Gizo/Kolombangara Constituency in Western Province on Wednesday formally launched its four-year Rural Development Policy Document for 2024 to 2028.
The policy focused on four main pillars namely; Good Governance, Economic Development, Human Capital Investment and Social Welfare.
“This is part of aligning with the Government for National Unity and Transformation’s (GNUT) broader policy,” said the Member of the Parliament (MP) for Gizo/Kolombangara Jimson Tanangada when launching the document.
Video highlights of the launching below;
Hundreds of guests, constituency officers, voters, supporters and members of the public packed the netball stadium in Gizo to witness the launch.
Copies of the documents were handed to those who turned up to witness the launch.
Western Provincial Government was represented by the Provincial Minister for Forestry and Agriculture Jenty Isaac.
The launching came after the high court upheld that MP Tanangada is the duly elected MP for the constituency.
Tanangada who is also the Minister of Police, National Security and Correctional Services told the gathering that its time to get down to work and fulfil what he had preached during his campaign.
He said, the Rural Development Policy Program for 2024-2028 contains the shared vision for the future of Gizo and Kolombangara.
“This gathering is not just a ceremonial event, it is a reflection of our collective will to shape a future that is inclusive, resilient, and prosperous for everyone our communities,” he said.
He took time to express his deepest gratitude for the trust and confidence the voters and supporters have placed in him.
“Since the general election on April 17, I have been entrusted with the responsibility to lead as your elected representative and to serve as the Minister of Police, National Security and Correctional Services.
“This is not just a personal achievement but a testament to your unwavering support and commitment to national development,” he said.
He told the packed stadium that this four-year policy is a localised translation of the Government for National Unity and Transformation’s (GNUT) broader development agenda.
“It has been tailored to reflect the unique needs and opportunities of our constituency, ensuring that every plan and project resonates without local realities,” he said.
He added, this policy statement will serve as the foundation for the community-based development plans over the next four years.
“This will guide how we allocate resources and implement projects in alignment with the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) Act of 2023.
“This is crucial for ensuring that the resources provided for development are utilised effectively, transparently and in a way that truly benefits the people of Gizo and Kolombangara,” he said.
He further explained that the vision of this policy is both simple and transformative; “to create a resilient, inclusive, and prosperous society where development is sustainable, opportunities are equitable, and our environment and cultural heritage are preserved for generations.”
This vision is about more than just building infrastructure or generating economic growth – it is about uplifting every individual, every family and every community in Gizo and Kolombangara, he concluded.
He appealed to all communities to work closely with the constituency officers to help achieve areas of need in their communities.
The fine weather offered opportunity for many voters and supporters around Gizo island to be present for the program.
He thanked everyone who turned to witness the program and help supported it.
Refreshment and entertainment concluded the program.
MP Tanangada travelled over to Kolombangara on Thursday to conduct a similar launch.
By MOFFAT MAMU
