BY CHRIS ALEX
AS a candidate who deeply cares about the well-being of Gizo/Kolombangara Constituency, Kenneth Bulehite is set to contest the 2024 joint election with a focus on advancing rural economic development as part of his campaign platform.
The People’s Liberal Democratic Country (PLDP) candidate will contest against seven (7) other candidates vying for the Gizo/Kolombangara parliamentary seat in Western Province.
Bulehite, a renowned academic with credentials from Central Queensland University and Heriot-Watt University, has extensive experience in civil engineering and water resource management, contributing significantly to international development projects.
The PLDP aims to harness the potential of the Solomon Islands while addressing its pressing challenges.
He portrays the Solomon Islands as a country with abundant natural resources and cultural diversity, yet it grapples with inadequate infrastructure, high electricity costs, and limited access to essential services.
“Solomon Islands is a country of 1000 islands with nearly 90 dialects and huge natural resources,” Bulehite said. “Yet, our economy remains weak, relying on unsustainable extraction and lacking proper planning and resource management.”
Bulehite’s campaign platform acknowledges the unique challenges faced by Gizo Kolombangara, a constituency with an 80% rural population, emphasizing the need for improved transportation, infrastructure, and economic opportunities.
“Transportation is a vital issue in our country,” he said. “With thousands of islands spanning vast distances, our people deserve reliable and affordable means of connectivity.”
Bulehite’s proposed initiatives aim to improve rural livelihoods, market access, water and sanitation infrastructure, tourism, and financial capabilities in Gizo/Kolombangara Constituency.
He envisions a future where Gizo/Kolombangara’s people thrive in their rural setting, facilitated by sustainable economic growth and equitable access to essential services.
“My development strategy focuses on enhancing rural economies through projects like fisheries, tourism, renewable energy, and water supply, aiming to unlock Gizo/Kolombangara’s potential,” he said.
