On 17 October, a groundbreaking ceremony was held at Seghe Airfield to initiate upgrade works, attended by the Prime Minister of Solomon Islands, Hon. Manasseh Sogavare MP, along with officials from New Zealand and Australia.

This upgrade is part of a SBD250m project, financed by the Governments of Solomon Islands, New Zealand, and Australia. The aim is to seal the airstrip and introduce ground lighting to enhance the safety and reliability of flights. This will bolster connectivity in Western Province and promote tourism access to Marovo Lagoon. Another airfield, the Choiseul Bay in Choiseul Province, was also upgraded under this project and will soon be handed over.

Downer New Zealand is overseeing the implementation, and had previously transported 80,000 tonnes of gravel for the project in 2022.

Prime Minister Sogavare emphasized the economic boost these upgrades will bring through tourism and trade, thanking the supporting nations.

The New Zealand and Australian High Commissioners expressed their continued support for such developmental projects.

The Minister of Communications and Aviation, Hon. Agovaka, highlighted the day’s significance for Seghe’s communities, and the Western Province Deputy Premier, Hon. Carlrick Harold Runimetu, stressed the importance of the upgrade for enhanced regional connectivity. The Seghe Airfield upgrade is slated for completion by June 2024.

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Source: SIG Communications Unit