23 Aug 2016

Solomons plan to formalise traditional governance systems

From , 6:02 am on 23 August 2016

The Solomon Islands government says it's working to formally incorporate aspects of traditional law or kastom into its governance systems.

Constitutionally the country recognises some kastom practices especially over conflict resolution and the settling of land disputes in the courts.

However, this does not extend to other areas of governance and traditional systems and structures are mostly absent from planning and decision-making roles.

The Ministry of National Unity, Reconciliation and Peace has set out to change this and is starting with awareness programs in provinces around the country.

The ministry's national peace advisor Patteson Ngalihesi spoke with Koroi Hawkins about some of the proposed changes.

The National Parliament of Solomon Islands in Honiara.

The National Parliament of Solomon Islands in Honiara. Photo: RNZ Koroi Hawkins