The Prime Minister, Manasseh Sogavare, has been invited as a special guest to witness the commissioning of Chiefs in Makira-Ulawa Province on the 17th of this month.

Spokesman for the Makira-Ulawa Chiefs Empowerment Organizing committee, Henry Zimbo, says that the Prime Minister has already confirmed his presence by letter last week.

Zimbo says the Prime Minister and his party will arrive at Kira Kira on Thursday 16th August.

Mr Zimbo said that the Prime Minister will also witness the 24th anniversary celebrations of the Province's 2nd Appointed Day which will be held alongside the Empowerment of Chiefs. He says the empowerment of the traditional chiefs is part of the province's preparations for the federal system.

Zimbo says around 100 chiefs from the whole province will be empowered on the day. He also says his committee has agreed to get local people involved by contributing food and also help in raising funds for the events.