BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
CHIEF of Marovo, Nichol Nonga, says genuine development in Solomon Islands can only be achieved through honest, inclusive partnerships between the national government, provincial governments and communities.
Speaking during the Western Day celebrations at Seghe, Nonga said the 2025 theme, “Inclusive Development Through Community Partnership,” serves as a powerful reminder of what is needed to deliver meaningful progress across the country.
He stressed that development does not happen in isolation, but is built on strong collaboration.
“Completed activities and those in progress must benefit everyone regardless of ability, gender, background or faith, so that no one is left behind Nonga said’.
He added that true development requires local ownership, which can only be realised when government, businesses and communities work together with trust, respect and unity.
“Only then we can have true development that is beneficial to all,” Nonga said.
He also urged communities, provincial and national governments, development partners and stakeholders to renew their commitment to working together to build a stronger Solomon Islands.
Co highlighted that inclusive participation—from consultation to implementation and completion—is essential to achieving sustainable outcomes.
At the same time, Nonga called on both the provincial and national governments to genuinely listen to the needs of communities and support initiatives that improve livelihoods.
He pointed out that communities continue to lack basic infrastructure and services such as roads, bridges, schools, clinics, water supply, wharves, communication, markets—along with the security and peace required to thrive.
Nonga said the people of Marovo stand ready to support development efforts with their limited resources to help bring peace and progress to Western Province and the nation as a whole.
He also acknowledged the Western Provincial Government and Premier Billy Veo for choosing Seghe as the host of the 2025 Western Day celebrations.
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