DCCG PUSHES FOR LAND REFORM, ENCOURAGES UNITY

 The Democratic Coalition for Change Government (DCCG) is currently in the process of implementing Land Reform policies to compliment Traditional Governance.

This is to allow tribal customary lands to be recognised under a legislative framework and allow customary landowners and entities to participate in the development of their land, in both community and commercial development initiatives.

In his speech to mark the 34th Malaita’s Second Appointed Day, the Prime Minster Acting, Mannaseh Maelanga said the Land Reform Program includes developing the concept of Traditional and Community Governance to support legal recognition of customary land.

It is also to assist the national government address demands by traditional landowners for the return of alienated lands and provide a basis for the introduction of a land restitution policy that will cater for traditionally owned land to be recognized in perpetuity.

The government believes that implementation of the land reform program will effectively deal with issues such as land tenure, titles and other land – related issues.

“This is because the current acquisition process divides, rather than unites communities in development”, he told Malaitans today.

He said that the three pillars supporting the traditional governance policy such as tribal, church and government institutions will provide the basis for meaningful engagement at all levels within various communities and offer an alternative approach towards achieving long term sustainable development objectives across all sectors.

The foundation for this approach is currently in the process of being implemented as the policy basis for delivery of all national development priorities of the Democratic Coalition for Change Government.

“This is to promote unity and achieve consistency throughout the country so we can overcome the barriers preventing us from realizing our true potential”, said, the Acting Prime Minster.

The MP for East Malaita also reiterated that the DCCG is confident that meaningful progress can be achieved for the nation as a whole.

Also, to support projects earmarked in each sector for Malaita Province such as infrastructure, aviation, environment and climate change, commerce and industry, agriculture and fisheries.

Hon. Maelanga also announced that a resolution was reached between the Bina/Talifu landowners to the pave way for reconciliation and a formal agreement to be signed that should support actual commencement of the project by early 2018, while Parasi landowners are ready to sign an MOU that is currently with Attorney General’s Chambers and the airfield is expected to open before this this year’s end.

The MP also announced that DCCG’s aim to develop an additional 2,000 to 3,000 hectares of the registered lands at Waisisi under The Waisisi-Wairokai Oil Palm Project.

Meanwhile, Maelanga stressed that DCCG’s commitment in community governance, traditional governance, partnership and working together.

He encouraged Malaita to collaborate and share her visions and aspirations with the other sister provinces.

“The outcomes of course would be an improved livelihood and a strong will-power in the minds of our people to be stronger and more resilient as we move ahead with development.”

The program is attended by Premier of Malaita Province, Hon. Peter Chanel Ramohia, the Speaker of Malaiter Province, Hon. Titus Fika, Malaita Provincial Secretary, Jackson Gege, members of the Provincial Executive and Provincial Assembly who hosted the Acting Prime Minister and his delegates.

Source: Alex Akwai, Assistant Press Secretary to the Prime Minister

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