Pacific Tenders Magazine Issue 8 by Pacifictenders

OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2021 / ISSUE 08

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CONTENTS 06

Surveying Under Water: Bathymetric Specialist shares experience

Solomon Power targets 100% renewable energy by 2030

Component 3, Tina Hydro project commences

Founder Publisher Mr. Rodney Rupokets rodney@pacifictenders.com

DRONES The new age of Surveying

Business and Marketing Director Ms. Namoi Kaluae

IN FOCUS The Region, the donors & COVID-19

Editors Mr. Douglas Saefoa (Solomon Islands)

Navigating the new global data frontier

Contributing Writers Mr. David Spring (Sydney, Australia) Eddie Osifelo (Solomon Islands)

Survey conducted outside Noro Township

Increase in bidding for Opportunities from government: AG

Fishing Industry Association of Papua New Guinea: Responsible Sourcing Policy

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PACIFIC GAMES UPDATES PM Sogavare takes delivery of SINIS

S.I (+677 38229) PNG (+675 75971524) PNG (+675 75923057)

DoW Press Release: PNG Connect Updates

CAUSE Noro and Munda Market projects completed

SICCI Business Excellence Awards Night in pictures

Occupational hazard: Remnants of war

Airport Project halfway through completion

PNG Government’s Commitments to Make Connect PNG Plan a Reality

SINU OFFERS EXCITING CIVIL ENGINEERING PROGRAMME

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Published by Adkonect PNG PO Box 1954 Port Moresby, PNG www.adkonect.com.pg

Photographer Andrew Bouro - Torn Parachute

Advertising Enquiries

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EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES email: media@pacifictenders.com or PNG CONTACT In Country Marketing/Advertising Mr. Sorbie Pandiruo

Distribution PT-Magazine is distributed via a Digital Copy accessed from the Pacifictenders. com Platform reaching all PT Subscriber Companies and Printed Copies Distributed to Government Agencies, Hotels, Retail and Hardware Supermarkets in Honiara & Port-Moresby. Relying on the support of our peers in the Construction and Infrastructure sectors to help this initiative grow.

OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2021 / ISSUE 08

COVER STORY

SURVEYING UNDER WATER Bathymetric Specialist shares experience

The team preparing to head out for their survey. The MIDA Portable Sounder used during the survey. By DOUGLAS SAEFOA Honiara, Solomon Islands

athymetric surveys allow us to measure hydrographic data or the depth of a water body as well as map the underwater features of a water body. In the Solomon Islands, the current ten (10) licensed surveyors in 2021 are also certified to carry out bathymetry surveying, but are limited to conventional method of total station and pole, and a dropline/tape measure especially for the survey of bridges, culverts, wharves, foreshore protection, etc. The surveyors that have the echo sounder equipment use the equipment for bathymetry surveys. Currently, only a handful of experts and institutions including LBS Engineers Ltd, the Solomon Islands National University (SINU), Gilmour Pio (Surveying & Spatial Solutions) and hydrographic Unit under Solomon Islands Maritime Authority (SIMSA), are the only ones who have the echo sounder equipment for bathymetry surveys. During a recent Survey Congress hosted by the Association of Surveyors of Solomon Islands (ASSI) in Honiara in October, Gilmour Pio of Surveying and Spatial Solutions spoke of his previous stints, especially surveying of rural wharves and bridges in Solomon Islands since 2009. In 2009 and 2010, Gilmour and his team were awarded the surveying contracts under the DOMESTIC MARITIME SUPPORT PROJECT (DMSP) financed by the Asian Develop-

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ment Bank, which saw the construction of 16 rural wharves throughout the Solomon Islands. Sharing his experiences over the past eight years, Gilmour said Bathymetric Survey is basically surveying below the water, directly opposite to aerial surveying from above the ground using UAVs or drones. In reference to his contribution as a surveyor during feasibility studies, Gilmour conducted Bathymetric Multi-beam Surveys to construct hydrographic images of the water floor. These were done on specific sites proposed for the wharves in the Provinces. A multi-beam echo sounder attached to a boat, sends out a wide array of beams across a “swath” of the water body floor. As the beams are bounced back from the waterbody floor, the data is collected and processed. The processed data can be viewed in real time on the boat during the survey. Multibeam surveying is generally done in larger water bodies. Mr. Pio noted that in order to acquire high quality data, it is important that the right Bathymetric equipment kit is used to ensure accurate measurements. At any time, the echo sounder provides a water depth measure and the GNSS antenna provide an ellipsoidal height. Mr. Pio uses an MIDA Portable Sounder designed to offer a low-cost solution for small scale hydrographic surveys. The system is supplied with a 210 kHz transducer as standard, and uses an advanced digital signal processing technique to ensure high accuracy and reliable bottom tracking.

SURVEY AND SPATIAL

“One of the fastest emerging trends in Bathymetric surveying is the use of the vertical component of RTK GPS to determine real-time water level corrections.” “This tidal reduction methodology, encompasses all vertical movements of the vessel, including tidal effects and vessel movements due to waves and currents as well. The short variations in height are identified as heaves and the long variations as tides,” Pio explained. “I consider myself as very fortunate to have been part of the development of a key infrastructure classification in the country which are wharves, and this is one discipline in surveying that I wish to instil in the next generation of surveyors,” said Pio. According to the President of the Association of Surveyors of Solomon Islands Mr. Alfred Soaki, Bathymetry survey is taught as part of the surveying unit at SINU, and all graduates have the basic knowledge of how it is carried out but require the actual work experience to fully understand and appreciate its workings. Bathymetric surveys are used for many other specific types of research including flood inundation, contour of streams and reservoirs, leakage, scour and stabilization, water-quality studies, dam removal, biological and spill, and storage and fill in reservoirs and ponds. l

Gilmour Pio (right) in the field.

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OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2021 / ISSUE 08

Solomon Power targets 100% renewable energy by 2030 Capital Investment to reach $1Billion By DOUGLAS SAEFOA Honiara, Solomon Islands

ne of Solomon Islands key utility providers, Solomon Power has revealed it is serious in expanding and improving its services in Solomon Islands by enhancing its services to the provinces through an SBD1 billion, 5 year capital investment programme. This was revealed by Solomon Power CEO Mr. Donald Kiriau during an exclusive interview with Pacific Tenders in October. The five year plan will see SP spend around SBD$1 Billion worth of committed and planned energy projects as part of its efforts to actively promote nation building. This includes Tina and smaller Solar-Battery Storage-Generator Hybrid systems in more locations in the provinces. “Our committed projects funded partially by donors and SP cover Central Islands (Tulagi), Choiseul (Sasamunga), Guadalcanal (Vislae), Honiara (Tina, Tanagai, Henderson, SP Ranadi Office), Isabel (Baolo), Makira (Kirakira, Namugha), Malaita (Malu’u, Hauhui, Afio, Dala, Bina/Buma), Rennell Bellona (Tingoa), Temotu (Lata), and Western (Munda, Vonunu),” Mr Kiriau revealed. Under the programme, Western will get $80 million, Malaita -$80 million and Guadalcanal – $80 million.

Solar Farm in Taro, Choiseul Province.

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Solomon Power CEO Mr. Donald Kiriau.

