Press Release
28th March 2025
British High Commissioner Visits SIRAP, SIRAP2, and CAUSE Project Sites in Malaita, Munda, and Noro
The British High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Mr. Paul Turner, recently visited project sites in Malaita, Munda, and Noro to observe progress and engage with local stakeholders for three World Bank financed projects, including: the completed Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP) and the Community Access and Urban Services Enhancement (CAUSE) project, as well as the ongoing Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2).
The visit commenced in Malaita on March 11, 2025, where His Excellency looked at the completed North Road (17km), East Road (21km), and Bio1, Bio2, and Koa Bridges financed under SIRAP. These works, implemented by the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID), aimed to enhance transport connectivity and safety for travellers and residents. Additionally, the High Commissioner visited CAUSE project sites in Auki, where community-driven infrastructure improvements were carried out, including upgrading footpaths, drainage, and public spaces to enhance urban services and accessibility.
During the visit to Auki, the High Commissioner also met with Malaita Premier, Mr. Elijah Asilaua, to discuss ongoing and future infrastructure development plans and opportunities for collaboration to improve the quality of life for Malaita residents. The Premier acknowledged the importance of the SIRAP and CAUSE projects in promoting economic growth and community development across the province.
The visit continued to Munda and Noro from March 17 to 18, 2025 where both SIRAP and CAUSE projects were implemented and SIRAP2 is being implemented. In Munda, the High Commissioner toured the upgraded aviation facilities and discussed ongoing initiatives to improve air connectivity. In Noro, the High Commissioner reviewed ongoing efforts to upgrade essential infrastructure that supports community access. The ongoing SIRAP2 investments in Noro include upgrades to road networks that link the township to surrounding communities, while the completed CAUSE project activities focused on maintaining public assets and creating job opportunities for local youth and women through community-based work programs.
Speaking after the visit, the British High Commissioner expressed support for the collaborative efforts to improve infrastructure and community services in all locations. "It is inspiring to witness how the SIRAP, SIRAP2, and CAUSE projects are making a real impact on communities in Malaita, Munda, and Noro. These initiatives are not just about building better infrastructure but also about creating economic opportunities and fostering community engagement. I commend the dedication of everyone involved and encourage continued partnership in delivering positive change."
The visit concluded with an acknowledgment of the vital role that SIRAP, SIRAP2, and CAUSE play in enhancing the quality of life for Solomon Islanders by improving connectivity, boosting local economies, and building resilient communities. Additionally, the United Kingdom is one of the major contributors to the World Bank.
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