BY SAMIE WAIKORI
The Guadalcanal Provincial Government (GPG) has recorded a major revenue boost this fiscal year, reporting a staggering SBD $2.8 million surplus for the 2024/2025 financial period.
The surplus, which exceeds the province’s budget expectations, has been attributed to the growing business activities in the Lunga, Alligator Creek, and Henderson areas, as well as recent revisions to provincial revenue laws introduced in 2023.
Premier William Atu made the announcement recently, praising the hard work of provincial staff, business partners, and stakeholders for their contributions to the financial achievement.
“Our local revenue has steadily increased, driven by expanding commercial activities in the Lunga to Henderson corridor, along with improved compliance under our revised revenue acts,” Atu said.
He revealed that from this surplus, $1 million has been invested in a Central Bank bond, which is expected to yield $40,000 annually, starting in two years’ time.
Premier Atu also highlighted the passage of the province’s historic $67.3 million budget for the current fiscal year — the highest since Guadalcanal was granted provincial status in 1984.
“I commend our Finance Minister, John Stewart, for his leadership and for strengthening fiscal discipline across our Finance and Treasury Division. Our staff have worked tirelessly to achieve this,” Atu said.
He also announced ongoing efforts to review the Provincial Financial Management Ordinance 2018, ensuring stronger oversight and accountability for new investments, including the newly established Guadalcanal Investment Corporation Limited (GICL).
“These reforms are high on the agenda for our upcoming Provincial Assembly meeting in September,” he added.
Premier Atu also extended appreciation to all genuine investors and businesses operating in Guadalcanal, acknowledging them as “the backbone of our local revenue system.”
“The provincial government is committed to fostering a fair and transparent environment for investors — one that strengthens our local economy, creates jobs, and supports essential services,” he said.
Atu made a strong appeal to all businesses to pay their taxes regularly, stressing that tax revenue is vital for sustaining public services like health, education, and infrastructure.
On the same note, he issued a stern warning to unlicensed black-market operators, especially in rural areas.
“Operating without a valid business or hawker’s licence is a serious offence that may result in hefty fines or legal action. Every business, no matter how small, has a responsibility to contribute to the development of our province.
“I repeat you cannot build a strong community through black-market activities. If you think seriously about it, your contribution through a proper licence helps build development in Guadalcanal,” Premier Atu concluded.
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