THE New Zealand government will help to fund the construction of the Susubona wharf in Isabel province this year.
According to information released by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), which was obtained by the Solomon Star in Sydney this week the grant finance will come from the government of New Zealand.
However, the funds for the project will be administered by ADB.
“This grant financing from the government of New Zealand will be administered by ADB for an additional wharf in Susubona, Isabel province.”
The ADB statement said this additional finance comes under the domestic maritime support (sector) project which was formerly known as the infrastructure investment project.
Since August 2013 with the support from ADB, the civil works contractor has completed wharves in Nu’usi, Siota, Mbunikalo, Katurasele, and Manikaraku.
This year the second phase of the project will see four wharves to be built at Ringgi, Keru, Ngasini in Western province and Tatamba in Isabel; and a landing ramp at Uhu, which is expected to be financed by additional co-financing.
ADB said the impact of the project will increase efficiency, safety, and reliability in the transport sector, contributing to economic growth with improved distribution of benefits.
Not only that but it would improve interisland shipping services to be frequent, reliable, and safe.
ADB has also been supporting the franchise shipping scheme in the country, which subsidises voyage services to remote routes of Temotu Outer Islands, Shortland Islands, Makira Weather Coast, Guadalcanal Weather Coast, Sikaiana, Ulawa,Ontong Java and Rennell and Bellona.
ADB said immediate outcomes have been observed through the voyage reports, including increased agricultural production from targeted areas, and access to health services and education to rural populations.
By MOFFAT MAMU
in Sydney
