The weekly wrap-up newsletter is a platform to link and update staff and project stakeholders on the happenings in all Project Implementation Units (PIUs) and Project Management Unit (PMU) on the progress of projects CAUSE implemented in various communities of Honiara, Guadalcanal (areas outside of town boundary), Auki, Gizo, Noro, and Munda. CAUSE is financed by Australian Government and the World Bank
INSPIRING STORIES
Ghorekera Tolipio, a participant from batch 34, is a SINU graduate from the class of 2021, actively seeking job opportunities. One of his aspirations was to join the Labour Mobility Scheme for seasonal employment, but he faced obstacles.
However, after enrolling in the ISDT training on September 19, 2022, Ghorekera utilized the certificate he obtained along with the attached reference to apply for jobs. Through his determination, he successfully secured a position. Additionally, he used his earnings from project work to cover the expenses for his passport. Ghorekera expressed his gratitude to the CAUSE project for their assistance in making his dreams come true.
During our recent encounter with him two weeks ago, he briefly visited for a vacation before returning to Australia. Ghorekera shared that the valuable lessons he acquired during the ISDT training played a significant role in his promotion to the position of works supervisor at the farm where he is currently employed. He is now in Australia, supporting his family financially and working towards establishing his own depot business, specializing in selling and expanding his inventory of drums.
Despite the Project Implementation Unit (PIU) being down and only having a Hilux to transport materials to all sites, Component Two (SID) in Gizo is progressing well, as are the two Community Access Improvement (CAI) projects.
The two SIDs, TC Road and Jah Mountain Road are now ready to open the first traffic lane they constructed and will begin construction on the last lane. Both SIDs are on track to be completed on time.
The Inner Banana Valley Jacobs Ladder is nearing completion. The project is only 100 meters long, and the crew expects to finish it this week. This ladder serves the most vulnerable route in the interiors of the Banana Valley community, which is used by everyone who lives there.
With the construction completed, older adults, women, and children will now be able to access the path instead of having to go via the main vehicle road. They have praised the CAUSE Project and all the financial sources for their work. They hope this will be extended by another 200 meters or so.
“This ladder is a godsend to our community,” said one of the senior community leaders. “Nobody has access to that path during the wet season.” He thanked those who worked on the project and encouraged community members to help the workers however they could.
The project is expected to be fully completed by the end of next week, June 23, 2023.
Two community groups of 20 members each are working on a 60 meters spot improvement and drainage work on a critical road segment of Burina Asi to Rurusia road, Auki. The two groups are targeting 120 meters of the 180 meters road. The first group has already completed a 60 meters section of the same road. The ongoing work hopes to complete their respective contract by the end of July 2023. Witness the transformation of this critical road segment as two community groups come together to improve their community’s infrastructure.
Point Cruz Underpass on Track to Open Ahead of Schedule
The Point Cruz Underpass, a long-awaited project to improve traffic flow in Honiara, is on track to open ahead of schedule. The underpass, which is located near the Point Cruz Yacht Club, will allow pedestrians and vehicles to safely cross the busy road.
Restoration works on the underpass began in 2021 and was originally scheduled to be completed in 2022. However, work has progressed ahead of schedule and the underpass is now expected to open before PG 2023.
The opening of the underpass will be a major boost for Honiara, as it will help to reduce traffic congestion and improve safety for pedestrians and motorists. The underpass is also expected to boost economic activity in the area, as it will make it easier for people to get to and from businesses and other destinations.
The Point Cruz Underpass is a major investment in the future of Honiara and it is a sign of the government’s commitment to improving the city’s infrastructure. The opening of the underpass will be a welcome relief for residents and motorists alike and it will help to make Honiara a more livable city.
Construction on White River Market on track to be completed before PG 2023
The White River Market is expected to help decongest the Central Market, one of the busiest markets in the city. The Central Market is currently struggling to accommodate the large number of visitors it receives each year. The White River Market will provide a new option for shoppers who are looking for a more spacious and less crowded market experience.
In the photo, a community group composed of both men and women are working on the foundation of the market structure.
Testimonials
“One day, I can become an engineer.”New Skills for New Opportunities
Lionel Seth
CAUSE ISDT Graduate
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From The Solomon Islands Government Official Website – solomons.gov.sb