According to the CEO, Isabel will get $70 million. Choiseul Province, Makira Ulawa, Temotu and Rennell and Bellona will share $40 million each while only central Islands Province will get $30 million under the programme. “At this juncture, I wish to extend my sincere appreciation to the World Bank, ADB, New Zealand and Australia for their generous support to the development of energy infrastructure in the country,” said Kiriau. “Additionally, we have in the pipeline an additional 32 other projects for roll out all over the country,” Kiriau added. This will contribute to achieving the government’s aim of targeting 100% Renewable Energy by 2030 for Honiara and to increase access to electricity by up to 100% for the country by 2050. With this ambitious plan, SP would also need the assistance of the government, donors and development partners to assist SP. “We are currently talking with other partners and would welcome additional support to realize this goal of energizing the nation, and contributing to national development,” said Kiriau. l

ENERGY

Component 3, Tina Hydro project commences By DOUGLAS SAEFOA Honiara, Solomon Islands

olomon Power has started implementing its part of the Tina River Hydro Project, Component 3, with the construction of the high voltage transmission lines that will bring energy from the Tina Hydro project site to Llungga Power Station, which will then be distributed to the power grid. After signing of the finance agreement for the transmission line with the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP) in June, SP is working around the clock to implement key aspects of this component. The Transmission System will have a transmission capacity of 15 megawatts, equivalent to the generating capacity of the Tina River Hydropower Development Project. The Transmission System is expected to deliver 70 – 80 gigawatt hours of renewable energy per annum. This will supply enough energy to meet around 68per cent of Honiara’s electricity demand. During an interview with Pacific Tenders Solomon Power CEO Donald Kiriau said work has already commenced. “First of all, I personally thank Australia for their generous contribution and assistance in this component. Our activity in this space has included working on the design stage that should be completed by the end of 2021 and soon we will be procuring consultants, as well as a Construction Contractor,” the CEO said. Therefore, the start of construction for this component will very much be aligned with other components of the project, components 1 and 2 of the TRHDP. The CEO said SP as an off-taker, expects tariffs to come down and be more affordable due to the displacement of diesel fuel costs. Currently, fuel costs contribute to more than 40% of overall costs incurred by SP. Reducing this cost and having a stable contract price with Tina Hydro Limited (THL) ensures SP minimizes final tariff charge fluctuations that occur regularly with diesel-powered generation. “Again this is one of our core aims under this project. In addition to Tina, SP is building other solar farms around Honiara to complement and contribute to the renewable power generation for Honiara. With respect to the overall project, the final costs are still not certain, due to the delay

of some components of 1 and 2 of TRHDP, however it should be comparably more affordable than what we have been accustomed to historically,” the CEO said. With regards to distribution of opportunities for local content, Kiriau told PT that a contract of that size, there are expected to be flow on effects into the local economy, particularly business for local companies and importantly jobs for local workers. “While engineering design and other very technical aspects of the component will be done off-shore, actual construction of the 66kv-high voltage line will be done onsite, and thus there is big potential for the use of local content, subcontracts and local workers. When we consider that its component will entail 22 kilometers of transmission lines through the grass lands of central Guadalcanal to Lungga power Station, we estimate that around 200 people will be engaged, notably in construction, vegetation clearing and work on the access road,” the CEO said. Moreover, SP is currently undertaking the construction of low-voltage lines from the Honiara grid at Black Post to Tina village under the TRHDP’s Community Benefit Sharing Project. This would directly bring reliable electricity to these communities, and has been employing local workers during the construction phase. Electricity is an essential part of modern life. It is an enabler for development, promote business activities, ensures better health and educational outcomes for communities, and therefore enhances standard of living. However, the traditional cost of generating electricity using fossil fuels is prohibitively expensive and not really clean for the environment. Fuel as a key input cost contributes to the high cost of production and the relatively higher tariffs faced by customers. “Clearly, the drive towards renewable energy sources to generate electricity is the best and most optimal path for SP’s future,” said Kiriau. SP is therefore actively rolling out projects to ensure more of its generation assets come from renewable sources. This includes getting energy from Tina Hydro and in the provinces, the role out of more Solar-Battery-Generator Hybrid power solutions in the provinces. l

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OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2021 / ISSUE 08

DRONES

THE NEW AGE OF SURVEYING By DOUGLAS SAEFOA Honiara, Solomon Islands

The application of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) or drones in surveying generate high-resolution orthomosaics and detailed 3D models of areas where low-quality, outdated or even no data, are available. They thus enable high-accuracy cadastral maps to be produced quickly and easily, even in complex or difficult to access environments.

everal registered and certified surveyors in Solomon Islands and in the region, have recognized the value of drones in High quality data capture. However producing Survey Grade data from Drones takes qualified experts to execute such tasks. Pacific Tenders Magazine had the opportunity to talk to the managing Director of Geotech Positioning Solutions Mr. Trevor Bruce Palusi, who recently did a presentation on the Use of Drones at the Survey Congress in Honiara in October. Listening to what Trevor had to say about the use of Drones to acquire Survey Grade data was quite interesting, since just about anyone can operate a drone these days just by learning from YouTube or other online sites. However, Trevor pointed out that Survey grade data capture requires very technical expertise to collect and analyze for very specific uses. We will talk about that later in the article. Drone surveying produces quality results quickly, profitably, and safely. They can fly at lower altitudes which makes collecting data more accurate, faster, and less expensive, even with undesirable atmospheric conditions such as cloud cover. Drones are used in construc-

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tion projects all around us. So as a surveyor by profession the use and application of drones in their line of work are specific to the type of data they produce. So to start off, Bruce and his team have a very specific workflow which they regularly follow in drone surveying. The work flow is divided in two separate operations; the first is on field data capture where they collect the data; and the other is when they return to their office and process the raw data. Interestingly, all these would not make sense without the right hardware, thus they first need to select the right Hardware. It is notable that typical survey grade UAV equipment is pretty expensive, thus Bruce and his team use the DJI Phantom 4 Pro/Real Time Kinematic (RTK) Positioning, which has 30mm accuracy and is very expensive. Also in his list of equipment includes: 4 OEM batteries + multi-charger Rugged field-proof; Spare propellers, memory cards, pens, etc. So after all the relevant hardware is prepared, the survey then begins with a project plan/ mission plan to avoid unnecessary time wastage, additional expenses

SURVEY AND SPATIAL

and extra flight time. The next process is establishing Ground Control Points (GCP) within the project plan, which basically sets out the Corners of project, middle and 1 flight line beyond each side. As per his experience, Trevor usually covers five targets per battery. The next step is field capture where the actual data is being collected. “Capturing topographic data with a drone is up to five times faster than with land-based methods and requires less manpower. With PPK geo-tagging, you also save time as placing numerous GCPs is no longer necessary. You ultimately deliver your survey results faster and at a lower cost,” said Trevor. “Total stations only measure individual points. One drone flight produces thousands of measurements, which can be represented in different formats (orthomosaic, point cloud, DTM, DSM, contour lines, etc.). Each pixel of the produced map or point of the 3D model contains 3D geo-data,” said Trevor. After all the data is collected, Trevor and his team move on to the second phase of the work flow which is to process and analyze the data. The key processes in processing of data include: photogrammetry; Draft Line work and Finish in CAD. Photogrammetry involves gathering of the data and

analyzing the change in position from two different images. It uses things like perspective, advanced processing software and photo analysis to get the job done, but it can happen on the ground or from the air. The next step in processing the Data is creating draft Line work, and then followed by finishing up with Computer-Aided Design (CAD), or simply a computer software mostly used by architects, engineers and surveyors, to determine a precise and exact image of all elements of a building, including all structural and architectural elements. The process of drone survey is applied in all the respects of surveying, thus it is the data produced that is sometimes different especially with regards to the project at hand. Trevor however has a vast experience in drone surveying, having been working in the most difficult terrains in Papua New Guinea. Trevor has recently setup his Surveying Company in Solomon Islands called Geotech Positioning Solutions, and is mostly experienced in all the above works. Trevor and his team at Geotech Positioning Solutions have been established since 2020, and have recently been registered as a licensed Surveyor in Solomon Islands during the ASSI congress in October 2021. l

