Dear Editor – I wish to express my deep concern about the ongoing lack of reliable shipping services in Choiseul Province, particularly in the northern side of the province.
Shipping is vital for economic growth and connectivity, making its uninterrupted service crucial for any community.
As recently reported, the people of Choiseul province heavily depend on the MV Nuatabu, along with a few other vessels like MV Vatate, MV Otenga and others.
But its no that reliable as expected by local people and the business owners, to connect both sides of the province and to other provinces including Honiara.
Unfortunately, MV Nuatabu operates only once a month, causing significant challenges for business owners, traders, and passengers.
This limitation hampers the timely transportation of essential goods such as timber, copra, seaweed, and other local products.
People often resort to using barges operated by logging companies, which sometimes leads to mishaps.
Moreover, passengers, including students, are compelled to travel on small outboard motor boats to nearby provinces, contributing to the rising number of maritime accidents.
I urge the national and provincial governments, along with relevant authorities, to prioritize and address these shipping issues urgently.
Reliable shipping is critical for the development of Choiseul Province, which in turn contributes to the economic growth of the entire country.
Moses Pitakaka
USP Student ID#: s11192914
Honiara, Solomon Islands
