Press Release
18th July 2024
Ahead of Santa Cruz Airfield Upgrades, Local Communities Have their Say
Community consultations and engagement have begun ahead of the upgrading of Santa Cruz (Lata) Airfield. These upgrades are being supported by the World Bank and implemented by the Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA) through the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2).
The SIRAP2 Project Support Team, the contractor and a construction supervision consultant were in Lata, Santa Cruz, from 9-16 July for the community consultations ahead of the works. At the consultations, the community received information on the contractor, China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC), and guidance on how to establish the Community Advisory Committee.
The consultations also provided a forum to address concerns from the community, and to provide clarifications and assurances regarding the contractor's commitment to quality and safety standards, plus environmental and social responsibilities.
The establishment of the Community Advisory Committee will support meaningful engagement with the community around the airfield works. The committee also provides a platform for community members to voice any concerns, provide input, and participate in decision-making processes related to the works. Overall, the committee helps to promote collaboration, transparency, and community participation to ensure the works are successful and sustainable.
Alwyn Danitofea, Permanent Secretary of MCA, said “the upgrade will improve air services to Santa Cruz. It will also reduce travel time and delays related to service disruption and increase passenger numbers”. He further noted that the works will create job opportunities to the people within Lata as well.
In addition to the Santa Cruz airfield upgrade, SIRAP2 is also constructing four new bridges in Malaita (Kolofe1, Kolofe2 on North Road; and Su’u Harbor, and Bira Bridges on South Road), upgrading Noro roads, providing upgrades to Honiara and Munda International Airports, investing in air navigation systems in Makira-Ulawa and Temotu Provinces, and supporting regional airport maintenance.
End//
Community Advisory Committee.