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OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2021 / ISSUE 08

THE REGION, THE DONORS & COVID-19 DAVID SPRING PT COLUMNIST Sydney, Australia

urry up and slow down. This could be the slogan for AIFFP at the moment. The Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific started in 2019 with a A$2.5bn chequebook and a neighbourhood partnership mission. By mid-2020, a pipeline of eight projects worth $A80m had already been secured and A$100m were in the offing for 2021. However, by mid-2021, only $5.3 million of the AIFFP grant money had been disbursed, for planning on five projects. And while 14 projects have been approved, none of the loan money has been drawn down. Meanwhile, under the Blue Dot Network – a trilateral initiative with the US and Japan to set development standards – Australia has only spent $200,000 on a scoping study for the Palau internet cable project. With any political announcement, there’s a lot of fanfare. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s “Pacific Step up” which spawned AIFFP, was no different. Then the hard work of policy, partnering, recruiting, resourcing, project assessment and approvals began. While politicians are hungry for announcements, bureaucracies are busy producing tangible progress and outcomes. And AIFFP staff have been doing just that. 14 approved projects represents two and a half years of such work. Projects include: • Maintenance and capital works at Fiji’s Nadi International Airport and several outer island airports • Engineering scoping for a telecommunications cable project in Timor-Leste • Markham Valley Solar Plant, PNG • Nadi Flood Alleviation Project - scoping phase for catchment management and upstream flood mitigation • Palau Submarine Cable Branch System Project (PC2) • Transmission system for the Tina River hydropower scheme in Solomon Islands As a counter to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), AIFFP is trying to balance geostrategic interests with

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realistic investment projects which can be implemented. Palau’s internet cable is perhaps the most overt of these in AIFFP’s portfolio. Located in the North Pacific (Palau, of course!), it is a strategic investment, by way of both its geography and choice of digital sector. It’s part of the “Trilateral Partnership for Infrastructure Investment” and is being funded by an array of bilateral and private institutions, such as the Japanese Bank for International Cooperation, Mitsui bank and USAID. AIFFP is providing a $A9m loan. Having been connected to the submarine internet cable network in 2017, it could be argued that there are other countries in greater need of their first internet cable, let alone a second. Yet, Palau does face challenges from service disruptions and cable outages and will benefit from the additional bandwidth the new cable will provide. An allied area of focus for donors across the region is supporting the economic recovery from COVID-19. The vulnerabilities of Pacific island nations are well known, including natural disasters, a narrow economic and export base, reliance on international tourism and reliance on donors. Adding a public health crisis to this vulnerability is unwelcome, as will be a resulting prolonged economic downturn. While each donor packages the programs in their own rhetoric, such as ‘stability’, ‘opportunity’ or ‘support’, the money has indeed flowed. ADB has committed almost USD 800m to the Pacific region alone. Health, public sector management and WASH programs have received focus. Some existing programs have simply been re-purposed as covid recovery projects; but approximately two-thirds are genuinely new. The return of tourists will be a welcome boost for employment and the services sector. But this is still a way off. With uncertainty about the long-term efficacy of vaccines, booster programs, sporadic travel bubbles, intermittent and unpredictable lockdown and quarantine arrangements, international tourists are staying home for now. The various Pacific labour mobility programs have returned to near-full strength, which is important for remittance flows.

INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT / INDUSTRY

Australia has contributed AUD29.1 million to the Tina River Hydropower Development Project

The economic recovery for Pacific countries will more likely be a continued application of existing policies of sound economic management, trade and taxation. Some countries implemented stimulus early in the pandemic, but are now looking to longer-term measures, such as infrastructure investments, to spur economic growth. Perhaps hurry up and slow down isn’t such a bad approach after all. l

About the Author

David is an experienced engineer, with over 20 years’ experience in construction, design and international development. David has been working in Solomon Islands and Vanuatu as a Team Leader for the past six years, specifically on road and bridgeworks. He worked on intra-ministry roles at the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID, Solomon Islands) and led the Cyclone Pam road reconstruction project in Vanuatu, understanding donor requirements and how development projects are procured and delivered. Continuing as a Team Leader for MID and with some corporate responsibilities for Cardno, David seeks to deliver equitable access for communities, which generate social and economic benefits.

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OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2021 / ISSUE 08

NAVIGATING THE NEW GLOBAL DATA FRONTIER

By BY EDDIE OSIFELO Honiara, Solomon Islands

IBSON Satu from Bubusulia village in Lau lagoon in Malaita province and Sene village South Choiseul, is one of a few qualified drone specialists in the country. The 33-year-old who has a background in Information Technology, Maths and Physics from the University of South Pacific, started his career with SkyEye Solomons Vehicle Tracking as a technician. Attributing to his success Satu also undertook his UAV piloting license in Australia. “My instructor in Australia was a Surveyor by trade and had given me extremely good advice on the best practices when planning, executing and processing UAV data.”

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His hard work then led to some of his major achievements. Satu had the passion and drive to excel in this particular field and therefore took it on himself to start his own UAV Survey group out of his Lodge at Fishing village, Honiara, called Kahuto in 2016. “The name Kahuto comes from Small Malaita which means owl. Owls are often stealthy and observant birds. Like drones they can observe things from distances. If you can see the logo is an owl with a drone in its head,” he said. His first assignment as an expert Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) or drone operator was back in 2016 as the second lead in a mapping project at what was the Guadalcanal Plains Palm Oil Limited (GPPOL). A project which spanned an area of 10,000 Hectares where they gathered data for the company’s plan-

SURVEY AND SPATIAL

ning scheme and carbon stock records. Satu then worked his way up as Sales Technician then Operations manager. He then moved to Fiji in 2018 to start a new business venture. “I met up with my Business Partner and together we opened an office there under the name Kahuto Investments. Interestingly I was also instrumental in training our Fijian staff,” he said. “While there, I also had the opportunity to work with leading surveyors and engineers in Fiji and even in Tonga. Another of his achievements while in Fiji was managing a 7 Square kilometer project for Scope Pacific in Labasa Fiji, where they completed a project for them that could have taken them 14 weeks in 5 weeks. In 2020, he came back to Solomon Islands and reopened Kahuto office. Satu is currently helping Azimuth and Survey & Spatial solutions, in creating a Topographical map for Noro Township in Western province which is in total is about 700 hectares. However, Satu said the biggest challenge in this work is to find clients who like to use digital output

as many still want to use the manual. His main skills would definitely spatial awareness and spatial analysis, as you will be able to plan, execute and deliver quality data effectively. “As proper planning and executions will help you in the processing of data. “You’ll have to ground truth the work to make sure the outputs that the UAV is giving matches the ground,” he said. “Also, a good level of computer literacy so that deadlines are met, as most of the processing and interpretation of the data is done in the office and with the amount of data the UAV can produce can sometimes be overwhelming,” he added. Satu said his experience as a young Surveyor has taken him to many countries, and worked with some of the leading Surveyors and Engineering firms in Fiji like Woods & Jepsen, Scope Pacific and Fiji Highways. “Also, I have worked with International engineering firms like KEPA Consultants and many more. “I have also worked on many projects including flying and processing data for Ministry of Lands for the Henderson planning scheme in 2017,” he added. l

