LANDOWNERS of Malu’u in North Malaita last week signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Malaita Provincial government for the re-opening of the Malu’u hydro power station.
Spokesperson for the landowners Peter Mana said negotiations between them and the provincial government had been a fruitful one which resulted in the sealed agreement.
The Malu’u hydro was last year shut down after both the provincial and national governments failed to meet required payments.
The hydro power supply services the entire Malu’u area including the Police Station, Hospital, business houses and communities.
“We were indeed grateful for what the provincial government has said therefore agreed that the station should be re-opened,” Mr Mana said.
He said the government had agreed to pay compensation to the landowners for the use of water and also upgrade the hydro power station.
“We see this as a means of development and moving forward, negotiating with the government and improving our own community,” he said.
Mr Mana however said that they have given the government a two month time limit and deadline to meet up with their demands.
He added that if nothing is done by then they will have no other option but to shut down the water again.
Mr Mana confirmed that engineers from SIEA are already there to assess the situation and to prepare it for full operation again.
The MOU was signed in the presence of Malaita PS Harold Leka, Provincial Police Commander Mr Walenenea and other members of the provincial government.
By JEREMY INIFIRI
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