The Maringe-Kokota Constituency Development Committee (CDC) successfully completed the screening process for the 2025 Constituency Development Funds (CDF) applications and approved projects ahead of implementation.
Held at Jejevo in Buala, Isabel Province, two weeks ago, the meeting brought together CDC members representing each ward within the constituency.
This critical process ensures that all projects align with the Solomon Islands Constituency Development Policy (SICDP), adhere to the provisions of the CDF Act 2023, Section 14, and are in accordance with the constituency’s 2025 annual work plan and priorities.
The CDC Chair, Honourable Member of Parliament and Minister for the Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs (MWYCFA), Cathy Nori, acknowledged members for their participation and invaluable contributions, which ensured the success of the process.
The CDF Act 2023 introduces a transformative approach to development funding, empowering all 50 constituencies in the Solomon Islands to uphold principles of transparency, accountability, and fairness in the delivery and implementation of CDF projects under the Maringe-Kokota Constituency Development Program (CDP).
The policy emphasizes practical, holistic, and inclusive development strategies that are sustainable, consultative, and responsive to the unique needs of each constituency.
Hon. Minister Nori applauded the new process as a significant step forward.
“The CDF Act 2023 is our yardstick guiding us to be more realistic and effective in delivering projects and support that directly benefit our rural communities,” she said.
The Honourable Minister also extended her profound gratitude to all applicants for their patience and cooperation, while allowing the CDC to complete due processes with a commitment to upholding the highest standards of transparency and impartiality.
The CDC meeting also included an awareness session on the CDF legislation delivered by the legal team from the Ministry of Rural Development.
Attending the awareness session were CDC members, constituency officers, and some constituents.
During the session, MRD officers informed CDC members of their roles and responsibilities under the CDF Act 2023, Sections 13, 14, and 15, with clarification on the processes involved in project implementation under the new legislation.
The CDC, under the CDF Act 2023, Section 13(4), is responsible for:
- The coordination of the constituency development programs.
- The consideration and approval of the annual budget for the constituency.
- The general management of the Constituency Development Funds under the direct supervision of the Ministry, in consultation with the constituency Member of Parliament.
- The coordination, monitoring, and supervision of the implementation of approved projects.
- Developing the constituency development plan.
- Public relations and community interactions.
Meanwhile, Constituency Development Officer (CDO) Walter Havimei acknowledged all members, including constituency officers, for their invaluable contributions.
He also thanked members of the MRD legal team for facilitating the informative awareness sessions on the CDF Act 2023 for CDC members.
Mr. Havimei appreciated their insights and collaboration, which were vital to the program’s success.
He stated that the constituency office, under the capable leadership of Hon. Minister Nori, remains committed to working closely with the MRD and relevant stakeholders to ensure tangible community development initiatives and projects are delivered to benefit the people of Maringe-Kokota.
The CDO, Havimei, assured communities and constituents that the implementation of approved projects will proceed once funds are released and made available by the Ministry of Finance.
– MRD
