OFANI Eremae has been elected as the new President of the Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI), ushering in a fresh leadership team committed to strengthening the country’s media landscape.
The election took place during MASI’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on Saturday, 14 September 2024 at the Heritage Park Hotel in Honiara.
Members also voted in Lynda Rose Wate Seni as Vice President and welcomed new board member Robert Iroga of the Solomon Business Magazine.
Solomon Star’s sub-editor, Eddie Osifelo was re-elected to the board, alongside continuing members Jeremy Gwao, Mavis Nishimura Podokolo, and Eliza Kukutu.
In his first address as President, Eremae acknowledged the numerous challenges facing the media industry in recent years.
“Over the past four or five years, it has not been easy,” he said. “We’ve faced many difficulties and uncertainty about the future of our media,” Eremae added.
He pointed to financial pressures and a shrinking advertising market that have affected local media organisations.
Despite these hurdles, Eremae expressed optimism about MASI’s potential and the future of media in the Solomon Islands.
“I have high hopes for our media,” he said. “It’s time to regroup, come together, and work as a united team.”
He called on media professionals and MASI members to support the new leadership as they work towards revitalising the organisation.
“With the dedication of our board members and the support of everyone here, I’m confident MASI can reach new heights,” Eremae added.
