Honiara – The Solomon Islands Government (SIG) has reaffirmed its strong commitment to progressing the Eastern Border Outpost (EBO) Project in Vanikoro, Temotu Province, an important national initiative under the Government’s National Security Strategy to safeguard the country’s porous eastern borders from transnational crime and emerging security threats.
The EBO will establish a “whole-of-government” law enforcement and security facility, integrating key agencies to strengthen border surveillance, coordination, and response capabilities. The project represents a major milestone in enhancing national security while supporting long-term economic and social development in remote border communities.
A high-level government delegation led by Secretary to the Prime Minister Dr. Melchior Mataki and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Police, National Security and Correctional Services (MPNSCS), Ms. Karen Galokale, visited Vanikoro on Wednesday, March 26, where consultations were held with chiefs, elders, and community members at Buma Village.
The delegation included National Security Official Mr. Denson Varirokesa, representatives of the Australian Defence Force, Premier of Temotu Province Hon. Stanley Tehi, and Provincial Assembly Member for Vanikoro Ward Hon. Fenua. The visit aimed to present the rationale, scope, and national importance of the Eastern Border Outpost Project, while seeking the views, support, and partnership of local communities.
Permanent Secretary Ms. Galokale emphasized the importance of direct engagement with landowners and communities.
“We are here to share the purpose, scope and national importance of the Eastern Border Outpost, to hear your views, and to seek your support and partnership as we move forward together,” she said.
She acknowledged the strong support already demonstrated by landowners, noting that earlier consultations in Honiara reflected overwhelming commitment for the project to proceed.
Ms. Galokale highlighted that the Eastern Border Outpost is not a standalone policing facility but a coordinated national security hub.
“This is not just a police post, it is a whole-of-government facility that will bring together multiple agencies to better protect our borders and serve our people,” she said.
The Vanikoro facility will serve as the central hub of the eastern border security network and will include accommodation for officers, operational office spaces, and a wharf to support patrol vessels, alongside supporting infrastructure for multiple government agencies. While some components of the project will be developed in Lata, the main integrated facility will be established in Vanikoro.
The proposed project site is Nubouko in Vanikoro, identified following extensive scoping and technical assessments conducted by officials from MPNSCS in collaboration with engineers from the Australian Defence Force and landowners. After thorough evaluation of several locations, Nubouko was selected as the most suitable site.
Secretary to the Prime Minister Dr. Mataki reaffirmed that the Government, under the direction of the Prime Minister, has instructed officials that the project must proceed as a priority national development initiative. He extended the Government’s appreciation to the chiefs, landowners, and people of Vanikoro for their openness to host the EBO and allocate land for this national project.
He emphasized that the project will not only strengthen border security but also serve as a milestone development as Solomon Islands prepares to celebrate its 50th Independence Anniversary on July 7, 2028.
The Premier of Temotu Province welcomed the project and expressed the province’s full support, highlighting its long-term vision for Vanikoro as a future economic hub in line with the provincial government’s development plans.
He noted that the development of the Eastern Border Outpost, alongside planned infrastructure such as an airport and expanded trade opportunities, will stimulate economic growth and improve connectivity in the province.
Ms. Galokale also outlined the direct and long-term benefits the project will bring to communities.
“This project will create employment opportunities, improve infrastructure and services, enhance safety and security, and open up future economic opportunities for Vanikoro and Temotu Province,” she said.
She referenced similar positive impacts from the border outpost development in Lofung in the Shortlands, Western Province, which is nearing completion and is expected to be handed over between April and June 2026.
The Solomon Islands Government expressed its sincere appreciation to the Government of Australia for its commitment to fully fund the Eastern Border Outpost Project, reflecting the strong partnership between the two countries.
Ms. Galokale reassured communities that the Government recognizes and respects customary land ownership and will work closely with landowners throughout the process.
“We deeply respect that this project will be developed on your land. We are committed to working with you through proper legal processes, with your consent and cooperation at every stage,” she said.
She confirmed that a Memorandum of Understanding will be signed with landowners, while formal land acquisition processes will proceed in parallel with initial project activities in collaboration with the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Survey.
Following the consultation in Vanikoro, community leaders expressed their appreciation for the Government and its partners, reaffirming their strong support for the project and acceptance of the proposed site at Nubouko. They committed to working closely with the Government to facilitate preparatory activities and ensure the successful implementation of the project.
Looking ahead, the Government will progress key next steps including finalizing agreements with landowners, advancing planning and procurement processes, establishing community coordination mechanisms, and undertaking further technical assessments.
Construction of the Eastern Border Outpost is anticipated to commence in late 2026 or early 2027.
In closing, Ms. Galokale called for unity and continued collaboration.
“This project is about securing our borders, strengthening our nation, and creating opportunities for future generations. Together, we can make this a success for Vanikoro, for Temotu, and for Solomon Islands,” she said.
The Eastern Border Outpost Project is a flagship national initiative, and the Government remains committed to prioritizing its successful implementation through to completion.
