Solomons PM calls for more land to be freed up

9:21 am on 4 March 2015

The Prime Minister of Solomon Islands Manasseh Sogavare has called for Solomon Islanders' support in freeing up their land for development.

He says only 30 percent has been freed up from customary ownership for development.

Mr Sogavare says the release of land is necessary to ensure economic prosperity and reduce aid dependency.

The prime minister made the comments during a visit to Choiseul province and he said the theme for his trip was fostering unity between political leaders and the people.

He said Solomon Islands international ranking as one of the least developed countries and the second highest aid dependent country in the world is a slap in the face when the country has so many natural resources.