Communities in Malu’u, North Malaita, have gained global attention for an innovative, Australia‑supported project to protect coastline infrastructure through mangrove and coastal tree rehabilitation.
Over the past eight months, Australia has been working with a local mangrove and conservation expert from the Fera Au Conservation Association, as well as members of the North Shore Mangroves Committee from the communities of Kwene, Darowaraua and Duruabu. Together, they have established mangrove nurseries and built skills in coastal rehabilitation and management.
Mangroves are a natural defence against rising sea levels, coastal erosion and storm impacts. Once transplanted in front of the market, the mangroves will work alongside the market seawall to help reduce erosion, absorb wave energy, and improve water quality and coastal marine ecosystems.
The community is now preparing to plant nearly 1,000 mangrove and tree seedlings in May, while construction of the new market gets underway.
North Shore Mangroves Committee member Elizabeth Andrew said the project had even attracted the attention of international environmental organisation Global Green.
“Since the start of our project, we’ve shared photos on social media, and this caught the attention of international groups,” Ms Andrew said.
“Global Green reached out to ask if we wanted to apply for support for new projects, and we are very fortunate to have received USD 5,000 to start another nursery. Some of the mangroves from this second nursery will be planted at our coastal site, and some will go to the market.”
She thanked Australia’s Solomon Islands Infrastructure Program for giving the communities an opportunity that opened the door for additional support.
North Shore Mangroves Chairperson Cameron Inomae said he was delighted with the project’s progress.
“Planting mangroves is new for us, but we are excited to learn, grow, and help our communities and environment,” Mr Inomae said.
Australia’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Jeff Roach, said the initiative showed how communities can lead practical climate action alongside major infrastructure projects.
“Australia is building infrastructure that lasts, and we’re also supporting local companies, workers and communities to strengthen their skills. What’s really exciting is seeing these communities take the project even further, securing extra support and making an even bigger impact,” Mr Roach said.
“Through the Solomon Islands–Australia Partnership, we’re designing infrastructure that’s resilient to climate change, uses cleaner energy like solar PV or hybrid systems, encourages nature‑based solutions, and empowers local communities to take action.”
The Malu’u Market project is one of six markets supported by Australia across the country to boost local economic activity.
