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Support Bomb Free Solomon Islands - Saving Lives from WWII Bombs

  • Strengthening governance and support for survivors

      28 September 2026
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    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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  • First lot of funds has just arrived in the Solomon Islands

      25 September 2026

    Yes it does take a while... but confirming the first lot of Givealittle funds have arrived into the Bomb Free Solomon Islands account. The amount transferred is NZD$1,243 (this is the first lot of donations minus Givealittle's 5% and small bank fees).

    Maeverlyn will provide an update in the coming weeks. Thanks so much everyone for your support!

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  • First lot of funds on its way

      20 August 2026
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    Kia ora team,

    Thanks to you all for your incredible support.

    Maeverlyn is now back in the Solomon Islands, settling back into family life, advocating for a bomb-free Solomon Islands, helping survivors, and supporting her community.

    The funds raised so far has filled her with so much hope!

    Givealittle has so far transferred NZD$870 to Nine Islands Media and arrangements are being made to send to the verified Bomb Free Solomon Islands account (registered local charity) in Honiara.

    Once this lands in the Solomon Islands and the charity board (of which is mostly made up of WWII survivors) has decided on next steps we'll be sure to let you know.

    Thanks again for your generous support :)

    Arohanui,

    Cleo Fraser

    Nine Islands Media (and Bomb Free Solomon Islands volunteer).

    Photo: Maeverlyn Pitanoe (founder) and Dorothy Wickham (board member) on a Ministry of Foreign Affairs supported visit to New Zealand to raise awareness about Bomb Free Solomon Islands. Yes it was very cold for them, but we ensured they had plenty to keep them warm!

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  • Radio New Zealand interview

      1 August 2026
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    Thank you to all of those who listened to my story on Radio New Zealand.

    Huge gratitude to those who have generously donated - your support and beautiful, thoughtful messages give me hope.

    I am returning to the Solomon Islands from New Zealand next week. I will then meet with the board members of the charity (most of whom are survivors) and will then provide an update outlining how these initial funds will be used to support our community.

    Thank you again from the bottom of my heart - you are now part of our community.

    Follow 'Bomb Free Solomon Islands' on Facebook for updates.

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