The Solomon Islands Ports Authority (SIPA) is undertaking several key infrastructure projects alongside the major reconstruction of Honiara Port’s Berth One, aimed at improving port services and operational efficiency.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Berth One reconstruction on Friday, SIPA Chairman Moses Virivolomo said the additional projects are designed to enhance the authority’s capabilities and strengthen services provided to port users, customers, stakeholders, and the people of Solomon Islands.
“These are part of our core functions,” Virivolomo said.
Among the projects currently underway is the construction of an additional 50 metres to Domestic Jetty Number Three.
Other developments include the Honiara Domestic Port seawall and embankment, infrastructure development and improvements at the Honiara International Port, and upgrades at the Noro International Port.
Virivolomo said the projects are internally funded and are being carried out by SIPA’s own engineering team, which has demonstrated strong performance, particularly in completing work on Jetty Number One.
He added that port operations will be affected during the construction period, expected to last over the next two years.
To minimise disruptions, SIPA has implemented several mitigation measures ahead of the planned closure of Berth One from December 2025.
“To mitigate such effects and calling the close of Berth One from December 2025, Solomon Ports has extended the opening and operational hours of the port container terminal and yard services from 8 a.m. to 12 midnight, Mondays to Fridays,” Virivolomo said.
He added that a two-ship operating system has also been introduced, allowing each vessel to operate for eight hours at no additional cost to Customs.
According to Virivolomo, the extended hours and new operating arrangement will remain in place throughout the duration of the project.
The measures are intended to better meet customer needs, improve efficiency, and reduce congestion at the terminal during construction.
“These changes have been implemented to cater for Customs requirements, improve overall operational efficiency, and reduce congestion within the terminal during the construction period,” he said.
Virivolomo said the groundbreaking ceremony and the additional self-funded projects would position Solomon Ports as a leading port service provider in the region.
By Agnes MenanopoSolomon Star, Honiara