update docs and misc

README.md

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 # Pacific Observatory
 
-[![Jupyter Book Badge](https://jupyterbook.org/badge.svg)](https://github.com/worldbank/pacific-observatory)
+[![Jupyter Book Badge](https://jupyterbook.org/badge.svg)](https://github.com/worldbank/pacific-observatory) ![example workflow](https://github.com/worldbank/pacific-observatory/actions/workflows/pylint.yml/badge.svg) 
 
 The Pacific Observatory is the World Bank analytical program to explore and develop new information sources to mitigate the impact of data gaps in official statistics for Papua New Guinea (PNG) and the Pacific Island Countries (PICs).
 

data/text/solomon_islands/sibc_news.csv

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-,url,title,date,news,tag
+,url,title,date,news,tags
 0,https://www.sibconline.com.sb/national-development-strategy-under-review/,National Development Strategy Under Review,2024-01-23,"The Ministry of National Planning and Development Coordination (MNPDC) is currently reviewing the National Development Strategy (NDS) launched in 2016. With a timeline from 2016 to 2035, the National Development Strategy (NDS) outlines the broad objectives for development and how the country would like to advance sustainable development. Permanent Secretary for MNPDC Susan Sulu explained that the review process aimed at several objectives. “One is specially to look at how we have progressed sustainable development in the context of the national development strategy. So, what progress have we made, but also to look at what are some of the gaps and the challenges in implementation.  “The second part of the review process of the NDS is, this is tied to our pathway to graduate out of Least Developed Country (LDC) status, and that is, the review would also serve as a pathway to informing our preparation of the LDC graduation smooth transition strategy.  “Thirdly, Solomon Islands has agreed to do a voluntary National Review of its implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals in 2024. So, this review will also be a pathway towards informing our voluntary national reporting on the sustainable development goals,” PS Susan Sulu explained. According to the PS, the inclusive approach involves various stakeholders, with the results set to be presented by March 2024. “The process that we have undertaken is one that is inclusive, inclusive in terms of the line ministries and the sectors here in the capital that are responsible for driving implementation at the sectoral level, including, as well, our development partners, our non-government organization stakeholders, and the private sector.  “It also involves consultations with provincial governments, we have completed a number of provinces in 2023. “This year, we have a timeline of completing the review by March. Our initial timeline was September last year, we however, were not able to finance the remaining provincial consultations.  “But we have mobilized some resources to be able to undertake provincial consultations in the remaining provinces, which are Choiseul province, Western Province, Temotu province, Rennell and Bellona province. So, these are the remaining provinces that we need to undertake consultations with, the teams are now undertaking logistical and administrative arrangements to complete this. And so by March, we should be able to present the results of the review,”  The PS highlighted commitments related to the Least Developed Country (LDC) graduation and the voluntary National Review of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2024.  Ms Sulu highlighted the importance of the strategy, stating that it will enable and prepare the country to graduate from the LDC category. She pointed out that this commitment reflects the Solomon Islands’ dedication to both national and global development goals, showcasing a vision for sustained reform in planning, budgeting, monitoring, evaluation, and aid coordination. Ends/// By Alex Dadamu","Development, SDGs"
