CAUSE II Bring Solar Lighting to CAI Investments in Gizo

RESIDENTS in Gizo will soon benefit from safer access to key community facilities following the installation of new solar lights under the Community Access and Urban Services Enhancement II (CAUSE II) Project.

The Solar Light Installation sub-project is an enhancement to existing Community Access Infrastructure (CAI) investments, providing improved visibility and safer access along footpaths and Jacob's Ladders during the evening and night.

A total of 10 solar lighting units are being installed across four locations in Gizo. They include: Lauru Valley Jacob's Ladder – four new solar light units, Gizo Hospital to Women's Centre Footpath – four new solar light units, Solpower to Hilltop Jacob's Ladder – one replacement unit for a light damaged during Tropical Cyclone Maila and Gizo High School Footpath – one new solar light unit.

The works currently employ seven local workers and are expected to benefit more than 600 community members by improving safety, accessibility and convenience for people using these important pedestrian routes. The new lighting will particularly support residents travelling to and from homes, schools and health facilities after dark, making the upgraded community infrastructure safer and more accessible for everyone.

The solar lighting project builds on previous CAUSE II investments that have delivered Footpaths and Jacob's Ladders throughout Gizo, improving connectivity for communities where steep terrain and limited access have long presented challenges. By adding solar lighting to these completed access routes, CAUSE II is extending the benefits of these investments while also improving the resilience and usability of the infrastructure.

The initiative forms part of Component 2 – Safe and Inclusive Communities under the CAUSE II Project, which focuses on delivering community infrastructure that improves everyday urban living through safer public spaces and better access to essential services. Investments under this component include footpaths, Jacob's Ladders, public space improvements and other community infrastructure designed to make towns more accessible, resilient and inclusive.

CAUSE II builds on the achievements of the original CAUSE Project, continuing its successful community-based approach that delivers practical infrastructure while creating short-term employment opportunities for local communities. The project also supports the Solomon Islands Government's efforts to strengthen urban resilience and improve the quality of life for residents through climate-resilient and community-driven infrastructure investments.

As work progresses, the new solar lighting installations will provide lasting benefits to the people of Gizo, ensuring that vital community access routes remain safe, accessible and well-lit for years to come.

Implemented by the Solomon Islands Government, the CAUSE II Project is supported by the World Bank and the Australian Government through the PNG and Pacific Islands Umbrella Facility Multi-Donor Trust Fund.

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