Minister for Infrastructure Development Ricky Fuo’o has praised progress on the China-Aid Road Rehabilitation Project in Auki, describing it as a major boost for livelihoods and infrastructure in Malaita Province.
During a visit on Friday 29 August, Minister Fuo’o was joined by Aoke-Langa Langa MP, Matthew Wale and Transport Infrastructure Director Ishmael Alulu to inspect key work sites around Auki town.
The visit also gave Mr Wale the chance to raise concerns from his constituents about road alignment designs, ensuring adjustments are made to avoid long-term problems.
The project, led by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), has already employed more than 120 local workers.
CCECC Country Manager Huang Pengfei said the company is committed to building local capacity by improving working conditions, linking workers to banking and NPF systems, and providing hands-on training.
Mr. Pengfei also highlighted how the project is generating wider economic benefits. Local farmers are selling more fresh produce, fish, and livestock at the Auki market, while timber suppliers in town are also benefiting through construction material purchases.
Minister Fuo’o welcomed these gains, saying he was pleased to see farmers earning more each day and improving their livelihoods. He and Mr Wale assured the contractor that they will support the project to stay on schedule, as it directly benefits people in Auki Langalanga and Central Kwara’ae constituencies.
To keep the works moving, the Ministry of Infrastructure Development has finalized agreements with Solomon Water, Solomon Power, and Solomon Telekom to relocate lines and utilities.
Director Alulu said safeguards personnel and engineers will continue working alongside the CCECC team to ensure the designs meet the needs of Auki township.
So far, work has focused on river channel improvements, slope protection, retaining walls, shoulder barriers, and drainage systems to reduce erosion and flood risks. Several sections are already complete, with others progressing steadily.
The full project covers 3.8 kilometers of the main road from Kilu’ufi Hospital to Kwaibala Bridge, along with upgrades to 16 feeder roads in Auki town. Once completed, it will deliver safer, more reliable transport and support the government’s National Transport Plan (2017–2035).