PWD to be re-established and PM wants it back in Malaita

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In a pivotal move aimed at bolstering infrastructure maintenance and oversight throughout the country, the Minister of Infrastructure Development, Hon. Manasseh Maelanga, emphasised that the government’s decision to re-establish the Public Works Department (PWD) is among its highest priorities.

Efforts to revitalise the PWD have been proposed by successive governments, but this time, Minister Maelanga, in his address during the road upgrade project launching in Auki this week, emphasised its significance as a top priority for the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT).

Echoing Minister Maelanga’s sentiments, Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele expressed strong support for the reviving of this department.

“I feel strongly that we should re-establish the Public Works Department here in Auki to look after these roads.”

He further urged the Malaita Provincial Government to develop a comprehensive Road Maintenance Plan to guide the upkeep of this vital infrastructure.

Hon. Manele also stressed the necessity for Malaita Province to collaborate with the Ministry of Infrastructure in forming a Highway Authority. This authority would establish traffic rules, regulations, fines, and user fees, allowing for a self-sustaining revenue model for road maintenance.

PWD, which previously played a crucial role in managing public works projects, was abolished twenty-two years ago since its formation in the post-colonial era. This decision led to the outsourcing of road maintenance, bridge construction, drainage systems, and wharf management to private contractors. While the aim was to streamline operations, this transition has raised concerns about inefficiencies, inconsistent quality of work, and insufficient accountability in infrastructure management.

Minister Maelanga concluded with an assurance that a thorough review of this concept will be presented to the Cabinet and Parliament for further discussion and approval, paving the way for a more effective and accountable infrastructure management system in the country.

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