People queue to vote in Bougainville’s independence referendum from Papua New Guinea in Buka, the capital of the autonomous region, pictured on 23 November 2019. Photo: BenarNews / Stefan Armbruster
The government in the autonomous Papua New Guinea region of Bougainville is preparing its institutions for the responsibilities of statehood .
It has laid out strategies up to 2027 to ensure its agencies align with the government's broader vision for sovereignty.
President Ishmael Toroama said the plans represent Bougainville's continued progress towards realising the dreams of past generations.
Toroama said the corporate plans aim to ensure government services reach all corners of Bougainville, empowering communities economically, socially, and politically.
"We are not just unveiling a series of strategies and objectives today," he 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."
Bougainville President Ishmael Toroama speaks with diaspora community members in Brisbane during draft constitution consultations, pictured on 2 September 2024. Photo: BenarNews / Stefan Armbruster
He noted the sacrifices made by Bougainvilleans in the fight for self-determination, reaffirming that the responsibility to achieve independence now rests with all Bougainvilleans today, especially 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.
Chief Secretary Kearnneth Nanei said the corporate plans provide departments with a clear roadmap to meet government expectations.