledge our government, partner agencies, faith-based organisations, community leaders, development partners, and regional and international friends for their continued support and collaboration.

To our brothers and sisters’ inmates in correctional centres throughout the country, I encourage you to use this occasion as a reminder that positive change is possible through responsibility, accountability, and perseverance. Your future is shaped not by past mistakes but by the choices you make today.

As we celebrate this important national milestone, let us renew our commitment to service, integrity, and national pride as we continue building a GREAT Solomon Islands for future generations.

Happy 48^th Independence Anniversary Solomon Islands.

God Bless Solomon Islands from Shore to Shore.

Mactus Forau, OBE
Commissioner
Correctional Service Solomon Islands