CBSI representative Trevor Manemahaga at the consultation at Kolotubi

GOVERNMENT consultations on the revival and recapitalisation of the former Development Bank of Solomon Islands (DBSI) have reached the final stage before a report is submitted to Cabinet for consideration.

A Cabinet Sub-Committee Team comprising officials from the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Commerce and the Central Bank of Solomon Islands is visiting Isabel Province this week to consult rural entrepreneurs, farmers, fishermen and women.

The Team began consultations at Kolotubi village in Hograno district on Monday and will travel around Isabel Province before winding down the program at Buala this Friday.

Since coming into power in 2014, the Democratic Coalition for Change Government (DCCG) undertook some major reforms – one of which is the revival and recapitalisation of the defunct DBSI to provide easy access to finances to Solomon Islanders, especially, rural entrepreneurs, farmers, fishermen and women.

At Kolotubi on Monday, participants have welcomed the Government intention while at the same time asking the government to avoid mistakes that have caused the demise of the bank some years back.

Many said rural entrepreneurs, especially in Isabel Province are facing difficulties in accessing finances to increase or start up business activities in rural areas.

The team will visit Vulavu and Japuana region, Sigana, Poro and Buala.

By George Herming

GCU