The Kirakira Wharf project in Makira-Ulawa Province (MUP) has reached a significant milestone, with construction now 65% complete.
This maritime infrastructure is poised to dramatically enhance maritime connectivity and economic opportunities in a province that has lacked a proper wharf facility for many years.
A joint delegation, including a safeguards team from the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID), the Land Maritime Connectivity Project (LMCP) supervisory consultant (the CSC joint venture group), and the contractor China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), conducted a two-day site visit last week (1st & 2nd May).
The visit included productive consultation meetings with the MUP Premier and executive, the project’s Community Advisory Committee (CAC), and the on-site construction team witnessing firsthand the substantial progress made on the project.
MID Chief Safeguards Officer, Roxsley Basil, confirmed the 65% completion rate, highlighting the ongoing work which includes the upgrading of docking facilities, installation of crucial safety features, and shoreline reinforcement.
Full completion of the Kirakira Wharf is anticipated around mid-October 2025.
The MUP government has reiterated its strong support for the project, recognising its transformative potential for the province’s economy. They emphasised the vital role this new wharf will play in boosting their agricultural sector, particularly in the production of cocoa and copra.
The provincial leaders also expressed their gratitude to the Solomon Islands Government, through MID, for providing technical oversight and support since the project’s inception. They also acknowledged the financial support from the Asian Development Bank, which is instrumental in enhancing connectivity and trade flow for the province.
The maritime component of the LMCP includes the Bellona Wharf and the major upgrade for the Honiara seaport. The Honiara seaport upgrade is currently in the consultation and survey phase, with construction expected to commence next year.
– MID
