A delegation from the Ministry of Lands led by the Minister Andrew Maneporaa visited Auki last week to negotiate with landowners to buy land for town expansion.
Permanent Secretary Stanley Wale last night said, the urban expansion program will result in the purchase of land for commercial, industrial and residential development.
He said during the trip, negotiation with two landowners with registered title along the Auki Kilufi road was positive.
“More landowners along Auki Fiu road will be consulted to partner with the Provincial Executive and the National Government to expand Auki town.”
Other members of the delegation included the Valuer General, Lands legal officer, Assistant Commissioner of Lands (Rural), Senior Physical Planner and four members from the Prime Minister’s Office.
The Auki Senior Lands Officer and Chief Physical Planner also join the delegation.
Mr Manepora following the trip said, it was successful and a fulfillment of the Government policy on urban expansion and partnership with resource owners.
“This is a four year program and it covers other urban centers in the country.”
Malaita Premier Peter Channel Ramohia praised the delegation and the purpose of the visiting saying his government is pleased with national government’s assistance through the Ministry of Lands in addressing the shortage of land in Auki. “This is the first time that a full delegation from the Ministry of Lands visited Auki.”
The Ministry will make more follow up visits to meet other landowning groups including landowners of the Auki foreshore.
