The Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) and Community Access and Urban Services Enhancement (CAUSE) II Project have acknowledged a recent media article regarding contractor opportunities and wish to clarify that local contractors will be engaged by, and benefit from, the project.
An article by Solomon Star this week claims that the CAUSE II Project would sideline local contractors and that there has been a predetermined selection of external international contractors.
“This is grossly inaccurate,” a statement from MID said.
“In fact, only local contractors can be hired for the project’s civil works. CAUSE is a Solomon Islands Government initiative built on the key principles of local participation, creating jobs for Solomon Islanders, and enhancing their economic prospects. Local contractors and workers are central to ensuring the project’s benefits remain within the Solomon Islands.”
The statement further emphasised the project’s commitment to fair and transparent procurement, saying, “There is no predetermined selection of international contractors, and providing opportunities for locally owned contracting firms and workers is a core priority for the project.”
CAUSE II procurement plans are publicly available on the World Bank’s website. News reporters or the wider public are encouraged to refer to official sources, including the Solomon Islands Government Website and Ministry of Finance & Treasury, the World Bank website, and the CAUSE Project Implementation Unit.
“As implementing agencies, MID and Honiara City Council (HCC), it has been recognised that uncertainty can arise when large-scale projects change or expand, and communities.
“Local businesses will be critical and raise a lot of questions about procurement processes and contractor selection, but be assured that the project’s design ensures the inclusion of local businesses, workers, and communities,” the statement said.
The CAUSE II Project builds on the success of its predecessor, which closed on October 31, 2024, implemented by the Government of Solomon Islands and supported by financing from the World Bank and the Government of Australia through the PNG and Pacific Islands Umbrella Facility.
As such, procurement will be fully aligned with World Bank standards and the laws of the Solomon Islands.
Since its inception, the CAUSE initiative has delivered considerable benefits to Solomon Islanders.
More than 8,400 people (50 percent being women and youth) have gained employment opportunities. The project has created 370,000 labour days, significantly improving livelihoods for participants.
It has also delivered critical urban infrastructure improvements, including road maintenance, drainage systems, and waste management across urban centres.
