BY SAMIE WAIKORI
The Makira Ulawa Provincial Assembly has approved a budget of $28,980,000.97 during its meeting last week.
The total budget comprises a recurrent budget of $9,945,340.88 and a capital development budget of $19,034,660.09 for the 2026/2027 financial year.
Presenting the budget, Makira Ulawa Finance and Treasury Minister, Silas Wagatora said the budget reflects the Siapu led People’s Alliance for Change, Reform and Advancement (PACRA) government’s commitment to fiscal discipline, responsible expenditure, and prudent financial management, while ensuring public funds are directed toward services and development that directly benefit communities across Makira Ulawa.
“The budget is not merely a financial document; it is a policy instrument that guides the responsible use of public resources.
“Every dollar appropriated through the MUP assembly must translate into visible development outcomes in communities,” Wagatora said.
He emphasised that people in villages are not focused on budget numbers alone. They are concerned with roads that connect them, clinics that serve them, schools that educate their children, and opportunities that improve their livelihoods.”
Wagatora acknowledged that the province faces ongoing development challenges, particularly in infrastructure, service delivery, and economic opportunities.
“However, the current government remains committed to ensuring that development resources are directed toward projects that improve livelihoods, strengthen economic productivity, and expand opportunities for our people.
“That is why the capital development budget remains a critical instrument for advancing our development priorities,” he said.
He added that continued engagement with development partners is expected to bring greater flexibility in future investment criteria, allowing provincial needs to be better addressed in upcoming budgets.
The finance minister also stressed that the success of the budget depends not only on the availability of funds but on strong accountability, transparency, and responsible financial management by all implementing divisions.
“All funds appropriated through this assembly must be used efficiently and in strict accordance with approved development plans and financial regulations.
“This budget represents our government’s collective commitment to strengthen provincial governance, improve service delivery, and promote sustainable development across Makira Ulawa Province.
“While significant challenges remain, this budget demonstrates that our government is focused, responsible, and determined to move our province forward,” he said.
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