The Government will commence two major development projects in Vanikoro, Temotu province in 2027 aimed at strengthening aviation connectivity and protecting Solomon Islands’ eastern maritime borders.
Acting Prime Minister and Minister of Communication and Aviation, Hon. Frederick Kologeto made the announcements during the official handover ceremony of the Santa Cruz (Lata) Airport Runway and Terminal Project in Temotu Province on Friday.
Hon. Kologeto said the two initiatives demonstrate the Government’s commitment to improving infrastructure in remote island communities while strengthening national security and protecting the country’s eastern maritime borders.
He announced that through the Ministry of Communication and Aviation, construction of the new Vanikoro Airport will commence in 2027.
“The project represents another important commitment to improving connectivity across remote islands. It will strengthen the national aviation network and ensuring communities in Temotu Province are better connected to essential services and economic opportunities,” he said.
The Acting Prime Minister also announced that work on the Eastern Border Patrol Base in Vanikoro is scheduled to commence in 2027.
He said the initiative, under the Ministry of Police, Correctional Services and National Security, reflects the Government’s commitment to strengthening national security, protecting the country’s eastern maritime borders and enhancing its capacity to monitor and safeguard sovereign territory.
Hon. Kologeto said these priorities demonstrate that the Government’s development commitment extends beyond infrastructure alone, encompassing stronger connectivity and the protection of the nation.
The announcements were made against the backdrop of the successful completion and handover of the Santa Cruz Airport upgrade.
The Acting Prime Minister described these developments as an important investment in connecting island communities and expanding opportunities for trade, tourism and economic development.
