The East Guadalcanal Constituency (EGC) has taken a significant step toward advancing community development by convening its first Constituency Development Committee (CDC) meeting on April 2nd 2025 in Honiara.
The meeting was held purposely to chart and discuss key development opportunities, priorities and preparation for the 2025 Constituency Development Funds (CDF) program implementation. It brought together CDC members, constituency officers, and officials from the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD).
The inaugural meeting focused on critical areas to ensure alignment with the CDF Act 2023 and to lay the groundwork for effective development planning.
Key agenda items included:
1. Review of 2023 and 2024 Projects: Assessing progress and lessons learned from past initiatives.
2. Financial Updates: Transparency and accountability in fund management.
3. CDC Roles and Responsibilities: Clarifying the committee’s mandate under the CDF Act 2023.
4. 2024-2028 Constituency Development Plan (CDP): Setting long-term goals and strategies.
5. 2025 Budget and Annual Work Plan (AWP): Prioritising projects and allocating resources for this year 2025.
6. Partnership Opportunities: Exploring collaborations with development partners and donor-funded programs.
MRD officials, led by Principal Legal Officer Diana Alasia, provided guidance on the CDC’s composition and functions as outlined in the CDF Act 2023.
The CDC, under the CDF Act 2023 Section 13 (4), is responsible for:
• The Coordination of the Constituency Development programs.
• The consideration and approval of the annual budget of the constituency.
• The general management of the Constituency Development Funds under the direct supervision of the Ministry in consultation with the Constituency Member of Parliament.
• The coordination, monitoring, and supervision of the implementation of approved projects.
• Developing the constituency development plan.
• Public relations and community interactions.
Honourable Bradley Tovosia, CDC Chairman and Member of Parliament for East Guadalcanal, underscored the importance of adhering to the new CDF law.
“I encourage my CDC to abide by the CDF laws and continue serving our people. This is the change we need—everything must be done according to the law to ensure no one is left behind,” he stated.
Constituency Development Officer (CDO), Dale Tati Saikoena echoed similar sentiments, while emphasising the importance of unity and partnership. “By working within the framework of the CDF Act 2023, we can elevate our development aspirations and deliver tangible benefits to our rural communities,” he added.
Honourable Tovosia reaffirmed the committee’s dedication to fulfilling its duties under the new law.
“Our constituency’s development is paramount. With the CDF Act in place, we are committed to addressing our priorities and ensuring the effective use of resources for the people of East Guadalcanal,” Hon. Tovosia added.
The meeting marks a pivotal moment for EGC, setting the stage for coordinated efforts to achieve sustainable development and improved livelihoods in the constituency.
The Premier of Guadalcanal Province Hon. Willie Atu who is also the provincial member for Moli Ward in East Guadalcanal and Hon. John Botsi of Avuavu Ward also attended the meeting as members of the EGC CDC.
