Latest news with #SolomonIslandsMinistryofRuralDevelopment
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4 days ago
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Shortland Islands Constituency Acquits 2024 CDF Expenditure In Compliance With CDF Act 2023
Press Release – Solomon Islands Ministry of Rural Development This decisive act underscores the constituencys commitment to transparency, accountability and responsible management of public resources, setting a positive precedent for other constituencies. 1st August 2025 The Shortland Islands Constituency (SIC) today (1st August, 2025) officially acquitted its 2024 Constituency Development Funds (CDF) expenditure with financial report submitted to the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD) in strict compliance with the CDF Act 2023. This decisive act underscores the constituency's commitment to transparency, accountability and responsible management of public resources, setting a positive precedent for other constituencies. Also, the submission not only foster trust but also demonstrate the constituency office's dedication to good governance, marking a significant step in upholding transparency and accountability under the CDF Act 2023, in line with Section 29, which mandates all 50 constituencies to submit annual reports on the utilization of CDF grants. Constituency Development Officer (CDO) Bernard Vave and his constituency office team presented the report to the Deputy Secretary Technical (Acting) George Balairamo. The report details the financial records and expenditures of the $3.88 million allocated to each constituency for the 2024 financial year. CDO Vave on behalf of the constituency office and the constituency's leadership emphasized their commitment to fostering community development through proper utilization of CDF funds, ensuring that all projects align with national principles and serve the best interests of Shortland Islands people/constituents. 'This act reflects our constituency's ongoing efforts under the leadership of Honourable Minister Isikeli Vave Jnr, MP to uphold integrity, reinforce public trust in public resource management and to improve our development initiatives and ensure responsible stewardship of public funds for sustainable development initiatives for our rural communities. 'We remain dedicated to fostering transparent governance and working closely with our communities to prioritize developments that will bring lasting benefits to everyone' The acquittal confirms that funds allocated for 2024 have been appropriately managed and accounted for, reflecting the constituency's dedication to good governance. CDO Vave expressed gratitude to the national government through MRD, all stakeholders, including community leaders, community members, and implementing agencies, for their cooperation and commitment throughout the process of implementation in 2024. Moving forward, the constituency remains committed to maintaining high standards of financial management and transparency, ensuring that development initiatives continue to benefit the people of the Shortland Islands. Representing the MRD, Deputy Secretary Technical (Acting) Goerge Balairamo recognized the submission as a positive way forward. He emphasized the Ministry's commitment to implementing the CDF legislation and providing guidance to ensure proper administration of constituency programs within this legal framework. He also highlighted the importance of these annual reports, including financial expenditure reports, as vital documents for organizational accountability and transparency, particularly when public resources are involved. 'These reports reinforce transparency and demonstrate accountability in the use of public funds,' Mr. Balairamo said. He also commended Honourable Minister for Home Affairs, Hon. Isikeli Vave Jnr for his leadership, and thanked constituency officers for their diligent efforts in fulfilling their reporting obligations. Meanwhile, CDO Vave on behalf of Hon. Minister Isikeli, MP, and the people of Shortland Islands, expressed delight in submitting the report and pledged ongoing support to MRD to ensure annual compliance with legal reporting requirements. He noted that most of the SIC 2024 budget was allocated to support community projects in compliance to the CDF Act 2023 funding apportionment. According to the constituency office, a major delivery of 2024 projects to the constituency is arranged for next week with loading of projects are currently underway in Honiara. The CDF Act 2023 was passed by Parliament on December 22, 2023, and came into effect on January 5, 2024. This legislation makes it clear that any offences committed by recipients of the CDF after this commencement date are subject to penalties. Penalties apply to constituents, Members of Parliament, and public officers who commit offences such as: Misappropriates any funds or assets from the fund; or Advances materials and cash from a supplier without prior approval from the responsible ministry; or Fraudulently converts project assets or materials to his own use or to the use of some other person; or Deliberately victimises non-voters by excluding them from receiving Constituency Development Funds projects and funds without justifiable grounds; or Assists or causes a person to misappropriate or apply the funds otherwise than in the manner provided in this Act and Regulations. With the new CDF legislation in place, it is the collective responsibility of all stakeholders to adhere to the law, ensuring proper use of funds and avoiding legal penalties. We should view this legislation not as a threat but as a guide to conduct and accountability in managing development funds or public resources. The primary purposes of the CDF Act 2023 are: To strengthen good governance; To ensure improved and effective delivery mechanisms of the Constituency Development Funds and To promote equal and inclusive participation of all Solomon Islanders in development. Constituents and the public are encouraged to consult their respective constituency offices should they need to get more information about how their constituency offices implement their Constituency Development Program (CDP). Constituency Development Program is a national programme of the Solomon Islands Government (SIG) administered by the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD). It is implemented by the 50 constituencies in the country purposely to improve the socio-economic livelihoods of Solomon Islanders.
