The Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of Western Province (WP) is being viewed as a massive economic asset that could be fully unlocked once statehood is granted to the province.
Local leaders and Eminent Persons have reiterated that the vast marine resources within the EEZ remain underutilized under the current provincial structure.
However, with statehood on the horizon, many believe the region will finally have the authority and autonomy to harness its maritime wealth for the direct benefit of its people.
Speaking at the recent Western Provincial Assembly Meeting on Imagination Island consultations last month, one of the teams from the Draft Federal Constitution Eminent Persons Group, emphasized the importance of leveraging the EEZ for sustainable fisheries, tourism, and marine conservation efforts.
They pointed out that with proper management and investment, the EEZ could become a cornerstone of the province’s economic independence and long-term development.
“We are sitting on a goldmine of marine resources,’’ Pat Loe, a former Commissioner of Lands said.
“With statehood, we can take full ownership and ensure that our people see the direct benefits,’’ he said.
Currently, much of the revenue generated from marine resources within the Western Province EEZ flows back to the national government, with limited returns to the province.
Advocates for statehood argue that a decentralized model would allow for better resource management, improved infrastructure, and greater opportunities for local businesses and communities.
The statehood movement has gained momentum in recent years and up to this date, with growing calls for greater autonomy in governance and resource control.
If realized, Western Province would gain a new level of administrative and economic power – a shift that many see as the key to unlocking the region’s full potential.
Pat Loe added that Western Province has a rich marine resource covering an estimated 600,000 square kilometers of ocean space equivalent to 60 million hectares.
He said, it is a home to some of the richest tuna fisheries, coral reef systems, and biodiversity hotspots in the Pacific.
It stretches across vast zones including the Shortland Islands, New Georgia group, Vella Lavella, and southward to Rendova and Tetepare.
Loe said the immense marine area holds untapped economic opportunities, particularly in fisheries, eco-tourism, seaweed farming, and possibly even deep-sea mining.
“However, without full control over its maritime domain, Western Province currently lacks the authority to make direct decisions on licensing, revenue collection, and resource management.
“Under statehood, the Western Province finally be in a position to sustainably manage and benefit from its EEZ,” he said.
Loe said with statehood, provincial authorities would hope and able to establish their own governance frameworks, empowering local communities and boosting economic resilience.
By Ulutah Gina
Solomon Star, Gizo
