Government through the Ministry of Finance and Treasury (MoFT) has officially opened its new permanent office complex in Noro, Western Province on Friday.
The move was described as a significant milestone in the government’s commitment to decentralization and bringing essential services closer to the people.
Harry Kuma, Minister of Finance and Treasury led a delegation from Honiara to witness the commissioning ceremony.
In his speech he highlighted that while government services have historically been centralized in Honiara, this new office signifies a deliberate step towards a service delivery model that listens to and meets the needs of citizens and businesses in the provinces.
“Today marks a remarkable day in history. We officially open the new Ministry of Finance & Treasury office here in Noro.
“It is a significant milestone, and my Ministry’s commitment to expand and advance government services close to our people and businesses,” Minister Harry Kuma said.
He stressed the new office is not just about infrastructure; it’s about empowering people and businesses to meet their goals by enhancing local participation and promoting inclusive decision-making.
The Finance Minister also noted that Noro has evolved into a thriving hub of social and business activities since the 1980s, experiencing an extraordinary pace of development.
“This growth has been fueled by the commencement of international airport operations, the expansion of the major tuna fish and processing plant, an increase in wholesale and retailers, and a vibrant tourism sector in the surrounding islands and lagoons.”
The Noro commercial hub has grown at an average rate of 2-3 percent recently, driven by agriculture, fisheries, and tourism.
Kuma emphasized that the new office is crucial because government services are needed most where growth is occurring.
Over the past three years, the existing Ministry of Finance & Treasury office in Noro has already facilitated more than $4 billion in the value of exports and generated over SBD500 million dollars in revenue from import duty, with the Treasury Division collecting more than $2.5 million.
He added the new facility will also host the National SIG-ICT Data Centre Backup infrastructure, marking a vital step in strengthening the nation’s digital resilience and information security.
“This provides a secure and reliable secondary location for government systems and records, ensuring that digital operations can continue with minimal disruption in the event of a system failure or natural disaster,” he added.
Mr. Kuma expressed the Ministry’s commitment to prioritizing targeted investments in service delivery, ensuring government services are accessible and responsive to the needs of the people.
The new complex was constructed by JQY Construction.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star Gizo
