BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
PRIME Minister Jeremiah Manele has delivered a powerful message to the people of Kolombangara — saying that they are no longer outsiders but equal partners and co-owners of the Kolombangara Forestry Plantation Limited (KFPL).
Speaking during the official handing over and launching of the Kolombangara Landowners’ Equity at KFPL on Monday November 10, Manele said the event marks a new era of ownership, justice, and partnership between the government, investors, and the people of Kolombangara.
“You are no longer outsiders. You are partners. You are co-owners of KFPL. We gather not just for another official ceremony, but to mark a historic turning point — a new dawn — in the lives of the people of Kolombangara,” he said.
Manele said the occasion fulfilled a long-held dream and the government’s promise to empower the rightful landowners.
“This event signifies the fulfilment of a promise and the realization of a long-held dream. It represents justice, empowerment, and partnership for you — the rightful landowners of this island,” he said.
Manele announced that as of October 31, 2025, landowners officially hold a 20 percent equity capital in KFPL — a development that transforms them from observers to decision-makers.
“This means you are no longer tenants of development; you are shareholders of progress. Your voices will now shape decisions. Your participation will now drive growth. Your land will now work for you,” he said.
Manele commended his government for finalizing the equity transfer, noting that previous administrations were unable to complete the process.
He said six companies representing the five tribal groups of Kolombangara have been incorporated to ensure every tribe, family, and village have voices in the new ownership structure.
Manele explained that these companies collectively hold the 20 percent equity share, while the government and other investors retain 80 percent.
He also acknowledged the work of the Kolombangara Development Advisory Committee, a Cabinet Sub-Committee that has guided the process since its establishment under the previous Democratic Coalition Government for Advancement (DCGA) and later re-established by the current GNUT Government.
“The Committee has continued to support the entities, ensuring that the companies met all legal, financial, and administrative requirements to function as legitimate business enterprises. Some technical work is still ongoing, but the foundation has been firmly laid. You are now ready to participate fully as business partners in KFPL,” Manele said.
He congratulated the people of Kolombangara and reaffirms his government’s commitment to inclusive development.
“On behalf of the GNUT Government and the people of Solomon Islands, I congratulate you all. May God bless Kolombangara Island, may God bless the Western Province, and may God bless our beloved Solomon Islands,” Manele said.
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