THE Western Provincial Executive has taken strong action to advance the long-awaited Perpetual Estate (PE) Transfer process, resolve key land disputes, and formalize local planning schemes for major township areas.
Premier Billy Veo told the Western Provincial Assembly on Monday that the Executive has submitted a full proposal to the Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening (MPGIS), covering all identified parcels of land under the “doable” category.
According to Premier Veo, the “doable” category includes over 300 land parcels that are clear of any mortgages or legal encumbrances.
He said the Executive is awaiting a joint submission from MPGIS and the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Survey (MLHS) to Cabinet for official endorsement.
He told the Assembly that the Executive is still pursuing the PE transfers, and at the moment a full submission has been forwarded to the Ministry of Provincial Government with all the identified parcels under the ‘doable’ category.
“It is anticipated that a joint submission will be made by MPGIS and MLHS to Cabinet for its endorsement,” he added.
He added that as an alternative approach, the Executive is also considering a submission through the National Land Board. This would involve identifying priority parcels and developing plans for those specific sites before submission.
In another major development, the Premier confirmed that the long-standing Pari Land dispute in Noro has been settled after rulings by both the High Court and the Court of Appeal in favor of the Commissioner of Lands.
“This should now pave the way for developments in Noro, especially those sites affected by the Pari land issue,” Premier Veo stated.
The Premier further announced that the Local Planning Schemes for Noro and Munda have now been officially gazetted.
He acknowledged the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Director of Physical Planning under MLHS for funding and facilitating the exercise, which will ensure “orderly and systematic development” in both townships.
The progress on PE transfers, land dispute resolutions, and planning schemes marks a significant milestone for Western Province, signaling renewed momentum in infrastructure and land development across key urban centers.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star Gizo
