BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
WESTERN Province Premier, Billy Veo, urges Provincial Assembly Members, the provincial administration and Ward Development Committees (WDCs) to proactively identify development gaps and opportunities as the province works towards strengthening its future development roadmap.
Speaking at the opening of the Ward Profiling Workshop in Gizo this week, Premier Veo said the initiative provides a critical platform for stakeholders to assess current challenges and plan strategic investments in key areas such as service delivery, infrastructure, health and livelihoods.
He emphasised that the workshop is not merely a procedural exercise, but a vital step towards building a “culture of evidence-based decision-making.”
“This workshop presents an opportunity to identify gaps in service delivery, infrastructure development, health and livelihood.
“Once finalised, the document will feed directly into the review of Western Provincial strategic development plans,” Veo said.
Veo reminded participants that ward profiles will play a central role in shaping future policies and budgets.
He said the decisions made will shape the direction of Western Province for years to come.
Veo said ward profiles will influence how resources are allocated and how the province will engage with donors and measure progress.
He described the development of ward profiles as an “intergenerational document” that will guide socio-economic priorities across the province and ensure that communities—no matter how remote—are heard and included.
Veo encourages participants to approach the discussions with openness, curiosity and collaboration.
“Let us listen to each other, challenge assumptions, and work together to ensure that the final profiles reflect the true character and needs of our various wards and communities,” he said.
He expressed hope that the workshop will be productive, insightful and lay a strong foundation for sustainable development across Western Province.
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