New Zealand Commits to Funding Support for Honiara City Council

NZ HIGH COMMISSION MEDIA RELEASE

Monday 4 March 2013

NZ commits to funding support for HCC

New Zealand will provide more than SB $1.7 million to Honiara City Council over the next year under a grant funding arrangement signed today, New Zealand High Commissioner Mark Ramsden said.

The support will go towards improved urban planning and management, identifying ward needs and strengthening service delivery in areas including promotion of the city library and development of a city communications bureau.

"Honiara has a central role to play in the development of Solomon Islands - as the major population centre, the primary provider of employment, and an engine of economic growth,” Mr Ramsden said. “The capital's prosperity and stability are key drivers of national security."

"Honiara's City Council therefore plays a vital part in the life of the nation, and New Zealand is committed to supporting it to do its job,” he said. “The funds we are providing will help the Council work towards its goals of greater administrative efficiency, the development of sound policies and effective service delivery.

High Commissioner Ramsden signed the grant funding arrangement this morning on behalf of the New Zealand Government, while Lord Mayor Andrew Mua signed on behalf of Honiara City Council.

The grant funding arrangement covers the period March 2013-February 2014.

Further information:

NZ High Commissioner Mark Ramsden, ph 21 502