Four communities in East Are’are Constituency (EAC) in Malaita Province have every reason to celebrate as they welcomed the handover of project materials for their new water supply projects, thanks to the People’s Republic of China (PRC).
This achievement was made possible through the PRC’s partnership with the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD), with $1.5 million in funding support under the Rural Sustainable Development Program (RSDP).
The official handover of project materials to the communities occurred on 29 May 2026.
This support aims to provide communities with access to clean running water at their doorsteps to improve health standards across the communities.
The four beneficiary communities are; Potaniu, Maniaha/Hauharii, Hatakau, and Raroasi.
Constituency Development Officer (CDO) Daniel Manata, on behalf of the EAC office and its people, expressed profound gratitude to PRC for the generous assistance.
The projects, which are the first of their kind for these communities under PRC funding, will have a positive impact on the lives of individuals, families, schools, churches, and vulnerable groups such as women, children, and persons with disabilities.
Indeed, it was a landmark achievement, the first of its kind in these communities, not only because of the delivery but also because it marked a significant accomplishment for both the constituency and the PRC partnership.
Access to clean and safe water is not just a luxury but a fundamental human right that is essential for the health and well-being of our communities (UN Declaration 2010).
CDO Manata stated that it is the ongoing commitment of the EMC office to continue supporting development initiatives in its communities to improve the social and economic livelihoods of everyone.
“So, having access to reliable, clean, and safe water for drinking, cooking, and sanitation is paramount.
“I believe such meaningful projects like this will undoubtedly transform our people’s lives,” he said.
Mr. Manata also recognized the importance of collaboration and partnership between the PRC, MRD, and the communities for the project’s success.
He further stated that the constituency office will continue to work closely with the PRC and other development partners to advance rural development initiatives and improve livelihoods in the constituency.
“…So, we are hoping for more support this year and in the future, and we will continue to work together. I would also like to thank our new government for recognizing our important relationship, which we will continue to maintain. At the end of the day, we are working for what benefits everyone. So, thank you very much for this generous support,” he added.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiary communities, Catechist Willie Takaia from Raroasi thanked the PRC for the kind assistance.
“Water supply projects are among our greatest needs. Once completed, these water projects will benefit everyone, including women, children, and people with disabilities. We look forward to more help from you (PRC) in the near future.
“This assistance is not only significant but also paves the way for sustainable development partnerships in our constituency. We truly appreciate your support,” Mr. Takaia said.
East Are’are Constituency also received similar support under the initial phase of the RSDP in 2023 for two communities: Tawanaora, for the building of its school classroom, and a water supply and sanitation project at a cost of SBD$1.5 million.
Representing the Chinese Embassy, Counsellor Li Qinghua congratulated EAC and the beneficiaries on receiving the projects and highlighted China’s firm commitment to supporting the Solomon Islands’ socio-economic development through “small yet smart” projects like RSDP.
Ms. Li reiterated that the handover is another testament to the practical cooperation between PRC and the Solomon Islands, further strengthening bilateral relations.
Counsellor Li stated that, as a partnership between both nations, the core purpose of RSDP is to improve socio-economic development in the country.
She also highlighted the significant achievements both China and the Solomon Islands have made since establishing diplomatic relations in 2019. These include the handover of the National Referral Hospital Comprehensive Medical Centre, the implementation of the Auki Road project, the connection of the 161 telecommunication towers across Solomon Islands and ongoing support for RSDP to help communities develop through projects that create long-term improvements and foster self-sufficiency in rural areas.
“Since 2023, based on the agreement between our two governments, China has been funding the RSDP.
“Our goal is to ensure that most benefits reach the people. It is our shared responsibility to monitor this program and make it a success,” she added.
Ms. Li also shared China’s remarkable achievement in lifting 800 million people out of poverty and expressed a wish to share China’s experience in poverty alleviation with the Solomon Islands.
She emphasized the importance of working together with the government, people, and communities to turn poverty alleviation into reality.
Ms. Li added, “The RSDP is not just a project; it is a strong connection and partnership between our two nations, with China committed to helping the Solomon Islands develop and empower its people.”
She also highlighted China’s commitment to offering capacity-building and training opportunities for the Solomon Islands, focusing on knowledge transfer to support the country’s development and prosperity.
Ms. Li emphasized that partnership and collaboration are key to achieving greater outcomes.
RSDP is a partnership program between the PRC and the Solomon Islands Government, implemented through the Ministry of Rural Development.
Similar project support has also been extended to other constituencies.
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