19 October 2004
Saturday 24 July 2004 marked the 12-month anniversary of the Australian-led Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI).
One year ago, RAMSI began deployment to restore peace and security and stabilise government finances at the invitation of the Solomon Islands Government and under the auspices of the Pacific Islands Forum.
Australia's aid program, delivered through AusAID, is also playing an integral role in helping achieve a brighter future for all Solomon Islanders.
Along with Australian personnel drawn from the Australian Federal Police and the Departments of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Finance, Treasury and Defence, AusAID staff have been helping the Solomon Islands Government restore law and order and rebuild the country's institutions and economy.
Aplin Sari, Mbambanakira Village, Weather Coast.
Since the arrival of RAMSI, Australian aid has helped stabilise government finances, revitalised the courts and rebuilt the prison system. Health and education services are being provided. Public servants are being paid on time, and there are signs of economic recovery and the return of confidence and optimism.
Children from Solomon Islands singing in a classroom.
Children from Solomon Islands Video [MPEG 6.6MB]
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In 2004/05 estimated official development assistance will total $201.6 million.
Australia's strengthened assistance program is building on our existing aid activities, which are aimed at:
- strengthening law and justice
- improving economic management
- maintaining access to basic services (especially health)
- supporting peace building and community and civil society development.
Nick Warner, RAMSI's Special Coordinator, recently paid tribute to the people of Solomon Islands for helping ensure the successful first year of the mission.
'It is the commitment of ordinary, everyday Solomon Islanders - the man in the street, the woman in the village - that has enabled RAMSI to forge the partnership that is now carrying the country forward to a very different future than it once faced just a year ago'.
Life returns to normal thanks to RAMSI
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For further information see:
- Solomon Islands Country Program
- Solomon Islands: Rebuilding an Island Economy [Website of Department of Foreign Affairs]