The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) has officially launched its corporate plans for government departments that sets out clear strategies up to 2027, to prepare Bougainville’s institutions for the responsibilities of statehood and aligns with the government’s broader vision for sovereignty.
President Ishmael Toroama, speaking at the launch, emphasised that these plans are more than just objectives; they represent Bougainville’s continued progress towards realising the dreams of past generations.
“We are not just unveiling a series of strategies and objectives today,” President Toroama said. “We are laying the foundation for Bougainville’s future as a sovereign, independent nation – a future that has been dreamed of, fought for, and bled for by generations of our people.”
President Toroama acknowledged the sacrifices made by Bougainvilleans in the fight for self-determination, reaffirming that the responsibility to achieve independence now rests with all Bougainvilleans today, notably also, those in public service.
“Public servants are not just employees of the government; you are the custodians of Bougainville’s future. Your loyalty must lie with the government and, above all, with the people of Bougainville. Every task you perform, every decision you make, must be guided by a commitment to serve the people and advance our collective goal of self-determination,” he said.
President Toroama stressed the corporate plans will be instrumental in ensuring that government services reach all corners of Bougainville, empowering communities economically, socially, and politically.
“Every Bougainvillean, whether in the remote villages or in our towns, must feel that they are part of the development process. Our people must be given the tools and opportunities to raise revenue, improve their lives and contribute to the nation that we are building.”
President Toroama reminded public servants that their work is critical to fulfilling the aspirations of the Bougainville people, and that unity and dedication are essential as the region moves closer to independence.
“Together, we will build a Bougainville that is prosperous, peaceful, and proud. Together, we will build a Bougainville that is independent, strong, and united,” he stated.
ABG Chief Secretary Kearnneth Nanei echoed these sentiments, stating that the corporate plans now provide departments with a clear roadmap to meet government expectations as laid out in the Toroama-Nisira Government’s Six Point Strategy, the Bougainville Vision 2052, and the Bougainville Integrated Strategic Development Plan 2023-2027.
“These corporate plans align with our strategic goals and give us a structured approach to meeting the expectations set by the government,” Nanei said.
He emphasised the importance of resourcing these plans to ensure that major investments are made into key economic enablers.
“We must ensure that the ‘big-ticket items’ are prioritised—especially in areas like economic development, infrastructure, and law and order,” Nanei added.
Nanei also stressed the need for departments to maintain strong and clear communication with their respective ministers to ensure that they remain aligned in implementing the priorities outlined in the corporate plans.
The launch of the corporate plans is a key milestone in Bougainville’s ongoing efforts to become independence-ready.
