[Published on Saturday, August 16, 2025]
BY SAMIE WAIKORI
While the implementation of the China-funded Auki Road project in Malaita province is progressing, it is creating jobs for Malaitans – mostly those residing in and around Auki.
Not only that, the knowledge and skills unreservedly passed-on to local workers is just amazing.
Moreover, the spillover benefits of the project on the local economy of Malaita worth acknowledging.
According to a recent statement from the Solomon Islands Road and Aviation Project (SIRAP 2), since the project started, more than 120 local workers have been hired, and nearly 300 indirect jobs have been stimulated locally.
It added the project is implemented by the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), and Chinese technicians have been passing on their expertise in building, driving and equipment handling to the local workers.
“Everyday they work shoulder to shoulder with the goal of achieving early completion to further strengthen the region’s transportation network,” the statement said.
It said since the commencement of the project in April this year, construction has been steadily progressing.
“Many drainage works and road embankment protection works have been completed to ensure the long-term durability and quality of the upgraded infrastructure.
“New drainage ditches, wide river channels, and solid retaining walls all demonstrate achievements made so far,” the statement said.
It said with the persistent support from all sides, the project team has been striving for high standards of quality, safety and efficiency and making determined efforts to upgrade infrastructure, enhance road safety and bring convenience to local residents.
Premier of Malaita province, Elijah Asilaua once said the project is a testament to close cooperation between Malaita province, national government and People’s Republic of China (PRC), China.
He added that it signifies an important chapter in the history of Solomon Islands and Malaita province.
The project is one of the flagship projects of the Asilaua-led government.
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