Malaita Province Continues Economic Progress Through Strong Partnerships Govt Development partners.

Auki, Malaita Province – Despite facing ongoing social and economic challenges, Malaita Province is making significant strides in economic development, thanks to its robust collaboration with the national government and various development partners. This was emphasized by Premier Elijah Asilaua during the 2024/2025 Revised Budget Meeting held in Auki last week.

Premier Asilaua outlined the benefits of this partnership, attributing them to coordinated efforts aimed at advancing the Malaita Economic Cooperation and Transformation Government Policies. These policies focus on developing a comprehensive Master Plan that serves as a long-term strategic framework for economic growth and prosperity Malaita Province.

“This approach will enable the government to establish a greater Auki and enhance connectivity to other regions by improving road infrastructure, stimulating trade, and creating economic opportunities for the province,” Premier Asilaua stated.

The Premier also highlighted a recent survey conducted in conjunction with the Ministry of Lands and Housing (MLHS) that has set the groundwork for an urban development strategy aimed at creating a greater Auki. “Our Master Plan incorporates essential guidelines and policies related to provincial alienated land, infrastructure, transportation, housing, economic development, and environmental sustainability,” he explained.

In his address, Premier Asilaua reaffirmed his government’s commitment to prioritizing investment opportunities that bolster the productive sector. “Our strong collaboration with the national government, diplomatic partners, and development organizations is designed to strengthen the private sector by promoting equitable and sustainable growth across agriculture, tourism, fisheries, forestry, marketing, and trade. This will be supported by essential infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and buildings,” he elaborated.

The Premier also stressed the importance of the social sectors—health, education, and law enforcement—in supporting institutional development and economic infrastructure. “The growth of private entrepreneurship will lead to increased returns on investment, the creation of more employment opportunities, and income-generating activities, which are vital for our economic growth,” he added.

Additionally, Premier Asilaua reaffirmed the government's commitment to several USAID-funded projects aimed at enhancing infrastructure and services within the province. These projects include the Gwaigeo Access Road Rehabilitation, Gwaigeo Factory, Auki Fisheries Cold Storage, and the Ada Koa Cold Storage and Mini-Grid Energy. Despite the announcements of these projects occurring several years ago, they have yet to receive funding, prompting questions from locals eager for implementation.

“We remain steadfast in our commitment to advancing these initiatives,” Premier Asilaua assured the Malaita Provincial Assembly last week.

Beyond the USAID projects, Malaita Province is receiving support from various bilateral partners. The Japanese Government is currently working on the Kiluufi Hospital Improvement Project, while the People’s Republic of China is involved in the Auki Road Tar Sealing Project. Additionally, the Australian Government has successfully financed emergency works on the South Road in Malaita Province.

With these collaborative efforts, Malaita Province is poised for a transformative journey toward sustainable economic development and improved living standards for its residents.