British High Commissioner Joins Makira Ulawa Assembly to Mark 50th Anniversary with Commemorative Plaque
On Monday 18 February 1974, Queen Elizabeth II visited Solomon Islands for the first time, setting foot in Namuga, East Makira. The late Chief Simon Kariqwongi greeted the Queen and bestowed upon her the name Fau Ni Qweraasi, meaning “people’s protector.”
Fast forward to today, in response to a request from the Premier and the Makira Ulawa provincial assembly, British High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Thomas Coward, accompanied the Premier, a Member of the Provincial Assembly for Ward 14, and the Provincial Secretary to Namuga to install a plaque commemorating this historic moment.
Upon arrival, the traveling party received a customary welcome from a Makira warrior, followed by speeches from Mr. Alfred Murray, the Deputy Speaker of Makira Ulawa Province, Solomon Kekesia, Premier Maka’a, and the High Commissioner. The ceremony then proceeded to the monument, where the plaque was installed by the High Commissioner and the Premier.
The Premier expressed gratitude, stating, “My sincere thanks to the British High Commissioner Tom Coward for quickly responding to our humble request for this long outstanding issue. His support brings us all here today so this is a big milestone both for Namuga and the Province of Makira Ulawa Province. In other words, this is an early Christmas present for our communities of Namuga. I therefore appeal to the Ward Development Committee and our communities here to cherish and look after this as our own in order to keep the important link between our two countries.”
The High Commissioner remarked, “This plaque stands as testament to our historic and enduring bonds of friendship. With the 50th Anniversary of Queen Elizabeth’s visit approaching, it is timely that we have together laid this plaque. It stands next to the renamed Queen Elizabeth II Memorial school to celebrate an important moment in history. I hope for the future, this site can help spur tourism. This area is truly stunning and blessed with surfing, wildlife, and history. The area has rich culture, including Wogasia in nearby Santa Catalina, and just across the bay from here the British Solomon Islands protectorate was declared.”
Source: BHC
