CAUSE Weekly Wrap-Up: Keeping you informed, one week at a time.

Issue 151 (Digital) 17 July - 21 July 2023
The weekly wrap-up newsletter is a way to connect and update staff and project stakeholders about the progress of projects implemented by CAUSE in different communities. It includes information about the projects in Honiara, Guadalcanal (areas outside of town boundary), Auki, Gizo, Noro, and Munda. CAUSE is supported by the Australian Government and the World Bank.

Two community groups of 20 ISDT graduates each, working with the same 60 meters climate resilient spot improvement works, have successfully completed their engagement ahead of schedule with a surplus on their contract. This surplus has been distributed to the groups as a bonus, which now completes the 180 meters target for the Buriniasi road. The completion of the 180m pavement for the Burinasi Rurusia road marks a significant milestone in the project. The drainage group will continue their work in the coming week to ensure the project’s success. It is worth mentioning that the road users are highly satisfied with the improvements and have expressed their desire for more infrastructure on hill and slope roads in Auki. As a result, an increasing number of vehicles are now using this route for convenient driving to Rurusia Hilltop residents and down to Auki CBD, improving transportation accessibility in the area.

The refurbishment of the Point Cruz underpass continues to progress. The left photo shows the shed on the seaward currently undergoing demolition of the old structure, while the right photo shows the progress of the finishing activities on the landward of the structure. The re-activation of this pedestrian structure will contribute to the HCC’s and MID’s effort to help unclog traffic at Point Cruz and provide safety for pedestrians crossing this section of the road.

Component 2 will handle rubbish collection and disposal during the Pacific Game 2023, integrated into road maintenance, as well as spot improvement contracts. This important task involves efficiently collecting and properly disposing of a substantial volume of 11,200 cubic meters of rubbish. The collection period will span from November 1st to December 15th, ensuring a clean and well-maintained environment throughout this significant event. The total cost allocated for this essential service is an estimated SBD304,000.00. Rest assured, stringent measures will be in place to ensure the success of this operation.

INSPIRING STORIES

Beryl Sosota, a stay-at-home mother of four teenagers, struggled to support her children’s education. She used to sell cooked food at the market and her husband provided OBM services and repair in Gizo. However, their income was not enough to cover their family’s expenses.

In November 2021, Beryl attended a seven-day ISDT training at Gizo PIU. She learned how to write a CV, an application letter and how to present herself during an interview. She was grateful for this training, as she was able to apply for a job as an office cleaner at the Gizo NPF branch.

Beryl was hired for the job and worked there for six months. She is pleased that NPF also helps pay her children’s school fees. This is a blessing for her family.

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.

Gizo Town’s Community Access and Urban Services Enhancement Project (Gizo PIU) has truly exceeded all expectations, kindling a magnificent metamorphosis that has uplifted the lives of every resident. The remarkable accomplishments in fortifying infrastructure, enriching urban services, enhancing community facilities, nurturing economic growth, and fostering environmental sustainability have laid a rock-solid groundwork for an inclusive and flourishing urban center. The unwavering dedication and collaborative spirit of all stakeholders have been irreplaceable in propelling this project toward resounding triumph. As we move forward, it is absolutely vital to maintain this extraordinary momentum and build upon these stellar achievements, ensuring everlasting prosperity and well-being for the beloved community of Gizo Town. -Penny-

Testimonials