Construction of the new Buala Market in Isabel Province is taking shape, with the foundations complete and the main scaffolding work now underway.

The project is part of Australia’s provincial markets redevelopment program, which has been delivered by a 100 per cent Solomon Islander workforce. 

Local contractor Tropic Group Builders has employed 45 local workers to date on the project, including 15 from Isabel Province.

Australia’s Acting High Commissioner Andrew Schloeffel said it is vital that the economic development of Solomon Islands is led by Solomon Islanders. 

“Wherever possible, Australian-supported infrastructure – from markets, to roads, schools and health centres – is employing Solomon Islanders with the skills and know-how to build and then maintain vital infrastructure assets once handed over the government,” Schloeffel said.

“Australia’s locally-led infrastructure focus delivers more jobs for Solomon Islands during design and construction,” he added.

The new market will be resilient to cyclones, earthquakes and sea level rise – with a 3-metre sea wall now 80 per cent complete. 

The market will have space for up to 150 vendors, including wheelchair accessible stalls, and includes separate toilets and showers for men, women and people with disabilities.

“This market has been designed and built for the people who will use it, including those with disabilities and those who travel from nearby communities to sell their produce,” Mr Schloeffel said. 

“We’re really excited by the economic potential that these new developments will have for the people of Isabel.”

Australia, through the Solomon Islands Infrastructure Program, is also supporting the redevelopment of Buala Wharf, with geological investigations of the site and seabed to take place in the coming weeks.