Work on the new Seghe Market in Marovo, Western Province has commenced, with foundations and retaining walls now well underway.
Local contractor, Hatanga, has completed major earthworks to prepare the site, excavating a massive 1,300 cubic metres of soft soil, and replacing it with 1,652 cubic metres of compacted coral-based fill.
Australian High Commissioner, His Excellency Rod Hilton, said the local team have done a fantastic job to create a solid, resilient foundation for the future market.
“Australia is all about supporting locally-led infrastructure, but not compromising on quality,” High Commissioner Hilton said.
“Every house needs a solid foundation, and this new market house will serve Seghe and the people of Marovo for many years to come.”
The new Seghe Market is one of many being delivered by 100 percent local construction companies under Australia’s Market Redevelopment Program, demonstrating a strong commitment to creating local jobs, on the job training, and empowering Solomon Islands.
The project has employed 20 Solomon Islanders since startup, including 16 from the surrounding community.
Hatanga Managing Director Jay Bartlett said his company was humbled to deliver such important infrastructure for the people of Marovo Lagoon and the western region.
“This project strongly reflects our vision and values — to provide quality infrastructure that supports sustainabledevelopment in our communities and across our country,” Mr Bartlett said.
“Projects like the Seghe Market allow us to continue developing our capacity as a local contractor and strengthen our capabilities to meet international standards.”
High Commissioner Hilton said it’s vital that the long-term development of Solomon Islands be led by Solomon Islanders.
“Locally-built infrastructure creates the kind of skilled workforce that Solomon Islands needs to operate and maintain these critical infrastructure assets long after handover,” High Commissioner Hilton said.
“This is not about creating low skilled labouring jobs.”
“Hatanga is a regionally recognised provider of quality infrastructure and working with local communities, and Australia is proud to be supporting local private sector development at the same time as delivering vital infrastructure for families and business in Marovo.”
The new market will provide space for up to 120 vendors, with wheelchair accessible stalls, solar lighting and 56,000 litres of rainwater storage.
It also includes separate toilets and showers for men, women and people with disabilities.
“This market has been designed and built for the community who will use it, including those with disabilities and those travelling from nearby communities to sell their produce,” High Commissioner Hilton said.
Work on the new Seghe Terminal will commence in the coming months, marking the start of the final stage of the SBD 268 million Provincial Airfield Upgrade Project between Solomon Islands, New Zealand and Australia.
“We’re very excited by the economic potential that these combined developments will have for the people of Marovo,” High Commissioner Hilton said.