Empowering West Are’are Communities For Self-Reliance And Sustainable Growth Through CDF

10th April, 2025
Creating an enabling environment in rural areas to empower community's participation in socio-economic activities is crucial for lasting development.

Because of the country’s geographical spread, many remote communities are isolated from the main centers of development. Therefore, it is crucial to create sustainable and self-sufficient structures.

One of the most powerful and impactful instruments in this venture is the Constituency Development Funds (CDF) program.

Described as a tool and a vehicle to deliver development for rural and remote communities, CDF is envisioned to empower rural communities with the provision of necessary resources and assistance that would help them boost their socio-economic livelihood or access support that is feasibly unreachable.

Constituency Development Funds Program is a national programme of the Solomon Islands Government (SIG) administered by the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD).

It is implemented by the 50 constituencies in the country purposely to improve the socio-economic livelihoods of Solomon Islanders.

By delivering support to rural communities straight through the 50 constituency offices, the CDF allows rural development that is tailored to the unique needs and potentials of each community. 

This decentralized approach ensures that development initiatives are not only relevant but also workable in the long term toward improving the livelihood of the marginalized. 

One of the crucial areas where the CDF has made significant progress is in community projects, especially in income-generating initiatives. 

Recently, the Ministry of Rural Development team visited West Are'are Constituency (WAC) and captured success stories from communities that benefit from the CDF.

Despite its challenges, the CDF continues to impact rural lives, with many communities and constituents expressing genuine appreciation to their three-term Member of Parliament, Honorable John Maneniaru, for his unwavering commitment to their development through the CDF program. 

Over the years, Hon. Maneniaru's leadership has empowered rural communities, fostering self-reliance and sustainable growth. 

Janet Rehotona, chairlady of the Pipisu Women's Association, highlighted the transformative impact of the CDF initiatives. 

"Community projects in rural areas are most effective when they are driven by the people, address local needs, and focus on long-term solutions," she said.

Under Hon. Maneniaru's guidance, the Pipisu Women's Association now operates a thriving trade shop, providing essential goods and services to the community and generating annual dividends for its members. 

"This initiative has been instrumental in helping our families pay school fees and meet other basic needs," Ms. Rehotona said. 

Hon. Maneniaru emphasized the importance of targeted investments in agriculture, infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic development. 

"These sectors are critical for improving livelihoods in rural communities," he said.

With the recent enactment of the CDF Act 2023, which promotes a community-based approach, the WAC Office plans to intensify efforts in these areas. 

One notable achievement is the establishment of a clinic in Pipisu Village, a public-private partnership (PPP) initiative supported by Hon. Maneniaru. 

Timothy Houanihau, a community leader, praised the project, stating, "This clinic will enhance healthcare access, provide health education, and improve the overall well-being of our people, including those in the WAC lagoon region." 

Alongside healthcare and infrastructure, the WAC Office has prioritized income-generating projects, including housing assistance, sanitation programs, and educational support for tertiary and senior secondary students. 

Recently, the constituency has ventured into seaweed farming, harnessing the region's untapped potential.

"Seaweed farming offers a lucrative opportunity for our lagoon communities. This year, we will continue supporting individuals and groups interested in this venture," Hon. Maneniaru assured. 

Hon. Maneniaru reaffirmed his commitment to collaborative development, urging constituents to unite behind WAC’s development plans. 

"Together, we can achieve lasting progress for the greater good of our people and constituency," he said. 

The stories of Pipisu and other WAC communities stand as a testament to the power of grassroots empowerment and visionary leadership. 

As the CDF program continues to evolve, the West Are'are Constituency remains a beacon of hope and progress in rural development.

MRD Communications remains committed to bringing in more success stories of the CDF in the future to educate and inform people of the transformative changes and impact of the program on rural lives in the 50 constituencies across the country.  

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