KAHUTO MAPPING THE PACIFIC

Services:

Aerial Surveys

Drone Service

Asset Inspections

Topographic Survey

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OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2021 / ISSUE 08

Survey conducted outside Noro Township By DOUGLAS SAEFOA Honiara, Solomon Islands

zimuth Surveys have been awarded a contract from the Australia Solomon Islands Resources Facility (ASIRF) to conduct topographical survey of certain lands around the northern end of Noro Township. Noro township in Western Province is home to the country’s only other international port besides Honiara. In addition, Noro is the base for Soltuna and National Fisheries Developments (NFD), and many smaller local businesses which service these major employers and their staff and families. At the time of the 2009 Census, Noro had a population of 3,365, and is expected to have grown since then. Many of the more recent residents live in informal settlements on the edge of town. There have been no recent subdivisions to cater for the growing demand for land for new residents, or for further business and industrial development in the town. The Survey being conducted will provide the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Survey (MLHS) and the Land Board with maps indicating the suitability of remaining government land around Noro Township for various land uses. The topographical survey will therefore, cover at minimum the entire area of the identified land parcels (approximately 384 hectares) showing the location of: • Contour lines • Condition of the ground, such as swampy, rocky, etc. • General land uses, such as agriculture, forest, settlements;

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• Natural features including significant trees, tambu sites, and drainage lines that are significant enough to potentially require drainage easements / reserves; • Man-made structures including all buildings (kitchens, toilets, stalls) and the names of the owners of each such structure; • Shared access corridors (vehicle access and pedestrian access which serve more than one residence); • Shared utility infrastructure (water supply pipes, electricity lines, telecommunication lines which are serving more than one residence); • Any existing lot boundaries and numbers within the survey area. The Ministry of Land Housing and Survey has also tasked Azimuth to note down names of the owners of each structure. Azimuth’s team will also enquire as to the names of the heads of each household, and enquire as to whether the occupants are owner / occupiers or renting the premises. The MLHS also has also advised Azimuth on the fact that men and women are equally entitled to become the legal owners of registered land in Solomon Islands. The noting down of owners of each structure is to assist MLHS in developing a subdivision master plan for a subsequent survey exercise. The initial contractual period is expected to be completed by 15 December 2021. l

PROCUREMENT / TENDERS

INCREASE IN BIDDING FOR OPPORTUNITIES FROM GOVERNMENT: AG

here has recently been an increase in bidding for public tender opportunities from local contractors and suppliers in recent months, which shows that people are becoming more aware of government opportunities available. This was revealed by the Solomon Islands Accountant General Mr. Bruce Phillips during the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) Infrastructure Symposium in October in Honiara. Given that increase in tender seekers, the Ministry is keen on making sure that all bids observe the necessary bid requirements to ensure that the procurement process is fair and transparent. “In one instance, in October I observed an increase of 27 bids per 10 contracts, which is fascinating and encouraging to see people take advantage of public tender opportunities,” said Phillips. An estimated $2.4 billion of the annual Solomon Islands Government budget is managed through procurement processes. Hence, the above figure would simply translate into opportunities which local businesses can access and in return contribute to economic growth. “It is imperative that stringent standards and principles are applied through procurement processes to achieve value for money within a transparent and ethical process” said Phillips. The SIG applies several different procurement processes based on the value of goods, services or works being procured. The processes include: open tendering; limited tendering; expression of interest; request for quotations; single direct source and bid waiver. Tender opportunities value in range from $10,000 up to a million dollars’ worth of contracts. To ensure compliance, prevent fraud and minimize errors, procurement duties, decision making and approval processes are separated amongst staff, committees and boards. The Central Tender Board (CTB) is responsible for awarding contracts or granting waivers by all SIG Agencies valued over $500,000. The CTB considers and endorses evaluation reports from Tender Evaluation Committees. The Ministerial Tender Board (MTB) is responsible for awarding contracts or granting bid waivers for that Agency valued over $100,000 and up to $500,000.

Accountant General Mr. Bruce Phillips

MTB considers and endorses evaluation reports from Tender Evaluation Committees. To ensure the principles of procurement are maintained throughout procurement processes regulations, manuals, training and best practices must be implemented. The Public Financial Procurement Regulations 2021 were gazetted on 14 October 2021. These regulations are in place to structure SIG’s purchasing processes and sourcing strategies to ensure that the services and goods SIG acquires are the result of transparent, objective, time and cost-effective decision making and risk management. To ensure that government opportunities are realized and evenly distributed across the private sector in the most convenient way possible, specialized platforms like Pacific Tenders have continued to link government to suppliers and vice versa, both locally and regionally. l

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Fishing Industry Association of Papua New Guinea: Responsible Sourcing Policy

he Fishing Industry Association of Papua New Guinea (FIAPNG) and its members have come a long way from a humble beginning since 1991 to where it is today in promoting and promulgating policies and best business practices that ensures the long-term sustainability of our tuna stocks whilst making sure that the economic benefits continue to accrue to the country. Our fishing and processing industry adheres to meeting international standards and best practice through good governance, traceability, transparency and accountability of our tuna resources. One of our biggest achievements in 2020 was the attainment of the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) Certification of the Papua New Guinea Fishing Industry Association’s purse-seine skipjack and yellowfin tuna fishery in early May 2020. The MSC Certification is an internationally recognized certification that re- affirms PNG as a country that practices sustainable and ecologically friendly methods of harvesting its tuna resources within its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and Archipelagic Waters (AW). This certification will also promote a global image for PNG as ‘clean green sustainable,’ while adding value to PNG as a country that promotes a well-managed fishery resource. In 2018 FIA-PNG committed to develop and implement its “Responsible Sourcing Policy” (RSP) upon which sits four pillars, which are: 1. MSC certification of PNG Tuna species (skipjack & yellowfin, and recently bigeye tuna); 2. Fishery Traceability – trace, track and monitoring; 3. Marine litter & Fishing gear mitigation procedure & audit tool, and; 4. Social Responsibility & Human Rights Welfare procedure & audit too. These pillars, the most rigorous in the tuna industry, drive improvements across a range of fishing operation and help to safeguard the social rights, crew welfare, and safety of those who work on board and help protect marine ecosystems, sensitive habitats and biodiversity, controlling the use of fishing gear and mitigation of marine litter and labour conditions. Our Pillars The RSP pillars of the FIA-PNG are focused on undertaking high level policy initiatives that are ably supported by its operating procedures and audit tools, including work programmes in implementing our strategies: • Adopt and promote sustainable fishing practices. • Minimize environmental impact. • Ensure our members develop their employees’ wellbeing and a positive social impact along the supply chain.

