Public hearings held for Malaita roads upgrade as MID progresses works under World Bank-funded SIRAP2 project.
The Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) has reported progress on planned upgrades to roads in Malaita Province. The project includes the sealing of 12 kilometres of North Road between Auki Gwaunaru’u Airfield Junction and Kwaisuliniu, and the rehabilitation of 21 kilometres of East Road between Baratalo and Atori.
The works form part of the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project, funded by the World Bank through additional financing approved in February 2025, and are expected to meet climate-resilient standards.
The project is currently at the evaluation stage, with contractors to be confirmed once procurement processes are completed.
Ahead of construction, the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology (MECDM) conducted public hearings to present findings from the Public Environment Report and gather feedback from stakeholders and affected communities.
The hearings were held on 18 and 19 April 2026 in Fouo, Kwaiafa, Fera’abu, Fabaratalo, Fote, and Buma. Community members were invited to provide feedback during the sessions or through written submissions to the Environment and Conservation Division within fourteen days of the meetings.
Permanent Secretary of MID, Allan Lilia, said community consultations are an important part of the project, allowing concerns to be identified and addressed during planning and implementation.
The upgrades are expected to include drainage and culvert improvements, road sealing in selected sections, slope stabilisation, and road safety measures.
Once completed, the works are expected to improve road access and connectivity for communities in the northern and eastern parts of Malaita Province.
Source: SIRAP2 Project Press
