BY BEN BILUA

Gizo

PREMIER of Isabel Province, Lawrence Hayward, says true development can only be achieved when government and communities work hand in hand, stressing that neither side can build a sustainable and inclusive future on their own.

Delivering a powerful and inspiring address during the recent Western Day celebration, Hayward said the event’s theme — “Inclusive Development Through Community Partnership” — resonates deeply with the core responsibilities of provincial leadership and national growth.

He said the theme is a reminder that development must reach everyone: the small islands and rural villages, market vendors, fishermen and farmers, youths and women, church communities, people living with disabilities, and future generations.

Hayward emphasised that inclusive development is more than just a policy.

“It is a moral duty. “It ensures no communities nor family and no citizen are left behind. When growth includes everyone, stability strengthens, unity deepens and opportunities multiply,” he said.

Hayward said partnership must involve respecting traditional leaders, empowering church networks, recognising women as pillars of social and economic life, uplifting youths and innovators, and working closely with the private sector, NGOs and development partners.

He also highlighted that provincial governments are not “peripheral actors” but central drivers of nation building.

“The strength of Solomon Islands rests on the strength of all the provinces, and the strength of provinces rests on the people,” Hayward said.

He reminded those present that nation building is not the responsibility of leaders in Honiara or premiers alone, but a shared duty of all Solomon Islanders.

“Every school built in a remote village, every clinic opened, every road maintained, every local business supported is a step forward for the entire nation,” Hayward said.

On unity, Hayward stressed that it begins in homes and communities before reaching the provinces and national level.

“As premiers, we stand united in our commitment to strengthen provincial autonomy and governance, improve service delivery to our people, deepen community participation in development, protect our environment and natural resources, and promote economic growth that is inclusive and sustainable.

“We must walk side by side with the national government to build a stronger and more resilient Solomon Islands.”

He call for renewed collective commitment between communities, provincial government and the national government, NGOs, development partners and other stakeholders.

“Let unity be our compass, let partnership be our strength, and nation building be the duty that binds us all,” Hayward said.

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