Malaita Province on Tuesday officially took ownership of three newly constructed bridges along the Auki-Dala road strip, marking a significant milestone in the province’s infrastructure development.
The bridges, which were constructed by Reeves Envico, will benefit communities in West Kwara’ae, East, and Northern regions, providing safe and reliable access to markets and services.
The project, which was completed in September 2024, was funded by the World Bank and had a contract cost of USD 9.6 million.
Speaking at the official opening ceremony, Minister of Infrastructure Development Manasseh Maelanga thanked the World Bank and Reeves Envico for their tireless efforts and dedication in completing the project.
He assured the people of Malaita that the Government will continue to support the province to promote development and economic activity.
“The construction of these bridges is a testament to our commitment to improving the lives of our people,” Minister Maelanga said.
“We are grateful for the support of our development partners and look forward to continuing this partnership in the future.”
Malaita Deputy Premier Randall Sifoni emphasized that the construction of better road networks gives access to better transport and logistical movement, boosting commerce, trade, and economic activities in productive sectors like agriculture, fisheries, and tourism.
“We acknowledge and appreciate the support of the World Bank and the Solomon Islands Government in making this project a success,” Deputy Premier Sifoni said. “We urge our people to take pride in these costly public assets and care for them.”
World Bank Representative Naoki Kakuta said that the project is a testament to what can be achieved with a common goal – a stronger, safer, and more connected Solomon Islands.
“To everyone involved in the project, from the engineers and construction teams to the community members, thank you,” Mr. Kakuta said. “We look forward to continuing our partnership with the people of Malaita Province in the future.”
The three bridges – Koa, Bi’o 1, and Bi’o 2 – were built to replace aging wooden structures with robust steel designs intended to withstand natural disasters. The project was completed under the administration and supervision of SMEC.
The event was attended by officials from the Ministry of Infrastructure Development, the Malaita Province Assembly and team, contractors from Reeves Envico, a World Bank representative, the SIRAP Steering Committee, and community members from the West Kwara’ae area.
Looking ahead, the next phase of the project, SIRAP 2, will focus on constructing four additional bridges along Malaita’s North and South roads, continuing the vital work of improving infrastructure in the province.
