BY SAPT Staff
PRIME Minister Manasseh Sogavare highlighted that most of the Solomon Islands’ infrastructure was built during colonial times.
He revealed this in his speech during the 45th Independence Anniversary celebration in Honiara on July 7, 2023.
He says the country faces challenges in addressing its infrastructure needs due to its scattered islands. The existing infrastructure was initially constructed for trade support during the colonial and World War II periods.
Economic activities along these infrastructures led to the relocation of villages. Although the wartime infrastructure was not intended for development, it left behind remnants such as roads, bridges, wharves, and airfields. Despite the challenges, these infrastructures were successfully built, highlighting the potential for development during peacetime.
The Prime Minister urged donor partners to shift their focus from wartime infrastructure to development-oriented projects.
He emphasized the importance of donor support in constructing new transformative infrastructure to drive economic growth.
The Prime Minister called for stronger partnerships and collaboration with development partners to advance the infrastructure agenda for a peaceful Solomon Islands.
