The Member of Parliament (MP) for Gizo/Kolombangara Constituency and Minister of Police, Hon. Jimson Tanangada, has made an emotional plea for unity, dignity, and true economic ownership during the historic handover of the 20 per cent shareholding in KFPL to Kolombangara landowners.
In his powerful address on Monday at Ringi during the event, Hon. Tanangada said the occasion marked not just a business milestone, but “a new era of legacy and pride” for the people of Kolombangara.
The MP outlined a bold vision for commercial modernisation through the establishment of Kolombangara Investment Limited (KIIL) and its subsidiary tribal community companies, including Kolombangara/Epaga/Lolobo, Leanabako, Ngedoana, Ghalavasa, and Viuru Community Companies.
He urged landowners to embrace a mindset of partnership and shared responsibility with KFPL.
“We must now ask ourselves — what can we do to help KFPL transform our communities, province, and country, rather than asking what KFPL can do for our personal interests,” Hon. Tanangada challenged.
A key part of his message focused on improving the rights and dignity of local workers. Reflecting on past experiences, he said many contractors once worked under poor conditions.
“I remember sleeping in tents, without clean water, sanitation or proper meals while working. It is high time we modernise our contractor welfare and engagements,” he stated.
To address these challenges, the Minister proposed the creation of Special Demarcated Economic Zones within community lands below the Ringi road.
“These zones should include proper accommodation, kitchens, rest areas, and garden plots for contractors who are not permanent residents of Kolombangara,” he said.
Such an initiative, he added, would help Kolombangara become the first community to operate a local seasonal workers scheme under KFPL, creating employment and growth opportunities for rural families.
Hon. Tanaganda also led a two-minute silence to honour the “fallen heroes” of the landowners’ long struggle, paying special tribute to the late Samson Maena, former Chairman of the KLTF Executive, who passed away shortly after witnessing the signing of the new Joint Venture Agreement in October 2025.
He acknowledged the continued strength and leadership of local chiefs, women and youth, describing them as “torchbearers of a dream long carried by those who came before us.”
In closing, Hon. Tanangada reminded the gathering that the people of Kolombangara now stand on “sacred ground” — land their ancestors claimed in 1923.
“This is not the end of our struggle but the beginning of a new era — an era of true ownership, innovation, unity and prosperity,” he declared.
He ended with a rallying call for collective progress:
“Let us go forward together — proud of our heritage, confident in our future. Together we will build a Kolombangara that works for all tribes, all families, and all generations.” he added.
The ceremony concluded with the signing of documents, traditional dancing, and feasting in celebration of the historic milestone.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
