Nobel Prize winner Archbishop Desmond Tutu today launched the Truth and Reconciliation Commission for Solomon Islands, which will help to bring peace to communities still divided by violence during five years of civil unrest.

The Commission which comprises of three national and two international commissioners, including Fiji's former Vice President Ratu Joni Madraiwiwi, will for the first time allow thousands of Solomon Islanders to speak publicly about the violence and abuse they experienced and witnessed from 1998-2003.

Solomon Island Prime Minister Dr Derek Sikua said Archbishop Tutu's presence will inspire Solomon Islanders to help to heal old wounds caused by the violence and civil unrest experienced during the tensions.