THE Malaita Provincial Government (MPG) is set to implement 35 per-cent of its revised 2024/2025 budget in this 2025 financial year.
The 35 per-cent of the revised 2024/2025 Budget is worth $11,873,158 and these finances come from the Provincial Capacity Development Fund’s (PCDF’s) Capital Development Fund Budget.
Malaita Province was unable to access this budgetary support from the PCDF Capital Development Fund Budget in 2024 because it did not qualify for PCDF.
The now available budgetary support will enable MPG to improve the livelihood of communities across the five regions of the province through the implementation of social and economic projects.
Premier Elijah Asilaua made the announcement about MPG’s qualification for the PCDF Capital Development Fund budgetary support for this year at the opening of the revised 2024/2025 Budget Assembly meeting that commenced early this week.
He expressed his satisfaction with the collaborative efforts that enabled the province to access the SBD 11,873,158 from the Provincial Capacity Development Fund’s (PCDF’s) Capital Development Fund Budget.
“This achievement should not divert our focus from maintaining a people-centered approach. We remain committed to upholding strong financial governance practices,” Premier Asilaua said.
The Premier added that this initiative aligns with the provincial government’s strategy to directly access performance-based grants, which will allow for more development and improved services across the province.
He, however, cautioned that as the province’s future depends on decisions made by the MPG today, “we will continue to optimise our financial resources, working closely with the national government, development partners, private investors, NGOs and local resource owners.
“This collaboration will enhance our global development perspective, improve trade and economic outcomes, and ultimately benefit our people,” Premier Asilaua said.
Premier Asilaua also highlighted MPG’s focus on economic growth through productive sectors.
“We are empowering local communities and entrepreneurs, with a strong emphasis on human capital to drive the economy, particularly in agriculture, fisheries and tourism.”
Premier Asilaua also highlighted that the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) for the establishment of its fourth campus in Malaita as crucial to the development of the province.
He said this initiative will offer accredited agricultural education and training programmes, marking a significant part of the province’s long-term development strategy.
By SOLOMON LOFANA
Solomon Star, Auki
