New Footpath and Jacob’s Ladder Transform Access and Lives in Rock Valley

HONIARA, Solomon Islands – A COMMUNITY-driven infrastructure project in Rock Valley (West Honiara) is delivering life-changing improvements to access and safety, as a new footpath and Jacob’s Ladder nears completion under the CAUSE II Project.

Implemented by the Solomon Islands Government with support from the World Bank and the Australian Government, the initiative is addressing one of the most critical challenges faced by hillside communities: safe and reliable access to essential services.

For years, residents of Rock Valley navigated steep, uneven, and often dangerous tracks. In times of medical emergency, families were forced to carry loved ones over difficult terrain to reach transport – delays that, in some cases, had devastating consequences.

“Before, we lost two or three people because we didn’t have proper road access. Sometimes we rushed them, but when we arrived at the hospital or nearest clinics, it was already too late,” Community Leader, Walter Ma’ake revealed.

The CAUSE II Project is now changing that reality.

In Zone one (1), construction of a 115-meter footpath is nearing completion, providing a safer and more efficient route for residents to move within and beyond the community. At the same time, work is progressing in Zone two (2) on a Jacob’s Ladder, designed to improve access along one of the steepest and most hazardous sections of the area.

Together these structures are significantly reducing travel time and improving mobility – particularly during emergencies.

“Now if someone is sick, we can move quickly and get them to the hospital in time. We believe this will stop those losses from happening again,” Walter emphasized.

The benefits of the project extend beyond emergency situations.

Residents, including school children, market vendors, and elderly community members are already experiencing safer and easier movement. Previously slippery and unstable paths posed daily risks, especially during wet conditions.

Assistant Team Leader Mirriam Leo, who is helping oversee the construction of the Jacob’s Ladder, highlighted the importance of the new structure.

“Our road is very rough. Sometimes you slip and get injured. This ladder will really help us – especially our older people. Even before completion, parts of the ladder are already in use and our children are already enjoying the finished parts,” Mirriam added.

The impact of the project is already visible across Rock Valley. Improved access is making it easier for residents to reach markets, schools, and workplaces – supporting both livelihoods and daily activities. At the same time, participation in the project has strengthened community cohesion and confidence.

The success of the initiative reflects strong collaboration between the Solomon Islands Government, developing partners, and the local communities.

Rock Valley community have expressed appreciation to all partners involved in delivering the project.

“Thank you to the World Bank, the Australian Government and Solomon Islands Government. You have made life easier for us. Life is much easier now for everyone. What we are seeing and achieving now is more than what we have done and achieved previously,” Walter reiterated.

Whilst sharing similar sentiments, Mirriam also acknowledged the role of training provided by the CAUSE II Project.

“What we are building now comes from the training we received. This is the result, and for that we thank the CAUSE II Project teams.”

As the construction nears completion, the Rock Valley Footpath and Jacob’s Ladder stand as practical examples of how targeted, community-led infrastructure can deliver meaningful impact.

By improving access, reducing risk, and strengthening local capacity, the project is contributing to safer, more resilient communities.

In Rock Valley, progress is measured not only in meters of concrete, but in improved lives. Where there was once delay, there is now access. Where there was once risk, there is now safety. For this community, the difference is clear: a simple path can make all the difference. 

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