Handover of IT Equipment to Solomon Islands Independent Commission Against Corruption for 1 million SBD

July 15, 2024

Handover ceremony with John Kouni, Director of SIICAC and Solomon Kalu, UNDP´s Head of Governance Programme with integrity institutions representatives.

UNDP

Honiara, Solomon Islands – The Solomon Islands Independent Commission Against Corruption (SIICAC) has received a donation of vital IT equipment to strengthen the capacity of their Integrity Officers (IOs). This initiative marks a significant step under UNDP’s Transparency & Accountability Project (TAP), funded by the people of Japan through its Embassy in Solomon Islands and the Solomon Islands Government. The objective is to bolster anti-corruption efforts and promote good governance across the nation.

The IT equipment, valued at 1 million Solomon dollars, includes monitors, laptops, laptop bags, printers, toners, and other essential accessories. This substantial contribution will support SIICAC in operationalizing its mission to spearhead the fight against corruption in Solomon Islands,

TAP focuses on several key activities supporting the National Anti-Corruption Strategy on prevention, awareness, and simplification of processes. These efforts are crucial in supporting SIICAC and its mission.

According to Section 34 of the Anti-Corruption Act 2018, every public body in Solomon Islands is required to designate a person as an Integrity Officer (IO). These officers, who are existing public servants, act as SIICAC’s focal points within their respective departments at both national and subnational levels. Their responsibilities include implementing SIICAC’s advice, raising awareness about SIICAC’s role, and receiving or initiating corruption complaints. 

Although IOs do not receive additional remuneration, they play a critical role in promoting probity within the public service.

Handover ceremony with John Kouni, Director of SIICAC and Solomon Kalu, UNDP´s Head of Governance.

UNDP

The provision of IT equipment is essential to enable IOs to effectively perform their duties. This support ensures that public bodies, which designate officers as IOs, receive tangible resources to aid their anti-corruption efforts. The equipment will also be used for training sessions that SIICAC will conduct around the country, further strengthening the capacity of IOs.

SIICAC will distribute the equipment to various provinces during their awareness campaigns and induction programs for newly elected members of provincial assemblies. Similar support will be extended to government ministries as IOs are appointed. This comprehensive approach ensures that anti-corruption measures are uniformly reinforced across the nation.

The handover of this IT equipment underscores the commitment of UNDP, the Japanese Embassy, and the Solomon Islands Government to promoting transparency and accountability. It signifies a robust partnership dedicated to empowering SIICAC to implement its mandate effectively.

For more information contact:

Daniel Gonzalez, Communications Specialist, UNDP Solomon Islands Office, daniel.calderon.gonzalez@undp.org, +677 7740 740/ +34.656560270