An official delegation from the Solomon Islands Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) has completed a three day study tour of Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) road maintenance, and vehicle safety and inspection management systems to improve road safety and economic development in Solomon Islands.
The PNG Study Tour between 18-21 July shared valuable insights between the two Melanesian nations about best practices for building and maintaining a safe and sustainable road transport network.
Minister for Ministry of Infrastructure Development Honourable Ricky Fuo’o emphasized the importance of learning from our neighbouring countries, whom share similar challenges in improving service delivery and infrastructure development that can help connect islands.
He highlighted that this trip demonstrates efforts of the government to revive the Public Works Department.
“There is a lot to gain from this trip. Thanks to the Australian Government for their continuous support towards our capacity and reformation programs,” Hon. Fuo’o said.
Director of the Land Transport Division, Leslie Nate, said the exchange program highlighted the importance of robust policies, effective governance, and strategic planning in road and transport management.
“The key takeaway is the need to establish a robust policy and legal framework that provides both the legal mandate and financial backing necessary for efficient service delivery and road infrastructure development,” Mr. Nate said, citing PNG’s Road Act and Road Management and Maintenance Master Plan under the Department of Works and Highway.
Mr. Nate, who is also the acting Secretary of the Road Transport Board, adds that road infrastructure development must be strategically linked to broader economic growth, involving collaboration across government ministries and the private sector.
The group of mechanical, civil and procurement officials met with the PNG Department of Works and Highways, the Road Traffic Authority, and the Australian programs supporting them.
Australian High Commissioner, His Excellency Rod Hilton, said Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea and Australia had a lot to learn from each other as they grow and manage their national road network.
“Australia has been a long-term investor in the road networks of both Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea,” Mr Hilton said.
“Through finance, capacity building, and supporting the use of local contractors, that hire local workers Australia is building regional transport systems that will grow economic opportunities for farmers, business and households.”
The delegation also visited Vehicle Safety Inspection Sites to understand how PNG is keeping its roads safe.
The Solomon Islands delegation commended PNG’s initiatives and encouraged ongoing efforts to improve road and traffic management systems through strategic collaboration to enhance regional infrastructure development and economic growth.
- AHC
Photo caption: The tour visited the road developed by PNG LNG/Exxon Mobil under the Infrastructure Tax Credit Scheme.
