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Pago Pago, American Samoa— Daniel J. Basta’s new book, American Samoa and the Swains Island Expedition, has been published by Dorrance Publishing Co., Inc.
Storms at sea, dangerous diving operations, and the science and mysteries of archaeology drive this fascinating true story set in the Pacific Ocean. The story follows the adventures of two expeditions to Swains Island, a remote, unique, uninhabited island in the South Pacific. Author Daniel J. Basta introduces readers to traditional Polynesian culture and tiny Fagate Bay. At the same time, he documents the expedition’s role in laying the groundwork for the largest expansion of a marine protected area in U.S. history.
Interesting and extraordinary characters are vividly portrayed throughout the book, including Jean-Michel Cousteau, whose award-winning documentary about the second expedition, Swains Island: One of Earth’s Last Treasures, spurred the expansion of the sanctuary. Finally, President George W. Bush took action to establish the American Samoa National Marine Sanctuary. But most importantly, this story is about people – American Samoans!
“Discover the history, science and culture of remote marine areas and learn how marine protected areas are created in this fascinating narrative journey,” said former governor and current senator Togiola Tulafono. “It’s a great companion piece to Jean Michel Cousteau’s award-winning documentary, Swains Island: One of Earth’s Last Treasures.”
(Dorrance Publishing Company)
Solomon Islands Freedom
The leader of a Solomon Islands independence group has questioned whether the island nation is still a free country.
Peter Kenilorea Jr was responding to a statement from the government, SIBC reported.
The statement accused Peter Kenilorea Jr of violating the one-China principle and seeking to undermine the Solomon Islands government’s relationship with Beijing – following his attendance at the Inter-Parliamentary Union conference in Taiwan this week.
Kenny Lorea said he was clearly there in his personal capacity and the government’s statement was misleading and regrettable.
Earlier, Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manele issued an order requiring Solomon Islands government officials or public servants not to visit, contact or make any commitments with Taiwan.
Kenny Loria said the government should promote rather than restrict citizens’ constitutional freedoms.
(Pacific Radio New Zealand)
Vanuatu Taxation
Prime Minister Charlot Salwai says tax revenues in Vanuatu are falling.
He stressed that Vanuatu was placed on the EU blacklist due to concerns among Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries about money laundering and allowing foreign taxpayers to hide and transfer funds without paying taxes.
On the other hand, he said citizens work in other countries, pay taxes there but do not contribute to Vanuatu.
He also questioned whether dual citizenship holders investing abroad should be considered tax evasion, the Vanuatu Daily Post reported.
(Pacific Radio New Zealand)
Former Prime Minister under investigation
Former Fijian Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama is under investigation for allegedly making unauthorised calls from prison.
In a statement, Fiji’s Correctional Services Department confirmed it was investigating the authorised use of Bainimarama’s phone, which was only allowed by the High Court to track his pacemaker app.
According to local media reports, Bainimarama is currently under investigation for making private phone calls, which is a violation of prison management regulations.
(Pacific Radio New Zealand)
Suspended prosecutor
The Fiji Judicial Services Commission has confirmed that a tribunal investigating suspended prosecutor Christopher Pride will open next month.
Pride, a New Zealand citizen, served as DPP from 2011 until he was suspended in April 2023 over allegations of misconduct.
The tribunal began its work in February and has held several pre-trial conferences with Pryde’s lawyers.
Earlier this month, Pride called on the New Zealand government to help.
But Foreign Minister Winston Peters said it was a matter between him and the Fijian government.
(Pacific Radio New Zealand)
Climate Change in Fiji
45 villages in Fiji need to be relocated due to the impacts of climate change.
Fijian Affairs Permanent Secretary Pita Tagicakirewa said all of Fiji was vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, even the highland areas.
He said the worst-hit areas were coastal and seaside villages.
According to fijivillage.com, a team is currently working to relocate a village in Dreketi and Cogea in Vanua Levu.
(Pacific Radio New Zealand)
Papua New Guinea cannabis smuggling case
Police in Papua New Guinea have confiscated half a tonne (500 kilograms) of cannabis.
According to the Post, Cagua police chief Mark Zena said his men went to Kayam village following a tip-off and confiscated 13 bags of marijuana.
Zeina said the suspect had fled when police raided the village.
He said the Nankaido-Kikori highway had become a hotbed for illegal gun and drug smuggling.
He said police needed more manpower and logistical help to tackle the problem.
Deputy Police Commissioner Samson Kua said the matter was under investigation.
(Pacific Radio New Zealand)
Solar Cocoa Dryer
Cocoa farmers in Papua New Guinea’s East Sepik Province have received 35 solar-powered cocoa dryers.
The Australian High Commission, which is funding the project, hopes the dryers will help farmers switch from fume-emitting kiln drying methods to more environmentally friendly methods, The Nation reported.
It is expected to benefit more than 3,000 households and product quality is also expected to improve.
(Pacific Radio New Zealand)
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Transportation
Many local marine operators in the Northern Mariana Islands may no longer be able to provide transportation to Managaha Island, a popular tourist destination.
New regulations proposed by the Department of Public Lands would limit access to Managaha Island to the master concessionaire and specific operators.
According to the Saipan Tribune, many operators are disappointed and will have to shut down their transportation operations.
Marine operators have had preliminary meetings with the Department of Public Lands.
(Pacific Radio New Zealand)
Māori and Pacific Health
Two young Pacific researchers are working with the South Auckland community to tackle two major health issues facing Māori and Pacific people.
Postdoctoral fellows Dr Siobhan Tu’akoi and Dr Samuela Ofanoa are researching rheumatic fever inequalities and gout interventions in the Pacific.
Dr Tu’akoi said they wanted to ensure their community took the lead, not the so-called experts.
Rheumatic fever and gout are both serious problems in New Zealand.
(Pacific Radio New Zealand)
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