Solomon Islands has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable urban development at the resumption of the Second Session of the United Nations Habitat Assembly last month.
The Minister for Lands, Housing and Survey, Hon. Polycarp Pae, reaffirmed Solomon Islands’ position in his address at the Resumed Second Session of the United Nations Habitat Assembly, held in Nairobi from May 29–30, 2025.
Minister Pae informed the Assembly of Solomon Islands’ urban development challenges driven by rapid urbanization and climate vulnerability, while also underscoring the transformative role of international cooperation through the UN-Habitat.
He acknowledged the critical support provided by UN-Habitat in recent years, highlighting key national milestones including the development of the National Urban Profile and the Solomon Islands National Urban Policy 2020–2035.
The Minister emphasised several priority initiatives, notably the Temporary Occupation License (TOL) Conversion Programme, which seeks to regularize land tenure and transition occupants to Fixed Term Estates (FTEs). He also stressed the importance of housing land subdivision efforts aimed at improving access to adequate housing.
A key focus of the Assembly was the presentation of the UN-Habitat Strategic Plan 2026–2029, which centers on equitable access to housing, land, and basic services, along with the urgent transformation of informal settlements.
Minister Pae affirmed Solomon Islands’ strong support for the plan, aligning national efforts with its core objectives. This strategic alignment reflects the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT)’s priorities under the Ministry of Lands, Housing, and Survey.
The Solomon Islands voted in favor of adopting the Strategic Plan, further demonstrating its commitment to inclusive and sustainable urban development.
Minister Pae also addressed continuing challenges, including limited technical capacity, outdated legislation, and constrained financial resources at the local government level. He called for strengthened international collaboration and reiterated Solomon Islands’ resolve to build “peaceful, resilient, inclusive, and prosperous urban areas” through participatory planning and reform-driven approaches.
– GOVT COM UNIT
