A Joint Survey Team visited Napii village in East Wainoni District, Makira Ulawa Province, on May 17, 2025, to identify suitable locations for the construction of communication towers.
The team is part of a government-backed project, funded by China, that aims to install seven communication towers across East Makira Constituency (EMC) — a region that has lived without such infrastructure for nearly a century.
The main purpose of the survey was to inspect the terrain and soil conditions at proposed tower sites and to engage with local communities about the project.
The team also took the opportunity to raise awareness among residents that this initiative is being brought to the rural areas through cooperation between the Solomon Islands Government and the Chinese funding agency.
So far, three tower sites have been confirmed in Wainoni District:
- Huni Village (West Wainoni)
- Naharahau village (East Wainoni)
- Pihuru village (East Wainoni)
The team will now proceed to survey locations in Star Harbor District.
Residents of East Makira expressed joy and gratitude after learning about the plans. For decades, the area has remained disconnected from modern telecommunication services.
The tower project offers a significant step forward in bridging the digital divide.
“We are very happy and proud to finally have a communication tower in 2025,” said a community member.
“We thank the Solomon Islands Government, Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele, and our Member of Parliament for East Makira, Hon. Franklyn Derick Wasi, for their support and concern for our constituency.”
The tower project is expected to dramatically improve connectivity in East Makira, providing vital communication links for education, business, healthcare, and social connection.
By David Hui
Makira Stringer / Reporter
