The Australian High Commission has celebrated with local communities in Lilisiana, Talakali and Arabala the successful delivery of three transformative community projects in Malaita Province, supporting clean energy, clean water and places to practice kastom traditions.
These projects, funded through the popular Solomon Islands – Australia Community Partnerships, demonstrate Australia’s ongoing commitment to working alongside Solomon Islands communities to deliver lasting, locally driven development.
Australian High Commissioner, His Excellency Rod Hilton said, “these truly special projects reflect Australia’s commitment to supporting community-led development, cultural resilience, and local economic growth across Solomon Islands. Australia is delighted to support Kastom Keepers and the communities of Aoke and Langalanga as they work to preserve cultural heritage and strengthen identity, as well as Talakali Adventist School with access to renewable energy, and Arabala village with access to clean water.”
Talakali Adventist School has launched a new solar power system, providing reliable electricity to classrooms and school facilities. The system includes rooftop solar panels and battery storage, ensuring consistent access to lighting and digital learning tools.
The project improves learning conditions for students and supports the school’s ability to deliver quality education in a remote setting. Materials and services were sourced locally through Alternate Technology, supporting Solomon Islands businesses and creating local jobs.
Honourable Matthew Wale, Member of Parliament for Aoke/Langalanga, attended the launch and praised the initiative as a transformative investment in education and community development.
In Arabala Village, the restoration of the community’s water supply system has improved access to clean and safe water for 70 households. Water is sourced from an open spring and collected in a 52,000-litre concrete tank, then pumped using a solar-powered system to shared access points across the village.
The upgraded system ensures more reliable water access for families, schools, and community facilities. Materials were sourced from Solomon Islands vendors, supporting the local economy.
Honourable Ricky Fuo’o, Member of Parliament for Central Kwara’ae, witnessed the handover and welcomed the new infrastructure as a major step forward for his constituency.
The Faefae Numa Fala Halhala Kastom House in Lilisiana is a landmark project supporting cultural preservation and intergenerational knowledge exchange. Delivered in partnership with Kastom Keepers, the kastom house provides a dedicated space for chiefs, elders, and youth to gather, share stories, and pass down kastom knowledge.
The project was locally led, involving four youth groups, three women’s groups, and support from nine communities across Kwaio, Langalanga, and Gwaonarou. Materials were sourced from vendors in Honiara and Malaita, ensuring the project delivered economic benefits alongside cultural ones.
So far in 2025, Australia has funded 50 community projects, representing more than SBD 11 million in direct funding to Solomon Islands businesses.
