Ahanga Wharf construction on Bellona Island is progressing, with workers continuing foundation works on the SBD 55.8 million project in Rennell and Bellona Province.
The Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) said on Friday, 16 October, that contractors had continued piling works, installed steel reinforcement and prepared temporary working platforms at the site.
Workers have also tested concrete samples to check their strength. The project team has installed solar panels and power supply equipment.
The ministry said these activities would help establish the foundations for the new wharf.
Ahanga Wharf construction follows earlier delays
The new wharf is taking shape at Ahanga Beach, also known locally as Ngango, on the western end of Bellona Island.
The government initially expected to complete construction in July 2026.
However, unexpected ground conditions affected the foundation works and required specialised drilling equipment.
In August, MID announced that the contractor had brought in additional equipment to address the problem.
The ministry subsequently revised the expected completion date to December 2026.
China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) is carrying out the construction.
Improving maritime access for Bellona
Bellona relies heavily on sea transport to connect residents with Honiara and other parts of Solomon Islands.
Shipping services carry passengers, food, building materials and other essential goods to the island.
Limited maritime facilities have long created challenges for loading and unloading passengers and cargo.
The new wharf aims to provide safer and more reliable access for vessels. It should also make transporting goods and passengers easier.
MID Permanent Secretary Mike Qaqara said investment in maritime infrastructure was important for island communities.
“Reliable maritime infrastructure is essential for our island communities, where sea transport plays a critical role in connecting people, moving goods and supporting economic activities,” Mr Qaqara said.
The ministry expects the facility to improve transport links and support economic activities in Rennell and Bellona Province.
However, shipping schedules and the availability of services will also influence how much residents benefit from the new facility.
Community consultation and construction standards
MID says it is working with the Community Advisory Committee to maintain communication with residents during construction.
The ministry plans a site visit in October involving its officials, contractors, consultants and community representatives.
The team will review construction progress and discuss environmental and social concerns.
MID says it will continue monitoring construction quality and compliance with environmental and social safeguards.
The contractor has also carried out routine equipment maintenance to support ongoing work.
Part of wider transport improvements
The wider programme has an estimated value of about US$171 million. Its funding includes ADB loans and grants, along with contributions from the Solomon Islands Government.
It includes work on a new wharf at Kirakira in Makira-Ulawa Province, improvements at Honiara International Port and road upgrades on Guadalcanal.
The programme also aims to make transport infrastructure more resilient to cyclones, flooding and other natural hazards.
For Bellona, the new wharf is expected to improve access for passengers and cargo vessels.
The government earlier set December 2026 as the revised completion date following delays to foundation works.
