LEADER of Opposition Matthew Wale has acknowledged the Government and the People’s Republic of China (PRC) on the launching of the Auki Road Network Rehabilitation Project.
The launching took place in Auki, Malaita province, on Wednesday this week in the presence of Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele, Chinese ambassador Cai Weiming and other government officials.
Wale, who is also MP for Aoke-Langalanga, in a statement has acknowledged the collaborative efforts between the National Government and PRC for this milestone project.
He said this project when completed would go a long way in benefitting the people of Malaita in the transport sector, trade and investment.
The Opposition Leader has encouraged the people of Malaita to take ownership and pride of the project.
“I must thank the Government and PRC for this milestone project. It will surely benefit Auki and Malaita province as a whole,” he said.
Wale said road infrastructure project in Auki is essential for the development aspirations of the province.
The road project involves the existing more than 9-kilometre main road, stretching from Kilu’ufi Hospital on the northern side of Auki Town to the Kwaibala Bridge on the southern side. In addition to this, it will encompass 16 vital road networks within the growing township.
The Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) said one of the key aspects of this project is the use of high-quality materials. It features asphalt concrete pavement with a thickness of 50 millimetres, ensuring durability.
“The project aims to significantly improve transport systems and connectivity to basic services and strategic investment locations, thus promoting economic development for the province,” MID said in a statement issued last night.
China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), a Chinese state-owned company, has been awarded the contract to build the road.
People’s Republic of China Ambassador to Solomon Islands Cai Weiming shook hands with Malaita Premier Elijah Asilaua yesterday in Auki
The Opposition Leader encouraged the Government and PRC to also extend their good gesture to other road projects and developments in Malaita province.
“This will be essential for connectivity and it will greatly assist our people around the whole of Malaita province,” he said.
Wale said the Government must also move ahead with other major developments in Malaita such as the Bina Harbor project, Suava Bay project and others.
“These projects need political will and I urge the Government to make it a priority. These projects have progressed on a snail pace over successive governments,” he said.
Meanwhile, Wale said the Government and our donor partners must also prioritize road projects in other provinces around the country.
He said this would enhance economic growth, connectivity and improve transportation.
“This is an important sector that needs not only investment but strategic planning,” he said.