A joint government team assesses Bina Harbour in Malaita to guide plans for its proposed declaration as a port.
A Joint Assessment Team has recently completed an assessment of Bina Harbour in West Kwaio, Malaita Province, on 25 September 2026 as part of the government’s preparations for the proposed declaration of Bina Harbour as a port.
The assessment aimed to identify the appropriate area for port designation and determine the technical, operational and regulatory requirements that must be addressed before further development proceeds.
The assessment brought together technical officials from the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR), Bina Harbour Project Office (BHPO), Solomon Islands Ports Authority (SIPA), Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID), Ministry of Lands, Housing and Survey (MLHS), and Solomon Islands Maritime Authority (SIMA). SIPA was represented by its Engineering Team and Harbour Master.
During the visit, the team inspected the proposed port area and discussed key requirements for the planned harbour development, including the proposed domestic jetty and navigational aids to support safe and efficient maritime operations.
Following the assessment, a report was prepared and submitted to the Permanent Secretary of MID and other relevant government heads for consideration. The findings will help inform the next steps in the government’s decision-making process and guide further planning for the proposed port.
Once the assessment findings have been considered and the necessary government processes completed, the appropriate authorities will proceed with the port declaration in accordance with the relevant requirements.
The declaration is expected to provide a clearer framework for the involvement of SIPA, SIMA and other relevant agencies in the planning and implementation of future port infrastructure, including the domestic jetty and navigational facilities. Their early involvement will help ensure that engineering standards, maritime safety, navigation and regulatory requirements are properly addressed as the project progresses.
The assessment marks another important milestone in the development of Bina Harbour. The proposed harbour is expected to improve maritime access and connectivity for Malaita Province while supporting future fisheries, economic activity and infrastructure development in the Bina area.
The Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources, through BHPO, will continue to work closely with the relevant government agencies and stakeholders to advance the project through the required planning, technical and regulatory processes.
SOURCE// Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources
