THE Australian Government on Thursday, 26th June has announced a $60million package to upgrade the road networks in Solomon Islands.
The announcement is part of Australia’s commitment in listening and responding to Solomon Islands priorities.
And one of these priorities is investing in road transport infrastructure to boost economic opportunities for local businesses and create jobs for Solomon Islanders.
The joint announcement was made by the Minister for Infrastructure Development, Ricky Fuo’o and Australia’s Minister for Pacific Islands Affairs, The Hon Pat Conroy MP.
Under this package Australia will provide SBD60 million (AUD11 million) as a direct grant to the National Transport Fund to upgrade the Solomon Islands National Roads Network.
This will support the Government’s priority roads for maintenance, repairs and upgrades. These include four key transport corridors in Malaita and eight roads in Honiara.
Minister Conroy said, the latest commitment reflected Australia’s enduring partnership and support for Solomon Islands’ development priorities.
“It is with honour and gratitude that Australia stands together with Solomon Islands to reaffirm our friendship and shared commitment to a prosperous Solomon Islands,” said Minister Conroy.
“Reliable, well-maintained roads are essential arteries of daily life, to get people to and from work and school, and to get fresh produce to market.
“By empowering local decision-making and fostering economic activity with local contractors, today’s investment will benefit communities, expand economic opportunities, and create jobs,” said Minister Conroy.
Works will be delivered by local Solomon Islands contractors, boosting jobs and incomes in the private sector.
Minister Fuo’o said he had witnessed first-hand the impact of the reopening of the Malaita South Road last year, which was supported by Australia through the National Transport Fund and delivered by local contractors.
“Farmers can again get their produce to market, the cost of goods has halved, transport providers have reduced wear and tear of their vehicles and services like health and education are more accessible” Minister Fuo’o said.
“I have also made a commitment this year to the people of Honiara to fix the city’s deteriorated road network, and this funding from Australia will help us achieve that goal, reducing the time and cost of daily travel for everyone.”
Australia is the number one supporter of Solomon Islands’ economic and social infrastructure development, investing over SBD 5 billion in 515 projects over the past five years.
These include the Naha birthing and urban health clinic, the undersea internet cable to Australia and Papua New Guinea, border posts, the Tina River Hydropower power and solar projects, upgraded airfields, ports, and health facilities.
Australia remains a reliable, close and steadfast partner—working alongside Solomon Islands to build a connected nation and region, and ensuring future generations benefit from sustainable infrastructure.
– AHC
