Ten new solar powered streetlights have been handed over to the State Ridge Community in Central Honiara Constituency on Thursday 6th March.

The support was delivered through the Australian Community Partnerships program.

The lights were handed over by the Australian High Commission Minister Counsellor Ms Lindsay Buckingham.

Australian High Commission officials were warmly welcomed to State Ridge by the community, and the Constituency Development Officer for Central Honiara, Mr Rexford Paul.

Australian High Commissioner Rod Hilton said this project was a shining example of the strong commitment and partnership between Solomon Islands and Australia.

“This project was not just about lighting up the street, but about how Australia supports needs identified by communities to improve their own livelihoods” he said.

“The installation of solar-powered streetlights is a small but important part of a broader vision to create thriving communities.”

Project Coordinator, Mr Julian Houkura, said for many years, the community did not have any lights on the road.

“Today, we are happy to have these streetlights – especially for the safety of women, youths and children. This will make it easier for our community to go about our daily activities without fear,” Mr Houkura said.

This project, delivered in partnership with the State Ridge Community in Central Honiara Constituency, was one of more than 100 community projects funded by Australia in 2024 under the Community Partnership program, representing more than SBD 23 million in direct funding to local businesses.

The Australian High Commission is accepting applications for the Solomon Islands – Australia Partnerships until 23 March. For more information, please visit: https://solomonislands.embassy.gov.au/honi/communitypartnerships.html