Press Release 27th February 2026 Noro Roads Improvement Officially Handed Over. On February 13, 2026, the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID), in partnership with the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2) funded by the World Bank, officially opened the upgraded Noro Roads in Western Province. The US$14 million (approx. SBD 120 million) contract was signed with China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) on March 19, 2024. Over 21 months from April 30, 2024, to January 27, 2026, the works delivered 10.8 km of new sealing, including 5.4 km of asphalt concrete, 4.5 km of double bituminous surface treatment, and 0.9 km of concrete pavement. These included pothole repairs, road elevation, pavement and shoulders, upgraded drainage systems, speed humps, guardrails, and bus bays. These improvements have enhanced road safety, reliability, and resilience to extreme weather conditions. For the more than 7,300 people living in the Noro and Munda wards, these upgraded roads represent more than infrastructure – they are critical economic lifeline. Improved road access facilitates the efficient movement of goods and services to and from Noro Port, benefiting key employers such as the Solomon Islands Ports Authority, SolTuna, National Fisheries Development, and other businesses. Reduced transport delays and lower vehicle operating costs are expected to strengthen supply chains, support local employment, and reinforce Noro’s role as fisheries and industrial hub in Western Province. Ricky Fuoó, Minister for Infrastructure Development, stated: “This road is a game-changer for our communities. Reduced travel times and safer roads mean people can focus on their livelihoods, children can attend school regularly, and families have better access to healthcare. This upgrade is a direct investment in the daily lives and future of the people of Western Province. As we officially open this road today, may it stand as a symbol of progress, unity, and hope. May it serve our people well and remind us that when the government, development partners, and communities work together, we can achieve great things.” Bernard Harborne, World Bank Country Representative, added: “The completion of the Noro Roads Upgrade marks a significant milestone for the Noro community and highlights the importance of strong partnerships. These climate-resilient and safer roads improve connectivity to the country’s sole tuna processing plant, Noro International Port, customs facilities, markets, and surrounding communities. They also strengthen the vital link between Noro and Munda International Airport, supporting tourism, trade, and economic opportunities. Improved transport infrastructure plays a crucial role in enabling the movement of fisheries and agricultural products to markets, while improving access to employment, health, education, and essential services.” The Noro Roads upgrade forms part of MID’s broader investments under SIRAP2 to strengthen road networks across Solomon Islands, promoting improved connectivity, climate resilience, and inclusive economic growth. MID expresses sincere appreciation to SIRAP2 Project Support Team, the World Bank, CCECC, Supervising Consultant Egis Asia, the Western Provincial Government, and local communities for their cooperation and support throughout the project. In addition to the Noro Roads upgrade, SIRAP2 continues to deliver critical transport infrastructure nationwide. This includes the construction of four new bridges in Malaita; Aviation Complex, Rescue Fire Service Station, upgrades to Honiara and Munda Airports and Santa Cruz and Suavanao Airfields; investments in air navigation systems in Makira-Ulawa and Temotu Provinces; regional airport maintenance; rehabilitation of 21 kilometres of the East Road between Baratolo and Atori; and sealing of 12 kilometres of the North Road between Auki Gwaunaru’u Airfield Junction and Kwaisuliniu Road Junction. End///