Kolombangara Landowners officially receive 20% share in KFPL

Yesterday at Ringi, Kolombangara Island, Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele officially handed over the 20 percent Kolombangara Forest Products Limited (KFPL) share certificate, marking a landmark moment for landowners.

The event was attended by traditional leaders, government ministers, members of Parliament, the Premier of Western Province, senior officials, trustees of the Kolombangara Landowners Trust Foundation, and community representatives.

 Among the MPs present were Hon. Jimson Tanangada, Minister for Police, National Security and Correctional Services and Member of Parliament for Gizo Kolombangara, and Dr. Paulson Bosawai, Minister for Health and Medical Services.

The program featured a vibrant cultural presentation showcasing the rich traditions and identity of Kolombangara, followed by a formal blessing of the share certificate by customary leaders, symbolizing the landowners’ rightful ownership and the community’s unity.

The shares are held on behalf of the landowners through Kolombangara Island Investment Limited, making them active partners in one of Solomon Islands’ most successful forestry enterprises.

Under the new shareholding arrangement, New Forests (Asia) Limited holds 75 percent, Kolombangara Island Investment Limited holds 20 percent, and the Investment Corporation of Solomon Islands holds five percent.

Prime Minister Manele commended the persistence, patience, and unity of the Kolombangara landowners and highlighted the importance of their new role in shaping decisions, driving growth, and benefiting from sustainable forestry management.

 “Today, you are no longer bystanders — you are co-owners and business partners. This share certificate is a symbol of your rightful place, your dignity, and your voice in the future of KFPL,” he said.

KFPL currently employs more than 1,000 Solomon Islanders and contributes over 30 million dollars annually to the national and local economy. With this historic partnership, the landowners are positioned to share in the company’s growth and long-term benefits, ensuring prosperity for present and future generations.

The Prime Minister called on the people of Kolombangara to remain united, accountable, and strategic as they embark on this new chapter, emphasizing that this milestone reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to indigenous empowerment and sustainable community-driven development.

[end]

Prime Minister’s Press Secretariat