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• Produce high quality products for a healthy nutrition. The PNG continues to lead in advocating for the sustainability of the fisheries resources and fisheries management in the region with its stringent policies and laws, ably supported by its strategic plans to maintain a healthier stock. FIA-PNG in collaboration and support of

the National Fisheries Authority (NFA) has in-place a robust traceability management system reporting in near real time that protects our fisheries resources, such as tuna, from harmful fishing practices. FIA-PNG Marine Steward Council (MSC) Certification Scheme Fishing Industry Association (PNG) Inc., (FIA-PNG) joins force with other Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certificate holders and industry stakeholders in calling on the Western Central Pa- cific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) to make significant progress this year and next in establishing the harvest strategy (HS) and harvest control rules (HCR) for implementation at its Dec 2022 meeting. In a letter to WCPFC executive director, Feleti Teo, by FIA-PNG president and chairman, Sylvester Pokajam, stated that the MSC determined that the harvest strategies and control rules were the most effective way to control and implement sustainable catch levels of the tuna fish stock. “The FIA-PNG MSC certification scheme is vital for the economic growth of our tuna fishing and processing industry through valueadding in the supply chain. “FIA-PNG acknowledges that those HS and HCR are considered a best-practice approach to fisheries management, reflecting the UN

OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2021 / ISSUE 08 Fish Stocks Agreement and WCPFC convention’s call for application of the precautionary-approach principle. FIA-PNG also notes that MSC’s certification scheme for sustainable fishing is reinforced by a harvest strategies approach to fisheries management,” he said. Pokajam also stated in the letter that last year, the exceptional fisheries management practice of the PNG tuna fishery and the FIA-PNG tuna fleet fishing operation received recognition of the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) with the MSC fishery certification. “FIA-PNG also received 14 conditions to be improved and implemented within the next five years to maintain the certification. Some of these are directly related to the HS work plan for the three tuna species: skipjack tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis), yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares) and bigeye tuna (Thunnus obesus) under our MSC scheme,” he said. Pokajam said mid this year, the MSC published an article explain- ing the risk that the certified fisheries in the Western and Central Pacific

FISHERIES

seven principles and 43KDI to evaluate and improve labour conditions onboard and human rights compliance at sea. Our next step is to get the certification of a social accountability scheme recognised; and • FIA-PNG together with the National Fisheries Authority (NFA) have developed a platform to track, trace and monitor the fishing operation to almost real-time to increase the traceability and transparency of the fishery processes based on the Integrated Fish- ery Information Management System. This has been recognised by the Global Dialogue for Sea- food Traceability. “FIA-PNG encourages WCPFC members to commit to fully implement WCPFC’s HSS work- plan within the extended but limited timeframe, and, strongly discourages the use of gaps in science or geopolitical or commercial constraints as reasons for postponing or failing to adopt the harvest strategies,” he said. “We guarantee that our FIA-PNG tuna fleet will continue to maintain the same rigorous and ro- bustness of the fishing processes, being transparent, accountable and continues to promote sustainable best practices whilst complying with NFA regulations, regional arrangements and open to cooperate with stakeholders.” Future Outlook

Ocean were facing. “FIA-PNG, as the certification holder of our PNG MSC certification scheme, formally registers its grave concern over the prolonged delay in concluding the HS and HCR. “We recognise that tuna is vital for the economy, livelihood and food security of our coastal communities and country, therefore it is extremely important to maintain the market access and comply with current retailers’ requirements, one of which is the MSC certification of the wild caught tuna. We are enhancing our responsible fishery management with the implementation of the FIA PNG Responsible Sourcing Policy to increase the transparency of the entire fishery operation. This included: • Our well managed tuna fishery was recognised with the MSC certification. This year we officially became members of the Global Seafood Sustainable Initiative and Seafood- MAP; • We have developed and implemented a comprehensive approach to minimise and reduce marine litter and fishing gear from our fishing operation at sea and at land; • We are implementing a wholistic assessment and audit tool with

Going forward, FIA-PNG will continue to collaborate with stakeholders in the tuna supply chain, labour & social programs, and environmental organizations, while supporting our national commercialized fisheries to achieve the best practice and sustainable resource utilization. We will also support our fishing industries’ efforts to ascertain improvement in sustainability of tuna stock within Papua New Guinea (PNG) and the Western Central Pacific Fisheries Convention area, and to work in alignment and cooperation with NFA, regional partners and stakeholders in developing and implementing verifiable, science-based best practices, commitments, and international management measures in meeting these goals. FIA-PNG Tuna Industry Members FIA-PNG participating tuna member companies include: • Majestic Seafoods Corporation Ltd (cannery) - based in Lae • International Food Corporation Ltd (cannery) – based in Lae • RD Tuna Canners Ltd (cannery) – based in Madang • Nambawan Seafoods Corporation Ltd (cannery) – based in Lae South Seas Tuna Corporation Ltd (cannery) – based in Wewak. • Frabelle Cannery Ltd (cannery) – based in Lae • Majestic Seafood Corporation Ltd (fishing) – based in Lae • International Food Corporation Ltd (fishing) – based in Lae • Nambawan Seafood Corporation Ltd (fishing) – based in Lae • RD PNG Fishing Ltd (fishing) – based in Lae • Frabelle PNG Fishing Ltd (fishing) – based in Lae • Fair Well Fishing Company (fishing) – based in Port Moresby • TSP Marine Industries (PNG) Ltd (fishing) – based in Lae • Trans-Pacific Journey Fishing Corp (fishing) – based in Lae • Domingo Teng Fishing Corporation – based in Lae • Bluecatch Fishing Corporation – based in Lae ABOUT: The FIA-PNG was founded in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea (PNG) in 1991 and incorporated under Associations Incorporation Act 1966, by companies and operators in the tuna industry (both the fishing and shore-based processors), prawn operators, the beche-de-mer buyers and exporters, associated industries such as crew recruitment and placement agencies, fisheries consultancies services; and provincial umbrella artisanal fishing cooperatives. donz.papaol@gmail.com spokajam2@gmail.com ctutuana@gmail.com stephaniepokajam0714@gmail.com www.fia-png.com

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ADVERTORIAL OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2021 / ISSUE 08

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ADVERTORIAL INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT / INDUSTRY

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Pacific Games 2023 UPDATES

from the2021 Sol 2023 National OCTOBER - DECEMBER / ISSUE 08Hosting Authority

Prime Minister Sogavare led a government delegation to the newly completed High-Performance Center facility at Panatina, East Honiara.

PM Sogavare takes delivery of SINIS By DOUGLAS SAEFOA Honiara, Solomon Islands

rime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has officially received the newly completed Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS) High – Performance Center facility at Panatina, East Honiara. Prime Minister Sogavare who made a courtesy first visit to site in March 2020, has now received the building from the contractor CCECC and has placed the facility under the care of the National Hosting Authority (NHA) for the operations of the SINIS and High Performance Program to commence ahead of Solomon Islands hosting the Pa-

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cific Games 2023 Following its remarkable groundbreaking ceremony on December 2019, the over SBD$20 million SIG funded sport complex is now completed, whilst, the HP team will start using the Office and training facilities, procurement of gym equipment is delayed and so the facilities is expected to be fully operational by early 2022. PM Sogavare has received the building on behalf of SIG. NHA Executive Director Christian Nieng quoted, “This is the first of the Sol2023 facilities to be completed and handed over to the Government of Solomon Islands, and it’s a milestone success

Pacific Games 2023 UPDATES from the Sol 2023 National Hosting Authority INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT / INDUSTRY

PM Sogavare views a 3D design of the Main Stadium Project

PM Sogavare shown a concept map of the stadium project on site.

PM Sogavare also took an extended tour to the WIKA constructed Futsal Stadium.

