Construction work on Buala’s new market in Isabel has achieved an important milestone, with the roof now installed and the main scaffolding work done.
The fully locally-delivered project has facelifted Buala town, boosting economic activity and community opportunities.
Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton, praised the progress, highlighting the advantages of locally-led infrastructure development.
“Every Australian-supported piece of infrastructure helps strengthen the Solomon Islands’ private sector, creates local jobs and works towards locally-led delivery of more complex projects,” High Commissioner Hilton said.
He also emphasised Australia’s ongoing support for infrastructure capacity building and policy development.
“This project is built upon a long history of infrastructure partnership with Solomon Islands.”
“We’re not just building high quality infrastructure to support economic growth and government development priorities, Australia is also partnering behind-the-scenes to deliver workforce training, and providing assistance to government to better plan, build and maintain its extensive infrastructure portfolio and future pipeline.”
On track to open later this year, the new market will be designed to withstand cyclones, earthquakes, and rising sea levels, featuring a three-metre sea wall in front of the facility.
Solar panels are currently being installed to provide the facility with clean, reliable and cheap lighting and power.
The new market will accommodate a much larger number of people, with construction of benches for up to 150 vendors underway, including lower wheelchair-accessible stalls. The market will also have separate toilets and showers for men, women, and people with disabilities.
– AHC
