Minister for Infrastructure Development Manasseh Maelanga delivering his remarks during the ground breaking ceremony of the China-aid Auki Road Rehabilitation Project in Auki this week.
Malaitans Urged to Show Care and Responsibility for Road Infrastructures
7th March 2025
Minister for Infrastructure Development, Hon. Manasseh Maelanga, called on the people of Malaita to embrace collective responsibility in caring for the region’s roads and infrastructure. His remarks were made during the launch of the Auki Road Network Rehabilitation Project in Auki this week.
Minister Maelanga emphasised that the success of infrastructure projects relies not only on government initiatives and contractor services but also on the active involvement of the entire community. “Today marks a significant milestone in enhancing our local infrastructure,” he said. “However, we must recognise that this success is a shared responsibility that requires the cooperation and support of every member of our community.”
He encouraged all Malaitans to take a proactive stance in maintaining their local infrastructure. “As we embark on this journey together, I urge you to adopt a sense of ownership over these developments. Care for the roads, report any issues, and engage in community discussions about our transport needs,” he added.
Highlighting the vital role of well-maintained roads, Minister Maelanga remarked, “Our roads are more than just pathways; they are the arteries that connect our lives, families, and aspirations. Let us cultivate a culture of respect and care for our infrastructure.”
Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele also echoed similar sentiments in his keynote address, stating, “To the people of Malaita, may this road serve as a lasting source of pride and a testament to the power of partnership in transforming our communities. Let us continue to unite to foster development and open up our lands.”
The road project includes extensive repairs and rehabilitation of the main road, stretching from Kilu’ufi Hospital on the northern side of Auki Town to the Kwaibala Bridge on the southern side, covering over 9 km and encompassing 16 feeder roads.
The government, in partnership with donor organisations, is dedicated to enhancing essential road infrastructure development projects in Malaita Province. These include:
- Solomon Islands Road and Aviation Project (SIRAP 2)—Construction of new bridges at Su’u Harbour and Bira along the South Road and Kolofe 1 and Kolofe 2 in the Northern region.
- Solomon Islands Road and Aviation Project (SIRAP 2) sealing of the 12 km road from Gwaunaru’u to Kwaisuliniu in West Kwara’ae.
- Solomon Islands Infrastructure Program—Sealing of the Auki to Bina road.
- Ongoing routine maintenance of the Dala-Fou’ia section along the North Road, the longest road section in the Solomon Islands.
- Solomon Islands Road and Aviation Project (SIRAP 2)—Incorporating climate-resilient infrastructures on the East Malaita road extending beyond 21 km to Atori.
- Community Access Urban Services Enhancement (CAUSE 2)—Road improvements in Auki to support local development.
- Regular maintenance of road networks funded through the Constituency Development Funds, ensuring sustained access and quality over time.
These projects reflect the government’s 2017-2036 National Transport Plan (NTF) and 5-year rolling Medium Term Transport Action Plan (MTTAP) to foster sustainable infrastructure development throughout the provinces.
Ends//
With photos
With spades in hand, for a shared future.