Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has officially opened the Su’u and Bira bridges in West Kwaio, marking a major milestone in his government’s push to modernize infrastructure across the Solomon Islands.
During his visit to Malaita this week, the Prime Minister emphasized that these projects are “lifelines” designed to connect remote communities to essential services and economic opportunities.
New Bridges Connect South Malaita
The Su’u and Bira bridges were delivered under the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP II), a partnership between the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and the World Bank.
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Total Investment: Over USD 6.5 million (approximately SBD 52.1 million).
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Impact: The bridges will reduce travel time, improve road safety, and help local farmers get their goods to market more easily.
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Legacy: These openings follow the recent completion of the Kolofe 1 and 2 bridges in North Malaita, showing a province-wide effort to improve transport.
A Roadmap for Growth in Malaita
During a press conference in Auki this week, Prime Minister Manele highlighted several other high-priority projects currently underway in the province:
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Urban Upgrades: Road tar-sealing and drainage works are continuing within Auki town.
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Agriculture Support: A new Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock office is being established to support local farmers and 45 agribusiness groups.
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Land Reform: Ground has been broken for the first Customary Land Recording Office outside of Honiara, aimed at reducing land disputes and strengthening ownership systems.
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Healthcare & Industry: Improvements at Kilufi Hospital are ongoing with support from Japan, while preparatory work continues for the Bina Harbour economic project.
“Our focus is simple—development must reach all provinces. Our people and our country come first.” — Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele
National Challenges and Stability
The Prime Minister also addressed two major concerns affecting the nation: rising costs and political developments.
Acknowledging the impact of global conflicts on fuel costs, the Prime Minister announced that the government is preparing measures to ease the financial burden on citizens.
Proposed actions include:
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Reducing government tariffs and charges.
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Reviewing fuel import duties and the Goods Services Tax (GST).
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Seeking long-term solutions to reduce the country’s dependence on imported fuel.
In terms of recent legal challenges, the Prime Minister assured the public that government operations remain “uninterrupted” and that public services continue to be delivered. He urged citizens to remain calm and respect the judicial process. Additionally, he raised serious concerns over vandalism, calling on communities to take ownership of new infrastructure to ensure it lasts for future generations.
Meanwhile, as the country celebrates Easter Prime Minister Manele called for a spirit of unity and service, reaffirming that his leadership is grounded in building a better future for all Solomon Islanders.
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