Malu'u Market Redevelopment Gets Underway
Media release
The Australian-funded Malu’u Market redevelopment has commenced, with UXO clearance completed and local contractor Alrico Construction mobilising to the site to this week.
Australia has worked closely with the Malaita Provincial Government, North Malaita community and landowners to prepare the site for construction, with the contractor to first build a temporary market for vendors and then demolish the existing market house.
The eagerly anticipated new market will be a major boost for North Malaita farmers and small business, with space for vendors to sell crops, fish and clothing.
Acting Australian High Commissioner, Mr Andrew Schloeffel, said he was grateful for the strong support of the provincial government, North Malaita community and landowners, with the stage now set for a much bigger and better market.
“We’re confident that Alrico will not only complete the temporary market and demolition as quickly as possible, but also ensure local jobs for community workers as part of the process,” Mr Schloeffel said.
“Australia has developed a strong track record of delivering its Provincial Markets Redevelopment Program through local companies. This creates local jobs, gets the job done quickly, and builds industry expertise on high quality Australian-supported infrastructure projects.”
"Australia is not only Solomon Islands’ nambawan infrastructure partner, we are also committed to investing in Solomon Islanders to enhance construction skills, build confidence and create incomes for local workers. This project is testament to the unique people-to-people approach underpinning the Solomon Islands-Australia Partnership."
Early works, including the construction of a temporary market for vendors and demolition of the existing market is expected to be completed by April, with the Main Works construction of the new market house to begin in the second half of 2025.
