The Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) has announced steady progress toward the upgrade of key road networks in Malaita Province.
The project will see the sealing of 12 kilometres of North Road between Auki Gwaunaru’u Airfield Junction and Kwaisuliniu, alongside the rehabilitation of 21 kilometres of East Road between Baratalo and Atori.
These works form part of the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2), funded by the World Bank through additional financing approved in February 2025.
The upgrades will be delivered to climate-resilient standards.
The project is currently at the evaluation stage, with contractors for each road to be confirmed upon completion of procurement processes.
In preparation for construction, the Ministry of Environment Climate Change Disaster Management and Meteorology (MECDM) recently conducted public hearings to present findings from the Public Environment Report and gather feedback from stakeholders, communities, and individuals likely to be affected.
The hearings were held on 18 and 19 April 2026 across several communities, including Fouo, Kwaiafa, Fera’abu, Fabaratalo, Fote, and Buma.
Participants were encouraged to share their views during the sessions or submit written feedback to the Director of the Environment and Conservation Division within fourteen days following the meetings.
Permanent Secretary of MID, Allan Lilia, emphasised the importance of community engagement.
“Community consultations and engagements are critical to SIRAP2. We want to ensure that the voices of our people are heard and reflected in both its design and implementation. Their input helps us identify potential concerns early and deliver works that truly benefit the communities they serve,” he said.
Mr Lilia added that the upgrades are aimed at improving livelihoods, particularly in rural areas.
“These road upgrades are not just about infrastructure, but about improving livelihoods. Better roads will support access to markets, health services, education, and other essential services, particularly for our rural communities in Malaita.”
The project will deliver key improvements to enhance all-weather access and road safety. Planned works include improved drainage systems and culverts, road sealing in selected sections, slope stabilisation, and other safety enhancements.
Upon completion, the upgraded roads are expected to strengthen connectivity and improve accessibility for communities across Malaita, particularly in the northern and eastern regions.
– MID Press
