Honiara - The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) is calling for urgent improvements to the management of traffic congestion and road conditions in Honiara City. As the representative body for the private sector, SICCI emphasizes that efficient traffic movement is critical for enabling businesses to operate smoothly and maintain their financial viability.

In a recent letter directed to the Prime Minister, SICCI outlined the severe impact of current road situations on private sector operations and the daily lives of the public. The Chamber stresses the importance of prompt responses from government authorities to address these pressing issues and collaborate on effective solutions.

Key Challenges Identified by SICCI:

1. Workforce Challenges:

Employees are struggling to reach their workplaces on time, leading to operational disruptions and delayed service delivery.

2. Logistical Implications:

Ongoing road construction and poor traffic management are resulting in significant delays, adversely affecting the ability of businesses to function efficiently.

3. Operational Difficulties:

Rising operational costs due to vehicle maintenance and delays in meeting deadlines are putting further strain on businesses.

A survey conducted by SICCI reveals alarming statistics: 83% of member businesses experience negative impacts due to current road conditions, with 62% reporting reductions in revenue. Additionally, 51% expressed dissatisfaction with communication from authorities regarding road improvements and traffic management plans.

SICCI acknowledges the efforts of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) and Honiara City Council (HCC) but urges for greater collaboration and increased visibility of traffic management personnel to alleviate congestion effectively.

The Chamber envisions a vibrant private sector that contributes to economic growth and the well-being of the Solomon Islands. SICCI is committed to working alongside the Government of the National Unity and Truth (GNUT) to enhance the investment climate and create more job opportunities for our people.

"We kindly request a prompt response from the government to address this critical issue. Improved management of the current road situation is essential for facilitating smoother traffic movement, thereby enabling businesses to thrive," said Namoi Kaluae, Chairlady of SICCI. "We look forward to building a stronger private sector alongside the government to drive economic growth in our nation."