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4 days ago
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MRD Launches New Corporate Plan Outlining Strategic Priorities For Next 3 Years
Press Release – Solomon Islands Ministry of Rural Development The plan emphasizes sustainable development, empowerment for self-sufficiency, and inclusive growth, aiming to foster economic resilience and improve livelihood opportunities across rural communities. The Ministry of Rural Development (MRD) has officially launched its new Corporate Plan, Tuesday last week, outlining the strategic priorities that will guide its development program initiatives over the next three years (2024–2027). The plan emphasizes sustainable development, empowerment for self-sufficiency, and inclusive growth, aiming to foster economic resilience and improve livelihood opportunities across rural communities. Delivering his keynote address to formally launched the important policy document, Honourable Minister of MRD, Daniel Waneoroa highlighted the government's commitment to implementing innovative policies and collaborative efforts to ensure equitable progress, reaffirming MRD's dedication to transforming rural communities into vibrant hubs of prosperity. He stated that, despite the late completion of this important document, mainly due to the movement of the permanent secretaries to and from the Ministry, he was satisfied that the process had now concluded as of Tuesday (29th July 2025). The direction and foundation of the MRD's Corporate Plan 2024–2027 are based on the ministry's new vision, which is: 'Empowering all Solomon Islanders for self-sufficiency, improved livelihoods, and sustainable development.' Hon. Minister Waneoroa said, 'Understanding this vision is important, as empowerment for self-sufficiency of livelihoods and sustainable development of our people and communities is built on the premise that we, as a Ministry, partly have the responsibility for the resources and capacities that can influence and bring transformation to the lives of our rural people and communities.' He added, 'Understanding our corporate vision enlightens us to the immense responsibility of ensuring that our roles and responsibilities are aligned and implemented under the guidance of this strategic plan.' The Corporate Plan focuses on the following key objectives and policy reforms: Supporting the enforcement of the Constituency Development Fund Act 2023 (CDF Act 2023) Strengthening financial compliance and audits of the MRD and the 50 constituency offices Strengthening institutions and systems in monitoring and evaluation Improving and strengthening the reporting mechanisms of the CDF and the Constituency Development Program (CDP) Building capacities of CDCs and Constituency Officers Development of the Constituency Development Growth Centre Policy Implementation of the CDF Act 2023 regulations and oversight of governance mechanisms for CDP Resource mobilization for rural development programs Hon. Minister Waneoroa further emphasized that, while the MRD's implementation is focused at the Ministry level, this Corporate Plan is directly linked to the Solomon Islands Development Strategy 2016–2035 (SINDS; 2016–2035) and the GNUT Government policy priorities for rural development. '…our work plans for 2025–26 must align with these primary policy documents to enable us to measure our successes and report on them.' He also took the opportunity to encourage the Permanent Secretary and staff to embrace the new vision and move forward with the implementation of the strategy. 'Let us work to provide an enabling environment where rural and disadvantaged communities can actively engage sustainably in socio-economic initiatives that elevate their standard of living.' 'The Ministry of Rural Development (MRD) Corporate Plan 2024–2027 sets out a renewed direction and guides the Ministry to plan, prioritize, and implement its programs toward realizing its long-term goals,' he said. The Hon. Minister also acknowledged Permanent Secretary John Niroa Misite'e, his executive team, and the rest of the ministry staff for their great teamwork in formulating the policy document. Meanwhile, Policy Secretary Resource Sector (PSRS) Thomas Bebeu from the Office of the Prime Minister & Cabinet (OPMC) congratulated the Minister, Permanent Secretary, and staff of MRD for this significant achievement. He stated that such accomplishments are not easy, as they involve facing numerous challenges and requiring considerable effort. Mr. Bebeu also recognized the strong leadership of Permanent Secretary Misite'e and the support from all staff in the formulation of this important policy document, which sets a strategic direction for the ministry's program implementation to strengthen and empower rural communities. Joining the Hon. Minister, Permanent Secretary, Heads of Divisions, and MRD staff during the soft launching were Policy Secretary Resource Sector Thomas Bebeu and Deputy Policy Secretary John Kabolo from the Office of the Prime Minister & Cabinet (OPMC).
