RSIPF builds stronger ties with Matariu and Guaimaoa communities

Officers from the Royal Solomon Island Police (RSIPF) at Naha Police Station, together with members of the RSIPF & AFP Policing Partnership Program (RAPPP), visited the Matariu and Guaimaoa communities in west Kola Ridge on Thursday, 7 August.

The visit was an important time for police and community leaders to come together, share concerns, and talk openly about ways to keep the community safe.

Discussions also covered preparations for the upcoming Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting, which will bring many visitors to Honiara and the wider Solomon Islands.

Officer Commanding Station, Naha Police Station Superintendent Leslie Kili reminded everyone that peace in the community starts with respect for one another. When we show respect to each other, we stop disputes before it happen, and we make our community strong.

RSIPF Chaplain Melden Hall opened and closed the program with blessings, praying for the safety and unity of the community and blessing the food and refreshments shared later in the day.

The day included friendly games and sports for both children and adults—balloon races, volleyball, football, basketball, rugby, and tug-of-war—followed by a barbeque provided by RAPPP. The community also received hats, shirts, baskets, sporting equipment, and other merchandise.

RAPPP Advisor Kevin Shaw thanked the community for their warm welcome and praised the work of the Naha Police.

He said the best way to prevent crime is for police and the community to work together. RSIPF already knows what works here—local solutions for local needs.

The RSIPF will continue to visit communities across the country, listening to concerns, building trust, and working side by side with the people to keep the Solomon Islands peaceful and safe for all.