The new Seghe Terminal and Market projects have received formal blessings from the United Church, Seventh Day Adventist and community leaders.
At a joint ceremony with the Western Provincial Government, the new market site was blessed by Superintendent Minister for Marovo Circuit, Rev. Gerald Rigeo, representing the United Church landowners.
Provincial Secretary for Western Provincial Government, Patrick Toiraena, thanked the church and community landowners for their generous support of the two projects, citing the many opportunities for economic development the two projects would bring.
“We also acknowledge the long and continuous support of Australia and New Zealand to the people of Solomon Islands and Western Province, including the development of infrastructure around the province for our people.
“The market project will be accessible for everyone, and provide opportunities for job creation and economic participation of rural people,” PS Toiraena said.
The Seghe Market is the fifth to be delivered under Australia’s Market Redevelopment Program, with all markets built by local companies and 100 per cent local workforces, helping to create local jobs.
Rev Bishop Lawren Harper also provided a dedication at the site of the new Seghe Terminal, marking the start of the final stage of the SBD 268 million Provincial Airfield Upgrade Project between Solomon Islands, New Zealand and Australia.
PS Toiraena said the upgraded Seghe runway is already delivering more tourism interest in Marovo and boosting local economy activity.
Both the Seghe Market and Terminal projects are being delivered by local contractor Hatanga Ltd, guided by community advisory groups.
For the terminal building, Hatanga will be supported by Downer NZ, who will provide construction supervision to maximise local content and build capacity within the Solomon Islands construction industry.
The market is designed to support women vendors, young entrepreneurs, and people living with disability — showcasing a development approach that is community-led, inclusive, and locally delivered.
Australian High Commissioner, His Excellency Rod Hilton, said each and every infrastructure project was an opportunity to create local jobs, employ local skills and deliver quality outcomes for community livelihoods.
“Projects built by and for community support a range of economic opportunities during and after construction – and that’s what Australia is focused on as the number one supporter of Solomon Islands infrastructure.
Speaking about the joint terminal project, New Zealand High Commissioner, His Excellency Jonathan Curr said that aviation is about connection—not just between places, but between people and opportunities.
“The new terminal will improve travel for communities, support local tourism and services, and help grow the economic potential of Western Province.”
“New Zealand is proud to walk alongside Solomon Islands and Australia in delivering infrastructure that delivers real benefits for Solomon Islanders,” High Commissioner Curr said.
Work will begin on the terminal in the coming months, while ground preparations for the market have already commenced, with completion expected by mid-2026.
– AHC
