MORE Malaitans are forced to travel to Honiara in search for better opportunity due to lack of economic activities in the province in the past years.

Malaita Province Premier Elijah Asilaua highlighted these challenges during his speech on the revised 2024/2025 budget meeting in Auki in the past week.

Premier Asilaua said the revenue of Malaita Province has seen a consistent decline of 5% annually over the last three fiscal years, with poor road conditions, inadequate bridges, and deteriorating infrastructure being key contributing factors.

He explained that the decline in government revenue has led to disruptions in economic activities and forced many Malaitans to migrate to the national capital, Honiara, in search of better opportunities.

“Honourable members, apart from other factors, our revenues have consistently dropped by 5% annually from 2021 to 2024 due to the poor state of roads, bridges, and infrastructure,” 

“This has caused disconnections within the province and a lack of economic activity, driving many people to Honiara in search of better prospects.” Premier Asilaua stated.

Despite these challenges, Premier Asilaua expressed hope that the province’s new revenue mobilization strategy would help improve revenue collection and address these ongoing issues. 

“I am confident that by working together with the national government, development partners, non-governmental organizations, and local ward committees, we can improve participation at the grassroots level, maximize resources, and build self-reliance among our communities,” he said.

By SOLOMON LOFANA

Solomon Star, Auki