WP eyes future through the reforestation lens as revenue generation from the forestry sector dwindles due to the vast depletion of its virgin forests
WESTERN Province Premier Billy Veo has called for a strategic shift in the region’s economic landscape from the forestry sector to reforestation, given the dwindling revenue generated from the latter.
During the Western Province Day celebrations at the Noro Tuna Park on Monday, Premier Veo emphasized the pressing need to explore alternative revenue sources as the once abundant virgin forests of the province are near depletion.
A significant moment in this recalibration occurred earlier in the year when Premier Veo visited the Kolombangara Forestry Products Limited (KFPL) operations at Ringi and engaged in fruitful discussions with the management and also witnessed the positive impact of the company’s out-growers scheme on local landowners.
“Notably, the scheme has not only created employment opportunities but has also seen some out-growers earn substantial incomes, ranging from $200,000.00 to an impressive $700,000.00 per annum.
“I was convinced then that reforestation and establishment of similar setups like the ones at Ringi and Arara in Viru would go a long way in addressing our rural population’s economic participation,” he said.
Premier Veo said he was of the view that if the province could get these setups and go through potential investors, he saw no reason why people from the Western Province need to join the labor mobility scheme.
“Why not remain on your land or in your province and participate more meaningfully in economic development, enhancing our people’s livelihood and wellbeing,” he emphatically added.
Premier Veo then went on to disclose that potential sites for such initiatives have already been identified in Marovo, Vella La Vella, and Shortlands, illustrating the government’s commitment to providing alternative avenues for economic growth and development.
Highlighting the broader perspective, Premier Veo underscored the National Government’s intention to pursue these initiatives in alignment with its policy objective of enhancing and consolidating the province’s economic foundation.
“This move serves as a precursor to realizing the region’s statehood agenda and other policy directions.
“In addition, the Western Province Executive recently convened to discuss the necessity of a Western Province Sustainable Forest Management Strategy,” he added.
Premier Veo then provided insights into the current status of the forestry sector, acknowledging its historical contribution to government revenue and its role as a major employer in the region.
He said the Western Province boasts a rich forestry heritage, hosting the National Government’s Research Station in Munda and the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) Forestry Training Institute at Poitete.
Premier Veo said the province is also recognized for having the highest number of trees planted per capita of population through woodlots and plantations established by various entities.
He further emphasized the need for a comprehensive and long-term Sustainable Forest Management Strategy, aligning with the government’s core policy initiative.
“This strategy aims to empower landowners and citizens, boosting the economic foundation of Western Province for sustainable development benefits into the future,” Premier Veo further added.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
