Press Release
21st February 2025
Completed Bridges in Malaita to Improve Transport Safety and Climate Resilience
The Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP), supported by the World Bank, has successfully completed three new bridges - Bio1, Bio2, and Koa - in Malaita Province. These bridges, located along the North Road in West Kwara’ae Constituency, are now fully operational. The bridges were officially opened on February 11, 2025, by the Minister for Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID), Hon. Manasseh Maelanga.
Allan Lilia, Permanent Secretary of MID, highlighted the transformative impact of the bridges stating, “The completion of these bridges marks a major milestone for Malaita. They will enhance connectivity, enable local businesses to grow, and improve the lives of communities across the province. We are grateful to the World Bank for their support and funding, which made this possible.” Mr. Lilia also extended his gratitude to the contractor, Reeves Envico, and the supervising consultant, SMEC, for their quality work. He further thanked the Malaita Provincial Government, the landowners, and the people of Malaita for their cooperation and support throughout the project.
Deputy Premier of Malaita Province, Randal Sifoni, expressed his pride in the completion of these bridges stating, “These new bridges are not just structures; they are pathways to economic opportunities and better livelihoods for our people. Malaita has taken a big step forward in its development journey, and we thank SIRAP, the World Bank, and all stakeholders for making this possible.”
Hon. Maelanga commended the collaboration behind the project and emphasized its importance to national development saying, “The completion of the Bio1, Bio2, and Koa Bridges is a testament to the power of partnership and determination. These bridges improve transport safety, provide resilience against climate impacts, and connect Malaita’s communities like never before. I congratulate everyone involved in this project for their dedication and hard work.”
Naoki Kakuta, World Bank Transport Specialist and Task Team Leader for SIRAP, commended the achievement, “Today, we gather to celebrate not just the opening of these bridges but the opportunities they bring. Transport infrastructure is the lifeline that connects communities, markets, industries, and businesses. This project is a testament to what can be achieved with a common goal—a stronger, safer, and more connected Solomon Islands.”
Further efforts are being made to improve Malaita’s transport network under the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2). These include the ongoing construction of four new bridges—Kolofe1, Kolofe2, Su’u Harbor, and Bira—this year. SIRAP2 is also upgrading Noro roads, improving Honiara and Munda International Airports, upgrading the Santa Cruz (Lata) Airfield, modernizing air navigation systems for Makira-Ulawa and Temotu Provinces, and supporting regional airport maintenance.
The official handing-over ceremony marks the successful completion of SIRAP and the critical role of the project in supporting economic growth and development in Malaita Province.
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