BY MORRIS NAFU
The Makira-Ulawa Provincial Government has kick started a major agriculture initiative by resuming presence in its Okea land, North Guadalcanal Plains.
The provincial government, under the People Alliance for Change and Advancement (PACRA) administration, recommitted to the Kakake land in Okea, North Guadalcanal Plains, during a customary Chupu ceremony on Wednesday, attended by representatives from Guadalcanal Provincial Government and the land-owning Ghaobata tribe.
The 6.8-hectare parcel, acquired by the province in 1997, is scheduled for redevelopment as part of efforts to boost local revenue through investments.
Provincial Premier Stanley Siapu led the initiative, emphasising its significance beyond mere formality.
“This event is a homecoming, a reconnection to land of historical and spiritual importance.
“We return not as claimants, but as family, with humility and gratitude, to reaffirm our bond with the Okea land and its people,” Siapu said.
He added that the move fulfills their forefather’s visions for provincial betterment, with the aim to generate internal revenue and reduce reliance on national funding.
Guadalcanal Provincial Premier, Willie Atu confirmed the land’s legal status was already established, describing the gathering as a vital affirmation of customary traditions.
“I respect and uphold Makira Ulawa’s gesture, and Guadalcanal is open to this partnership,” Atu said.
In showing support to the Makira Province, Premier Atu attended the programme with the majority of his government MPAs.
Following the ceremony, the province signed an agreement with the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) to develop the site.
The land’s history traces back to investments by the Makira Economic Development Authority (MEDA), a provincial business arm.
Proceeds from a joint venture with Vanuatu-based Frabell, a Philippine company, funded the purchase for commercial use, including a property in Kola Ridge.
Under manager Caesar, MEDA grew from zero to a million dollars in returns.
However, the deportation of the MEDA general manager by the national government in the late 1990s triggered a decline, leaving the land undeveloped for 28 years and incurring costs.
The Chupu ceremony marks a revival, enabling redevelopment.
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