Issue 177 (Digital)2 August 2024
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.

Welcome to our latest CAUSE Project update! Although our operations have slowed down, we remain committed to keeping you informed about our progress and achievements. Stay tuned for regular updates and insights into our ongoing efforts.

#CAUSEProject #Progress #CommunityDevelopment #StayInformed

New Market in White River Boosts Community and Economy

White River in West Honiara celebrates the opening of its new market, a significant project funded by the Australian Government and the World Bank and constructed by the CAUSE Project. The market, which officially opened on Monday and will commence operations next week, represents the first dedicated market facility in White River.

Community Involvement and Economic Impact

The new White River Market aims to enhance the local economy by providing a venue for farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs to sell their produce and goods. This facility is expected to generate income, foster community cohesion, and support local economic growth. The market will also help vendors earn sustainable livelihoods, reducing dependence on non-sustainable activities. The inauguration event was attended by notable figures including Australian High Commissioner Rod Hilton, MP Namson Tran, Permanent Secretary MID Allan Lilia, World Bank representative Ifeta Smajic, and Supervising City Mayor Charles Aiwosuga. Mayor Aiwosuga highlighted the market’s role in supporting local businesses and improving community resilience.

Australian Contribution and Support

Australia’s funding underscores its commitment to community development and economic sustainability in the Solomon Islands. The collaboration between the Australian Government, the World Bank, the Honiara City Council, the Ministry of Infrastructure Development, and the CAUSE Project exemplifies a robust partnership aimed at enhancing living standards and economic opportunities in White River.

Broader Initiative and Community Impact

The White River Market is part of a larger initiative that has completed 212 community infrastructure projects, involving 8,362 Solomon Islanders, creating 364,754 labor days, and disbursing SBD 25.84 million in wages. This initiative focuses on sustainable economic opportunities and improved living standards. Honiara City Council (HCC) supports increased market access for residents, ensuring that new market buildings can effectively serve local businesses.

Mayor Charles Aiwosuga expressed gratitude to all contributors for their dedication and hard work, emphasizing that the market symbolizes the community’s growth and a promising future for White River.

This infographic summarizes the achievements of the Community Access & Urban Services Enhancement Project as of 30 June 2024.

🚧 Important Update from CAUSE Project 🚧

To our valued community,

We’re writing to let you know that the CAUSE Project will be scaling back its operations temporarily. It’s a pause, but rest assured, it’s not a full stop! 🛑✨

While our activities might be quieting down for a little while, our commitment to you remains as loud as ever! 📢 We’re gearing up to come back stronger by the year’s end, ready to continue enhancing our community’s heart and soul – its access and services. 💪

A HUGE thank you for your understanding and support. Your spirit is the bridge to our success, and together, we’ll keep building towards a brighter, more connected future. 🌉🌟

Stay updated and stay connected – we’ve got more in store for you! 🔄

CAUSEProjectUpdate #CommunityFirst #BuildingTogether #SeeYouSoon

🔗 Stay tuned for updates!

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.

Testimonials