Australia delivers 40 community projects worth more than SBD 8.7 million

By Sharon Nanau

The Australian government delivered 40 projects worth more than SBD 8.7 million under its Australian Community Partnership Grant to their recipients on Friday.

These projects aimed at improving the livelihood in rural communities.

Speaking at a signing ceremony at the Australian High Commission in Honiara, Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands His Excellency Rod Hilton said that the delivery of the projects demonstrates the positive impact of the relationship between Australia and Solomon Islands in the rural areas.

“I can see the difference that can be made between the Australia, Solomon Islands partnership for the rural people. When I travel to Malaita, Makira and Isabel I am happy to officially open some of the projects with the local communities. These projects have clear economic outcomes for the rural communities in Solomon Islands whether it be for short- or long-term, Australia is proud to support it.” 

His Excellency Hilton explained that the projects were awarded based on merit after applications were submitted.

“Projects signed today have submitted applications that clearly stated why and how the projects will benefit your local communities.”  

Representing one of the project recipients, Chairperson of the Hautahe Community Chairman Basil Hori Wasia said the Australian Community Partnership Grant will help them to complete their village community hall. 

“From the projects found in the grants application we saw that it caters to our need of building a community hall, having a community hall is of great importance to us as it benefits the whole community especially when it comes meetings, hosting awareness programs, cultural programs and seeing as we have a community high school the community hall will allow the school to hold their programs.” Mr Wasia said. 

Meanwhile Maleai Community Representative from Shortland Island Lawarence Ora said the grant will put to an end the difficulties of accessing health services. 

He said the project will help them complete the Maleai clinic project and avoid traveling to Nila clinic to seek health assistance.

“We used to go to Nila clinic for health services, Nila however is far from us and people must travel by boat or canoe to access health services, sometimes people die on the way. The Maleai clinic project once completed will benefit not only our community but also two villages close to us as they will come to us instead of going to Nila,” Mr Ora said. 

Another round of application for the Australian Community Partnership Grant will be open later this year. 

ENDS///