THE Japanese Government’s Grassroots and Human Security Project administered by its Embassy in Honiara has handed over a cheque worth $2,481,900.00 SBD to the Falake Community in West Kwara’ae, Malaita Province, for the installation of a micro hydropower plant.
The handing over ceremony was held at the Japanese Embassy on Monday.
The Japanese Ambassador to the Solomon Islands, Miwa Yoshiaki said at the occasion that one of the priority areas under the Grassroots and Human Security Scheme is the provision of essential infrastructure.
“Investment in this field is a critical component of strengthening social economic development and resilience in this country,” he added.
“This hydropower plant is an essential infrastructure for driving economic growth and for supporting people’s wellbeing.
“This project aims to achieve (United Nations) Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7, a goal for sustainable energy and the Japanese Government fully supports this SDG 7 by providing financial support in making sure communities have access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy source,” the ambassador emphasised.
Ambassador Yoshiaki said the community should be the moving force of the project with the commitment they put in and their confidence that the project will be successful and eventually reach the ultimate goal they all want.
“This assistance will provide access to affordable and sustainable energy for people in the Falake community and it will further strengthen the cordial relationship between Solomon Islands and Japan for the long-term,” he said.
By MARY MANELEGUA
Solomon Star, Newsroom
