THE newly opened Inland Revenue Division (IRD) office in Noro, Western Province, will also serve as the home for the National SIG-ICT Data Centre Backup infrastructure — a development hailed as a vital step in strengthening the nation’s digital resilience and information security.
The Ministry of Finance and Treasury (MoFT) officially opened the modern, digitally enabled facility on Friday, 8th August in Noro town, drawing senior government leaders, chiefs, elders, landowners, and community members to witness the event.
The upgraded office replaces the former IRD base in Gizo and is expected to boost revenue collection efficiency and improve service delivery for the Western and Choiseul Provinces.
Minister of Finance and Treasury Harry Kuma, in his keynote address said, the inclusion of the SIG-ICT Data Centre Backup marks a significant leap forward in safeguarding the country’s digital operations.
“This provides a secure and reliable secondary location for government systems and records, ensuring that digital operations can continue with minimal disruption in the event of a system failure or natural disaster,” Mr Kuma stated.
He added that the move underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring continuity of critical services, even during emergencies, while protecting sensitive national data from potential risks.
The Minister also highlighted the broader importance of the Noro facility, which will accommodate staff from the Customs and Excise Division, Treasury Division, and Statistics Division.
He said, the office has already improved efficiencies in customs and export declaration processes, particularly through the ASYCUDA system and payment facility.
Mr Kuma acknowledged the cooperation of the Central Government, Western Provincial Government (WPG), business houses, and the contractor for delivering a high-standard facility that integrates national architectural design with local content.
“This building is more than just bricks and cement — it is an investment in inclusive growth, stronger governance, and efficient service delivery,” he said, before officially declaring the Noro Treasury Building open.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
