The Tafea Economic Sector Development Plan, also known as the Tafea I Redi Plan, has taken another step forward following a consultation held last Friday on Tanna.

The consultation, organised by the Tafea Provincial Government at Lamenu Nakamal, brought together stakeholders, chiefs, area councils, and members of the public to discuss and contribute to the development plan.

The plan is expected to be presented to the Council sitting in May for approval.

Tafea Province President, Honourable Andrew Iawak, said the sector plan will serve as a roadmap to guide development across the province.

“This sector plan is a roadmap that will guide the provincial government in its development, and people should participate before it reaches the final draft and implementation stage.”

The consultation provides an opportunity for communities to share their views and ensure their priorities are included before the plan is finalised.

Secretary General of Tafea Province, Joe Iautim, said the plan builds on earlier efforts that date back many years.

“This plan is based on earlier work from around 1999 to 2005. After that, it was not followed up, and development was mostly driven by the national government without strong local ownership.”

He said the renewed effort aims to ensure that people in Tafea take ownership of their own development priorities.

Assistant Secretary General, Kalton Sam, said the plan focuses on key sectors that can drive meaningful change.

“This plan is not only for the provincial government to implement, but for all stakeholders, including communities and civil society, to take part in.”

He added that the team has two more weeks to finalise the draft before submitting it to the Council for endorsement in May.

The consultation was supported under the Governance for Growth program, funded by the Australian Government.