RSDP funds East Kwaio Constituency’s $1.5 million fishery project
The People’s Republic of China (PRC), in partnership with the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD), delivered a fishery project worth $1.5 million to East Kwaio Constituency (EKC) on 27 February 2026.
Boats funded by RSDP for East Kwaio Constituency communities
The project, implemented through the PRC-funded Rural Sustainable Development Program (RSDP), provides 21 boats and 24 outboard motors (OBMs) to improve livelihoods, enhance food security, and ease transportation challenges in remote maritime communities.
The boats and OBMs were received by Constituency Development Officer (CDO) John Butaifai on behalf of EKC Member of Parliament, Hon. Stanley Festus Sofu, from Counsellor Li Qinghua of the Chinese Embassy in Solomon Islands.
Speaking at the handover, CDO Butaifai expressed gratitude to the PRC and MRD for their support.
“This assistance demonstrates the strong bilateral relationship between China and Solomon Islands and reflects a shared commitment to improving rural livelihoods and supporting economic empowerment at the grassroots level,” he said.
“Fishing is not only a source of income but a way of life for East Kwaio. These boats and engines will enhance fishermen’s capacity, improve safety at sea, increase productivity, and create sustainable income opportunities for families and communities. We are committed to using these resources responsibly and ensuring the benefits are shared fairly.”
Counsellor Li Qinghua highlighted China’s commitment to socio-economic development in Solomon Islands through “small yet smart” projects like RSDP.
Outboard motor engines funded by RSDP for East Kwaio communities
She emphasized that the program focuses on capacity-building, knowledge transfer, and empowering rural communities to become self-reliant.
“Projects under RSDP are proposal-based and implemented in strict partnership to maximize benefits for communities,” she said.
Permanent Secretary of MRD, John Misite’e, acknowledged China’s trust in MRD to implement the program and recognized Hon. Sofu’s leadership in supporting rural development policies.
“This delivery demonstrates the partnership between our governments and the shared commitment to improving the lives of rural communities,” he said.
The RSDP, active since 2023, aligns with China’s Global Development Initiative, including the Belt and Road Initiative, and supports Solomon Islands’ National Development Strategy 2016–2035. It targets rural and semi-urban communities, focusing on social and economic infrastructure, income-generating activities, food security, and climate resilience.
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MRD statement