A new phase of the World Bank's Community Access and Urban Services Enhancement Project II (CAUSE II) is set to create 120,000 labor days and provide employment for 15,000 individuals in the Solomon Islands. This initiative will focus on empowering women and youth while investing in climate-resilient infrastructure and improving access to urban services in areas vulnerable to climate change.
The World Bank's Board of Directors has approved the US$37 million CAUSE II project. The Government of Solomon Islands, with support from the Government of Australia, aims to build resilience and create income-generating opportunities across the country. The project will also enhance land administration and asset management systems for effective urban service delivery.
The first phase of the project concluded on October 31, benefiting over 104,000 people. It generated nearly 370,000 labor days and provided short-term employment for over 8,000 people—more than half were women and youth. Essential urban services such as road maintenance, drainage, and waste management were delivered during this phase.
"The CAUSE project has been a crucial lifeline for many Solomon Islanders," said Manasseh Sogavare, Solomon Islands Minister of Finance and Treasury. "The second phase will continue to build on this strong foundation."
The project targets fast-growing urban centers including Honiara City, Guadalcanal, Malaita (Auki), and Western Province (Gizo, Noro, Munda). These areas face challenges like high unemployment and inadequate infrastructure strained by climate change impacts.
"CAUSE I provides a model for future urban development planning," said Annette Leith, World Bank Resident Representative in Solomon Islands. "CAUSE II builds on that success by expanding its reach."
Australia's financial support is vital for expanding CAUSE II's reach. This partnership helps scale up efforts after CAUSE I's success. The project aims not only to address urgent urban needs but also to build local governments' capacity to manage services sustainably.
In addition to job creation and infrastructure improvement, CAUSE II will enhance government capacity for sustainable urban growth management. Improved land administration and public asset management are part of this effort.
CAUSE II is implemented by the Solomon Islands Government with support from the World Bank and Australia through the Papua New Guinea and Pacific Islands Umbrella Facility Multi-Donor Trust Fund.