New Aufasu–Namoia road opens in East Malaita, improving access, transport, and economic opportunities for Kwaibaita.
The Ministry of Rural Development (MRD), in partnership with the East Malaita Constituency (EMC) Office and local communities, celebrated the opening and official handover of the Aufasu–Namoia road infrastructure project on July 4.
The road connects communities in East Kwara’ae and East Kwaio along the Kwaibaita River and is expected to improve connectivity, enhance economic opportunities, and support livelihoods in the previously isolated Kwaibaita region.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at Namoia Community High School under the theme, “Successful Partnerships & Cooperation Bring Successes.”
Spanning nearly seven kilometers, the road was funded with SBD 1.5 million from the Constituency Development Funds (CDF) under the EMC Office through the national government’s development program.
Local leaders and community members shared that the road represents a major improvement in access to markets, health services, and transportation for rural populations.
Pastor Machael Mamania of Tasisi Village described the road as a “game-changer,” noting that many in the valley have long been cut off from socio-economic opportunities.
Chief Kenley Kena of Namoia Village said the road makes travel to Auki possible within a single day—something previously unachievable due to poor access. He added the road is expected to promote trade and improve service delivery.
Community health worker Ellen Maefiri of Afetakataka Village noted the road will enhance access to clinics, including Namolaelae and Kilu’ufi Hospital, especially for emergencies and maternal health cases.
Chief Sale Kwakwae of Darisaia Village highlighted the road’s contribution to safety and security, citing improved access for police patrols and emergency response.
Former Ward 16 Provincial Member and transport operator Finley Fiumae welcomed the development, noting it would ease transport of goods and people, and support local economic activities.
In his remarks at the ceremony, East Malaita MP Maelanga emphasized the importance of infrastructure for regional development, and thanked communities, stakeholders, and landowners for their cooperation in making the project possible.
Permanent Secretary of MRD, John Misite’e, commended the EMC and local partners for the successful completion of the project. He noted that investment in infrastructure is key to enabling access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities in rural areas.
The Kwaibaita region, known for agriculture including copra, cocoa, kava, and livestock, has long lacked adequate road access. The new road now makes it possible to travel from Namoia to Auki in approximately two hours—a journey that previously took anywhere from 8 to 48 hours.
The road will benefit both East Kwara’ae and East Kwaio communities, which are separated only by the Kwaibaita River. The project was funded under EMC’s 2023–2024 CDF allocation.
Discussions are currently ongoing between the EMC Office and landowners to explore further road links between East and Central Kwara’ae via shorter routes to Auki.
Road construction was carried out by Eastern Esteem Construction. The opening ceremony concluded with community celebrations.
SOURCE: MRD PRESS RELEASE
