Kukum

Ever wonder about a road named after a pineapple? Right here in Honiara, the Kukum Highway got its unusual name thanks to the Navajo Code Talkers. During World War II, these American soldiers used their native language, Navajo, to transmit coded messages. The word “Kukum” was their term for the American hand grenades, which they likened to pineapples. The Kukum Highway itself is a vital artery in Honiara, connecting the city center to the airport. Completed in 2023, the upgraded Kukum Highway stretches 6.3 kilometers. This Japanese-funded project transformed a portion of the road into a four-lane highway. It includes new drainage systems, bus stops, streetlights, and even handrails. Imagine the improvement this made to traffic flow, especially with the influx of athletes and visitors for the 2023 Pacific Games. Beyond its practical purpose, Kukum Highway represents a blend of cultures and history. It’s a reminder of the war, the ingenuity of the Code Talkers, and the enduring partnership between the Solomon Islands and Japan.