By Jeremy Gwao
Three Solomon Islands meteorology professionals have been recognised for their contribution to weather, climate and related services in the Pacific.
The awards were presented during the closing of the Eighth Pacific Meteorological Council Meeting and the Fourth Pacific Ministerial Meeting on Meteorology in Nuku’alofa, Tonga last week.
Solomon Sammy received a Lifetime Award for his long-standing contribution to meteorological services in the Pacific.
Sammy said he was honoured and humbled by the recognition after more than 30 years in the field.
“I am honoured and humbled to receive this Lifetime Award after more than 30 years of service.”
He said much of his work has focused on supporting Pacific National Meteorological Services with technical assistance and guidance, including the development of Quality Management Systems based on the ISO 9001 series.
“I have supported Pacific National Meteorological Services with technical assistance and guidance to develop Quality Management Systems based on the ISO 9001 series, as required by ICAO under Annex 3 of the Chicago Convention.”
Sammy said the systems are important for aviation safety, regulatory compliance and improving the operation of meteorological services.
David Hiba Hiriasia, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology and a former meteorologist, also received a Lifetime Award.
Hiriasia said the recognition reflected years of collective work to strengthen weather, climate and ocean services.
“This award reflects the collective efforts over the years to strengthen our weather, climate and ocean services.”
He said he remained committed to regional cooperation and supporting sustainable development across the Pacific.
Lloyd Tahani of the Solomon Islands Meteorological Service received a Long Service Award for his years of service in weather, climate, hydrology and related environmental services.
Tahani said the award was a recognition of his professional journey.
“This award recognises my commitment, dedication, learning and the challenges I have faced throughout my professional journey.”
He also acknowledged the wider meteorological community and the importance of cooperation across the Pacific.
“Our work is not done alone. The Pacific meteorological community has a shared responsibility to provide weather and climate information, strengthen early warning systems, support disaster preparedness and build climate resilience.”
Tahani said the recognition would encourage him to continue contributing to the sector and support the next generation of meteorological professionals.
The awards highlight the contribution of Solomon Islands professionals to meteorological and hydrological services both nationally and across the Pacific.
