BY GREGORY HAKA
The People’s Republic of China (PRC) through Rural Sustainable Development Programme (RSDP) handover road machineries worth of SBD 1.5 million to East Central Guadalcanal Constituency (ECGC) on Wednesday, December 17, 2025.
The handover ceremony of machineries marks a new era for the people of East Central Guadalcanal Constituency (ECGC) after decades of experiencing deteriorated road conditions, a statement by the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD) last week said.
During the handover ceremony, Member of Parliament for East Central Guadalcanal Constituency, Lazarus Alfred Rina expressed deep gratitude to the PRC government and its people for their generous support through the RSDP.
He emphasised that the machineries will play a crucial role in transforming road conditions within his constituency.
“Our people have long cried for improved roads, and today, we celebrate this milestone,” said Rina.
He further highlighted that partnership and collaborations with the communities is key to achieving tangible development outcomes.
Rina also acknowledged resources owners for allowing their resources during emergency repairs on roads especially gravels which demonstrate community cooperation.
The handover ceremony was also attended by counselor Li Qinghua from the Chinese Embassy in Honiara.
In her remarks, she highlighted China’s commitment to supporting Solomon Islands’ socio-economic development through projects like RSDP.
Li emphasised that road infrastructure is one of the most fundamental factors in economic and social development, one which is highly recognized in the Chinese proverb: “If you want to be rich, build roads first”.
She said the RSDP is not just a development project but a partnership rooted in empowerment, with the aim to enable local communities to become self-reliant.
“China’s support extends beyond infrastructure; it includes capacity-building and training programs designed to transfer knowledge and skills to Solomon Islands’ citizens, thus fostering sustainable development,” she said.
Counsellor Li reaffirms PRC’s dedication to strengthen the country’s infrastructure and socio-economic resilience through its various development support in Solomon Islands.
The ceremony was witnessed by chiefs, community leaders, men, women, youths and MPAs within ECGC, reflecting broad community support for the project.
Photo: Supplied
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