By John Houanihau

Ngela Constituency Development Officer Robert Manebona has stated that while they are currently considering the procurement of a ship, several challenges are associated with owning and operating one.

“It has always been our intention, as the plan is in place,” Manebona told Island Sun in an exclusive interview.

He emphasized that improving road access within the constituency would enable farmers to fulfill their responsibilities and support the growth of tourism.

“If all sectors are functioning effectively and we have a suitable port of call, ship operations could become profitable,” he explained.

Manebona noted that the current shipping business in Ngella is not profitable, which has led many individuals to rely on outboard motors (OBMs) due to the lack of adequate port facilities.

“However, if we enhance road infrastructure and establish proper seaports, ship backloading would become more beneficial,” he added.

He also highlighted ongoing discussions about collaboration with the provincial government’s development arm.

“We have ongoing consultations with the provincial government to explore ways to integrate our efforts and advance key projects. The primary focus for the productive sector is to ensure roads are opened in specific regions.

“For instance, certain areas already have wharves. If roads connect all communities, farmers should have no difficulties in transporting their goods,”he said.

Manebona further acknowledged that many farmers continue to face challenges due to poor road conditions, despite the availability of weekly private shipping services in Ward Seven.

“Nevertheless, we have plans for constituency ships, which will be implemented in the coming years. However, our immediate priority is road development,” he concluded.

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Siapu led People’s Alliance for Change, Reform, and Advancement (PACRA) government of Makira Ulawa province focus on developing Makira Ulawa province.

The focus encapsulates the theme; “building a prosperous and happy Makira Ulawa Province.”

According to Premier Stanley Siapu, this theme underscores MUPG’s commitment to socio-economic empowerment, sustainable development, and the transformation of dependency into self-reliance.

He stressed that at the heart of this vision lies the belief that true prosperity is not only measured by economic indicators but also by the well-being, happiness, and resilience of our people.

To achieve this, Siapu said PACRA government has prioritized a multi-faceted approach, addressing key areas that impact the lives of every citizen.

Key areas as follow;

• Socio-economic empowerment: We aim to create an environment where individuals and communities can thrive economically and socially.

This includes promoting small and medium enterprises, supporting local farmers and fisher folk, and encouraging entrepreneurship.

By providing access to training, resources, and markets, we are equipping our people with the tools they need to achieve self-reliance and improve their quality of life.

• Sustainable development: The government recognizes the importance of balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship.

Initiatives are underway to promote sustainable practices in agriculture, fisheries, and forestry.

We are also investing in renewable energy projects and climate-resilient infrastructure to mitigate the impacts of climate change while ensuring long-term sustainability for our natural resources.

• Education and human capital development: Building a prosperous province begins with empowering our youth through quality education and skills development.

The government is committed to improving access to education at all levels, enhancing curriculum relevance, and fostering a culture of lifelong learning.

Soon, scholarships and vocational training programs will be expanded to bridge skill gaps and prepare our workforce for emerging opportunities.

• Infrastructure and connectivity: Recognizing that infrastructure is the backbone of economic growth, we are focusing on improving transportation networks, including roads, bridges, and ports.

These projects will enhance connectivity between rural and urban areas, facilitating the movement of goods and services while reducing the isolation of remote communities.

• Health and well-being: A healthy population is a cornerstone of development. The government is working to strengthen healthcare systems, improve service delivery, and expand access to essential medical care.

Investments in public health programs, clean water, and sanitation are being prioritized to ensure the well-being of our citizens.

• Good governance and accountability: Transparency, accountability, and inclusivity form the foundation of our governance approach.

The PACRA government is committed to fostering a culture of integrity within public institutions, ensuring that resources are managed responsibly, and decisions are made in the best interest of the people.

• Community participation and empowerment: True progress is achieved when communities are active participants in their development journey.

We are engaging with stakeholders at all levels to ensure that policies and programs reflect the diverse needs and aspirations of our people.

By promoting grassroots participation, we aim to build a sense of ownership and pride in the development process.

