PRIME Minister (MP) Jeremiah Manele says the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Survey must open new subdivisions and adopt a deliberate national strategy to address the growing challenges of urbanisation, with support from both national and provincial stakeholders.
The Prime Minister made the remarks in Parliament on Wednesday while winding up the sine die motion, noting that rapid population growth in Honiara is placing increasing pressure on land availability and basic services.
Mr Manele said the 2019 national census showed significant population increases in the Ghaubata and Tandai wards of Guadalcanal Province, indicating a clear movement of people from Honiara into surrounding areas.
“This is a strong indication that people are moving out of Honiara into Guadalcanal, which further highlights the need for proper land planning and coordinated development,” he said.
The Prime Minister also welcomed the recent drop in cement prices, describing it as a positive development for ordinary Solomon Islanders.
“Unlike before, cement is now more affordable, making it easier for our people to build homes not only in Honiara, but also in the provinces,” he said.
Mr Manele said this demonstrated the importance of competition in the business sector, adding that the government will continue to promote policies that encourage competition and restrict monopoly practices.
“This serves the national interest by ensuring building materials remain affordable for our people,” he added.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged concerns raised by the Leader of the Opposition regarding the need for increased resources for programmes addressing violence against women and girls.
He further echoed concerns raised by the Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee and Member of Parliament for Central Honiara on the growing issue of youth drug abuse.
“In response, I wish to inform the House that Cabinet has endorsed amendments to the Dangerous Drugs Act, which will impose severe penalties,” Mr Manele said.
He confirmed that the amendments will be tabled in the next sitting of Parliament.
Mr Manele also agreed with proposals to utilise technology and innovation to spur economic growth and productivity, saying the government will consider reconfiguring and streamlining some ministries to accommodate this direction.
