Honiara International Port’s International Berth 1 upgrade reaches a major milestone as steel piles are driven into the seabed.
A major construction milestone is taking shape at Honiara International Port, with large steel pipe piles now being driven deep into the seabed as work advances on the extension and upgrading of International Berth 1 Wharf.
The works are being delivered by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) under the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project (LMCP), being implemented by the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) to strengthen and improve Solomon Islands’ critical transport and maritime infrastructure.
The project team is currently installing large steel pipe piles at strategic locations across the construction site. The piles are driven deep into the seabed to establish a strong and stable foundation for the new wharf structure.
The piling works are among the most important stages of construction, providing the structural foundation needed for the upgraded berth to withstand heavy port operations and demanding marine conditions.
The progress marks a significant step forward in the development of International Berth 1, with the new wharf structure gradually taking shape both above and below the water.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Infrastructure Development, Mr. Mike Qaqara, said the progress demonstrates the Government’s commitment to investing in infrastructure that supports Solomon Islands’ long-term development.
“The progress at International Berth 1 is an important milestone for Solomon Islands. A strong and reliable port is essential to our economy because it supports the movement of people, goods and essential supplies. This investment will strengthen our maritime infrastructure and help ensure that Honiara International Port is better positioned to meet our future needs,” Mr. Qaqara said.
Mr. Qaqara said the works under LMCP form part of the Government’s broader efforts to improve transport connectivity and strengthen the resilience of key infrastructure.
Through projects such as this, we are investing in infrastructure that will serve Solomon Islands for many years to come. The upgrading of our maritime facilities is important not only for Honiara but for communities and businesses across the country that depend on reliable transport and supply chains,” he said.
Once completed, the upgraded International Berth 1 will provide stronger and more capable infrastructure to support vessel and cargo operations. The improved facility is expected to enhance port capacity, operational efficiency and the long-term reliability of Honiara International Port.
The port is Solomon Islands’ main international maritime gateway and plays a vital role in the national economy, supporting the movement of imported goods, exports, construction materials, fuel and other essential supplies.
Strengthening the port infrastructure is therefore critical to supporting trade, businesses, communities and economic growth, while improving the country’s connection to regional and international markets.
With piling works now progressing across the site, construction has entered a highly visible and important phase. CCECC and the project team will continue with the next stages of structural and marine works as the upgraded International Berth 1 moves another step forward.
The International Wharf Upgrade forms part of the broader infrastructure investment under the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project (LMCP), a flagship initiative led by the Solomon Islands Government and the Solomon Islands Port Authority, with financial and technical support from the Asian Development Bank. The LMCP aims to improve transport connectivity across the country by strengthening critical road and maritime infrastructure, supporting economic growth, trade, and improved access to essential goods and services.
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