Prime Minister (PM) Jeremiah Manele has acknowledged Western Province’s comparatively stronger economic position but says persistent land and infrastructure challenges continue to limit its full development potential.
Speaking during his recent address celebrating Western Day Celebration in Seghe Marovo on Monday 8th December, the Prime Minister said Western Province remains ahead of many other provinces in economic activity and growth.
However, he stressed that progress is still hindered by longstanding issues surrounding the mobilisation and productive use of customary land.
Manele said access to land—and the ability to utilise it effectively—remains a critical prerequisite for unlocking economic opportunities across sectors.
He noted that resolving these challenges is vital to advancing major development initiatives, particularly in infrastructure, which he described as the backbone of economic progress.
He called for strengthened collaboration between landowners, government agencies, and provincial authorities to pave the way for sustainable and inclusive development in Western Province.
Meanwhile, update on the Noro Township Road Improvement Project, a key infrastructure initiative for the province is progressing well.
According to the Ministry of Infrastructure and Development (MID) the project has reached an overall completion rate of 95% and is on track to be officially completed in the first quarter of next year.
“Installation of road signs has already been completed by contractor China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), while road barrier installation stands at 90% and road marking works are approximately 30% finished.
“The major upgrade covers about 10.2 kilometres of roadway, including 5.2 km of asphalt concrete and 4.1 km of Double Bituminous Surface Treatment (DBST),” MID said in a recent statement.
MID highlights that the project has engaged around 70 labourers—mostly locals from surrounding communities—providing valuable employment, skills training, and direct income support to families in the area.
The official completion date for the project is scheduled for the end of January 2026.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star Gizo
