BY MORRIS NAFU
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele joined Acting Australian High Commissioner Andrew Schloeffel to congratulate new beneficiaries and coordinators of small-scale community projects funded by Australia during a signing ceremony in Honiara.
Speaking at the Australia Community Partnerships Awards Night ceremony at the Mendana Hotel earlier this week, Prime Minister Manele emphasized the enduring partnership between Solomon Islands and Australia, describing it as a cornerstone of national development.
Australia, Solomon Islands’ largest development partner, aligned its efforts with the country’s five National Development Strategy objectives through various programs, including the Solomon Islands-Australia Community Partnerships.
The Solomon Islands-Australia Development Partnership Plan 2024-2029 targets 100 community projects annually under this initiative.
In 2024, 100 projects with a combined value of SBD 23.62 million were funded.
The first round of 2025 saw 51 projects worth SBD 11 million across eight provinces and 33 constituencies.
The second round, celebrated at the event, added 57 new projects totaling SBD 13 million, bringing the cumulative total to 208 projects valued at SBD 47.62 million.
Manele applauded the Acting High Commissioner’s leadership in surpassing the annual target of 100 projects and expressed optimism for the program’s continuation into 2025.
“I am really impressed with the progress this partnership has delivered for communities nationwide.
“This program will continue, and I urge Members of Parliament to co-fund and collaborate with the Australian High Commissioner to maximize its impact,” he said.
He calls on project beneficiaries and coordinators to work closely with the High Commission in implementation, ensuring proper maintenance of infrastructure for long-term community benefits.
Manele also extended gratitude to Australian High Commissioner, Rod Hilton and his team for their efforts in improving living standards.
In a personal note, Manele thanked outgoing High Commissioner Freya for her extensive travels across the provinces, including visits to his constituency.
“Freya, thank you for the job well done,” he remarked.
“Though these projects are small, their impacts on livelihoods can be tremendous. Let’s continue collaborating to enhance the lives of our people,” he noted.
The ceremony highlighted the program’s role; fostering sustainable development, with Manele stressing the importance of joint efforts to support communities across Solomon Islands.
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