Caption: MID Minister Fuoโoโs recent meeting with the Road Transport Board underscores his renewed commitment to supporting and strengthening the boardโs operations and mandate.
19th June 2025
Minister for the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID), Hon. Ricky Fuo’o, has pledged his support for strengthening the operations and mandate of the Road Transport Board (RTB).
During the boardโs recent meeting, Hon. Fuoโo emphasized the importance of ensuring RTBโs effective operation and increased visibility on the roads before the end of this year, highlighting a renewed commitment to strengthening road transport governance.
Recognizing the current funding constraints, the minister assured that he will seek funding sources to support RTBโs activities.
To this end, Hon. Fuoโo has since submitted a supplementary bid to allocate specific budget support for RTBโs operations.
The minister, who is almost two months into this crucial portfolio, will explore avenues for technical assistance to bolster the boardโs capacity.
He said focus will be on addressing challenges facing traffic in the city with relevant stakeholders.
He added that another issue to sort out is to amend sections or clauses within the Road Transport Act and Road Transport Regulation to enhance regulatory effectiveness.
The board members expressed their appreciation for the ministerโs proactive support, emphasizing that this renewed backing positions the RTB to effectively fulfil its mandated roles and obligations.
Over the past years, RTB has encountered operational challenges stemming from the absence of a dedicated budget line. Now, with this renewed support, the board’s operations will be streamlined and more efficient.
Permanent Secretary for MID Allan Lilia is the board’s current chairman. Board members, as prescribed under the current Road Transport Act, are comprised of officials from MID, Honiara City Council, the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force, the Ministry of Provincial Government & Institutional Strengthening (MPGIS), the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labor & Immigration (MCILI), the Attorney Generalโs Chambers, the Inland Revenue Division (IRD), the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI), and two representatives from public transport service providers (buses & taxis).
Meanwhile, the Road Transport Act, which governs road safety and traffic regulations, is currently undergoing a review, providing an opportunity for the RTB to slot in policy reforms aimed at improving regulation, addressing informal transport sectors, and strengthening enforcement measures.
This review is expected to be completed later this year.
Ends///
[MID]