 1,https://www.sibconline.com.sb/solomon-airlines-launches-strategic-plan/,Solomon Airlines launches strategic plan,2024-01-20,"Solomon Airlines launched its 2024-2028 strategic plan on Friday 20 January 2024. The Strategic Plan titled ‘Navigating Excellence’ provides a clear direction to where the national air carrier wants to position itself in the future. It outlines the airline’s vision and priorities based on Seven Long Term Goals. These goals are inline with Key Performance Indicators and detailed Initiative programs driven by the airline’s executive management team with regular reporting to Solomon Airlines Board. Solomon Airlines Board chairman Frank Wickham said the important steps outlined in the strategic plan aimed towards creating Solomon Airlines as the best emerging airline in the pacific region.  “This is our vision and one that we take very seriously. It underpins our aspiration and lies at the heart of our strategic plan going forward.”  Mr Wickham said maintaining and expanding the airline’s fleet is one of the key areas that the strategic plan is focusing on.  “We have a fleet renewal strategy, we are looking at our fleet now reviewing our fleet so that we can have a mix that is fitting for a very challenging domestic market given our runway challenges and also internationally we are looking at how we can address those emerging markets,” Mr. Wickham said.     Solomon Airlines Board chairman Frank Wickham Developing the airline’s safety procedures, developing local talent, and making it climate friendly are other key areas covered in the national carrier’s five-year strategic plan. The plan articulates developing our own people so in the heading of our talent development we want to have succession planning, we want to empower our own Solomon islanders to take up management and leadership roles in the next few years. Mr Wickham added making the airline financially stable is also one of their top priorities.  “We aim to be finically strong, very profitable and I can say the performance of the airline up till now is positioning us well in terms of going forward into the future we recognize the risks, we know the assumptions we have to check and test it as we go along, from time to time because in the airline industry things can change and in country we’ve gone through them,” he said.   Meanwhile caretaker Minister of Finance and Treasury Harry Kuma said the government welcomes the plan as it will ensure that the airline’s development is on track and move to the right direction.    “The government through the ministry of Finance and Treasury has strongly supported Solomon Airlines over the past years through equity injections, concessional loans, loan warranty and community service obligation payments. We look forward to the new strategy plan providing new solutions and seeing on time payments of dividends and loans to the government,” Mr Kuma said.  The strategic plan can be accessed through the Solomon Airlines website.  Ends//  By Sharon Nanau  ","Aviation, Solomon Islands"
 2,https://www.sibconline.com.sb/care-taker-prime-minister-conferred-with-highest-choiseul-cultural-honor/,Care-taker Prime Minister conferred with highest Choiseul cultural honor,2024-01-18,"The people of East Choiseul constituency have accorded the care- taker Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare with the suqu ceremony, a ceremony afforded to people with distinguished service to the people. The ceremony in Pangoe village was to acknowledge and repay the various assistance and services rendered to the people of East Choiseul during Sogavare’s 27 years in political leadership. This is also to recognise Sogavare’s leadership which extended beyond East Choiseul to the country as a whole and the region as well. During the ceremony as well, Sogavare’s cultural status is elevated to bovoe- the highest recognition in Choiseul culture. Only leaders with bovoe status can participate in the suqu and Sogavare is honoured with that highest degree of respect.  The suqu is a rare cultural practice, chiefs from Northwest Choiseul were honoured to be invited to set up and perform during the suqu ceremony. Care- taker PM Sogavare led into the venue for the suqu by warriors People from all over East Choiseul and as far as South and Northwest Choiseul were in attendance to honour the care- taker PM. Care- taker Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare when responding to the cultural recognition placed on him, he said he is humbled to be given such a respect. PM Sogavare underscored and attributed his leadership to God both for leading the constituency and the country.  The care- taker PM also paid tribute to his family for the support they have given him during his tenure as both the Member of Parliament for East Choiseul and Prime Minister of the country. PM Sogavare extended his gratitude to the chiefs and elders of East Choiseul and other neighbouring constituencies, for their unwavering support during the highs and lows of his leadership. The only other leader to be bestowed with similar recognition is Reverend Leslie Boseto, who was honoured in acknowledgement of his service to the United Church or the religion. The suqu ceremony also coincided with the celebration of the care- taker PM’s 69th birthday. People were happy to share a taste of the birthday cake. End/// Prime Minister’s Press Secretariat",Tradition

