SOLOMON PORTS UNVEILS LANDMARK KULABULE JETTY, EXPANDING DOMESTIC SHIPPING CAPACITY
Solomon Islands Ports Authority (Solomon Ports) today marked another significant milestone in its infrastructure development programme with the official commissioning of the new Kulabule Jetty, a 50-metre domestic jetty constructed at the Honiara Domestic Port.
The facility was officially commissioned by the Minister for Infrastructure Development, Hon. Ricky Fuo’o, who attended the ceremony as Guest of Honour alongside representatives from the domestic shipping industry, government agencies, development partners, and Solomon Ports staff.
The new jetty has been named Kulabule Jetty in honour of the late Captain Judah Kulabule, a highly respected former Harbour Master whose dedicated service and leadership contributed significantly to the development of the maritime sector and port operations in Solomon Islands. The naming recognises his lasting legacy and commitment to advancing maritime services for the nation.
Constructed at a total cost of approximately SBD$28 million, the project was fully funded by Solomon Ports and delivered by the organisation's own engineers, technical personnel, and project management team.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Guest of Honour Hon. Ricky Fuo’o described the completion of the project as a testament to the organisation's growing technical capability and commitment to self-reliance.
"This project demonstrates that Solomon Ports possesses the expertise, skills, and capacity to successfully deliver major infrastructure developments using our own people and resources. The completion of Kulabule Jetty is not only an investment in port infrastructure but also an investment in local capability and national development," he said.
The new jetty is expected to significantly improve operations at the Honiara Domestic Port by increasing available berthing space for domestic vessels, reducing congestion, improving vessel turnaround times, and enhancing safety for both operators and port users.
As the primary gateway for domestic maritime transport, the Honiara Domestic Port plays a critical role in facilitating the movement of passengers and cargo throughout the country. The additional berth capacity provided by Kulabule Jetty will support the growing demands of domestic shipping services and strengthen connectivity between Honiara and the provinces.
Minister Fuo’o commended Solomon Ports for its commitment to infrastructure development and for demonstrating leadership in delivering a project of national importance through local expertise.
He noted that investments in maritime infrastructure are essential to supporting economic growth, improving transportation services, and enhancing access to markets and opportunities for communities throughout Solomon Islands.
The commissioning of Kulabule Jetty forms part of Solomon Ports' broader strategy to modernise and expand port infrastructure in response to increasing demand for maritime transport services and growing trade activity.
The project also aligns with Solomon Ports' long-term commitment to improving operational efficiency, strengthening domestic shipping services, and supporting national development priorities through sustainable infrastructure investment.
Solomon Ports extends its appreciation to all staff, engineers, contractors, stakeholders, and partners who contributed to the successful completion of the project.
The completion of Kulabule Jetty stands as a lasting symbol of innovation, self-reliance, and Solomon Ports' continued commitment to serving the people of Solomon Islands through safe, efficient, and modern port facilities.