The European Union (EU) and the European Investment Bank (EIB) have announced a €24 million (approximately SBD 226 million) funding package to upgrade the Solomon Islands’ urban water and sanitation systems. The announcement was made by European Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jozef Síkela, at the EU-Pacific Business Forum in Fiji on 5 September. Commissioner Síkela highlighted that improving access to clean water and safe sanitation not only protects public health but also strengthens communities and enhances resilience against climate shocks.
The investment is particularly timely as rapid urbanisation in the Solomon Islands is projected, with Honiara’s population expected to triple in the coming decades. The funding aims to improve access to safe water and sanitation services for both urban and peri-urban populations, addressing the growing demands on infrastructure and supporting social and economic well-being.
Under the agreement, the EIB will provide a loan of €14.4 million (approximately SBD 136 million), complemented by a €9.6 million (approximately SBD 90 million) grant from the EU. This initiative is part of the EU Global Gateway strategy, implemented through a Team Europe approach, combining efforts from EU institutions, member states, and development finance institutions.
The Urban Water Supply and Sanitation System Project (UWSSSP) will target the greater Honiara area as well as the towns of Auki, Gizo, Noro, Munda, and Tulagi. The project aims to enhance water efficiency, strengthen climate resilience, and ensure the long-term sustainability of urban water infrastructure across these regions.
This initiative continues the longstanding collaboration between the EU and the Solomon Islands Government, reflecting a shared commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 6, which focuses on clean water and sanitation. By investing in modern infrastructure, the EU and EIB are helping the Solomon Islands prepare for future urban growth while promoting sustainable development and community well-being.
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