Manele Meets Premier Sagupari – Reaffirms Government’s Commitment to CIP

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Honiara 1 July 2025 — Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele has reaffirmed his Government’s commitment to supporting development in Central Province following a cordial meeting with the Premier of Central Province, Hon. Kenneth Sagupari, during the province’s 44th Second Appointed Day celebrations in Tulagi.

Prime Minister Manele, accompanied by Minister for Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening, Hon. Wayne Ghemu, thanked Premier Sogapari and the people of Central Province for the warm invitation and hospitality.

In his address, Premier Sagupari issued a heartfelt appeal to the Government of National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) to honour the historical significance of Central Province by supporting major investments that will help return Tulagi and the province to its former economic strength and vibrancy.

“Hon. Prime Minister, I now plead to your Government to give back to Central Province one major investment as a token of appreciation for setting the foundation of Solomon Islands Government and for fuelling the economy as the basis of our Independence way back in 1978,” Premier Sagupari said.

The Premier emphasized the need for transformative and balanced development in the province, citing the legacy of neglect and revenue constraints the province has faced over the past 44 years. He affirmed his government’s readiness to collaborate with the national government to realign policies and ensure Central Province thrives through dialogue and innovation.

In response, Prime Minister Manele assured Premier Sagupari that the national government had heard his message.

“It is not easy to address the many development challenges across all our provinces, especially with the geographical spread of our country,” the Prime Minister said. “But this should not be an excuse. Rather, it calls for a more strategic and inclusive approach to development.”

The Prime Minister highlighted several key developments already underway in Central Province, including the completion of the Tulagi wharf and hospital refurbishment, scoping for the Tulagi ring road with tendering to begin soon, and the reopening of Yandina and Anuha airstrips, along with an assessment for a new airstrip in Belulu — among others.

Prime Minister Manele reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to continue working closely with the province to implement these priorities in line with GNUT’s development agenda.

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