RESIDENTS and businesses in Buala are set to benefit from improved maritime transport connectivity of the main import-export point for Isabel Province.
Australia has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Solomon Islands Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Isabel Provincial Government to redevelop Buala Wharf.
Australian High Commissioner, His Excellency Rod Hilton, said the Memorandum of Understanding represented the continuation of a long-term infrastructure partnership with Solomon Islands that supports both provincial and national infrastructure priorities.
“Close cooperation and partnerships with asset owners are critical when Australia delivers quality, climate-resilient infrastructure,” Mr Hilton said. “This inclusive approach ensures that infrastructure projects are sustainably designed with long-term maintenance costs considered.”
The Hon. Lawrence Hayward, Premier of Isabel Province, said the project was a game changer for Isabel’s economic future.
“The existing wharf is in poor condition and becomes unsafe in king tides,” the Premier said. “A new wharf will improve connectivity, and increase economic opportunities for Buala and Isabel, with a fit-for-purpose wharf for passengers and cargo shipping.”
“On behalf of the Isabel people we convey our gratitude, especially for including climate resilience in the wharf design which will make the new wharf last longer.”
The wharf redevelopment will connect with the new Buala Market, currently under construction as part of Australia’s Solomon Islands Infrastructure Program.
The Hon. Manasseh Maelanga, Minister of Infrastructure Development, said the two projects demonstrated the value of the Solomon Islands National Infrastructure Priority Pipeline.
“Our Pipeline is helping to guide significant investment and support from the Solomon Islands Government and our development partners,” Minister Maelanga said.
“Since independence, Australia has worked side by side with Solomon Islands on infrastructure development. The Buala Wharf Redevelopment Project will be the largest infrastructure project for Isabel Province, and importantly, focus on climate change resilience.”
Australia has completed an assessment of the wharf’s condition and future shipping needs. The new wharf will integrate resilience to climate change and natural disasters, safety for passengers and cargo, including people with disabilities, and future shipping use.
