The construction of Huawei telecommunications towers under the Solomon Islands National Broadband Infrastructure Project (SINBIP) is progressing smoothly in Vella La Vella, Western Province—with no disputes reported to date.
Six tower sites are currently under development across Vella, located in Vatoro, Dovele, Java, Lambulambu, Beiporo, and Vonunu.
Some of them are already completed.
The project is aimed at expanding mobile network and internet coverage to underserved rural areas, and has been met with widespread community support.
Local landowners and community leaders have welcomed the initiative, highlighting the positive collaboration between Huawei’s technical teams, local and community representatives.
Full cooperation and transparent consultation have been key to the project’s progress.
“This is the first time we’re seeing such an important infrastructure project move forward without disputes,” a local elder from Vonunu and Chair of the Tower Program Committee in South Vella Loulen Lelapitu told Solomon Star in an interview.
“It shows what’s possible when proper consultation is done. These towers will help us with better mobile calls, data access, and internet connectivity.
‘’They have put a one month notice in Vonunu for any query but nothing happens and so this means there is no disagreement or dispute taking place,” he said.
He added everyone in the community welcome to initiative that gives them hope for better telecommunication in the region.
Most of the workers involved in construction of the tower are; Sir Lanka nationals.
Once completed, the towers are expected to significantly enhance communication services in the region, benefiting schools, clinics, businesses, and households.
The infrastructure will also play a critical role in linking isolated communities to vital public services and digital opportunities.
The Huawei towers in Vella are part of a broader national effort under SINBIP, led by the Solomon Islands Government in partnership with Huawei Technologies and international development partners.
The project aligns with the government’s strategy to bridge the digital divide, particularly in remote and rural provinces.
In May 2025, Huawei confirmed that 38 telecommunications tower sites are expected to be completed by the end of 2025, with the full SINBIP rollout scheduled for completion by the end of 2026.
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele recently reaffirmed the Government’s appreciation for the project during a high-level meeting with Huawei executives, including Mr. Denny Deng, President of Huawei Asia Pacific Carrier Business Group, Mr. Angelo Zhang, CEO of Huawei’s Papua New Guinea Subsidiary, and Mr. Nick Liu, PNG Subsidiary Account Director.
The meeting reviewed the progress of SINBIP and explored further collaboration to boost digital transformation in Solomon Islands.
“This infrastructure rollout aligns with our GNUT Policy Agenda and is critical for ensuring equitable access to digital services across the country,” PM Manele stated.
With installation work progressing steadily at all six Vella sites, communities remain optimistic that improved connectivity will soon transform daily life, opening doors to education, commerce, and modern communication.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
