The Central Provincial Physical Planning Board was told to use land strategically

Lands and Physical Planning Minister John Rosso says Central province must utilize its land strategically to pave way for critical development under a new physical planning board which was sworn in today.

The eight-member board will be led by provincial administrator and chairman Edward Kila as they work towards shaping Central through effective land development and management.

Rosso said the physical planning board’s work was critical and the decisions made for land allocation will shape the future of the province.

“We must ensure land is used strategically, promoting economic growth while protecting community interests and our natural environment. Every decision should create opportunities for our people,” he said.

“Personal interest must never influence this board’s work. Our decisions must be transparent, fair and made solely for the benefit of Central province’s residents.”

Rosso said Central was the gateway to the nation’s capital and needs a comprehensive land use plan to balance multiple priorities.

Provincial governor Rufina Peter said the re-establishment of the board was a gesture of decentralization, reaffirming the capacity of the province to lead its own development agendas.

Miss Peter called on the physical planning board for stronger collaboration between the traditional land custodians, various government harms and the private sector to attract development.

“Together, we must build partnerships rooted in mutual respect and shared responsibility,” she said.

“Our collective effort will ensure that the fruits of development are equitably distributed and that no one is left behind.

“Physical planning is about vision. It is about shaping the environments where our people live, learn, and work. It’s about safeguarding our cultural and natural heritage while unlocking opportunities for inclusive growth.”

The board members include Norman Ray as the deputy chair, Kila Bae [lands], Joseph Salle [representing the interest of national government], Emmanuel Asigau [expert in physical planning matters], Andrew Magaiva [sports, youth and women], Reverend Roger Joseph [churches rep] and Patrick Laman [settlement].

Meanwhile, LPPD secretary Benjamin Samson said his department was focused on ensuring the effective administration of the Central board and the smooth operations of the physical planning office.