Plans are in motion to establish a Seghe Town Council in Ward 21 Buintusu to enhance governance and civic functions within the Seghe sub-station in Marovo, Western Province.
A motion proposing the establishment of the town council was moved by Hon. Edward Ngava, the Member of the Provincial Assembly (MPA) for Ward 21, during the recent assembly session.
In presenting the motion, Hon. Ngava acknowledged the Speaker’s acceptance of the proposal under Standing Order 139 (b), which relates to provincial services.
He emphasized the importance of structured governance to support ongoing and future development in Seghe.
Seghe was established as a government sub-station in the 1980s following independence, when area councils were introduced as part of the country’s three-tier governance structure.
After the dissolution of area councils in 1999, Seghe was elevated to a government sub-station, a status it continues to hold today. The sub-station serves as a crucial link for government services in the region.
Hon. Ngava highlighted the rapid infrastructural development in Seghe, positioning it as a potential mini-township.
‘’Existing government institutions in the area include key ministries such as Forestry, Agriculture, Education, and Police. In addition, Seghe hosts Solomon Power, a mini-hospital, a theological seminary, and a rural training center operated by the United Church of Solomon Islands,’’ he said.
‘’Marovo Constituency, home to the largest population in Western Province, is also a major supplier of fish to the capital, Honiara.
‘’The region is a recognized tourism hub, boasting various resorts and homestays. The recent airport upgrade and the soon-to-be-constructed terminal further strengthen Seghe’s economic significance, and with this the need for a bank to be established in Seghe to support business activities and tourism,’’ Mr. Ngava adds.
The recent groundbreaking ceremony for the Seghe Market, funded by the Australian Government, marks a major milestone for economic development in the region.
To ensure effective management of the market and other critical infrastructure, Hon. Ngava proposed the recruitment of key personnel, including a Waste Management Officer, Market Master, Market Fee Collector, and Security Officers.
“The establishment of Seghe Town Council will ensure better organization and recognition of Seghe as a key government substation and tourism center in Western Province,” he said.
He further noted that the Marovo region contributes significantly to the Western Provincial Government’s revenue, warranting investment in infrastructure and services.
Hon. Ngava urged the assembly to endorse the establishment of the Seghe Town Council and called on the Division of Local Government and the Executive Government to facilitate the necessary provisions and budgetary allocations to make it a reality.
“This motion seeks the assembly’s endorsement so that the Division of Local Government can facilitate the necessary provisions and budget for Seghe Town Council,” he stated.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
