Support Bomb Free Solomon Islands - Saving Lives from WWII Bombs
Survivor Maeverlyn Pitanoe leads Bomb Free Solomon Islands to protect lives and create a future free of WWII bombs.
Auckland
Four years ago, teacher Maeverlyn Pitanoe was hosting a family barbecue in Honiara when a buried World War II bomb exploded. Two young men were killed, and she was left fighting for her life.
Instead of turning away, she founded Bomb Free Solomon Islands, now a registered charity (CT 325 of 2025) working to protect others from the same fate.
Maeverlyn holds a Master’s in Education and works hands-on every day with survivors and communities. She partners with the Halo Trust, Safe Signals, Safe Ground, and the National UXO Office to raise awareness and push for national clearance.
The charity is governed by a volunteer board of local leaders and survivors who oversee every dollar.
Your donation helps fund victim support, community safety visits, and advocacy to remove unexploded bombs from homes and villages.
I’m Cleo Fraser, a New Zealand journalist working with Maeverlyn through our film The War Below. Because local platforms aren’t available, I’m collecting donations here and transferring 100% directly to Bomb Free Solomon Islands, minus unavoidable bank fees.
Your support helps families live without fear - and moves the Solomon Islands one step closer to being truly bomb-free.
Nine Islands Media Ltd's involvement (page creator)
I’m a senior journalist and documentary maker. I worked with Maeverlyn on The War Below and now support Bomb Free Solomon Islands and victims directly.
Use of funds
Donations fund victim support (school fees, medical costs), awareness in schools and communities, printed safety materials, and programmes helping survivors rebuild through business, training, and workshops. Minimal admin only.
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Latest update
Strengthening governance and support for survivors 28 September 2026
Bomb Free Solomon Islands (BFSI), founded by survivor Maeverlyn Pitanoe, is strengthening its governance and developing a fair, transparent and sustainable framework to support people and families affected by unexploded ordnance.
New Zealand lawyer and governance adviser Laurentia Laracy is providing voluntary support with governance arrangements, financial controls, safeguarding and survivor and victim assistance processes. Her role is advisory; governance and decision-making remain with BFSI.
The first Givealittle funds have now reached BFSI. Arrangements for spending decisions, accountability and record-keeping are being put in place.
Maeverlyn has also been raising victim assistance in regional discussions, including a recent dialogue in Palau, and has been asked to continue that conversation with the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention’s Implementation Support Unit.
Thank you for your support. Please read the full media release below.
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