Construction of a temporary market at Malu’u is underway, to ensure vendors can still sell their products and residents can buy produce while construction of the permanent Australian-supported market upgrade for North Malaita takes place.
Local company Alrico Construction Company Ltd is building the temporary market, creating local jobs and ensuring uninterrupted business for local vendors.
Deputy Permanent Secretary for Malaita Provincial Government, Peter Herehau, welcomed the initiative, highlighting the importance of infrastructure investment for local communities.
“Malu’u Market is a significant project for the northern region of the province,” Deputy Permanent Secretary Herehau said.
A Malu’u Market Community Advisory Group has been established to guide the project, ensuring the local community can participate fully in the new market project.
Vice Chair of the Advisory Group, David Rara, said the market is a vital economic hub for North Malaita.
“The temporary structure will provide much-needed space for vendors while work continues on the permanent facility,” said Mr Rara.
“We appreciate the collaboration between Australia’s Solomon Islands Infrastructure Program, the national and provincial governments, and local stakeholders to make this possible.”
A community meeting convened by Australia’s Solomon Islands Infrastructure Program between the contractor, the Advisory Group, vendors, and local authorities, focussed on project timelines, community involvement, and expectations for the market upgrade.
The new Malu’u Market will have better waste management, enhanced sanitation, and a more climate-resilient structure.
Discussions also emphasised the importance of safety, accessibility, and sustainability of the new infrastructure development.
Australia’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton, reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to supporting local economic growth, by creating local jobs and opportunities for people to make money through high-quality community infrastructure.
“The Malu’u Market project is another example of Australia’s strong partnership with Solomon Islands and local communities,” Hilton said.
“Markets are more than just trading spaces—they support local jobs, livelihoods, food security, and economic empowerment, especially for women who make up the majority of vendors.”
As construction progresses, Australia will continue working with local stakeholders to ensure community needs are met.
The construction of the temporary market will provide tables and space for 50 vendors and create jobs for 17 local skilled and unskilled workers, including two women.
Once the temporary market is complete, Alrico will begin demolishing the existing market building to make way for the new permanent market facility.
- AHC
