Three routes under the government Franchise Shipping Scheme (FSS) are now operational, enhancing maritime connectivity and flow of goods and services spurring economic development and improved access for remote communities across our islands.
The newly awarded routes include:
– Route 3: Servicing Sikaiana Island (ongoing)
– Route 5 to Rennell Bellona Province (first trip expected soon)
– Route 6 covering Makira Island Weather coast (the first trip kicked off two weeks ago)
In total the scheme encompasses a total of seven routes, with the remaining routes still under deliberation by the Ministerial and Central Tender Board:
– Route 1 covering Temotu outer islands
– Route 2 for Ontong Java and Ndai (Malaita Outer Islands)
– Route 4 covers a long round trip for the Shortland Islands.
– Route 7 servicing Guadalcanal weather coast communities
Contracts for three routes that have been awarded are valid for a 12-month period, with each shipping operator contracted under specific terms tailored to the unique requirements of each route.
The FSS distinguishes between two types of shipping services:
– Near-coastal shipping: Serving outer islands such as Temotu, Malaita Outer Islands, Rennell Bellona, and Shortland Islands.
– In-shore services: Covering round-island trips for coastal areas like Makira and Guadalcanal weather coasts.
FSS Administration officer Chris Resana said the shipping operators applying for this scheme have strict requirements with three key areas: minimum vessel capacity to load cargoes and passengers, more than 12 months’ experience running shipping operations, and meeting the vessel safety classification.
Launched in 2009 and co-funded by the Asian Development Bank, the European Union, and the Solomon Islands Government, the scheme has evolved over the years, navigating challenges related to the management of local shipping agents and its long-term viability.
“Now, it is only funded by the government, as grants were allocated annually under the MID budget towards subsidized services on these island routes,” Mr. Resana explained.
“Operators are to provide voyage reports upon return from each trip and conduct verification before they are entitled to payment.”
FSS aims to improve shipping services to these remote areas, including those that face challenges due to insufficient maritime infrastructure and irregular shipping services, which have been a hindrance to their economic development.
This shipping scheme is also undergoing a comprehensive review focusing on operational efficiency, service reliability, and ensuring that it meets its intended objectives.
The review highlights the Government for National Unity and Transformation’s (GNUT) productive sector policy’s recognition of the role that reliable and efficient shipping services play in fostering economic growth and social development, especially in remote and economically challenging areas.
– MID
