Hon. Junior Isikeli Vave, Member of Parliament (MP) for Shortland Islands has visited a number of communities in his constituency in the past week to engage with locals and discuss development priorities.
The part of the constituency tour included Officials from the Ministry of Infrastructure and Development (MID).
The visit was aimed to understand the community’s needs and provide updates on the Rural Constituency Development Fund (RCDF) Act.
The delegation was warmly received by the chiefs, elders, and members of Koliai ,Gaomai, Komaleai and other communities, who held traditional ceremonies in honor of the visit.
According to the Shortland Constituency Office Mr. Killian Pule, Secretary of the Shortland Islands Constituency, explained that the visit’s goals included discussing key development issues and updating the community on new policies.
Hon. Vave thanked the community for their warm welcome and reaffirmed his commitment to serving Shortland Islands.
He emphasized the importance of transparent leadership and the need for community-driven development.
One highlight of the visit was a presentation by Mr. George Balairamo, Deputy Secretary (Technical) of the Ministry of Rural Development, who explained recent changes to the RCDF Act.
These include new funding structures, rules for eligible projects, and increased roles for constituency offices in project management.
During discussions, the community raised concerns such as inadequate infrastructure, challenges in accessing essential services, and delays in constituency funding.
However, they also expressed appreciation for recent developments in road maintenance and public services.
Hon. Vave responded by updating the community on ongoing projects, the timeline for funding disbursement, and plans for new projects in 2026.
He highlighted his efforts to work with provincial and national authorities to accelerate development.
The visit concluded with smaller group discussions, allowing for in-depth conversations about specific development plans for different areas within the constituency.
The tour was part of the Vave’s second tour to the constituency after his national election’s victory
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star Gizo
