Construction of the new Seghe Market in Marovo has begun, with foundations and retaining walls now well underway.

Local contractor Hatanga has completed major earthworks to prepare the site, excavating around 1,300 cubic metres of soft soil and replacing it with 1,652 cubic metres of compacted coral-based fill to create a solid base for the new market facility.

Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton, praised the progress made so far, saying the local team has done a “fantastic job” building a strong and resilient foundation.

“Australia is all about supporting locally-led infrastructure, but not compromising on quality. Every house needs a solid foundation, and this new market house will serve Seghe and the people of Marovo for many years to come,” High Commissioner Hilton said.

The Seghe Market is part of Australia’s Market Redevelopment Program, which delivers new markets through 100 percent local construction companies, creating jobs, providing on-the-job training, and empowering Solomon Islanders. So far, the project has employed 20 Solomon Islanders, including 16 from surrounding communities.

Hatanga Managing Director Jay Bartlett said his company was honoured to deliver such an important project for the people of Marovo Lagoon and the Western region.

“This project strongly reflects our vision and values — to provide quality infrastructure that supports sustainable development in our communities and across our country. Projects like the Seghe Market allow us to continue developing our capacity as a local contractor and strengthen our capabilities to meet international standards,” Mr Bartlett said.

High Commissioner Hilton emphasised the importance of Solomon Islanders leading the long-term development of their own country.

“Locally-built infrastructure creates the kind of skilled workforce that Solomon Islands needs to operate and maintain these critical assets long after handover. This is not about creating low-skilled labouring jobs,” he said.

“Hatanga is a regionally recognised provider of quality infrastructure and works closely with local communities. Australia is proud to be supporting local private sector development at the same time as delivering vital infrastructure for families and businesses in Marovo.”

The new Seghe Market will feature space for up to 120 vendors, wheelchair-accessible stalls, solar lighting, and 56,000 litres of rainwater storage. It will also include separate toilets and showers for men, women, and people with disabilities.

“This market has been designed and built for the community who will use it, including those with disabilities and those travelling from nearby communities to sell their produce,” High Commissioner Hilton added.

Work on the new Seghe Terminal is expected to begin in the coming months.

It will mark the final stage of the SBD 268 million Provincial Airfield Upgrade Project delivered in partnership between Solomon Islands, New Zealand, and Australia.

“We’re very excited by the economic potential that these combined developments will have for the people of Marovo,” Hilton said.