BY SAMIE WAIKORI
The Sagupari-led Government of Change and Rural Transformation (GCRT) in Central Islands Province (CIP) is working to revive several major investments that once played a key role in the province’s economy but closed decades ago.
Among the priority projects are the redevelopment of Anuha Island Resort and renewed development efforts in the Russell Islands, which both aim to boost tourism and economic activity. And these initiatives form part of the current government’s key achievements.
Speaking at a recent provincial full assembly in Tulagi, Premier Kenneth Sagupari revealed that long-standing issues surrounding Anuha Island Resort have now been resolved through active consultation between national and provincial governments, resource owners, and investors.
“We have successfully negotiated and signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between all parties, especially with the landowning tribes and groups. Reconciliation processes have been conducted, and new trustees have been appointed for its redevelopment,” he said.
Sagupari added that his government is also progressing discussions with the Russell Islands House of Chiefs, particularly on development plans for Pavuvu.
He said the Ministry of Lands and Housing in collaboration with the CIP government, is finalising arrangements for the subdivision of government land on Pavuvu. This is expected to be a priority task in the first quarter of the 2026/2027 financial year.
“This is a priority, given the push by the Commodities Marketing Authority Taskforce Committee under the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (OPMC), with funding support from investors to establish a coconut oil refinery at Pavuvu in the Russell Islands by 2028,” Sagupari said.
The premier also highlighted recent growth in tourism within the province. The opening of Double Island Resort and Raiders Hotel signals a new phase for the tourism industry in CIP.
He further acknowledged support from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, which has allocated SBD $5 million specifically for Tulagi tourism operators. The funds have been disbursed, with historical site developments and museum exhibitions now in their initial stages of implementation.
Sagupari emphasised that these developments are aligned with the province’s long-term goal of becoming the next central tourism hub of Solomon Islands within the next decade.
Supporting this vision, he confirmed that both provincial and national governments are backing the construction of a ring road in Tulagi, with the contract already awarded.
The premier said the project will include full tar sealing and is being delivered as part of the country’s 50th anniversary initiatives, expected to significantly enhance the province’s tourism profile.
Meanwhile, the premier also announced that Central province has been selected as the pilot location for the Yandina Fishery Centre.
“We are prepared to host a new vessel in Tulagi to support local fisheries, research activities, and Fish Aggregating Device (FAD) deployments,” he said.
Sagupari said these initiatives reflect the progress his government is making and he calls on all stakeholders in the province to work together to ensure their successful implementation.
For feedback, contact: [email protected]
Editor: [email protected]
