The 2025 Manus Provincial Government Budget Speech

Hon. Charlie Benjamin, the Governor of Manus, presented the 2025 Manus Provincial Government Budget during the resumed session of the Manus Provincial Lapan Assembly today.

The budget, amounting to a staggering 257 million 936 thousand 420 Kina, eclipses last year's figures by over 7 million Kina, marking a record high in the province's budgetary history.

Governor Benjamin's presentation outlined extensive allocations aimed at enhancing community and infrastructural development, and support for vital local programs.

Key initiatives in this landmark budget include a provision of 1.2 million Kina for School Fee Assistance to bolster education access, a 500 thousand Kina earmarked for a Shelter Program to address housing needs in the province, A substantial amount of 800 thousand Kina designated for Church Activities Support, reflecting the significance of community organizations in Manus Province and a 500 thousand Kina to bolster Manus SMEs, recognizing the critical role of small and medium enterprises.

Infrastructure Development remains a prime focus, with 3 million Kina set aside for Provincial Roads improvement, and 2 million 600 thousand Kina for the support of CHW College a 400 thousand Kina for Rural Infrastructure and a million Kina for the construction of an NBC Medium Wave.

The Law and Order sector was allocated 2 million Kina to enhance security measures across the province

Meantime a million kina was allocated for the Island Grande Shipping Ltd that manages the MV Laban Ole, the Panisellu Health Center received 1.8 million Kina, Lokobou Secondary will be receiving 1 million Kina, while each of the twelve Local Level Governments (LLGs) will receive a share from a total of 1.2 million Kina as LLGs Support to further local initiatives.

The Governor emphasized the importance of community engagement and participation in utilizing these funds effectively, stating that the budget aims to uplift the quality of life for all citizens in Manus Province.

The Manus Provincial Government 2025 Budget will undergo further debate in the Manus Provincial Lapan Assembly tomorrow, where assembly members will discuss and potentially pass the proposed budget.