Manele Backs Australia Partnership

PM Manele supports 50 new community projects under Solomon Islands–Australia development partnership program.

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has reaffirmed the value of strategic partnerships in supporting national development, as 50 new community infrastructure projects were announced under the Solomon Islands–Australia Community Partnership Programme.

Speaking at an awards event hosted by the Australian High Commission, Manele acknowledged Australia’s continued collaboration and congratulated the newly selected project coordinators and community beneficiaries.

“Australia remains one of Solomon Islands’ major and most committed development partners,” Manele said. He noted that the Solomon Islands–Australia Development Partnership Plan 2024–2029 reflects shared priorities and aligns with the country’s National Development Strategy and the Government for National Unity and Transformation’s (GNUT) policy agenda.

The 50 new projects, valued at more than SBD 11 million, will be rolled out across eight provinces and 33 constituencies. They include community halls, water supply systems, sanitation facilities, rural health posts, solar lighting, and footpaths. These add to the 100 community projects launched earlier in 2024, which were valued at over SBD 23 million.

“These small-scale infrastructure investments are meaningful and life-changing, especially for people in rural and remote communities,” Manele said.

He emphasized the importance of community involvement and long-term maintenance, urging project coordinators and communities to work closely with the Australian High Commission to ensure the successful implementation and sustainability of the projects.

A second round of project applications is expected to open in July. Manele encouraged national and provincial leaders to assist communities with preparing proposals and to explore co-financing opportunities to increase the program’s reach and impact.

The partnership reflects the GNUT Government’s foreign policy approach, which focuses on mutual respect, shared responsibility, and practical cooperation to support the Solomon Islands’ development goals.

SOURCE: OPMC Press Secretariat