CAUSE II Implementation Support Mission Highlights Continued Progress Across Project Components

The Second Implementation Support Mission (ISM) for the Community Access and Urban Services Enhancement II (CAUSE II) Project concluded on October 16, 2025, following a comprehensive review of project progress between September 29 and October 16, 2025. Led by the World Bank, the mission assessed implementation performance, discussed strategic next steps, and evaluated the feasibility of additional financing support for expanded climate resilience initiatives.

According to the mission’s Aide-Mémoire, CAUSE II continues to demonstrate solid institutional footing and early successes, particularly in community infrastructure development and support for vulnerable groups. Progress across the project’s five components was noted, with each assessed as making headway despite some implementation delays—particularly in procurement and staffing.

Component 1, focused on Resilient Township Development, has advanced design and survey works in key locations, with major tenders for bridges and drainage works on track. Component 2, aimed at Safe and Inclusive Communities, has made notable gains in footpath construction and solar lighting installation, improving safety and accessibility for vulnerable populations. Training programs under Component 3—Enhanced Urban Productivity—are well underway, with strong participation from women and youth. Component 4, targeting land administration and urban management, is progressing in system design and policy diagnostics, while Component 5 continues to strengthen project oversight and data transparency through upgraded digital systems.

The ISM team observed that while disbursement has increased to 16%—a 10% rise since March 2025—further acceleration is needed to meet fiscal year targets. Nonetheless, the mission positively acknowledged CAUSE II’s operational foundations, coordination among implementing agencies, and alignment with climate and urban resilience goals.

The mission concluded with a strong endorsement of CAUSE II’s relevance and delivery strategy, emphasizing its critical role in supporting inclusive urban development across the Solomon Islands.

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The Community Access and Urban Services Enhancement II (CAUSE II) Project is a transformative initiative aimed at improving climate-resilient infrastructure, enhancing economic inclusion, and strengthening service delivery in targeted urban centers across the Solomon Islands. Led by the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Honiara City Council, in collaboration with the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Survey, and the Provincial Governments of Guadalcanal, Malaita, and Western Province, CAUSE II is a Government of Solomon Islands initiative. The project is supported by the World Bank and the Government of Australia through the Papua New Guinea and Pacific Islands Umbrella Facility Multi-Donor Trust Fund (PPIUF).