Mr. Nieng underlined that it was initially the government who intended to build the institution when PM Sogavare made its announcement in 2018, and through his vision and leadership with his Secretary Dr Jimmie Rodgers (NHA Chairman) in making sure the facilities is built “Looking back, I’m very grateful. This handover is a milestone achievement and a positive devel-

opment in the country. It’s a good thing we have accomplish the vision of these leaders to make sure we have good facilities to be used by youths of this nation, and for sports not only to prepare and compete at international competitions but encouraging our citizens to maintain a healthy lifestyle and reduce health risks,” says Mr. Nieng Inaugural Executive Director for SINIS – High Performance program Aaron Alsop highlighted that now Solomon Islands will be the second in the region to have a recognized and national High – Performance program, a proud investment that signifies the collaborative efforts of the government “It’s exciting particularly for SIG, who have proudly invested in such an important infrastructure and program for the country and seeing it through. The SINIS is a flagship program but also a shining light for High – Performance in the region,” says Alsop Also, during the handing over ceremony Mr. Alsop confirmed the launching of some strategic High – Performance programs in preparations for Pacific Games 2023. These range of programs covered particularly will focus in supporting national federations in developing their performance enhancement plans, the coach scholarship program an initiative of the government to support local coaches in their profession development, talent identification and the Sports Training & Education Program (STEPS). NHA/Games Facility Committee (GFC) – Project Management Unit (PMU) Consultant Ken Grossmith positively said that despite global Covid 19 setbacks, facilities construction has progressed well. “The SINIS building is architecturally steel framed, designed relatively simple and multi-functional to use in Solomon Islands context. SINIS building is one of a kind, taking into consideration these challenges and cost effectiveness we focused on the facilities functions rather than form – and it has progressed exceptionally through the phases He also highlighted that the facilities is of high standard included with Australian and New Zealand building codes that comes complete with a hybrid solar system installation generating as the prime power supplier. The handover was witnessed by the cabinet Ministers and senior government officials, Chairs of members of NHA Board, GOC, GFC chairs and committee members as well as the Ministry of Home Affairs, National Sports Council (NSC) Chair Joe Sika and representatives from the national sport federations and stakeholders. l

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Pacific Games 2023 UPDATES

from the2021 Sol 2023 National OCTOBER - DECEMBER / ISSUE 08Hosting Authority

THE GOVERNMENT OF JAPAN THROUGH JICA, PROVIDES SBD44.1 MILLION DOLLARS TO SUPPORT FOUR 2023 PACIFIC GAMES PROJECTS

he Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has agreed to allocate $44.1 million dollars from the JICA-Covid-19 Crisis Response Emergency Support Loan provided by the Government of Japan to the Solomon Islands Government (SIG) to fund four specific projects to support the 2023 Pacific Games through the National Hosting Authority (NHA) that is responsible for the delivery of the 2023 Pacific Games in November 2023. The funds provided by the JICA-Covid Response/ Economic Stimulus Loan will support the following four projects: 1. Capital project to fund upgrade of Honiara City Council Community fields 5,000,000.00 2. Capital project to fund the upgrade of the SINU Sports Field - 1,600,000 3. Project to funds surveys and clearance of UXOs and Geotech studies in all PG2023 venues and work areas - 7,500,000 4. Co-financing to fund the ground and civil works at the PG2023 – SIFF Football Academy - 30,000,00 The HCC and SINU field upgrades and the UXO and Geotech projects are totally funded by the JICA-Covid Response/Economic Stimulus Loan and the PG2023-SIFF Football Academy is Co-financing with the Government of Papua New Guinea. The SINU field is replacement field to those SINU had lost to the main Pacific Games Stadiums projects. All the fields will however be available for visiting teams to use for their practice and training when they are in the country in 2023. JICA’s Project Formulation Advisor, Kengo Hoshina, said he is pleased to commit part of the funds to support UXO clearances, which had been a long-standing priority in Honiara and throughout the country. UXOs had taken some innocent lives in recent times and Mr Kengo hopes the contribution will help make the PG2023 sports facilities safe for the 2023 Pacific games and for all users of the facilities in years to come. The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance and Treasury Mr. Dentana Mckinnie and Chair of the National Hosting Authority and Sec-

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Japan will also be funding projects to carry out surveys and clearance of UXOs.

retary to Prime Minister Dr Jimmie Rodgers jointly conveyed to JICA and the Government of Japan the Solomon Island Government’s gratitude for this substantial support that will help the government provide world-class facilities that are safe for the people of Solomon Islands to use before, during and after the 2023 Pacific games. The Permanent Secretary Ministry of Finance and the Chair of the NHA and Secretary to Prime Minister commended the joint efforts by the Ministry of Finance led by the Accountant General and NHA led by Executive Director of NHA’s Project Management Unit and Secretariat to the PG2023 Games Facilities Committee, Mr Eldon Tepa for the preparatory work that led to the agreement by JICA to support these important projects under the banner of the 2023 Pacific Games. l

Pacific Games 2023 UPDATES from the Sol 2023 National Hosting Authority INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT / INDUSTRY

GOC funding support geared towards functioning & enhancing Sports Federations

he Games Organising Committee (GOC) for the 2023 Pacific Games in Solomon Islands today (Thursday 16 December 2021) launched a funding programme to support National Sports Federations in Solomon Islands. This aims to support the functionality and enhancement of National Sports Federations (NSFs) ahead and beyond 2023 as part of the Federations’ commitment to engage with the GOC in delivering their respective sport competitions at the 2023 Pacific Games in Honiara, Solomon Islands. Adrian Tuhanuku, GOC’s Senior Sport Delivery Manager, highlighted that the SBD50,000 funding programme is one of the support initiatives for NSFs purposely to ensure they are functioning and are prepared to support the GOC in the delivery of the 2023 Games. Three (3) Federations namely the Solomon Islands Weightlifting Federation, Solomon Islands Golf Federation and the Solomon Islands Volleyball Federation were the first to sign a binding agreement on Thursday 16 December, 2021 to access this fund after the GOC through its Sport Delivery Department received clearance from both the National Sports Council (NSC) and the National Olympic Committee of Solomon Islands (NOCSI) on this three Federations’ eligibility. The local Tennis, Rugby and Boxing Federations are the next to sign their funding agreements with GOC on Friday 17th December while six other Federations are awaiting clearance from either NSC or NOCSI in terms of their governance. The GOC also takes into consideration Federations’ performances in previous regional Games and their medal prospect for 2023. Solomon Islands have twenty-four (24) Sports Federations that are confirmed to take part during the 2023 Pacific Games. Mr. Tuhanuku further highlighted that in order for Federations to qualify to access this funding support, they must have an existing bank account, a finance officer responsible for auditing, they must have a full executive according to their respective constitutions, be in good standing with their respective International Federations (IFs), NSC and NOCSI and must be a properly registered sports body. “In terms of utilizing the funds, Federations are re-

quired to settle all or any outstanding affiliation fees they may have with NOCSI, NSC and their IFs up until 2024 which will enable Federations that are inactive to restore some kind of functionality while enhancing those that are already active. “The funding support comprises of two components which are the functional component based on the basic requirements that will enable Federations to become functional and the strengthening component to assist the Federations in their administrative operational costs. Any other payment that is outside of a set Payment Eligibility Schedule will be subject to approval by the GOC’s Sport Delivery Department,” Mr. Tuhanuku said. The payment of funds to Federations will be done according to the Phases set out in the Schedule of Payment in the agreement between GOC and the Federations. Meanwhile, monitoring systems will be in place to assess whether or not the funds granted to Federations are properly utilized as intended and to ensure the effectiveness of the funds provided to the Federations. The amounts for the fund can be reviewed and amended periodically, taking into account the increase in operational costs and requirements, when it is deemed necessary which also follows in line with GOC’s planned legacy of well governed and functioning NSFs post 2023. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GOC, Mr. Peter Stewart said: “While the focus has been on preparation for the 2023 Pacific Games not much attention has been given to the governance and administration of National Federations. The Games emphasises the importance of having functioning Federations capable of supporting its mission to deliver in 2023.” While the recently completed Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS) High – Performance is responsible for developing Team Solomons, GOC’s sole focus is in ensuring a successful Games for all participating nations from the region including Australia and New Zealand. This means GOC is tasked with delivering the sports program for the 2023 Games, as well as the opening and closing ceremonies, marketing, broadcasting, security, transport and logistics, and the meals and accommodation for an estimated 5,000 athletes and officials. l Sol2023 Media

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HON. MICHAEL NALI, CMG, CBE, MP Minister for Works and Implementation

Connect PNG Economic Road Transport Development Program 2020-2040 Connect PNG 2020-2040 is Marape/Basil Government’s signature policy to develop and rebuild the country’s economic road infrastructure on a 20 year program. It provides a strategic pathway of implementing the National Economic Corridor Development Plan that will connect services and economic opportunities to over 6 million people by 2050.

