UXO Threat Halts Development at Bloody Ridge, Solomon Islands’ Historic War Tourism Site

The development of the Bloody Ridge National Heritage Park, one of the Solomon Islands’ most significant wartime tourism sites, has hit its biggest setback yet.

Unexploded ordnance (UXO) continues to pose a major risk to both construction and visitor access.

Joint effort to remove unexploded ordnance (UXO). The RSIPF EOD team, supported by international partners and equipment, works tirelessly to secure land for development and safety. A challenging but critical mission. - Photo: Supply.

Officials from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism confirmed during a recent Public Accounts Committee hearing that, despite progress in securing the area, heavy UXO contamination remains the critical barrier preventing full-scale development of the historic battlefield.

“Until the site is safe, we cannot move ahead with trails, interpretive panels, viewing points, or the construction of a visitor information centre,” Permanent Secretary Bunyan Sivoro told the committee. “UXO clearance is the priority.”

A Site of Global Significance, Stuck in Danger

Bloody Ridge, the site of one of the fiercest battles of the Guadalcanal campaign during World War II, carries tremendous international heritage value. It has long been viewed as a potential flagship destination for war history tourism, attracting visitors from the United States, Japan, Australia, and beyond.

But decades after the war, the ground still hides explosive remnants—live bombs, shells, and other munitions buried beneath the soil.

Committee members warned that without comprehensive UXO clearance, the Solomon Islands risks losing a historic opportunity.

“This site can be our Gallipoli or Kokoda,” the Public Accounts Committee said. “People should come here to pay respect. But safety must come first.”

Progress Made, But Work Cannot Advance

The Ministry of Culture and Tourism reported several achievements in stabilising and preparing the site:

·       Squatters and informal settlers have been successfully removed.

·       A community-based security company is now stationed at the site.

·       Infrastructure such as a boom gate, security hut, water supply, and public facilities are being funded through the Strongim Bisnis programme.

·       In partnership with forestry students, environmental rehabilitation has begun to restore the valley’s original landscape.

However, all major tourism infrastructure works remain on hold until UXO experts complete a safe clearance process.

Call for International Support

The Committee urged the Ministry to seek technical and financial assistance from the United States and Japan—the two nations whose forces fought at Bloody Ridge in 1942.

“These countries have an obligation to help,” the Committee said. “They know the terrain, they know the battlefield history, and they have the resources to clear it.”

The Ministry confirmed that high-level discussions are already underway, supported by earlier diplomatic interest from visiting U.S. officials.

Unlocking a Potential Tourism Game-Changer

Tourism operators argue that a fully developed Bloody Ridge Park could become the Solomon Islands’ first world-class heritage attraction, generating revenue, jobs, and international recognition.

With war history tourism booming in the Pacific, particularly in Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu, the Solomon Islands has been urged to act swiftly.

But for now, UXO remains the immovable obstacle.

Once clearance is complete, the Ministry says the site will feature marked trails, storytelling panels, rest stations, guided tours, and a central information centre to anchor the visitor experience.

“We’re ready,” PS Bunyan Sivoro said. “But the site must first be made safe. That is the foundation for everything that follows.”

STORY BY TELEBERE NEWS

Telebere News is a Solomon Islands–based youth and travel news platform founded and owned by journalist and digital storyteller Lynton Aaron Filia, a dedicated youth and tourism blogger.

Lynton has worked in the mainstream media for four years and brings more than ten years of public relations experience from the private sector and NGOs. The blog amplifies young voices and highlights stories on youth development, the environment, tourism, and community progress across the islands.