MINISTER for National Planning and Development Coordination, Hon. Rexson Ramofafia held a productive discussion with the European Union’s Ambassador, Her Excellency Ms. Barbara Plinkert.
During the meeting at the margins of the Honiara Summit on Wednesday 26 February, Ambassador Plinkert confirmed that funding has been secured for a water and sanitation project in Honiara and Fiu bridge in Malaita, paving the way for both projects to proceed. This follows a government submission to the European Investment Bank (EIB) to consider these projects.
The two further explored funding opportunities and reinforced strategic partnerships to drive key national development projects forward.
During the discussions, Minister Ramofafia acknowledged the EU for its continuous support to Solomon Islands and highlighted the importance of aligning EU development assistance to national priorities.
The talks also covered key priorities, such as the Bina Harbor Tuna processing plant development and renewable energy initiatives, which are expected to drive economic growth.
Minister Ramofafia stressed the government’s commitment to broad-based infrastructure development, with a strong focus on extending projects beyond Honiara. This includes exploring new funding avenues from EIB.
“The government wants the timely delivery of the Bina Harbour Tuna project as part of our preparations towards graduation from the LDC category. It is a key project that will help shift the country’s economy forward through productive means,” said Minister Ramofafia.
As part of its infrastructure push, the government is considering allocating SBD 100 million (~USD 10 million) from next year onwards budget to support major development projects such as the Bina Harbor Tuna project, reinforcing its strategic importance.
Another major point of discussion was on renewable energy development and the necessary legislative amendments needed to support renewable energy developments .
“The government is going to make targeted amendments to the electricity act,” said Minister Ramofafia. “One of these changes is the removal of certain regulatory powers, allowing the ministry responsible for energy to oversee critical reforms as an interim measure as well as remove punitive clauses in the electricity act against renewable energy uptake.”
The Minister also pointed to the Tina Hydro project as a testament to the government’s ability to advance renewable energy initiatives despite regulatory hurdles. However, he emphasized the need for legal reforms to enable a smoother path for future renewable energy developments.
Ambassador Plinkert emphasized the EU’s commitment to supporting the Solomon Islands’ development agenda.
“The European Union is dedicated to fostering sustainable development in the Solomon Islands. We recognize the importance of key infrastructure and energy projects, and we are committed to working together to ensure long-term, impactful progress,” said Ambassador Plinkert.
H.E. Ambassador Plinkert also informed that funding of EURO 10m remains available to Solomon Islands under the current seven-year period funding cycle but noted that final details still need to be worked out.
Source: MNPDC Press Release