Importance of Roads for Socio-Economic Development

PNG’s roads network is the backbone of the country’s transport system catering for the movement of 85% of passenger and freight as it is the cheapest and convenient mode of transportation in the country. The majority of the rural population depend on roads more than any other form of transportation. Socio-economic development of the country will depend very much on the condition and performance of the country’s road networks. This is currently facilitated by 9,000km of national roads, 21,000km of sub-national roads, and 2,700 cross drainage structures of various designs and sizes. However, due to decades of lack of proper road management policies and chronic underfunding problems, road maintenance and development and construction of new roads have always been done on an ad hock basis. This has resulted in a build-up of deferred maintenance and aging stock of rundown road

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transport infrastructure assets amounting to a gross replacement cost of more than K45 billion. Under the current debilitated conditions regime, road infrastructure transportation assets are not only inefficient but also costly to the asset owners (State through the Department of Works), transport service providers such as haulers and expensive to the road users as the service providers pass on the cost of operating on debilitated condition roads.

Marape Government’s Agenda for 100% Road Connectivity for PNG by 2040 This Policy Agenda comprises Rehabilitation and Reconstruction of the Debilitated Sections of the existing road networks due to chronic maintenance negligence by previous governments and then construct the Missing Link Road Sections. The Policy Vehicle through which the Marape-Basil Government intends to achieve this Policy Agenda for 100% Road Connectivity for PNG by 2040 is through it’s signature policy of Connect Road Infrastructure Development Programme 2020-2040 approved in 2020. This is a 20-year Programme for K20 billion that provides a strategic pathway of implementing the National Economic Corridor Development Plan that will connect services and economic opportunities for over 6 million people by 2050.

and sustain 16,200km of strategic roads comprising 4200km of Priority National Roads, 1800km of strategic missing link roads (new road constructions), 9000km of provincial and district roads, and 2000meters of bridges. These road infrastructure developments are aligned to all aspects of the economy generating both short term and long term benefits that have the potential to help PNG recover from the adverse impacts of COVID 19 pandemic.

Connect PNG Phase 1 2020-2027 Investment Program Targets The implementation of the Connect PNG Programme is in 4 Phases. Phase 1 (2020-2027): The National Government has approved to invest K7.0 billion in Phase 1 Programmes to construct, rehabilitate and maintain and modernise 2,300km of the economic lifeline Highways, replace 1,000 meters of overdue bridges and construct 1,800km of missing link roads to achieve the Policy Agenda for 100% Road Connectivity for PNG.

The planned investments in key economic lifeline road networks under this signature policy will have tremendous impact on all aspects of the country as a whole creating significant opportunities for socio-economic development. This level of development will substantially reduce poverty levels, raise the living standards of the majority of the population, generating immense opportunities for employment and ultimately raising the country’s Human Development Index and placing it as a middle-income country.

Phase 1 Programme includes connecting the mainland from Vanimo to Aitape, Highlands and the Momase Regions with Port Moresby through Gulf and Central Provinces and then connect Port Moresby with Alotau by constructing the Missing Link Section between Central Province and Milne Bay Province on the Magi Highway and East and West New Britain by 2025.

In terms of the 20-year rolling programme for K20 billion, we will develop, rebuild

Connect PNG Programme has already commenced with significant construction

Phase 1 Projects Already Under Construction

OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2021 / ISSUE 08 activities under Phase 1. There are more than K4.3 billion worth of investments for 323 projects and contracts already under construction with a corresponding scope to upgrade and improve 5000km of national and provincial roads including replacement and construction of 1000 meters of bridges on the national and sub-national road networks. Part of these projects include major road transport projects initiated and implemented by the O’Neill/Abel government between 2012 and 2018. It is acknowledged that the O’Neill/Abel government within the 8 years period appropriated K6.5 billion but recorded an actual capital expenditure of K3.8 billion in rebuilding and restoring major economic road infrastructure projects around the country. Some of these projects included the Highlands Highway, Highlands Core Road Network, Lae- Nadzab 4 Lane Section 1A from Bugandi Roundabout to 9 Mile, Kagamuga-Mt. Hagen City 4 Lane Section, Sections of Port Moresby City Roads, Sections of Arterial Roads in Lae City, Bougainville Roads, Boluminksy Highway, 12 bridges to double lane standard on Hiritano and Magi Highways, and ADB-funded 12 bridges on the New Britain Highway to standard 2 Lane. Whilst the allocations and expenditure by the last government for road recapitalisation programs increased significantly compared to previous governments, still there were huge funding gaps that affected performance on the planned programme targets resulting in delayed contracts and deferred maintenance backlogs which were passed on to the incoming Marape/Basil Government when it came into office in May 2019. The Marape led Government inherited more than K2.1 billion worth of contract commitments which have been incorporated into the Connect PNG Phase 1 work plan

Since many road infrastructure projects have longer implementation timeframes, continuity and consistency of policy, funding commitments, and political will and commitments are paramount as the vision to deliver a well-established road network for PNG still remains a major challenge for any government. Nevertheless, it is commendable that the efforts made so far are very promising and already setting the foundation for transforming and modernising our economic lifeline highways to a standard that can support economic growth and service delivery for a prosperous country. On this note, the Marape/Basil Government must be commended for doing the right thing by continuing from where the last government left with a strong emphasis to enhance greater value for money by making sure there is fair distribution of infrastructure development programs to all the 4 regions of the country and invest in evidence-based projects with high economic returns on investment.

Accomplishments from 2018-2021 and Balance of Ongoing Works The Government is happy to report on a key milestone achievement of 2,242 km of various road sections all around the country being improved to sealed standard as well as subnational roads for a total capital expenditure of K1.9 billion under very difficult economic circumstances and cashflow challenges. This achievement amounts to almost 30% of the current medium term program targets. Many of our main highways including Hiritano, Magi, Highlands, Ramu-Madang Sepik Costal, and New Britain Highways are maintained and rehabilitated under long term based contracts than ever before. They are undergoing major sectional repairs and restoration works as part of the long term plan to have improved

networks. Road users are now enjoying smooth rides on improved sections without much delays now than before. With the increased appropriation and spending of K1 billion on the provincial and districts roads in partnership with the Department of Works and subnational authorities in the last 2 years has improved more than 1400km of the provincial and district road networks to rural road standard increasing access to goods and services, and markets for 85% of our rural population. More than 250km of new missing links have been opened to standard class 3 roads including Erave-Samberigi section of Gulf-SHP Highway, Vanimo-Aitape Section of the Sepik Coastal Highway, Kerema-Kikori Road and Wabag-Maramuni Road. The Marape/Basil Government’s increased investments in new roads will increase the national network by an additional 20%, extending access to land locked areas and remote villages and communities for the first time since independence. More than 1000 meters of rural standard bridges are being supplied and constructed on the subnational network as they an important component of improving rural access under the government’s ongoing rural bridges programme. More than K700 million worth of outstanding contract payment arrears need to be settled as cashflow improves to ensure contractors continue to progress performance.

