CONSTRUCTION BEGINS ON SUSUBONA WHARF IN SANTA ISABEL

KARADAHO BAY, SOLOMON ISLANDS (13 OCTOBER, 2014)

Work has begun to upgrade and rehabilitate Susubona Wharf on the southern shore of Santa Isabel. The Government of New Zealand is providing additional finance to upgrade the wharf which will involve the demolition of the existing wharf head and causeway and the construction of a new reinforced concrete wharf head-raised to minimize erosion caused by waves and debris. A new causeway made of salvaged rock coral material will also be constructed.

The Susubona Wharf is one of five wharves and a landing ramp being improved under the second phase of the Domestic Maritime Support Project, which is financed by the Solomon Islands Government, Asian Development Bank (ADB), the Australian Government, and the New Zealand Aid Programme.

The project is constructing rural wharves to improve safety and access to economic opportunities. The new wharves are designed to be less vulnerable to climate change.

The new Susubona Wharf in Karadaho Bay is expected enhance economic opportunities by boosting access to copra and cocoa markets. By better connecting Karadaho Bay to other parts of Solomon Islands, the improved wharf will also improve access to jobs in the area. The upgraded Susubona Wharf will support opportunities for increased private sector investment.

The Domestic Maritime Support Project has already rebuilt nine wharves and two landing ramps in five Solomon Islands provinces. The project also supports a franchise shipping scheme to remote communities. The shipping scheme is allowing private sector operators to deliver shipping services to destinations that would not be commercially viable.

The improved shipping services and new wharves and jetties are reducing barriers to conducting business and promoting the growth of rural production in Solomon Islands.

ENDS

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