data/text/solomon_islands/solomon_times_news.csv

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-,url,date,news,tag
+,url,date,news,tags
 0,https://www.solomontimes.com/news/christmas-in-the-hapi-isles/12854,2023-12-28,"In the Solomon Islands, Christmas is a time of vibrant celebrations that seamlessly weave together traditional customs, religious observances, and modern festivities.   Across the nine provinces, families and friends came together to mark the occasion with a unique blend of church services, traditional food preparations, and a variety of activities that highlight the natural beauty of the different islands.Christmas in the Solomon Islands usually begins with religious observances, where Church play a central role in the celebrations, with communities gathering for special Christmas services that are often marked by lively singing, traditional hymns, and local vibrant decorations.Food is an integral part of the festive celebrations, and families engage in elaborate preparations of traditional dishes. Coconut-based delicacies, underground food baking, fire roasted food, fresh seafood, and tropical fruits take center stage on Christmas tables.Each province have its own unique culinary traditions, adding a rich diversity of flavors to the Christmas feast.Like everywhere in the world, Christmas also serves as a time for families to reunite, especially for those who have family members residing in the capital, Honiara, or living abroad. The holiday season sees a significant influx of visitors from overseas, creating an atmosphere of joy and togetherness.The exchange of gifts and sharing of stories further strengthen the bonds of kinship.As a testament to the islanders' love for sports, Christmas often brings about lively sports competitions.Communities organize friendly matches and tournaments that showcase the local talent and provide entertainment for both participants and spectators. These competitions become a source of unity and celebration, fostering a sense of community spirit.Many Solomon Islanders take advantage of the Christmas break to explore the natural beauty of their surroundings. Visits to small islands for sun, sea, and surf become popular, offering a refreshing escape from daily routines. Waterfall hiking and riverside swims provide opportunities for families and friends to connect with nature and enjoy the scenic landscapes that the islands have to offer.In some provinces, the Christmas celebration retains a simplicity that reflects the traditional way of life.Villagers come together to celebrate in a communal setting, emphasizing the importance of shared experiences and the warmth of close-knit communities. This simplicity contrasts with the bustling energy of urban celebrations, creating a diverse tapestry of festive experiences.Christmas in the Solomon Islands is a unique and vibrant celebration that blends religious traditions, cultural practices, and modern festivities.From church services and traditional food preparations to sports competitions and explorations of natural wonders, the holiday season brings people together in a spirit of joy and unity.The diverse ways in which the nine provinces celebrate Christmas reflect the rich cultural tapestry of the Solomon Islands, making it a truly special time for all.","News, Economy"
 1,https://www.solomontimes.com/news/christmas-dinner-hosted-for-solomon-students-in-beijing/12853,2023-12-28,"Solomon Islands Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China, His Excellency Barrett Salato hosted a dinner for Solomon Islands students studying in Beijing on Christmas Day.  The event was held at the Embassy of Solomon Islands, Beijing, China.Ambassador Salato welcomed the students to the Embassy and conveyed felicitations and good wishes to them and their families during this festive season.In his address, H.E Salato reminds those in attendance of the birth of Jesus and its symbol of love, peace, tolerance and compassion.The program entailed prayers, singing of traditional Christmas songs and gift exchanges.H.E Salato also highlighted the importance of studying in the People’s Republic of China.“I wish to acknowledge the diverse and productive role being played by all Solomon Islands students studying in China,” He added.He emphasized that as students, they are ambassadors of Solomon Islands in China, therefore encouraged all to keep soaring and flying the flag of Solomon Islands high.H.E Salato further touched on the breadth and depth of the Solomon Islands and China relations, where China is the largest infrastructure and biggest trading partner of Solomon Islands.He assured those in attendance that he will advance the interests of the Solomon Islands Government in China and therefore will seek the continuous support of the Solomon Islands diaspora in China.H.E Salato therefore acknowledged the work of his predecessor, the late Ambassador John M. Fugui who has contributed so much in initiating and strengthening Solomon Islands-China economic, social and political relations.H.E Salato further reaffirmed and support the recognition of the “One China Principle” and emphasized that the Solomon Islands-China bilateral relations is forged together by shared principles of equality, respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity and non-interference.In a response student representative, Mr. Ishmael Nelson Ameo acknowledged H.E Salato, his family and the Embassy for hosting the Christmas dinner.Mr Ameo said the Solomon Islands students in China will always support the work of the Embassy.He further wished Ambassador Salato and his family well in their service for the government.Ambassador Barrett Salato, Madam Dorris and their three children arrived in Beijing on Thursday 21 December 2023, for a posting of three years as Head of Mission in the newly established Embassy of Solomon Islands in Beijing, People’s Republic of China.  Source: Press Release, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade","News, Economy"
 2,https://www.solomontimes.com/news/solomon-airlines-announces-new-belama-lounge-membership-benefits/12855,2023-12-27,"Solomon Airlines has revealed the details and benefits of its new and expanded Belama Club Membership program, open for applications for annual membership from today, 27th December.  Belama Club membership entitles a range of privileges including access to the new Belama Lounge at Honiara International Airport.The lounge with seating for 40 guests, opened in November ahead of the Pacific Games and is located in the departure terminal adjacent to the international departure gates.Its modern decor includes comfortable leather sofas and armchairs and traditional artworks from the Solomon Islands.Facilities and services include complimentary food and beverages, free wireless internet, a television and flight information screen and modern restrooms.Solomon Airlines confirmed the airline will honour memberships of the airline’s former Belama Club members who had remaining membership validity as at March 2020, when Solomon Islands international borders closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.Annual membership of the new Belama Club will be available in two membership tiers: Belama Club and Belama Plus, with the following entitlements: ‘Belama Club’ membership (SBD$3995) per year includes:• Priority check-in• Complimentary Standard seat selection• Express Clearance in Brisbane• Belama Club Lounge access in Honiara• Benefits apply for up to 2 children (2-11 years) accompanying member ‘Belama Plus’ membership (SBD$7995) per year includes: Membership application forms are available at https://www.flysolomons.com/belama-club Completed forms are to be emailed to [email protected]  A one-off joining fee of SBD$300 applies. Membership benefits are applicable to Solomon Airlines marketed and operated services only. Source: Press Release","News, Economy"

docs/_config.yml

@@ -29,10 +29,15 @@ html:
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 execute:
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+  execute_notebooks: "auto"
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-  # exclude_patterns:
+  exclude_patterns:
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+    - '*model*'
+    - '*ensemble*'
+    - '*combo*'
+    - '*forecast*'
 
 # launch_buttons:
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docs/_toc.yml

@@ -37,6 +37,7 @@ parts:
   - caption: Text
     chapters:
       - file: text/intro
+      - file: text/EPU
       - url: https://worldbank.github.io/pacific-observatory/interactive/text/text_presentation.slides
         title: Text Presentation
   - caption: Automatic Identification System