Construction of the Australia-funded Seghe Market has reached 75 per cent completion, and is on track to deliver a climate-resilient market for 120 vendors later this year.
A statement from the Australian High Commission said a total 31 workers have been engaged on the project, including 26 from the local community.
Recent milestones include completion of roofing, pathways to the amenities block, and construction of the market kiosk.
“Work has also begun on internal wall framing, accessibility ramps, and the fire tank base,” the statement said.
Australian High Commissioner, Jeff Roach, said the project, alongside the new Seghe terminal, is helping to transform Seghe into a more vibrant economic hub for Marovo.
“Local contractor Hatanga has delivered outstanding progress to date, combining a high-quality build with meaningful local employment and strong support for the surrounding community,” Roach said.
Beyond the construction works, the project is also delivering tangible benefits for the broader community.
Hatanga recently handed over a lawn mower to the Seghe community to help maintain their sports field behind the market used for matches, training, and community events.
Hatanga Site Manager, Edgar Pwao’o, said the project team remains focused on delivering a quality facility for the community.
“We’ve reached several important milestones, and are steadily progressing towards completion,” Pwao’o said.
“The dedication and hard work of our local workforce have been key to delivering the project, and we are committed to ensuring the remaining works are completed safely and to a high standard.
“We’re excited for the community and look forward to handing over a facility that will serve vendors, customers and the wider Seghe community for many years to come.”
The new market is one of a number of climate resilient provincial markets Australia is supporting to drive economic activity in rural areas.
Each market has been built to designed to withstand severe tropical cyclones, and support communities with reliable water storage during shortages.
The new market will provide space for up to 120 vendors in total, including special low height, wheelchair accessible stalls.
Solar lighting, 36,000 litres of rainwater and 28,000 litres of borehole water storage will ensure the site is sustainable and low cost to operate and maintain.
The market also includes separate toilets and showers for men, women and people with disabilities.
High Commissioner Roach said the Solomon Islands–Australia Partnership continued to invest in safe, high-quality, locally built infrastructure that responds to government priorities and community needs while creating lasting benefits for Solomon Islands.
“Later this month, Hatanga will deliver First Aid training to onsite workers in partnership with the Solomon Islands Red Cross.
“This is another example of how projects like this are helping to develop the skills, capability and professionalism of the Solomon Islands construction sector.
“Seeing local companies deliver projects of this scale and quality is a positive sign of the growing maturity of the sector, and Australia is proud to support that progress,” Roach said.
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