The Gizo–Kolombangara Constituency (GKC) has reaffirmed its commitment to youth and sports development by continuing close collaboration with the Western Football Association (WFA) and other sporting bodies to strengthen long-term leagues and development pathways for talented young athletes across Gizo and Kolombangara.
This was highlighted by Member of the Parliament (MP) of Hon. Jimson Tanaganda during the closing of the GKC Cup on Sunday held at Ringi in Kolombangara, Western Province.
As part of its support during GKC Day 2025, the constituency fully covered major logistical and operational costs to ensure the smooth delivery of sporting activities.
These included the provision of 24 full sets of uniforms for teams across three sporting codes, travel costs for teams and officials, food and catering for six days, accommodation for teams and officials, and allowances for officiating officials.
Through these combined activities, GKC confirmed that over $300,000 was injected back into the local economy, benefiting young players, catering groups, market vendors, farmers, transport operators, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and other service providers.
Speaking during the closing of GKC Day 2025, Member of Parliament for Gizo–Kolombangara Constituency Hon. Jimson Tanaganda acknowledged that the success of the event was the result of collective effort and strong partnerships.
Hon. Tanaganda paid special tribute to GKC officers Mr Alphonse Wale (CDO), Mr Luxton Tamisia (CAO) and Ms Prasana Lezutuni (CPO), commending their professionalism and tireless commitment throughout the week-long programme.
He also thanked CDC members for their guidance and oversight in ensuring good governance and people-first leadership, as well as the Western Football Association (WFA), the Local Organising Committee, game officials and physio Mr Ialangono Darcy for their professional and selfless service.
The MP extended appreciation to the constituency’s youth, noting that their energy and participation reaffirmed that the future of Gizo and Kolombangara lies in their hands.
He also acknowledged the role of media personnel for their professional, fair and balanced reporting throughout the event.
Hon. Tanaganda further recognised the contribution of constructive critics, saying their feedback helps strengthen constituency policies and ensure development priorities remain people-centred and responsive.
Special thanks were also extended to the KFPL Board of Management and the Ringi communities for their hospitality in hosting GKC Day 2025, making Ringi home to thousands of participants for an unforgettable week.
Looking ahead, Hon. Tanaganda said GKC will continue to strengthen partnerships in education, health, sports infrastructure, road development and sustainable economic initiatives, particularly on Kolombangara Island.
He said GKC Day 2025 demonstrated that when people work together in unity, vision can be transformed into action, adding that development is built with communities, rooted in culture, powered by youth, strengthened by partnerships and guided by accountable leadership.
Hon. Tanaganda concluded by wishing the people of Gizo and Kolombangara a happy, safe and prosperous New Year 2026, reaffirming the constituency’s commitment to moving forward together as one constituency with one future.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
