BY MORRIS NAFU
Australia is funding 57 new community-driven projects under its Community Partnership programme, injecting over SBD 13 million into local communities.
The ceremony, held at the Mendana Hotel on Thursday, marks the second round of grants for 2025, bringing the total of funded initiatives this year to 108, with a combined value exceeding SBD 25 million.
Acting Australian High Commissioner Andrew Schloeffel emphasised Australia’s commitment to locally-led development during the event.
“Australia believes in locally-led development—and tonight is a powerful demonstration of Australia putting that belief, that commitment into action.
“These projects aren’t just delivered to communities—they’re delivered by communities for communities.
“Local teams build the infrastructure, local leaders set the priorities, and local pride drives the outcomes.
“This is development that’s community-driven, transparent, and built to last,” he stressed.
Schloeffel highlighted Australia’s role in supporting major infrastructure in Solomon Islands, including the Coral Sea Cable, runway upgrades in Gizo and Taro, security outposts along the eastern and western borders, the Tina River Hydropower Project, and the nearly completed Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre.
He noted that smaller-scale projects in rural areas also have a profound impact, fostering personal and lasting changes.
The Acting High Commissioner stressed the economic benefits, stating that the 57 projects alone will pump more than SBD 13 million directly into the Solomon Islands economy, creating jobs and keeping benefits within the country.
He also praised the involvement of local businesses, ensuring that families, workers, and communities share in the gains.
Schloeffel expressed gratitude to the Members of Parliament collaborating on the program, which now covers every province and constituency in Solomon Islands.
“Your leadership, your vision, and your commitment to your communities is what make these projects possible,” he said, citing contributions like labor, project expansions, and alignment with local needs.
Congratulating the project recipients, Schloeffel called them “the champions of your communities,” urging teachers, health workers, builders, and business owners to bring the initiatives to life.
He envisioned the outcomes; children learning in new classrooms, patients in well-lit clinics, families accessing clean water, and communities gathering in halls built with pride.
Australia, stands as a trusted partner for long-term progress.
“Our commitment is to support 100 projects every year.
“I’m proud we’ve achieved that in 2024 and 2025,” Schloeffel concluded, celebrating the achievements and looking ahead to future collaborations.
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