THE Gizo/Kolombangara Constituency (GKC) has officially handed over solar accessories and equipment to the Gizo St Luke Diocese of Anglican Church of Melanesian (ACOM), Western Province in an effort to improve lighting system for the church and its facilities.
The handover ceremony took place at the Diocese Compound in Gizo last Friday and was officiated by the GKC Project Officer Prasana Lezutuni.
The items included solar power wiring material, backup batteries, fans, bulbs and cables.
Father Barclay Voze of the ACOM St Luke Diocese and other representatives of the diocese took delivery of the items.
Speaking to Solomon Star in an interview on Tuesday, GKC Project Officer Prasana Lezutuni reaffirmed the constituency’s commitment to supporting religious institutions to improve the delivery of essential services they provide.
Mr Lezutuni said the initiative aligns with the National Government’s broader efforts to enhance infrastructure in communities across the constituency.
“The solar power equipment assistance to the Anglican Church Household comes under the Constituency Development Fund Church Grant.
“We started rolling out the delivery of the Church Grant assistance based on the applications received.
“The churches play a crucial role in our communities and we recognise the importance of ensuring they have access to what they need.
“The contribution will support church operations and benefit the communities they serve,” Mr Lezutuni emphasised.
GKC has been actively engaged in projects under the Church Grant and Mr Lezutuni assured that his office will continue working closely with churches to identify their needs and provide assistance.
GKC also assisted the United Church in Gizo and two United Churches on Kolombangara.
Father Voze expressed gratitude for the support and highlighted the challenges faced by the church, especially with the provision of housing and facilities for its brotherhood, which had been inactive for two years now.
“However, such support will really help us achieve some of our diocesan goals. It will go a long way in helping us to maintain our services and activities.
“Administrating our other Church communities in Ranongah, Vella, Simbo and Shortland is not an easy task, but such support will greatly help,’’ Father Voze added.
Father Voze also thanked the Member of Parliament for Ulawa-Ugi Constituency, William Marau who also supported the Gizo St Luke Diocese with house roofing irons.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
Photo caption: Gizo-Kolombangara Constituency Project Officer Lezutuni handing over the solar accessories and equipment to Father Barclay Voze of Gizo St Luke Diocese of the Anglican Church of Melanesia
