Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has praised the people of Rennell and Bellona Province for their reform journey, describing it as a powerful example of resilience and people-driven progress during the province’s 32nd Second Appointed Day celebration in Tigoa on Tuesday.
He also acknowledged the important progress made in the province, while also highlighting the need for continued unity and strong partnerships going forward.
“This is my first time here in Rennell, and I’m truly honoured to be part of your celebration,” Manele said.
“This day is about celebrating how far you’ve come — the results you’ve delivered and the challenges you’ve overcome together,” he added.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the strong leadership of the Alliance for Reform and Progress Government (ARPG), under the leadership of Premier Derek Pongi, for embracing reform and restoring trust and confidence in the provincial government.
Located 250 km south of Guadalcanal, Renbel is Solomon Islands’ smallest province with a population of less than 3,500 people.
Its population is made up mostly of ethnic Polynesians. The main island, Rennell, is known for Lake Tegano, the largest lake in the insular Pacific and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Over the past year, the province delivered 19 capital projects across key sectors — health, education, rural electrification, sanitation, administration, tourism and fisheries — with a total investment of nearly SBD3 million.
“These projects have touched every part of life in your communities. They show what can be achieved when provincial leadership, national support, and development partners work together,” Manele said.
He also acknowledged the province’s efforts to restore its PCDF eligibility, improve access to digital services, and ensure proper accountability for Ward Development Committee (WDC) grants.
The prime minister also took the opportunity to respond to concerns raised by the Provincial Premier.
These include:
- Shipping access – Government will follow up with responsible agencies to ensure the handover of a vessel for Rennell and Bellona. The shipping franchise system is also being reviewed to improve services to remote provinces.
- Electoral reform – The Prime Minister encouraged the province to work with MPGIS on proposals to create a new ward and avoid future political deadlocks.
- Constituency boundary – The request for an additional constituency has been noted and should be submitted to the appropriate authority.
- Land tenure – The Government will work with the Ministry of Lands and stakeholders to explore a respectful solution to revert alienated land in West Rennell back to customary ownership.
- Biosecurity and agriculture – MAL is stepping up efforts to tackle the rhinoceros beetle and improve food security. A new officer will be posted to Tigoa this year and recruitment for Bellona is underway.
- Education and health – The Prime Minister has asked the Education and Health Ministries to review infrastructure gaps and look at how services can be improved.
PM Manele reaffirmed the Government’s support for the people of Rennell affected by the Solomon Trader devastating oil spill.
“We stand with you,” he said.
“We’ve instructed international law firm DLA Piper to work with the Pacific Legal Network to support your case.
“We are also working to secure litigation funding and appreciate the support from the Australian Government who funded the latest environmental report.”
He said the message is clear: companies that cause harm must be held accountable.
Manele also acknowledged the province’s diplomatic success in establishing a sister-province relationship with China’s Hainan Province, with support from the Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening and the Chinese Embassy in Honiara.
He thanked development partners including Australia, PRC, EU, World Bank, UNDP and ADB for their ongoing support to health, education, security, lighting, and tourism.
The Prime Minister reminded the province of its unique position — being both a province and a single national constituency — and called for strong coordination between the Provincial Government and Constituency Office to ensure development efforts are aligned.
“This province has come a long way. But let’s not be complacent,” PM Manele said.
“Let’s keep the momentum going and continue to deliver for our people.”
He ended his remarks with a message of encouragement:
“The story of Rennell and Bellona is no longer just about remoteness or missed opportunities — it is now about reform, resilience and results.
“The Government for National Unity and Transformation will continue to stand with you.”
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