The Tubah Council has officially adopted its budget for the year 2025, amounting to 811.31 million Francs, during a budgetary session held on December 5. With a 2.64% increase from the previous year, attributed primarily to improved revenue collection from global taxes, market tolls, building permits, and fines related to hygiene and sanitation, alongside the operationalization of the mortuary.
The budget was approved after thorough discussions among councillors regarding priority projects for the upcoming year. Mayor Tanjong Martin emphasized that the council had carefully considered projects from both the Public Investment Budget and proposals submitted by neighborhood committees.
Key initiatives set for 2025 include the protection of the Atunui water catchment, the extension of electricity and water supply services, installation of solar panel street lights from Bambui to Bambili, and the completion of the women’s empowerment center in Bambili. Additionally, the council plans to build box culverts and bridges to enhance local infrastructure.
In a bid to further develop the municipality, councillors have authorized Mayor Tanjong to secure an interest-free loan from the Ministry of the Economy, Planning and Regional Development. This loan is earmarked for the construction of a shopping mall and a specialized hospital. “When this idea came up, we spoke to the Minister of the Economy, who confirmed that Tubah Council is eligible for this loan. We are currently in talks with partners in India to conceptualize our needs,” stated Mayor Tanjong. He highlighted that the hospital will focus on treating specific illnesses while the shopping mall will be built at the current site of the Bambui market.
The council also discussed obtaining land certificates for all council-owned land in the villages that comprise the municipality. In addressing hygiene and sanitation issues, Tubah Council is set to benefit from a 124 million Francs grant from the President of the Republic. Mayor Tanjong announced plans to construct a waste transformation plant that would sort and process waste materials. Notably, Tubah Council is one of two councils in the North West region currently engaged in transforming non-biodegradable plastic waste into pavement blocks.
To enhance waste collection and transformation efforts, the council will collaborate with the Non-Governmental Organization International Environment Solutions.
The adoption of this budget marks a significant milestone for Tubah Council as it embarks on its first three-year program budget, reflecting a commitment to sustainable development and community improvement in the region. As Tubah prepares for 2025, residents can anticipate positive changes aimed at enhancing their quality of life and fostering economic growth.
