Malaita Province takes ownership of three new bridges, enhancing access to markets and services across regions.
Malaita Province has officially taken ownership of three newly constructed bridges along the Auki-Dala road strip.
The bridges, built by Reeves Envico, aim to benefit communities in the West Kwara’ae, East, and Northern regions, providing improved access to markets and services. The project was completed in September 2024, funded by the World Bank with a contract cost of USD 9.6 million.
Minister of Infrastructure Development Manasseh Maelanga acknowledged the efforts of the World Bank and Reeves Envico in completing the project and reiterated the Government’s commitment to supporting ongoing development in Malaita.
“The construction of these bridges is a testament to our commitment to improving the lives of our people,” Minister Maelanga said. “We are grateful for the support of our development partners and look forward to continuing this partnership in the future.”
Malaita’s Deputy Premier Randall Sifoni noted the importance of better road networks for facilitating transport, trade, and economic activity, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, and tourism.
“We acknowledge and appreciate the support of the World Bank and the Solomon Islands Government in making this project a success,” Deputy Premier Sifoni said. “We urge our people to take pride in these costly public assets and care for them.”
World Bank Representative Naoki Kakuta recognized the collaboration involved in the project and emphasized the shared goal of a stronger, safer, and more connected Solomon Islands.
“To everyone involved in the project, from the engineers and construction teams to the community members, thank you,” Mr. Kakuta said. “We look forward to continuing our partnership with the people of Malaita Province in the future.”
The three bridges—Koa, Bi’o 1, and Bi’o 2—replaced aging wooden structures with steel designs intended to endure natural disasters. The project was overseen by SMEC.
The event was attended by officials from the Ministry of Infrastructure Development, the Malaita Province Assembly, contractors from Reeves Envico, a World Bank representative, the SIRAP Steering Committee, and community members from the West Kwara’ae area.
The next phase of the project, SIRAP 2, will focus on constructing four additional bridges along Malaita’s North and South roads.
Source: MID
