BY SAMIE WAIKORI
Premier of Makira Ulawa Province, Stanley Siapu, says infrastructure is the key to unlocking development potential in the province.
He highlighted the richness of the province’s untouched natural resources and the need to harness them for the country’s development.
In an interview, Siapu emphasized his government’s strong determination to pursue and seek cooperation with partners to develop the province. However, he pointed out that this cannot happen without proper infrastructure in place, such as roads, bridges, wharves, and other essential developments.
To achieve this, Siapu said his government will work closely with the national government and development partners to boost infrastructure in the province.
“Our focus this year is to work closely with the national government through the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) on major infrastructure projects in the province.
“We have already consulted with the national government through the relevant ministries, especially regarding the Special Economic Zone (SEZ), a development initiative my government will be pursuing.
“As soon as the SOE bill is passed and formally established, we will continue discussions based on our initial dialogue to set up a Special Economic Zone.
“This initiative will undoubtedly stimulate other developments in the province. It may lead to the establishment of a seaport, a cannery, or a dry dock.
“If we receive support from the national government and our key donor partners, my government is optimistic and determined to explore these opportunities,” he said.
Moreover, the premier emphasized the need to develop and rehabilitate existing roads in the province, particularly the east and west roads of Kirakira.
“My government will push the national government to rehabilitate the west road from Kirakira to Arosi, Marou Bay, and Rumahui.
“The same applies to the east road. Additionally, we are exploring the possibility of developing a cross-island road across mainland Makira,” he said.
Siapu noted that the other side of Makira Island holds vast potential, which can only be unlocked through proper infrastructure.
“If roads connect the province, my government will work towards exploring the province’s development potential,” he said.
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