BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
THE Ward Profile and Ten-Year Strategic Plan Workshop for Western Province successfully concluded last week, marking an important milestone in the province’s drive to strengthen local development planning.
Speaking during the closing ceremony, IEDCR Consultant Adrian Toni said the next step will involve incorporating the agreed revisions, finalising the Ward Profiles and Ten-Year Strategic Plan before seeking formal endorsement and integrating the document into the province’s budget and implementation cycles.
He urges provincial leaders and Ward Development Committees (WDCs) to remain engaged and ensure that commitments made during the workshop are turned into tangible improvements in areas such as health, education, climate change adaptation, infrastructure, and livelihoods.
Toni acknowledges development partners including UNICEF, UNCDF, and IEDCR for their technical and financial support in making the validation workshop possible.
He also expressed appreciation to the Premier, Executive Members, Members of Provincial Assembly (MPAs), the Provincial Secretary, the Public Accounts Committee Chairperson, and provincial officers for their leadership and cooperation throughout the week-long program.
“To Ward Support Officers, WDC Chairs and representatives — your local knowledge, your courage to speak honestly, and your dedication have been the backbone of this process.
“To divisional heads and provincial teams — thank you for guiding the technical discussions and for making the plan practical and implementable,” Toni said.
Toni further acknowledged his fellow consultants, Alan Agassi and Dr. Morgan Wairiu, for their expertise and contribution in shaping a credible and realistic plan.
Quoting Mahatma Gandhi, he added, “Be the change you wish to see in the world. Your service this week has been that change in action.”
“May our ancestors bless this work. Walk in peace and strength, and let us go forward together — united, determined, and hopeful for a better Western Province for our children and generations to come,” he concluded.
Premier Billy Veo also commended the dedication and commitment of MPAs, Heads of Divisions, and Ward Leaders in developing the document.
He said the workshop demonstrates strong collaboration between provincial leaders and communities, highlighting a shared vision to advance the province’s development aspirations.
“This week, our Members of Provincial Assembly sat side by side with Ward Development Leaders and discussed important issues that will strengthen the Ten-Year Strategy.
“We have created the pathway, and I must acknowledge your efforts,” Premier Veo said.
Veo reaffirms his government’s support for the Ward Profile initiative, saying it has been a key focus since he took office.
He said the government looks forward to reviewing the final draft and tabling the document in the first Assembly meeting next year.
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