A transformative approach to local governance is being spearheaded in Solomon Islands through the Provincial Governments and Service Delivery project, funded by the European Union and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The project is designed to enhance citizen participation in the provincial planning process, ensuring that community voices play a central role in local development.

As part of this initiative, a workshop was held in Nukufero, Russell Island, bringing together members of Ward Development Committees (WDCs), church representatives, school and health committees, youth and women’s groups, persons with disabilities, and local business leaders. The objective was to strengthen their capacity to understand and actively engage in provincial planning, addressing gaps in citizen involvement in setting development priorities.

Opening the workshop, Charles Konai, Planning Specialist for the Central Islands Provincial Government, emphasized the importance of inclusive governance: 

“It is vital to ensure that the voices of our communities are heard and integrated into the development plans of our province. By strengthening citizen participation at the ward level, we are paving the way for more inclusive, sustainable, and effective governance.”

This workshop, the second in a series, promotes a bottom-up planning approach that directly reflects community concerns in provincial strategies. Participants from Pavuvu Ward, where the project is currently being implemented, engaged in discussions and group activities to enhance their understanding of the planning process. They also explored how to better collaborate for improved outcomes, particularly in health and education sectors.

Mr. Mozammel Haque, Project Manager, highlighted the significance of local involvement: 

“Tailored local development initiatives are critical in Solomon Islands. This workshop provides an opportunity for grassroots communities to actively engage and shape the future development of their province. It will also lay the foundation for managing Ward Development Grants in a transparent and accountable manner.”

Following a similar workshop held in Tulagi in September, the Nukufero event continues the drive to empower WDCs and community members to take a more active role in local governance. By building citizens’ capacity to engage with planning processes, the project aims to ensure that provincial governments can make more effective and efficient use of resources, leading to better service delivery and more aligned development priorities.

The workshop also underscored the importance of community oversight and social accountability, fostering a culture of transparency and participation. Technical specialists from the Central Province shared insights on annual work plans and the use of Ward Development Grants (WDG).

A total of 43 participants took part, contributing recommendations to improve citizen participation and enhance community engagement in decision-making. A report summarizing key findings will inform future planning processes.

The project, supported by the European Union, will expand to other provinces across Solomon Islands, empowering communities nationwide to engage more fully in local development. This participatory approach promises to lead to more sustainable, effective, and inclusive governance throughout the country.

For more information, please contact:  

Daniel Gonzalez, Communications Analyst, UNDP Solomon Islands Office, daniel.calderon.gonzalez@undp.org | +677 7740740/ +34 656560270