An official overseeing public services in Bougainville says the post-referendum period must be used to build the self-reliance of the region.
Polling is almost complete in the autonomous Papua New Guinea region's non-binding independence referendum, with vote counting to begin this weekend.
The options on the ballot are for Bougainville to become independent or to have greater autonomy within PNG.
Mark Simutari is a manager with the Arawa town council in central Bougainville, a region struggling for basic public services
He spoke to Johnny Blades who asked him if the Autonomous Bougainville Government adequately resourced the council.
Mark Simutari from the Arawa town council in Bougainville, Papua New Guinea Photo: RNZ / Johnny Blades