Siapu said through this comprehensive and people-centred approach, PACRA government seeks to transform Makira Ulawa Province into a thriving province, where every individual could prosper and contribute meaningfully to the growth and happiness of the province.

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BY INDY MAEALASIA

MISS Kiribati Kimberly Tokanang has shared her desire to “give back more” to her people and country through her participation in the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant (MPIP)2025.

Upon arriving at the Henderson International Airport yesterday just before midday, Tokanang shared her gratitude with local media.

When asked what message she would convey to her supporters and team, she said, “It’s always gratitude…. there has been way more that I have received and I hope to give back as much as well or maybe more,” with a cheerful smile.  

In addition to competing for the coveted Miss Pacific Islands title, Miss Kiribati sees this opportunity as a once-in-a-lifetime learning experience.

“..not only I am looking forward to promoting my culture but I am also looking forward to learning about other culture..” she shared. 

She hopes the platform will allow her to address the common challenges facing the region.

“..we are all different but I am pretty sure there are common issues we are all facing right now.”

The Kiribati delegation was warmly welcomed with the sounds of panpipe music and embraces from the representatives of the Kiribati community and MPIP organizing committee.

Being the first of seven other visiting contestants, Tokanang expressed her joy of being here.

“It is a blessing and pleasure to be here,” the 25-year-old added. 

The Papua New Guinea, American Samoa, Samoa, Tonga delegations, MPIP Secretariat, and the reigning Miss Pacific Islands Moemoana Schewenke are expected to arrive in the country today.

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The Anglican Church of Melanesia (ACOM) has confirmed the sale of MV Southern Cross 10.

The tenth Southern Cross was commissioned and handed over to ACOM by the Melanesian Mission Trust Board (MMTB) of New Zealand on April 1, 2024.

ACOM General Secretary, Dr Abraham Hauriasi told Island Sun yesterday that the decision for sale was confirmed after it went through the ACOM management board.

He said that some of the reasons for the sale amongst many other reasons were capacity-wise, operational cost and maintenance cost.

“Firstly, whatever vessel the Church purchased should fit its purpose and mission.

“However, following its tours after it was commissioned, it has come to our notice that the vessel does not have enough passenger or loading capacity for the church missions,” said Hauriasi.

“The other one has to do with the operational cost. Its operational cost is a little bit too high. It is special because it is a super yacht. We found out that the cost of maintenance is quite high. The church cannot maintain or keep it running,’’ he said.

He said that the ship will be put for sale through public tender early next month.

“We will not be directly involved. The vessel will be taken to NZ and put up for tender because we never know if any local would be interested in purchasing. However, it depends if any local is interested in purchasing,’’ he said.

He said that the vessel is almost 28 years old and therefore its maintenance will cost the church.

“So, the church decided to find a new ship that is simple enough to operate and we can afford. when the ACOM searches for the ship, they work with their partners in NZ. Maybe we do not make diligence decisions in some areas. But, for now, we cannot blame anyone. We make mistakes and it is something we might learn from.

He said that the Vessel was purchased around New Zealand for $ 6 million.

He said that the shipping board will meet next week to finalise when the ship will travel and put on tender in New Zealand.

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By Loretta B Manele

The Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) focus now is on decentralizing projects to the provinces.

Manasseh Maelanga, the minister for the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) expressed the above in an interview with the paper on Tuesday this week.

He emphasized that at the moment they are looking at how they can decentralize more projects to the provinces as people in the provinces may look at Honiara and wonder why projects are only taking place in the capital.

Maelanga said this is what his ministry is working on.

“We have to look at decentralizing more projects to the provinces”

Maelanga stressed that they are looking at having projects from MID not only in one province at a time but rolling out projects in more than one province.

“So, it is like, when we have one project in Western province, there should also be at least one project in Makira province or one in Malaita”

The member of parliament for East Malaita stressed that this is what the government is trying to implement and see happen in the country in terms of projects from MID.

Maelanga noted that he wants to assure the public, especially people who talk about roads that the government is working on projects like this.

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