SIRAP2 engages SMEC to strengthen road safety management in Solomon Islands

The Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID), with support from the World Bank through the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2), has engaged SMEC International Pty Ltd to lead a comprehensive review of road safety management capacity in Solomon Islands.

This strategic engagement aims to strengthen institutional frameworks, improve inter-agency coordination, and guide the development of a national strategy to reduce road-related injuries and fatalities.

The consultancy will be delivered in four phases. Phase 1 involves assessing the current road safety management using the World Bank’s Road Safety Management Capacity Assessment Report (2020) as a benchmark, with practical recommendations for MID and other key stakeholders. 

Phase 2 focuses on developing a draft three-year Road Safety Action Plan to support the establishment of a National Road Safety Council (NRSC). 

Phase 3 is the delivery of the first National Road Safety Conference in collaboration with the Road Transport Board, engaging key agencies including the MID and the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF). And Phase 4 is participation in the inaugural NRSC meeting to support adoption and resourcing of the national plan.

Throughout the assignment, the consultant will integrate institutional strengthening activities such as site visits, training sessions, and mentoring for MID staff to build local capacity in road safety management.

The SMEC team has already mobilized, conducting field inspections of the national road network from 27 to 30 October 2025. 

Consultations were held with MID, Honiara City Council, Emergency Department of the National Referral Hospital, and the RSIPF to gather insights and feedback that will inform the preparation of the Road Safety Action Plan.

Permanent Secretary of MID, Allan Lilia, welcomed the partnership, stating:

“The growing number of vehicles and road users in our country requires a stronger, coordinated approach to managing road safety. Through this consultancy under SIRAP2, we aim to build a more effective framework that saves lives, supports sustainable mobility, and strengthens the capacity of our institutions to plan and respond to road safety challenges.”

This initiative underscores the commitment of the Solomon Islands Government, the World Bank, and MID to improving road safety and building a safer, more resilient transport system for all Solomon Islanders.

[end]

SIRAP2 statement