Institutional Design for Solomon Islands' MMERE

The Government of Solomon Islands is introducing a series of legislative and institutional reforms to implement the National Minerals Policy (NMP). One key initiative is an institutional support program for the Ministry of Mines, Minerals, Energy and Rural Electrification (MMERE), including strengthening the organisational structure and staff development program so that the ministry is better positioned to implement the new minerals policy.

As part of The World Bank’s broader program of support for MMERE through the “Solomon Islands Mining Governance (SIMGov) Project” Square Circle was engaged to review MMERE’s existing organisational structure and capability, and work with MMERE on an institutional reform process that would improve the regulation of the sector in line with the changes envisioned in the NMP. Square Circle’s approach was to work alongside MMERE’s corporate services team and with section directors to review section mandates, structures and capacity in light of the requirements outlined in the new policy. MMERE is now in the process of realigning its divisions and capabilities for improved oversight of the sector.

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