The Auki Road Network Rehabilitation Project was officially launched on Wednesday morning in Auki, marking a significant milestone in the collaboration between the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and the Solomon Islands.
Funded by the People’s Republic of China, this project underscores the deepening strategic partnership between both nations.
The project is contracted to the China Civil Engineering Construction Cooperation (CCECC) and will involve the extensive repair and rehabilitation of a 3.796-kilometer main road, connecting Kilu’ufi Hospital in northern Auki Town to the Kwaibala Bridge in the south.
Furthermore, the project will enhance 16 critical connecting roads within Auki Town, totaling 5.462 kilometers, including a vital route to Kilu’ufi Hospital, ensuring improved access to essential services for the community.
In total, the project covers an impressive span of 9.258 kilometers of roadway in Auki. The main highway has been meticulously designed to accommodate vehicle speeds of 40 to 60 kilometers per hour, featuring a pavement width of 3.5 meters per lane.
The feeder roads will cater to vehicle speeds of 20 to 40 kilometers per hour, tailored to specific site conditions for safety and efficiency.
A key highlight of this project is the use of top-quality materials, akin to those utilized in the newly constructed roads in East Honiara. Each road will be equipped with a 50-millimeter-thick asphalt concrete pavement, ensuring durability and longevity.
With proper maintenance, these roads are expected to serve the Auki community effectively for 10 to 20 years, significantly enhancing the local transportation network.
Additionally, the project will incorporate improved drainage systems throughout Auki Town, facilitating efficient water management and safeguarding against erosion and flooding.
During the ground breaking ceremony, Minister of Infrastructure Development Hon. Manasseh Maelanga stated, “We are building a stronger, safer, and more connected future for all citizens of Auki and the greater Malaita region. Together, let us take pride in our developments, ensure their longevity, and work hand in hand to create a thriving community that stands as a beacon of progress.”
Key guest speaker Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele highlighted the significance of this project as a grant rather than a loan, expressing gratitude for the support of the People’s Republic of China to the people of Malaita and the Solomon Islands.
“I urge the people of Malaita to take ownership of this project, a proud achievement stemming from the cooperative efforts of the Malaita Provincial Government, the National Government, and China.”
Chinese Ambassador to the Solomon Islands, H.E. Cai Weiming, emphasized the project’s importance within the Belt and Road Initiative proposed by President Xi Jinping in 2013. This initiative aims to enhance policy coordination, infrastructure connectivity, unimpeded trade, and financial integration and strengthen people-to-people bonds, ultimately fostering conditions for win-win cooperation.
Malaita Premier Elijah Asilaua noted that the ceremony symbolizes a significant step forward, expressing optimism about the project’s outcomes for the region. He extended his appreciation to the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT), stakeholders involved since the project’s inception in 2023, the China International Development Cooperation Agency, and the People’s Republic of China.
Liang Qing, General Manager of CCECC’s South Pacific region, assured those present that the project will be executed with the highest standards of quality, safety, and efficiency.
“We are committed to creating local employment opportunities along the road and transferring valuable skills to the community. We promise timely delivery of the project, which we believe will contribute significantly to Malaita’s development and the long-term economic growth of the nation.”
The event was concluded with the presentation of traditional shell money by Malaita Province to the distinguished guests from Honiara.
It also highlights the contractor CCECC presenting equipment to Auki School, accompanied by a beautifully performed contemporary song sung by two local boys, praising the occasion and expressing gratitude for God’s guidance over the province.
The event witnessed a good turnout from hundreds of Auki residents and stakeholders.
The PM and delegation will return to Honiara today.
– MID
