New Buala Market Underway
Media Release
20 September 2024
Construction of the new, climate resilient Buala Market has commenced, with the protective sea wall nearing completion and market house foundations now underway.
The project, part of Australia’s six provincial markets redevelopment program, is being built by a 100% Solomon Islander workforce.
Tropic Group Builders has employed 45 workers during construction so far, including four women. They said that despite recent rain and shipping delays, critical foundations were now underway.
Australian High Commissioner HE Rod Hilton said around the country, projects under the Solomon Islands-Australia Partnership were being delivered by and for Solomon Islanders.
“It’s vital that the economic development of Solomon Islands be led by Solomon Islanders,” Mr Hilton said.
“For infrastructure, we know that buildings built by Solomon Islanders provide the skills and training know-how during the construction that can be used to maintain those assets once handed over the government.”
“Australia’s locally-led infrastructure focus also delivers more jobs for Solomon Islands. For the Buala Market project alone, over 43,000 hours of employment has been created for local workers. That’s a great boost for the local economy, andprovides a well-earned income for families.”
Australia is also investigating options to redevelop Buala Wharf, connecting it to the new Market and making it more resilient and reliable to climate change and regular shipping.
“We’re extremely grateful for the full support and partnership of the Isabel Provincial Government, the Ministry of Infrastructure Development, and the local community, as we plan and deliver these vital, linked up infrastructure projects, so that Isabel is connected and contributing to national prosperity and economic growth.”
The new market will be resilient to cyclones, earthquakes and sea level rise – with strong materials, tropical design, a 3-metre sea wall and 30,000 litres of water storage. The market provides space for up to 150 vendors, including wheelchair accessible stalls, and includes separate toilets and showers for men, women and people with disabilities. An administration block will contain storage, a community meeting room and kiosks, with security fencing to keep vendors and market userssafe at all times.
“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 Hilton said.
“We’re really excited by the economic potential that these new developments will have for the people of Isabel.”
A temporary market has been constructed for vendors whilst works are underway, with the new market scheduled for completion in the New Year.
