BY NED GAGAHE
The Minister for Lands, Housing, and Survey, MP Polycarp Paea, has expressed strong confidence in the performance of the Solomon Islands Land Board, highlighting its significant growth and increased effectiveness over the years.
Speaking at a dinner reception held at Heritage Park Hotel to commemorate the Land Board’s 10th anniversary last Friday, Minister Paea praised the Board’s commitment to overseeing land matters with a critical and thorough approach.
“The Board has grown in confidence over the years, and Board members now cast a critical eye over all matters brought before them,” Minister Paea remarked during the event.
He commended the Board for its role in handling various land-related matters in 2024, including the successful allocation of 180 lots at Feraladoa and Fulisango settlements in Honiara.
The Minister also provided an update on ongoing land assessment processes, stating that the Board is currently evaluating tenders for land in Noro, Munda, and a second stage of South Honiara lots.
This follows a public advertising process aimed at promoting transparency and fairness in land distribution.
Minister Paea further revealed that a recent call for tenders for land that had remained unpaid for several years had successfully closed.
He confirmed that the first round of South Honiara allocations had been largely completed, with most grants signed. Only a few remaining grantees are yet to receive their postal addresses before finalizing their land agreements.
“The payment of land titles and annual land rents has contributed to another healthy year of revenue for the Ministry, despite ongoing challenges,” Minister Paea said.
In concluding his remarks, Minister Paea extended his congratulations to the Land Board, its members, and all stakeholders for their contributions.
He reaffirmed the critical role the Board plays as the “gatekeeper” of government land in the Solomon Islands.
“I wish the Land Board well in its continued efforts, and congratulations to all of you for the roles you have all played in this endeavor,” Paea said.
