By Georgina Maka’a
Guadalcanal Province staged a colourful 39th Second Appointed Day celebration at Mamara, west of Honiara, today.
The event also concluded a five-day trade show, which started last Friday, that the province organised as part of its 39th Second Appointed Day celebrations
Today’s celebration was attended by a high-level delegation led by Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare and provincial leaders.
In his keynote address, Sogavare says in today’s rapidly changing world it is important that we recognize the significance of inclusivity as a catalyst for growth and progress.
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare delivering his key note address to ma Guadalcanal Day
“We are now inside a critical juncture, where economic development and social cohesion must go hand in hand and we must build a resilience and thriving nation we must thrive to create an environment where every individual feels empowered and valued regardless of their background, gender and their social status,” Sogavare says.
He also told the people of Guadalcanal that inclusive participation is not just about expanding access of opportunities, it is about recognizing and harnessing the untapped potential of our diverse population.
Mini Trade show venue at Mamara
“When we ensure that everyone have the equal stake in our development we will unleash a wave of innovation, creativity and productivity that will benefit society as a whole, this is the spirit of equal participation that we must always remember.”
Prime Minister Sogavare also acknowledged the Guadalcanal Provincial Government for its vision in establishing townships like the Mamara and Marau Manekalaku Township.
“Building a new township requires meticulous planning to ensure proper allocation of resources, infrastructure development and zoning regulations which demand effective coordination.
“The plan to build new townships will generate employment opportunities in the construction sector and related services; it will contribute to economic growth.”
He also assured Guadalcanal Province and is national leaders that he will not let what happened in the past to destabilize the country, stating that the Truth and Reconciliation Commission is now debated in Parliament.
Meanwhile, Guadalcanal Premier Francis Sade announced that the acquisition of land at Mamara Township for the provincial headquarters is also progressing.
Guadalcanal Premier Francis Sade delivering his address to Guadalcanal people.
“I’m happy to announce that very soon we will sign a purchase agreement based on mutual understanding and partnership between Guadalcanal Province and Metro Polis Pacific PTE Limited of Mamara Development, which will be followed by grand instrument and the title should be handed down to Guadalcanal Province,” Sade said.
He also called on people of Tandai and Sahalu to work together to ensure the plan to get the Mamara land.
The theme of this year’s celebration is:
“Fostering Social Harmony and Unity through Inclusive Economic Participation.”
Guadalcanal became a province on 1 August 1984.
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