Hon. Minister Tuhaika and Minister Counsellor Aeuckens officially cutting the ribbon
RCCC Refurbished Gate Lodge Officially Opened
Honiara, Solomon Islands – The Refurbished Gate Lodge Phase One at Rove Central Correctional Centre (RCCC) has recently opened following the successful completion of renovation works aimed at strengthening security, improving operational effectiveness, and enhancing working conditions for correctional officers.
Speaking during the official opening ceremony, Commissioner of the Correctional Service Solomon Islands (CSSI), Mr. Mactus Forau, welcomed guests and highlighted the significance of the occasion.
“It is an honour for me, on behalf of the Correctional Service Solomon Islands, to welcome you to this important occasion—the Official Opening of the Refurbished Gate Lodge Phase One here at Rove Central Correctional Centre,” says Commissioner Forau.
“Today’s ceremony is particularly significant for CSSI, not only because we are marking the completion of an important infrastructure development project, but also because it is the first official visit by our Honourable Minister for Police, National Security and Correctional Services (MPNS&CS) since assuming office.”
Commissioner Forau said, the Minister’s presence demonstrated the Government’s commitment to supporting CSSI and recognising its important role within Solomon Islands’ law and justice sector.
The refurbishment project was made possible through the support of the Australian Government under the Direct Funding Agreement arrangement with CSSI. Commissioner Forau expressed appreciation to the Government and people of Australia for their longstanding partnership and continued support to the correctional service and wider justice sector.
He also acknowledged GF Construction for its professionalism in delivering the project, and commended CSSI Infrastructure and Maintenance staff, together with prisoners who assisted with additional works surrounding the facility.
“Your contribution is commendable and demonstrates the value of teamwork, ownership, and rehabilitation through practical engagement,” he said.
Commissioner Forau emphasised that facilities such as the Gate Lodge are critical to supporting safe custody, secure operations, effective rehabilitation, and professional correctional management. He noted that the project contributes directly to CSSI’s vision of building a modern, accountable, secure, and rehabilitation-focused correctional service.
Representing the Australian High Commission, Minister Counsellor Mrs. Stephanie Aeuckens said, the refurbished Gate Lodge serves as the frontline entry point of the correctional facility and reflects both security and professionalism.
“Its refurbishment is a testament to the ongoing efforts to ensure correctional services infrastructure remains fit for purpose, resilient, and responsive to the needs of both staff and those entrusted to their care,” says Counsellor Aeuckens.
She said Australia was pleased to support the initiative through its Direct Funding Arrangement with the MPNS&CS, describing the project as another example of the strong partnership between Australia and Solomon Islands in advancing justice, security, and institutional development.
Mrs. Aeuckens acknowledged the leadership of Commissioner Forau and the dedication of CSSI officers. She also recognised the attendance of the newly appointed Minister for PNS&CS, Hon. John Tuhaika Jr., describing his early engagement with the sector as a demonstration of his commitment to correctional services and national security.
She reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to supporting the strengthening of Solomon Islands’ law, justice, and security institutions through infrastructure development and institutional capacity building.
Officially opening the facility, Minister for PNS&CS, Hon. John Tuhaika Jr., thanked the Government of Australia for its continued support through the Direct Funding Agreement.
“This project, valued at approximately SBD $800,000, reflects the strength of our partnership in advancing justice and security in Solomon Islands,” says Minister Tuhaika.
The Minister also thanked Commissioner Forau, the CSSI Executive Team, and all officers for their commitment and dedication to maintaining safe and secure correctional centres throughout the country.
He urged officers to take pride in the facility and ensure it is properly maintained to support the effective delivery of correctional services.
“This refurbished Gate Lodge stands as a symbol of progress, partnership, and our shared commitment to building a stronger correctional system,” he said.
Minister Tuhaika noted that the RCCC Gate Lodge serves as the principal entry and security control point of the centre and that the refurbishment reflects CSSI’s ongoing commitment to strengthening security, improving operational effectiveness, and supporting the professional delivery of correctional services.
The opening of the Refurbished Gate Lodge Phase One marks another important milestone in CSSI’s efforts to modernise correctional infrastructure and strengthen correctional service delivery in Solomon Islands.
CSSI Commissioner Mactus Forau welcoming the official Guests for the official opening the gate lodge.
Australian High Commission, Minister Counsellor Mrs. Stephanie Aeuckens delivering her remarks.
Hon. Minister John Tuhaika Jr. delivering his remarks at the official opening of the RCCC refurbished gate lodge
Minister for Police, National Security & Correctional Services and AHC Minister Counsellor Aeuckens cutting the cake while Commissioner Forau looks on.