𝗠𝗮𝗹𝘂’𝘂 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁 𝗥𝗲𝗱𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗨𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘄𝗮𝘆, 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗡𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗵 𝗠𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗶𝘁𝗮 𝗘𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗼𝗺𝘆

The redevelopment of Malu’u Market in North Malaita is officially underway, marking a significant investment in the region's economy. Local contractor Alrico Construction mobilized on-site this week after successfully completing UXO clearance.

The project, funded by the Australian Government, will provide local farmers, fishers, and small businesses with a modern and spacious marketplace to sell their goods. Australia has worked closely with the Malaita Provincial Government, the North Malaita community, and landowners to prepare the site for construction.

The project will begin with constructing a temporary market for vendors and demolishing the existing market to make way for a larger, upgraded facility.

"We’re confident that Alrico Construction will not only complete the temporary market and demolition as quickly as possible but also provide jobs for local workers as part of the process,” said Acting Australian High Commissioner Andrew Schloeffel, emphasizing Australia's commitment to enhancing infrastructure and employment opportunities. 

SIOTEC staff have successfully completed their UXO survey of the Malu'u Market area, clearing the way for the start of works.

He also highlighted Australia's track record of delivering its Provincial Markets Redevelopment Program through local companies, creating jobs, ensuring efficient project completion, and strengthening local industry expertise.

“Australia has developed a strong track record of delivering its Provincial Markets Redevelopment Program through local companies. This creates local jobs, gets the job done quickly, and builds industry expertise on high-quality Australian-supported infrastructure projects.”

"Australia is not only Solomon Islands’ nambawan infrastructure partner; we are also committed to investing in Solomon Islanders to enhance construction skills, build confidence, and create incomes for local workers. This project is a testament to the unique people-to-people approach underpinning the Solomon Islands-Australia Partnership."

The temporary market construction and demolition are expected to be completed by April 2025. The main building on the new Malu’u Market house will begin in the second half of 2025, promising long-term economic benefits to the region.

Local farmers, vendors, and businesses are widely welcoming the redevelopment, anticipating a more organized and efficient marketplace. The improved infrastructure is expected to enhance trade opportunities, improve livelihoods, and strengthen the local economy for years to come.

Media Release | AHC Solomon Islands