MRD SUPPORTS NGC IN TRAINING VDOS ON CDF ACT 2023

The Ministry of Rural Development (MRD) has assisted the North Guadalcanal Constituency (NGC) office in conducting a training session for its Village Development Officers (VDOs) on the implementation of the new Constituency Development Funds (CDF) Act 2023.

The event, held on Friday, 11th April 2025, at Koli Point, was an initiative of the constituency’s office. It brought together community leaders, chiefs, and representatives from women’s and youth groups.

Under the NGC’s development framework, VDOs have been designated as ‘Sub-Committees,’ as aligned to Section 14 (2), (a), (i, ii, iii) of the new CDF Act 2023. The Act empowers Constituency Development Committee to recommend the formation of special sub-committees or task forces to address specific constituency needs.

During the training, the MRD’s team provided explanations of the Act and its practical application within NGC’s development programs.

Hon. Dr. Paul Popora Bosawai, Member of Parliament for NGC, emphasized the importance of the training in advancing the constituency’s transformative agenda. “Above all, we aim to comply with the new CDF Act 2023,” he stated.

“The Act clearly outlines allocations for productive sectors, essential services, cross-sectoral initiatives, and social sectors — each with fixed implementation percentages that MPs cannot alter,” he added.

Dr. Bosawai highlighted the critical role of VDOs in ensuring the successful execution of the 2025 CDF budget.

“VDOs are our agents on the ground, playing a pivotal role in driving our transformative agendas now and in the future,” he affirmed.

Women VDO’s attending the training.

Daniel Tolia, speaking on behalf of the VDOs, described the training as essential for addressing NGC’s development needs.

“It’s time for all village leaders in NGC to unite in supporting our development aspirations for the greater good of our people,” he said.

Mr. Tolia expressed optimism about the new Act, noting that it provides a clear framework for closer collaboration with their MP to implement community-focused initiatives.

Noel Matea, MRD’s Director of Governance, commended Hon. Dr. Bosawai and the NGC office for involving MRD in the training.

“MRD remains committed to supporting all 50 constituencies across the country to ensure a smooth and effective implementation of the CDF Act 2023,” he said.

Mr. Matea added that due to significant changes in the CDF implementation, MRD will continue its outreach efforts to assist constituencies in adapting to the new legislation.

The training marks a significant step toward empowering local leaders and ensuring the successful rollout of development projects under the CDF Act 2023.

Refer below for more photo highlights of the event.

Member of Parliament for North Guadalcanal Constituency and Minister for Health and Medical Services, Honourable Dr Paul Popora Bosawai, making his opening remarks before the VDOs training starts.

MRD Director Governance, Noel Matea making his presentation during the training.

MRD Principal Legal Officer presenting the CDF Act 2023 at the VDOs training.

MP for North Guadalcanal Constituency and Minister for the Ministry of Health, Honourable Dr Paul Popora Bosawai, speaking during the training.

North Guadalcanal Constituency senior businessman, John Saki asking questions during the Q&A session.

VDO’s participants.

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– MRD Press