Prime Minister (PM) Jeremiah Manele this week marked the one-year anniversary of the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) with a statement delivered at a press conference in Honiara on Friday.
In his address, he highlighted the government’s early achievements and shared its long-term vision for the country’s development.
Reflecting on the progress made since GNUT assumed office on 2 May 2024, the Prime Minister acknowledged that while many of the administration’s plans are still in the early stages of implementation, significant foundations for meaningful transformation have been laid in the past twelve months. He reiterated that true and lasting development—particularly in a country as diverse and geographically scattered as Solomon Islands—requires time and cannot be achieved overnight.
PM Manele emphasized that from the outset, GNUT’s focus has been on restoring public trust, promoting national unity, and beginning a new era of responsible and inclusive development.
While recognizing the scale of the challenges that remain, he stated that the government has acted with urgency and purpose to steer the country toward a more sustainable future.
A key focus of the Prime Minister’s statement was rural development, a priority for the GNUT government. He noted that the majority of Solomon Islanders reside in rural areas, and it is crucial that development efforts respond to their needs. Over the past year, the government has directed substantial investments toward improving infrastructure and service delivery in rural communities.
This includes upgrading road networks, expanding telecommunications infrastructure to improve digital access, and supporting agriculture and fisheries to enhance local livelihoods. While some projects are still underway, many communities are already beginning to feel the benefits.
The Prime Minister also highlighted that GNUT’s vision is not only rural-focused but is balanced and inclusive. Efforts are underway to address urban development needs as well, recognizing that a thriving capital and strong provincial centers are vital to national growth.
He further noted that the government’s broader policy direction is guided by the GNUT Policy Statement and the National Development Strategy, with a focus on economic transformation, human capital development, and institutional reform.
Fiscal discipline, legislative updates, and partnerships with donors have been integral to ensuring lasting impact. According to the Prime Minister, the government’s approach is not about short-term wins but about responsible nation-building for future generations.
Prime Minister Manele in his one-year reflection since the formation of GNUT expressed his gratitude to the people of Solomon Islands for their support, patience, and confidence in the government’s leadership.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to serving all Solomon Islanders with integrity, transparency, and determination.
“As we mark this first anniversary, we are proud of what has been achieved so far, but we are also humbled by the work that lies ahead,” he said.
“Real development takes time, and we ask our people to continue walking with us. Together, we are laying the foundations for a stronger, more united, and resilient Solomon Islands.”
– OPMC