Scoop
02-07-2025
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62 Companies Sign PSA Contracts With SIG/MRD To Supply Materials To Constituencies
Press Release – Solomon Islands Ministry of Rural Development This signing marks a significant milestone toward the full implementation of the 2025 Constituency Development Funds (CDF) budget; enabling the mobilization of essential resources for rural development projects and community improvements. The Ministry of Rural Development (MRD) has completed the qualification process and recently signed legally binding agreements with 62 private companies under the Solomon Islands Government Preferred Supplier Arrangement (PSA). The PSA qualifies these Companies to supply materials, equipment, goods and services to the national government through the 50 constituencies. This signing marks a significant milestone toward the full implementation of the 2025 Constituency Development Funds (CDF) budget; enabling the mobilisation of essential resources for rural development projects and community improvements. The PSA is a SIG procurement administrative process designed to streamline and fix procurement procedures particularly for commonly procured goods or equipment by engaging legally registered, genuine, and qualified companies to supply goods and services to the government. The goal is to improve efficiency and ensure the delivery of quality services to both the government and the public. 'The PSA contracts are valid for one year, with procurement of goods and services governed by and in compliance with Sections 73 and 74 of the Public Financial Management (PFM) Act 2013 and Section 28 of the Constituency Development Funds (CDF) Act 2023' MRD said in an official statement. 'The processes will be closely monitored by MRD in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance and Treasury (MoFT) to ensure all procurement procedures under the relevant sections of the PFM Act 2013, SIG Procurement Manual and the CDF Act 2023 are complied with, guaranteeing that quality goods and services are delivered to the constituencies,' the statement added. It further explained that, to ensure impartiality, the PSA underwent a rigorous selection and evaluation process, including physical site inspections and assessments on suppliers conducted by the MRD Technical Evaluation Committee (TEC). The process also involved scrutiny by the Ministry of Finance (MoFT) and the Central Tender Board (CTB) before contracts were awarded to successful suppliers. Regarding pricing, MRD secured fixed prices for various items based on prevailing market rates, ensuring value for money and consistent quality of materials purchased by constituencies for development projects. Price evaluation was conducted exclusively for the 62 qualified companies across the following categories/items: Hardware and Building Materials Forestry Milling Products Marine, Seagoing, and Fishing Equipment Plant & Motor Vehicles Electrification Supplies Plumbing, Water Supply, and Sanitation Equipment Communication, Musical, and Sound Equipment Sports Equipment and Accessories Agriculture and Gardening Equipment Tailoring, Embroidery, and Fabric Printing Equipment Cookery, Bakery, and Kitchenware Retail Goods The CTB serves as the awarding authority, responsible for the tender awards following the completion of all technical evaluation processes undertaken by MRD. PSA contracts are prepared by MRD, with signatories including Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance and Treasury (Chairman of the CTB), PS MRD (Chairman of the Ministerial Tender Board, MTB), and the suppliers. The contracts are valid for one year (12 months), with fixed prices throughout the period. The list of the qualified suppliers for the PSA will be published when all contract documentations are finalised soon. The Tender for the PSA was publicised in October 2024, with 68 companies submitting bids. After thorough evaluation, six companies were disqualified for failing to meet the minimum technical requirements outlined in the tender documentation, including Section VI, Schedule of Requirements. MRD also undertook a quick review of the selling prices of commonly procured goods under the PSA which resulted in some decrease in pricing on some commonly procured goods under the scheme. Funding for the 2025 PSA is allocated from the MRD/SIG Development Budget. The SIG support to the Constituency Development Program totals $250 million, which will be equally shared among the 50 constituencies—each receiving $5 million. Of this amount, $3.2 million is allocated and to be processed via the Preferred Suppliers Arrangement, while $1.8 million is provided as grants to the respective constituencies. Funding utilisation will follow the sectoral allocations stipulated in the CDF Act 2023, Section 26. Specifically, the funding utilisation will be portioned as follows: The implementation of the 2025 CDF program continues to progress smoothly.
