The Minister for Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening (MPGIS), Hon. Rollen Seleso this week officially handed over the new Kukudu Suspension Bridge in Western Province, marking a major milestone for six surrounding communities.
The SBD $1.6 million project replaces an aging 25-year-old structure that had become increasingly dangerous due to shoreline erosion and frequent flooding.
The new bridge now provides a climate-resilient lifeline for the people of Titian, Hambere, Kukudu Headquarters, Iriri, Pepele and Mereusu.
Speaking during the handover ceremony on Wednesday Minister Seleso said the project demonstrates the strength of collaboration between national and provincial stakeholders.
“This project we are handing over this afternoon cost approximately SBD $1.6 million,” he said.
He explained that funding was sourced through the Provincial Capacity Development Fund (PCDF), with the Integrated Economic Development and Community Resilience (IEDCR) Project contributing about $1.5 million, while the Solomon Islands Government (SIG) provided $163,000.
Minister Seleso also acknowledged the support of the World Bank, describing its contribution as instrumental in advancing rural infrastructure development.
He said the World Bank has committed approximately SBD $84.8 million towards the first phase of the PCDF programme aimed at driving rural economic transformation.
The new bridge incorporates major engineering improvements designed to withstand harsh coastal conditions.
Provincial engineers redesigned the structure, replacing the old wooden towers with durable steel towers to improve both lifespan and load capacity.
Addressing the long-standing issue of shoreline erosion, Minister Seleso revealed that further protective measures are already in the pipeline.
“A provision has already been made in the three-year rolling plan for the construction of a seawall to stabilise the shoreline and safeguard the bridge foundations,” he said.
He added that the Kukudu bridge plays a critical role in ensuring access to essential services, enabling students to attend Mount Sioka Primary School and Kukudu Adventist College, and allowing patients to reach health facilities even during heavy rains.
Beyond social services, the Minister emphasised that the bridge will serve as a catalyst for economic resilience in the region.
Reliable access will allow farmers, fishers and market vendors to transport their produce more efficiently, boosting local trade and household incomes.
Minister Seleso further highlighted that the Government of National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) is shifting its development focus towards resilient economic infrastructure. While investments in schools and clinics remain important, he said there is now greater emphasis on infrastructure that directly supports mobility and livelihoods in the post-COVID-19 recovery period.
The handover ceremony was attended by Western Province Premier Hon. Billy Veo, provincial ministers, World Bank Country Director Mr. Bernard Harborne, as well as church leaders and community representatives.
Minister Seleso concluded by commending the Western Provincial Government for its strong planning and implementation capacity, noting that the successful delivery of the project reflects sound governance and adherence to required standards.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
