SOLOMON ISLANDS: Clearing the shadows of war –  SIEOTEC and a BLP Grant make the Solomon Islands safer.

Solomon Islands is renowned for hosting one of the most ferocious battles in history during World War II. The Battle for Guadalcanal stands as a monumental chapter in the nation’s history.

While the war played a crucial role in the liberation of Solomon Islands and the establishment of its nationhood, it also left behind enduring traces of conflict. The remnants of this fierce battle include hundreds of sunken battleships, warplanes, and extensive unexploded ordnance (UXO) scattered throughout the islands. Solomon Islands has become a hotspot for UXO which have sadly claimed the lives of local residents. Before any infrastructure development can proceed, these dangerous remnants must be cleared in places like Guadalcanal and Honiara.

Solomon Islands Explosive Ordinance Technicians (SIEOTEC), a business that has benefited from a Business Link Pacific (BLP) grant, stands as a pioneering force in the field of UXO survey and clearance. Sterry Leni, the director and owner of the business, once served with the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) in the Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) division. In 2010, he made the pivotal decision to enter the world of UXO survey and clearance by establishing his own business, becoming the first private entity to do so in the Solomon Islands.

Starting with basic tools like a Magnex 120 LW Equipment, SIEOTEC has now expanded its capabilities with the help of the BLP grant. They acquired cutting-edge equipment known as the Upex Large Loop 740M3, touted by Sterry as one of the finest tools available for UXO survey and clearance. This remarkable equipment can detect UXO buried up to 8 meters beneath the ground surface, a capability that only SIEOTEC and the RSIPF EOD Division possess in Solomon Islands. With this new equipment, SIEOTEC has drastically improved its efficiency, covering larger areas in less time while achieving a higher rate of detection in both surface and deep surveys.

Sterry Leni learned about the BLP program through a local business service consultant, who aided him in the application process. Sterry expresses deep gratitude to Business Link Pacific for their support in procuring this essential equipment. The use of this advanced machinery has enabled SIEOTEC to complete projects well ahead of schedule, resulting in increased revenue and a favorable financial return.

Sterry also actively advocates for the BLP grant program among his business associates and friends. He emphasizes that the BLP grant is a lifeline for small businesses that may have limited avenues for support. He is thrilled with the assistance provided by BLP and believes that, with this support, he can contribute to creating a safer environment for the government and the people of Solomon Islands, free from the looming threat of UXO.

Business Support Grants and subsidized business advice are available to qualifying businesses from Business Link Pacific.  Visit our website to find out if your business qualifies for a grant or subsidy, or drop in to your local Chamber of Commerce.