Scoop
07-06-2025
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East Makira Constituency Delivers Livelihood Assistance To Empower Rural Communities
Press Release – Solomon Islands Ministry of Rural Development This initiative underscores the governments ongoing commitment to uplifting rural communities and fostering sustainable development, especially in EMC under the leadership of the Member of Parliament and Minister for Agriculture and Livestock, Honourable … The East Makira Constituency (EMC) office has successfully delivered the remaining Constituency Development Fund (CDF)-funded livelihood assistance and projects to recipients across EMC. This initiative underscores the government's ongoing commitment to uplifting rural communities and fostering sustainable development, especially in EMC under the leadership of the Member of Parliament and Minister for Agriculture and Livestock, Honourable Franklyn Derek Wasi. From May 21st to 25th, 2025, EMC Constituency Development Officer (CDO) Mr. Timan Tauni facilitated the distribution of these vital projects to beneficiaries in their respective communities. The assistance is part of a larger $3.7 million livelihood support program delivered to communities and churches in East Makira Constituency earlier this year. Key highlights of the livelihood assistance include: Solar Energy for Vulnerable Groups: A total of 227 solar sets were distributed, with 114 sets allocated to Ward 12 and 113 sets to Ward 17. Priority was given to older adults, widows, and people living with disabilities, ensuring they have access to reliable lighting. 'Solar lights are transformative for rural communities. They enhance safety, improve health, and enable economic activities after dark, all while being environmentally sustainable,' Mr. Tauni explained. Boosting Fisheries and Transportation: Four fishing boats equipped with outboard motor engines (OBMs) were provided to support local fisheries. A transportation project and a fuel depot project were also delivered to address logistical challenges in the region. Edward Kwasi, a fishery project recipient from Santa Catalina Island, shared, 'This OBM will help my family expand our fishing business, meet school fees, and improve our livelihoods. Fishing is our way of life, and this support is a dream come true.' Fuel Depot for Reliable Energy Access: Mr. Chris Wago, a fuel depot recipient from Natorara Village (Ward 17), emphasised the project's importance: 'Fuel shortages have long hindered our fishermen. This depot will ensure a steady supply, support local businesses, and help families like mine thrive.' All recipients signed the 'Recipient Agreement' under Section 19 of the new CDF Act 2023, formalising their commitment to maintain and utilise the projects for their intended purposes. Mr. Tauni urged beneficiaries to safeguard these assets, stating, 'The sustainability of these initiatives lies in your hands. They are not just for personal benefit but for the broader development of East Makira.' Meanwhile, recipients expressed deep appreciation to the national government through EMC Office and Honourable Franklyn Derek Wasi for their unwavering support. 'These projects are more than just assistance—they are opportunities to uplift our families, communities, and the entire constituency,' remarked one beneficiary. The CDF program, facilitated by the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD), continues to drive social and economic progress in rural Solomon Islands by funding income-generating projects, infrastructure, and essential services.
