THE Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) would like to commend JICA and NZ Aid for their strong contributions to the betterment of transport and infrastructure around Honiara.
SICCI has had a focus on the areas of transport and infrastructure in 2014 and is pleased to see some positive developments in these areas.
SICCI notes that New Zealand Aid has made an enormous contribution to the post-flood disaster relief effort and would like to make this public acknowledgement for New Zealand’s efforts.
“Most notably NZ Aid recently began building a new Bailey Bridge that will connect China Town to Central Honiara,” a statement from SICCI said.
“This represents a real and tangible benefit to the community in the face of the disaster and will be a huge boost to local businesses as they look to recover following the disaster.
“SICCI would like to also commend the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for its agreement on terms with the Solomon Islands Government regarding the Ports improvement project.
“The Ports improvement project, which is expected to cost around SBD$100m will see the construction of an international wharf with a 15m berth, an expanded container yard and the provision of a water supply facility, a lighting facility and beacon for the ports.
“Ports have traditionally represented a challenge to doing business in the Solomon Islands.
“It is expected that this project will allow for better and efficient engagement on maritime transport and enhance greater connectivity for both regional and international trading, boosting the Solomon Islands economy.
“The Chamber of Commerce Infrastructure Sub-Committee led by team leader Andy Hewson and Assistant Team Leader, Jay Bartlett, was also instrumental in pushing for this project.”
