Fresh food vendors at Honiara’s Central Market say the construction of the western extension has transformed their lives, with improved business and livelihoods.
The SBD10 million Australian-supported project was completed last year by local company Tropic Group Builders in partnership with Honiara City Council. The extension provides undercover space for 100 vendors, protecting them and their goods from harsh weather conditions.
Ms Monica Justus from the Honiara Central Market Vendors Association expressed her sincere thanks to Australia for the extension works.
“This development has provided more comfort and boosted sales for market vendors,” Ms Justus said.
Local vendor Mr Daniel Thogole who has been selling vegetables at the market for over ten years said the undercover extension is transformational for him and his family.
“Before the extension, I used to sit in the hot sun all day, with my vegetables exposed to the heat,” Mr Thogole explained. “Rainy days were even worse – and I’d often lose income because produce would quickly spoil.”
“The new undercover area provides better food health and safety when selling my vegetables, which attracts more buyers. Thank you, Australia, for the support,” said Mr Thogole.
Australian High Commissioner His Excellency Rod Hilton said it was rewarding to see economic infrastructure developments under the Solomon Islands – Australia Partnership delivering direct positive outcomes for communities.
“Australia’s locally-led approach to delivering Australia’s support through local suppliers has contributed to Solomon Islands’ economy with hundreds of construction jobs for men, women and people with disabilities.”
“It’s great to hear directly from vendors about how this project is making a difference, every day, to their lives and future prospects,” His Excellency Hilton said.
Australia is supporting markets across Solomon Islands to boost economic development. Alongside the Central Market extension project, an upgraded Tulagi Market was reopened last year and a new market in Buala will be completed early this year. Construction of new markets in Malu’u and Seghe will soon commence.
– AHC
