The East Makira Constituency Development Committee (CDC) successfully completed the screening process for the 2025 Constituency Development Funds (CDF) applications on Thursday this week.
This critical exercise ensures that all proposed projects align with the Solomon Islands Constituency Development (SICD) Policy and adhere to the provisions of the CDF Act 2023, Section 14.
The CDF Act 2023 introduces a transformative approach to development funding, empowering all 50 constituencies in the Solomon Islands to uphold principles of transparency, accountability, and fairness in the distribution and implementation of CDF projects under East Makira Constituency Development program (CDP).
The policy emphasizes practical, holistic, and inclusive development strategies that are sustainable, consultative, and responsive to the unique needs of each constituency.
Honorable Franklyn Derek Wasi, Member of Parliament for East Makira and Minister for Agriculture, praised the new process as a significant step forward.
“The CDF Act 2023 enables us to be more realistic and effective in delivering projects that directly benefit our rural communities,” he said.
“This is not just about funding. It’s about building a stronger Solomon Islands through the development of our constituencies and institutions.”
Hon. Wasi extended his gratitude to all applicants for their patience and cooperation as the CDC follows due process.
“Implementing projects across East Makira’s eight wards is a complex task, but our team is committed to upholding the highest standards of transparency and fairness,” he added.
EMC Project Officer Jonas Kurio stated that 1,300 applications were received following a comprehensive constituency profiling exercise conducted last month.
CDC members and EMC officers toured all eight wards to engage with communities and identify their development priorities.
“The shift in mindset under Hon. Wasi’s leadership has inspired more communities to propose impactful projects,” Mr. Kurio noted.
“CDF funding is an ongoing opportunity, and we encourage everyone to work together to improve livelihoods across East Makira.”
Mr. Kurio also assured applicants that the screening process would be conducted with utmost transparency.
“Our development plan, approved by the Ministry of Rural Development, will guide us in prioritizing projects for the eight wards. We ask for your patience as we navigate this process,” he emphasized.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD) has reminded all constituencies to submit their 2024 acquittal reports and 2025 project proposals before accessing this year’s CDF allocations.
EMC has already submitted these documents, but further reviews by MRD and the Ministry of Finance and Treasury are required before funds can be released.
The East Makira MP remains dedicated to ensuring that CDF-funded projects deliver tangible benefits to his people, fostering sustainable development and community empowerment.
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[MRD Press]
