Malaita Province Receives Largest Share in Australia-Funded Community Projects

Malaita Province has secured the highest number of projects in the latest Australia Community Partnership Project awards, officially launched last week. Out of the 50 new projects announced under the initiative, 16 have been allocated to Malaita, with 14 situated on the Malaita mainland and two in the Malaita Outer Islands (MOI).

The projects are part of Australia's ongoing support to improve infrastructure and community services across the Solomon Islands. The new projects in Malaita include the installation of solar-powered streetlights, construction of new classrooms, upgrades to rural health clinics, water supply improvements, and the provision of community water tanks.

The two projects in the Malaita Outer Islands will see the construction of a new classroom in Luaniua and a staff house in Pelau.

On the Malaita mainland, the 14 projects include:

Emaus water supply upgrade

Afufu Community High School Hall

Solar power for Ramea Primary and Secondary School

Onelafa Community High School classroom

Ngalisagore community footpath

MAGA communities water tank project

Afetafa water supply project

AMCA Green Initiative

St Joseph Haumahuria community footpath

Bina Community ablution block

Foubaba Community High School

Talakali Community High School solar power

Raroasi Community Hall

Takataka solar lighting

This follows a successful year in 2024, when Malaita was awarded 32 projects under the same program, delivering much-needed support to clinics, schools, and other vital community facilities.

The newly announced 50 projects represent over SBD 11 million in direct funding, with a strong focus on engaging Solomon Islands businesses to supply goods and services. This approach aims to create local employment opportunities and strengthen the domestic economy.

“These initiatives will deliver practical benefits to communities, while also supporting local businesses and jobs,” said Australian High Commissioner Rod Hilton during the official launch.

Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele, who attended the Awards Night to launch the new projects, praised the program’s impact on rural development.

“These small-scale infrastructure investments are meaningful and life-changing for many of our people, especially those in rural and remote areas,” said Prime Minister Manele.

Australia continues to be a trusted development partner for the Solomon Islands, working closely with local leaders and communities to enhance infrastructure, create jobs, and build resilient, self-sustaining communities across the country.

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