BY LORETTA BRIGIDIA MANELE
THE national budget for all provinces this year stands at $10 million, according to finance minister
The national government has been very supportive of the Provincial Capacity Development Fund (PCDF) for many years and will continue to maintain the commitment to ensure that people receive the benefits and services they’re required.
This is according to Deputy Prime Minister and Finance minister, Manasseh Sogavare.
Sogavare expressed that he believes since the programme’s inception 10 years ago, provinces have benefited a lot from utilisation of projects be it through health, education, women, social or economic development sector.
He stated that despite the government’s increasing support over the year, this year’s budget remains at $10million for all provinces.
One issue he said the national government is very much conscious about regarding the PCDF programme is the recognition and implementation of the Public Private Partnership or PPP policy.
Hence, Sogavare added that they would like to ensure that all joint partnerships including private and public sectors receive maximum benefits out of the resources allocated and the projects traded within the provinces.
In the case of the 2018 PCDF assessment, he explained that a committee recently, has discussed the 2018 assessment report and have indicated that most provinces have met the minimum conditions.
“A formal report on the assessment will be released very soon and the disbursements will be done in the next couple of months,” said Sogavare.
He then acknowledged Guadalcanal premier, Anthony Veke for his leadership and the commitment of his staff in ensuring that Guadalcanal qualifies for this year’s assessment.
“I believe your province will continue to maintain this position in the years ahead,” said Sogavare.
The Member of Parliament for East Choiseul constituency was speaking during Guadalcanal province’s Second Appointed Day occasion, celebrated on August 3 at the National Museum venue.
