The Western Provincial Government (WPG), through its network of Ward Development Committees (WDCs), is actively rolling out small-scale yet impactful projects across all 26 wards of the province—aimed at directly improving the lives of rural communities.
Funded through the Ward Development Grant (WDG) with an allocation of SBD132,606 for the 2025/2026 Financial Year, these locally led projects focus on delivering vital community infrastructure.
Despite the limited funding, the WDCs have managed to implement a variety of priority initiatives, including school buildings, water supply systems, health clinics, community halls, and market houses.
“These are projects driven by the people and for the people,” a provincial government spokesperson stated.
“Our Ward Development Committees have shown strong leadership in identifying community needs and delivering solutions,” the spokesman added.
The Provincial Government acknowledged the tireless efforts of the WDCs, community members, and all stakeholders who continue to work together to translate development plans into tangible outcomes.
The Ward Development Grant remains one of the key mechanisms for grassroots development in the Western Province, empowering rural communities to take ownership of their development journey.
Local communities across all 26 wards of Western Province are already seeing the positive impact of ongoing Ward Development Projects, spearheaded by the WPG.
Meanwhile through the WPG Planning Division, a series of capacity-building trainings have been rolled out in recent months as part of the Integrated Economic Development and Community Resilience (IEDCR) Project.
These sessions are aimed at strengthening local governance and community participation at the ward level.
A total of six key training modules were delivered, covering a range of critical topics including:
– Decentralization and the Role of Ward Development Committees (WDCs)
– Gender and Social Inclusion
– Conflict Resolution and Grievance Redress Mechanism
– Ward Development Grant Project Cycle
– Social Accountability Mechanism 1 – Provincial Performance Forum
– Social Accountability Mechanism 2 – Ward Information Protocols and Ward Forums
According to the WPG Planning Division, the trainings were conducted in all 26 wards, ensuring uniform access to knowledge and tools needed for effective grassroots development.
These efforts are part of the province’s broader strategy to promote inclusive development and empower local communities to take active roles in planning, implementing, and monitoring projects funded through the Ward Development Grant.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