Scoop
25-04-2025
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North Guadalcanal Constituency Champions CDF Accountability
Press Release – Solomon Islands Ministry of Rural Development This marks a significant step in promoting transparency and accountability in the delivery of its CDF under the national governments Constituency Development Programme (CDP). The era of desired change has arrived for the North Guadalcanal Constituency (NGC) as it takes the lead in Constituency Development Funds (CDF) audit compliance. This marks a significant step in promoting transparency and accountability in the delivery of its CDF under the national government's Constituency Development Programme (CDP). Recently, the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD) conducted an internal procurement audit and compliance spot check on the constituency's 2024 CDF budget expenditures and was satisfied to note the high-level of compliance established by the Constituency office in relation to the government's procurement and financial management guidelines particularly the Public Financial Management Act (PFMA) 2013 and the CDF Act 2023. The spot-audit was conducted as part of the initial legislative and administrative reform program and work plan to be undertaken by the MRD in 2025 as provided for under the CDF Act 2023 and other public financial management requirements. The exercise was undertaken with the invitation made by and fully supported by the NGC through the proactive support of its, MP Honourable Dr. Paul Bosawai. Compliance spot checks are important for ensuring organizations' ongoing adherence to guidelines, internal financial management procedures, and best practices to avoid and minimise fiduciary risks and legal consequences in the administration and implementation of the CDP and CDF as the source funding. They also help detect and address weaknesses in internal controls which are important mechanisms whenever public funds are being utilised on behalf of the people. Financial Controller Paul Gregory Alalo, who led the MRD team for the compliance check, recognized Hon. Minister Bosawai and his constituency team for the job well done. 'I am satisfied. Your compliance with the government's procurement guidelines, procedures, and policies is outstanding. You have set the precedence, and this is the standard that we encourage other constituencies to emulate,' Mr. Alalo emphasized. Mr. Alalo then encouraged the constituency team to continue the good work and to keep supporting their MP for the constituency's prosperity, and, most importantly, to always adhere to the government's procurement guidelines and principles. MRD Director of Rural Development Division (RDD) Milfred Delemani shared similar sentiments. While acknowledging Hon. Dr. Bosawai for his bold step, Mr. Delemani highlighted that NGC is the first-ever constituency to support the MRD reform efforts and particularly in this spot audit on its CDF expenditures. 'This really paves the way forward for good governance, transparency, and accountability, in alignment with the CDF Act are setting the pace for all constituencies in financial and procurement audit,' Mr Delemani said. 'I am heartened to see such proactive, passionate, and energetic leaders like you taking the courage to initiate and set out new directions and setting the standards for the betterment of your people and the wider Solomon Islands,' Mr. Delemani underscored. MRD Director of Governance, Noel Matea, stressed that audit compliance has been a challenge for the ministry over the years, but with the enforcement of the CDF Act 2023, it become legally necessary for every constituency to comply with the legislative guidelines and policies to avoid legal implications. 'You have set a standard, and this is the highest standard we encourage every constituency to fulfill,' Mr. Matea said. Meanwhile, Hon. Dr. Bosawai acknowledged the MRD team for accepting his invitation to initiate the audit spot-check with his Constituency. 'It is good to start something, somewhere as an example for other constituencies because we are using Public Funds. 'I have a big dream, and that is to build and create a better Solomon Islands that one day everyone can enjoy its prosperity. My intention in involving myself in politics is not to win elections but to bring the change that my people have long hoped for. To realize that change, we must unite in our determination and efforts. The change must begin with us. Navigating change is tough, and as leaders, we cannot expect change to happen miraculously unless we are willing to reflect, learn, and grow,' Hon. Dr. Bosawai emphasized. Hon. Dr. Bosawai also asserted that as part of the transformative leadership and change he is advocating for his constituency; he has also directed his constituency office and informed his constituency that no member of his immediate family will receive assistance or project under the NGC CDF allocation. 'I have restricted my own Bosawai family from the NGC CDF support, not because I wanted to attract attention and admiration from people, but because I know God has already blessed my family with just enough, and now it is time to prioritize the needs and well-being of others. More importantly by doing this, I am limiting myself from any form of conflict of interest which may jeopardise my own integrity as a leader for my own constituents and the country,' he explained. Hon. Dr. Bosawai also took the opportunity to discuss his greater plans for his constituency development aspirations, aiming to deliver tangible developments that will grow the rural economy and support rural communities' livelihoods for a better life. Hon. Dr. Bosawai is a first-time MP for NGC. His first major project delivered last year was the improvement of road infrastructures within his constituency. This year, NGC focuses on income-generating projects to support communities and constituents who are keen to participate in economic initiatives and improving rural livelihoods. Under the CDF Act 2023, Section 30, the CDF is subject to audit.
