A World Bank team visited has visited a number of projects implemented under the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2).
This was during their visit to the country Solomon this month to continue support the implementation of the project.
During the visit, the team reviewed project progress, discussed key achievements, and provided support on fiduciary, environmental, and social safeguards issues.
Additionally, the team successfully concluded the negotiations with the Solomon Islands delegation for the proposed Additional Financing for SIRAP2.
On February 7, 2025, the team visited the site for the Noro Roads improvement works in the Western Province, and met with the contractor and the supervision consultant, along with the representatives from the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID), Project Support Team, and Noro Town Council.
The team also held discussions with the contractors and the supervision consultant for the Honiara Airport runway resurfacing, rescue and fire services station, and aviation complex building works; Honiara and Munda Airports air traffic control towers and equipment works; Santa Cruz Airfield upgrading works; and Malaita Bridges replacement works.
Further, the team reviewed the status of the airport asset management consultancy and provided support for advancing the preparation of Technical Assistance on climate-resilient road asset management.
The World Bank team also met with key officials from the Ministry of Communication and Aviation, the Civil Aviation Authority of Solomon Islands, and the Solomon Islands Airport Corporation Limited.
“SIRAP2 investments have made roads and bridges safer and more resilient to climate change, improving connectivity and boosting economic activities in Solomon Islands,” said Allan Lilia, the Permanent Secretary of MID. “This is an important project for the government and people of Solomon Islands, and we are pleased to see this continued support from the World Bank.”
Under SIRAP2, further improvements are ongoing, including the construction of four new bridges (Kolofe1, Kolofe2, Su’u Harbor, and Bira) in Malaita along with upgrades to Honiara and Munda Airports and Santa Cruz (Lata) Airfield.
The project will also invest in air navigation systems for Makira-Ulawa and Temotu Provinces and support regional airport maintenance.
Source: SIRAP Press
