Port Vila, Vanuatu – A significant milestone in regional cooperation was achieved last night as the Correctional Services of Solomon Islands (CSSI) and the Vanuatu Correctional Services (VCS) officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), marking a new era of collaboration in correctional service delivery across Melanesia.

The MOU was signed during a formal closing dinner at the Golden Ports Restaurant in Port Vila, following a week of productive official engagements by CSSI senior officials in Vanuatu. The agreement was formally endorsed by Mr. Johnny Marango, Director of the Department of Correctional Services, Vanuatu, and Mr. Mactus Forau, Commissioner of Correctional Services, Solomon Islands.

In his remarks, Director Marango emphasized that the agreement signifies more than administrative cooperation—it symbolizes a shared commitment to regional solidarity, mutual support, and transformation within correctional institutions. “This MOU is a reflection of our shared vision to strengthen institutional capacity and create pathways for transformation in our correctional environments,” he said.

Commissioner Mactus Forau echoed these sentiments, expressing his confidence that the agreement will become a strong foundation for sustained collaboration. “This MOU represents a firm commitment to shared learning, mutual respect, and the pursuit of excellence,” he said, extending an open invitation to Vanuatu officials for future reciprocal visits to the Solomon Islands.

The partnership will focus on several key areas, including professional development, rehabilitation and reintegration strategies, probation and parole systems, staff training, and governance reforms. “Together, we aim to build correctional systems that are not only secure and just but also humane and restorative,” added Mr. Forau.

He concluded with a hopeful note: “May this be the beginning of a long and enduring alliance between our two wantok Melanesian nations—for the benefit of our institutions, our officers, and above all, the people we serve. Let us uphold this commitment and trust in God’s blessing upon our nations.”

Commissioner Forau also acknowledged the generous support of the Australian Government through the Australian-Solomon Islands Partnership for Justice (ASIPJ), whose funding made the official trip and engagements in Vanuatu possible.