A project support in material supplies valued at SBD$1.5 million was delivered to the Malaita Outer Islands (MOI) Constituency by the People’s Republic of China (PRC) last month.
This was facilitated in partnership with the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD) on 22 December 2025.
Project supplies included; 13 boats, 13 outboard motor engines (OBMs), and six fibreglass canoes, aimed at improving livelihoods in communities and easing transportation difficulties often faced by the islanders.
This generous support was made possible through the PRC-funded Rural Sustainable Development Program (RSDP), implemented by MRD.
This support is part of the PRC’s ongoing commitment through RSDP to sustainable development and empowering communities.
The project goods and materials were received by the Constituency Development Officer, Philemon Kaola, on behalf of the Member of Parliament for MOI, Honourable Polycarp Paea, from the Chinese Embassy representative in Solomon Islands, Counsellor Li Qinghua.
“The handover today marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to uplift and empower our communities in MOI Constituency,” said CDO Kaola, who delivered his remarks on behalf of Honourable Paea, MP, and the people of MOI.
Mr. Kaola also expressed gratitude to the PRC for its generous assistance and unwavering support through RSDP toward poverty alleviation in Solomon Islands.
“These resources are not just items; they are a testament to the strong partnership between our two nations and our shared commitment to community development,” he emphasized.
MOI Constituency consists of three main islands—Sikaiana, Pelau, and Luaniua—which are organized into three separate wards within the constituency.
CDO Kaola stressed that transportation is a significant challenge for communities due to the isolated nature of these islands, making it difficult for people to visit family members, access health services, or participate in community events, leaders’ meetings, and church programs.
“Also, our people rely heavily on the sea for their livelihoods. So, the provision of these boats and outboard motors (OBMs) is seen as a vital part of the solution to empower them, through improved sea transportation, and support for their economic activities.
“Access to reliable transportation is crucial because it will facilitate the easier movements of people and goods, eases access to vital services such as health service, and support rural livelihoods. These assets will make a tangible difference,” Mr. Kaola highlighted.
He further stated, “These project resources will contribute significantly to the development of our communities, empower local leaders, and improve the overall quality of life for all our people.
“They symbolize our collective effort to build resilient, self-sufficient communities that can thrive despite geographical and economic challenges.”
Meanwhile, Counsellor Li Qinghua from the Chinese Embassy in the Solomon Islands in her remarks congratulated MOI Constituency office and its people on receiving the project assistance.
She said that the handover is another testament to the practical cooperation between the PRC and the Solomon Islands flourishing and growing stronger each day.
Counsellor Li stated that, as a partnership between the PRC and the people of the Solomon Islands, the main purpose of RSDP is to improve social and economic development in the country.
She also emphasized China’s commitment to offering capacity-building and training for the Solomon Islands, focusing on knowledge transfer to support the country’s development and prosperity.
Ms. Li also highlighted China’s remarkable accomplishment in lifting 800 million people out of poverty and expressed wishes to share China’s experience in poverty alleviation with the Solomon Islands, and working together with the government, people, and communities to improve livelihoods and to turn poverty alleviation into reality.
Speaking on behalf of the government, John Misite’e, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD), expressed profound gratitude to the People’s Republic of China (PRC) for its steadfast cooperation and partnership.
He acknowledged the invaluable support provided by PRC through the RSDP, which has significantly contributed to the government’s efforts toward poverty alleviation and sustainable development in rural communities.
Mr. Misite’e emphasized that such collaboration is vital in nurturing economic growth, reducing disparities, and strengthening the friendship and cooperation between our two nations.
“MOI is a very special place in terms of development. The constituency is quite remote and lacks efficient shipping services, but it is also one of the most resource-rich islands, particularly in marine resources.
“The project assistance of boats and engines is crucial for them because their primary mode of transportation and livelihood relies on canoes and boats.
“Providing these assets is highly relevant because MOI is one of the biggest suppliers of Beche-de-mer for export in the Solomon Islands. Besides beche-de-mer we may explore other marine resources such as sea-weed farming which may be suitable for this marine depended communities.
“These community of atolls can potentially influences the production of seaweed for export across the country and contributing significantly to our national economy. These project assets directly impact the lifestyle and livelihoods of these communities,” PS Misite’e stated.
The project supplies were shipped to the constituency for delivery to communities last week.
– MRD
