PRC-FUNDED RSDP CONTRIBUTES 1.5 MILLION TO NORTH GUADALCANAL CONSTITUENCY’S EFFORT TO POVERTY ALLEVIATION 

The People’s Republic of China (PRC), in partnership with the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD), has supported the North Guadalcanal Constituency’s efforts to alleviate poverty with SBD$1.5 million for the purchase of 13 trucks to support its existing 12 Green Economic Zones (GEZ).

This generous support was made possible through the PRC-funded Rural Sustainable Development Program (RSDP), implemented by MRD.

The 13 trucks were officially handed over to the chairmen of the 12 GEZs on 11 June 2026 at the constituency’s temporary office site at Sape.

Speaking at the handover, Counsellor Li Qinghua from the PRC Embassy in the Solomon Islands congratulated the people of North Guadalcanal for the major achievement.

She highlighted the significant achievements both China and Solomon Islands have made since they started their diplomatic relationship in 2019. Some of these include the handing over of the National Referral Hospital Comprehensive Medical Centre, the construction of the Auki Road project, the connection of 150 communication towers across the country and ongoing support for the RSDP to help communities develop through projects that create long-term improvements and self-sufficiency in rural communities.

“Since 2023, based on the agreement between our two governments, China has been funding the RSDP. Our goal is to ensure most benefits reach the people.”

“Eliminating poverty and promoting the development of rural areas has always been a dream for developing countries. China successfully lifted 800 million rural residents out of poverty, meeting the poverty reduction target of the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development 10 years ahead of schedule, and making tremendous contribution to world poverty reduction efforts.

 “And I want to say, in the process of poverty alleviation, Solomon Islands is not alone.  PRC will be continuing to provide support to all the constituencies by providing practical assistance to improve socio-economic development in the country.”

Counsellor Li said joint efforts is key to progress and prosperity, adding the vehicles donated, can help North Guadalcanal constituency to take the lead in rural development.

Ms. Li reiterated that the handover is another firm testament to the practical cooperation between PRC and Solomon Islands, further strengthening the bilateral relationship.

Ms Li added, “The RSDP is not just a project. It is a strong connection and partnership between our two nations, with China committed to helping Solomon Islands develop and empower its people.” Ms. Li said.

She also emphasized China’s commitment to offering capacity-building and training opportunities for Solomon Islands, focusing on knowledge transfer to support the country’s development and prosperity, to share China’s experience in poverty alleviation with Solomon Islands, and working together with the government, people, and communities to improve livelihoods and to turn poverty alleviation into reality.

She also highlighted the importance of partnership and working together to achieve greater outcomes.

Meanwhile, Honourable Dr. Bosawai, MP, expressed profound gratitude to the People’s Republic of China (PRC) for its partnership in this development.

“The PRC, through the RSDP program, has contributed $1.5 million via the Ministry of Rural Development as part of its continued support for sustainable development in the country.

“Let me take this time to sincerely thank the great and good people of the People’s Republic of China for this generous assistance, which enabled us to procure the 13 trucks.

“Counsellor Li, my mission is to alleviate poverty across the constituency by focusing on improving economic livelihoods for my people over the next 30 years,” Hon. Dr. Bosawai said.

The vehicles are distributed to the 12 designated economic zones, with an additional one allocated to the GPPOL staff Cooperative Society within the NGC. This will support all logistical needs of the zones, including farm activities within the zones.

RSDP is a partnership program between PRC and the Solomon Islands Government, implemented through MRD.

Counsellor Li Qinghua from the Chinese Embassy in the Solomon Islands centre with Honourable Paul Bosawai, Permanent Secretary of MRD John Misite’e and Chairmen of the 12 Economic Zones during the official handing over of the 13 trucks.

Counsellor Li Qinghua from the PRC Embassy in the Solomon Islands handed over the vehicle keys to Honourable Paul Bosawai during the handover program.

A representative from PRC taking photos during the handover program.

Counsellor Li Qinghua from the PRC Embassy in the Solomon Islands, centre handed over a key to GPPOL staff Corporative Society representative as Honourable Paul Bosawai looks on.

Honourable Dr Paul Bosawai delivers his speech.

Counsellor Li from the PRC Embassy presented vehicle key to Zone 12 chairman as Honourable Dr Paul Bosawai looks on.

The 13 trucks.

– MRD Press