A joint team comprising the National Safeguards Consultant at the Ministry of Infrastructure Development, the Construction Supervision Consultant (CSC-KEI-TEDI) of the Land Maritime Connectivity Project, representatives from the Asian Development Bank, and contractor China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation conducted a site visit to the Kirakira Wharf Project from 7–9 August 2025.
The visit aimed to update Community Advisory Committee members on construction progress.
The team first paid a courtesy call on Makira-Ulawa Province Premier Stanley Siapu and his executive members, briefing them on the project’s status. Premier Siapu expressed appreciation for the progress and said the wharf would boost economic activities once completed.
At the fourth committee meeting, members were told the project has reached 66.35 percent completion and is expected to finish by the first quarter of 2026. Remaining work includes wharf lighting, two mooring dolphins, a passenger terminal, an access road, a market area and parking facilities.
A CSC representative explained that delays were caused by redesigning, material clearance, controlling invasive species, and recent adverse weather conditions.
Stakeholders stressed the need for continued collaboration to ensure successful delivery of this ADB-funded maritime project, which aligns with the government’s National Transport Plan 2017–2035.
Committee members also highlighted the importance of building a severe-weather-resilient waterfront structure, citing Kaonasugu and Moli wharves, which were destroyed by high swells during storms.
The joint team inspected the contractor’s camp and construction site, confirming compliance with safety and environmental standards. The maritime component of the Land Maritime Connectivity Project also includes Bellona Wharf and a major upgrade of the Honiara seaport.
