The Australian High Commission officially handed over 20 new solar-powered streetlights to the State Ridge community in Central Honiara on Thursday – 23rd January, marking a milestone in local safety and sustainability efforts.
The ceremony, held at State Ridge near the Governor-General’s residence, featured a ribbon cutting, a tour of the newly installed solar lights, a photo session with community members and officials, and a celebratory cake cutting.
The project was funded under the Solomon Islands–Australia Community Partnerships, with Australia contributing SBD 185,800 to the extension.
It builds on a previous investment of SBD 107,000 for 10 streetlights, bringing the total to SBD 292,000.
Stephanie Aeuckens, Minister Counsellor at the Australian High Commission, described the initiative as “a shining example of the strong partnership between Solomon Islands and Australia.”
“This project not only reflects the power of collaboration between Australia and local communities, but also the vision we share for a safer and more sustainable future,” she said.
“Australia is proud to continue to support local communities’ efforts to make their communities safer for everyone.”
Aeuckens emphasised the broader impact of the initiative: “These solar-powered streetlights are not just about lighting up the streets.
They are about lighting a way for a brighter and safe future for our children, families and our business. They are making the community safer, especially for women and children.”
Community Chairman and Project Manager Julian Houkura said the initiative was born out of frustration with rising crime and violence.
“We were tired of experiencing criminal activities, children abuses, women’s abuses, violence,” he said.
“Now, the street lights are on, and we are really enjoying this. Women are freely moving around during the night. Children are moving around, going to shop. Everyone can move around safely without the fear.”
He also reminded residents of their responsibility to maintain the project: “After the handing over, the responsibility is upon us. It’s not the Australian High Commission anymore. So, we must look after our street lights.”
Community representative Sophia Ata highlighted the deeper meaning of the project.
“Listening to all the speech, I can express three aspects that stood out – community, collaboration, connection,” she said.
“What we see now is a manifestation of what our fathers and forefathers dreamed of. It’s unfortunate they could not accomplish it in their time, but today we stand ready to carry that vision forward.”
Australia has funded 108 community projects across all nine provinces of Solomon Islands, representing more than $25 million in direct investment.
Aeuckens said the solar-powered streetlights were not only about lighting streets but “lighting a way for a brighter future for families and businesses.”
By ANDRIANAH DELASALET KOLE
Solomon Star, Honiara.
