BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
PREMIER of Western Province Billy Veo calls on the Government for Reform, Empowerment, Accountability and Transformation (GREAT) to support the upgrading of Gizo Road, describing the project as critical to the province’s future development plans.
Speaking during discussions with Prime Minister Mathew Wale in Gizo, Veo said the Western Provincial Government is working towards transforming Gizo into a major provincial hub where essential services such as education, healthcare and other government services can be readily accessed.
He said the province has already undertaken land scoping and demarcation exercises to identify areas for various developments, including educational institutions, agricultural projects, tourism ventures and other social services.
However, Veo said poor road infrastructure remains a major obstacle.
“The problem we have is the road. Look at Gizo Road. We are crying to improve Gizo Road.
“I have been accused of improving Noro Road because I’m a ward member of Noro. I have been red-marked by my people.
“My call is for the government to help double our commitments to improve the Gizo Road,” he said.
Veo said his government had previously discussed the road project with the former Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands as well as officials from the Ministry of Infrastructure Development.
He said the response from both parties was encouraging, but changes in government and the appointment of a new Australian High Commissioner have delayed progress on the proposal.
“We have discussed with the former Australian High Commissioner and he gave us assurance of funding to upgrade the road. Currently, I have shared the idea with the new Australian High Commissioner.
“I know that the Minister of Infrastructure is the same minister that we discussed this subject. I was told that the government will give us the project as a token of the country’s 50th independence anniversary.
“I hope and believe the plans with the Australian High Commission and the Minister of Infrastructure still remain,” Veo said.
Veo said the upgrading of Gizo Road will bring significant economic benefits to the province, particularly for local businesses and farmers who rely on road access to transport goods and services.
He added that improved infrastructure will also stimulate economic growth and support the province’s broader development agenda.
Veo said the improvement of Gizo Road will not only benefit local businesses and farmers but will also boost economic activities in Gizo.
He reaffirmed that the Western Provincial Government stands ready to work with the national government and development partners to ensure the project becomes a reality.
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