Wednesday 21 August 2024
Member for South Bougainville and Minister for Information and Communications Technology Hon. Timothy Masiu, has recently presented his comprehensive acquittals and reports on the District Support Improvement Funds (DSIP), to the Secretary of the Department of Implementation and Rural Development, Mr Aihi Baki.
This move not only underscores the South Bougainville District’s commitment to responsible governance but also sets a powerful precedent for how public funds should be managed to benefit the community effectively.
Mr Masiu acknowledged the significant role of DSIP in the country’s development and emphasized the responsibility of ensuring funds belong to the people for their intended purposes.
He commended Mr Baki for acquiring a new office environment, which he believes will enhance productivity in delivering critical rural development projects.
It was Mr Masiu’s first visit to the DIRD’s new office, located in Twin Tower 2 Building along the Melanesian Way Drive in Waigani.
Mr Masiu highlighted the importance of timely reporting, stating, “I make it my business to ensure we report in a comprehensive manner because it is the people’s money.”
The DSIP funds, essential for service delivery, especially in rural areas, have enabled South Bougainville to initiate 45 ongoing projects since 2022.
This includes 29 in education, six of which have already been completed, and 16 in health, including a newly opened staff house for health workers.
A key project, the Buin International Market, is currently under evaluation by the National Procurement Commission.
Mr Masiu announced that this market would bolster economic opportunities for both local residents and those from the nearby Solomon Islands.
“This project, supported by district funds and government assistance, is expected to have a significant local impact,” he added.
The Minister reported that South Bougainville has efficiently allocated K250,000 from discretionary funds and another K250,000 from non-discretionary funds, ensuring meticulous record-keeping as a safeguard against misuse.
“We must improve accounting and monitoring of how this money is utilized,” he stressed, reiterating the necessity for accurate fund usage and transparency.
Mr Masiu emphasized the importance of proper inspection and use of allocated funds, acknowledging past challenges of improper acquittals and the need for thorough financial reporting.
“We must see real development that aligns with the reports we give in,” he said, inviting Department representatives to inspect the ongoing projects in South Bougainville firsthand.
Mr Masiu commended his district staff for their diligent efforts in implementing DSIP, emphasizing the “Together, we can continue to make South Bougainville a model of effective development,” he affirmed.
South Bougainville’s leadership’s dedication to transparent fund management and open communication is a significant step towards enhancing local governance and ensuring future community benefits.
Minister for ICT and Member or South Bougainville, Timothy Masiu (left) with Secretary for Implementation and Rural Development, Mr Aihi Baki, during the presentation of South Bougainville DSIP Report.