BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

THE Western Province has begun consultations toward establishing a Market Ordinance that will govern all provincial markets across the province.

A special committee appointed by the Western Provincial Assembly is currently undertaking the consultation process as part of the groundwork before drafting the ordinance.

On Monday December 1, 2025, the committee held its first round of consultations in Gizo with key stakeholders including the Gizo Market Vendors Association, Environmental Health, the Provincial Agriculture Office, and other partner institutions.

Following the meeting, the committee travelled to Noro to continue consultations with local stakeholders and partners regarding the proposed regulation.

Chairperson of the committee, Gideon Tuke, said the initiative originates from the Western Provincial Government, which currently owns four major markets located in Gizo, Noro, Munda and Seghe.

He said it is important that a proper legal framework is in place to safeguard these public facilities and ensure they are managed effectively.

Tuke said the ordinance will also aim to address key service areas such as waste management and human health.

He added that the purpose of the current consultation is to gather views, concerns and recommendations from stakeholders that will guide the drafting of the ordinance.

“This committee was established by the Assembly to seek views and insights from our partners and stakeholders. The information gathered will help us compile a draft ordinance,” he said.

Mr Tuke explained that the first step will be to establish a Market Policy, which will guide the ordinance and ensure it is effective and enforceable across the province.

He said information gathered during the consultation will form part of the policy which will later scrutinised by the provincial assembly.

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