A NEWLY signed Memorandum of Understanding between Western Province’s Alliance for Change, Alignment and Rural Economic Advancement (ACAREA) Government and the National Government has been lauded as a ‘beacon of hope.’
The MoU was signed in Gizo on Wednesday by the head of ACAREA, Premier Billy Veo and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Infrastructure Development, Manasseh Maelanga.
Western Provincial Secretary, Patrick Toiraena said the MoU carries the aspirations of ACAREA for better development and progress in the Western Province.
“The MoU reflects the thinking and concerns of the new Western Provincial Government,” Mr Toiraena told Solomon Star in an exclusive interview after the MoU signing.
He said the MoU aims to align the Western Provincial Government policies with national policies to ensure coordination and collaboration in development endeavours.
Mr Toiraena said the document also addresses the issue of Ministries and Divisions – both devolved and non-devolved – and provides a framework for effective implementation of government policies at the rural level where funding and resources may be limited.
“By committing to work with the National Government and aligning our provincial policies to national policies, the Western Provincial Government aims to fulfill its provincial development aspirations as well as the policies of the national government.
“The MoU also mentions the issue of statehood. The approach towards the adoption of statehood may be different as it focuses on strengthening the economic foundation of the province.
“Furthermore, the document includes provisions for revenue-sharing, review of the Provincial Government Act and empowerment initiatives, emphasising collaboration and effective utilisation of resources.
“Above all, it is all about collaboration in ensuring the resources that are budgeted for at the national level gets down to the provincial level.
“Overall, the signing of the MoU signifies a collaborative effort between the Western Provincial Government and the National Government, with the goal of promoting development, aligning policies, and addressing important issues for the Western Province and its people,” PS Toiraena emphasised.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