Government’s Commitments to Make Connect PNG Plan a Reality The Government in line with its long term commitment to improving the country’s road network to 70% good condition and connecting the 4 major regions by opening up strategic missing link roads, has committed more than K4.5 billion combining the ongoing contract commitments and tenders to deliver an equivalent targeted road lengths of 3000 km in the next 5 years. In order to remain focus with the program targets, Department of Works must track at minimum program funding of K1 billion to K1.5 billion per year over the program period. The success of the Connect PNG Program depends on the availability of guaranteed funding to avoid stop and start implementation practice that has

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denied achievement of long term plan targets.

2 EIB Funded Construction and replacement of 6 new bridges along Ramu-Madang Highway and another 4 bridges along the Sepik Highway including the much talked about Hawaiian Bridge for K165 million.

This Marape/Basil Government has made history by making three very key decisions that establishes a solid foundation for success of the Connect PNG Plan:

Highway-Rehabilitation 3 Hiritano and Long Term Performance Based Maintenance of 120km sections from Brown River with an additional K8 million being approved to extend the work all the way to Laloki Bridge and connect it with the 4 Lane from 9mile to Laloki Bridge.

The Government has approved a legislation to provide minimum funding commitment through the annual National Budget up to 2040. This decision addresses the problem of chronic underfunding therefore affecting timely implementation of planned road programmes, both road maintenance and new construction.

iii

4 Upgrading and Asphalting to 4lane standard road through Extension of the Port Moresby City Roads for K300mill including from 9mile Round About to 17 Mile towards Sogeri, and also from 9 Mile to Laloki Bridge along the Hiritano Highway. Project funded by National Government and implemented by NCDC. Physical Progress is at 45%.

The Government has approved the establishment of PNG Highways Corporation as the implementation vehicle for the Connect PNG Plan. This company will manage and implement the Connect PNG Plan applying contemporary best business practices in the road sector. The Government established the PNG Road Fund under the Road (Management and Fund) Act, 2020 that aims to secure road maintenance funding from road user charges and fees in order to maintain and sustain on long term basis the road works delivered under the Connect PNG Plan.

With serious commitment by this Government, the road sector is headed on a path to transform PNG into a middle-income country. The people can enjoy improved lives as they enjoy the benefits generated by the road connectivity achieved under the Connect PNG Plan.

5 Missing Link Construction from Tabubil to Telefomin connecting Western Province to the greater West Sepik Region for K145 million. 24km more to go before connecting Telefomin for the first time after 40 years of independence.

Ongoing Project Contracts The Government, through the Department of Works, will continue to implement the balance of contracts worth K2.3 billion for the following projects:

1 Highlands Highway rehabilitation and long term maintenance with an approved K300million worth of additional scope of works to stabilise landslip sections and apply road stabilisation technology to build a durable and long lasting road network with less maintenance giving long life

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6 Construction of Finschaffen Highway (Missing Link) to Lae at K300 miillion. Physical progress at 10% and is expected to reach Lae by 2024. 7 Lae City Roads- Stabilisation and concreting of remaining 20km sections of arterial roads to complete the total 70km from the ongoing Lae City 10 years program for K50 million. 8 Additional Projects for Hiritano Highway - Rehabilitation and Upgrading of Epo to Kerema Section 10km under World Bank supported funding of K45 million. 9 Additional Projects for Madang Coastal Highway - Rehabilitation

OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2021 / ISSUE 08

and Upgrading of Bogia to Awar under World Bank Funding of K45 million.

10 Gulf -SHP-Hela Missing Link - Upgrading and sealing from Kagua End and Construction of 14km Erave to Samberigi link - Pioneering works completed. Sealing works progressing towards Sumbura and expected to reach Erave by 2021 for K140 million. 11 Sepik Highway-Vanimo to Aitape missing link already opened for traffic to standard two-wheel road and will be later upgraded and sealed to standard 2 lane highway including major bridge replacement program as part of the ongoing upgrading works from Wewak to Vanimo under connect PNG. 12 Lae Nadzab - Section 2A from 9mile to Yalu - 80 % completed to standard 4 Lane Highway with stabilised base and 40mm asphalt treatment for K120 million and to be completed by December 2021. 13 Autonomous Region of Bougainville - Kieta-Toimonapu Highway Upgrading and sealing to standard 2lane highway for K160 million and 67% physically and financially completed. 14 Autonomous Region of Bougainville-Toimonapu to Buin Section Upgrading and Sealing to standard 2 lane highway for K230 million. The project is 40 % physically and financially completed.

15 Autonomous Region of Bougainville-Hagus to Pitono Section of the Bougainville Highway- upgrading and sealing for K49 million and to be completed in October 2021. 16 Mendi - Tari Section of the Highlands Highway-Upgrading and sealing to standard 2 lane highway in to 2 major sections for K470 million. Contractors have established on site and preliminary works have started. 17 Replacement of 2000meters of rural bridges on all the provincial and district roads throughout the country on a 5-year program contract -K200 million. More than half of the bridges have been funded and delivered. 18 In addition, there are more than 150 minor works and long term contracts in progress on all highways, major towns and cities around the country for K120 million.

Additional Projects in the Pipe Line to start in 4th Quarter 2021/2022

evaluation stage.

2 Lae-Nadzab Stage 2B and 2C - upgrading and asphalt to 4lane standard from Yalu Bridge to Nadzab worth and Yalu Bridge reconstruction to 4-lane for K379 million. 3 Sepik Coastal Highway-design and construction of 40km Section at K146 million Highway-design 4 Ramu-Madang and construction of 40km Section at K134 million.

5 Manus Highway-design and construction of 30km Section at K99 million. 6 Magi Highway-performance based long term maintenance of 148km at K78 million. 7 Magi Highway-design and construction of 52km at K213 million. 8 Magi Highway-long term maintenance from Goilanai Bridge to Gaidaisu (127km) for K38 million. 9 New Britain Highway (2 Sections) design and construction of 70km at K170 million.

In addition to the ongoing projects, the Marape/Basil Government has procured more than K2.0 billion worth of major projects ready for contracts to be awarded and work to commence in the last quarter of 2021 and first quarter of 2022.

10 Northern Highway and Kokoda long term maintenance from Babaru to Airport Junction (163km) for K51 million.

Highway SHHIP 1 Highlands Tranche 2-Bridge Replacement Program worth K1 billion at final

11 Boluminsky Highway - long term maintenance from Kavieng to Namatanai (265km) for K50.9 million.

Yes It Can Be Done Once again we acknowledge our Government’s strong commitment to long term capital works programme with approved credible funding stream that can guarantee an effective implementation of the Connect PNG Program to achieve 100% Road Connectivity for PNG by 2040. BELIEVE ME, PNG WILL NEVER BE THE SAME AGAIN – TOGETHER WE CAN DO IT…. 100% ROAD CONNECTIVITY FOR PNG BY 2040

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OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2021 / ISSUE 08

The newly upgraded Noro market. Below, the ribbon cutting marking the official opening of the market.

Noro Market Upgraded

EOPLE living in Noro township and surrounding communities in Western Province are going to enjoy a new market, fish market and jetty. This after these facilities worth around half a million, have been completed under the World Bank funded Community Access and Urban Services Enhancement (CAUSE) project recently. Work on the facilities started last year and expected to be officially open this month. Lawrence Nodua, Communication Officer for CAUSE Project Management Unit said this project consisted of three components. This includes the renovation of the market and establishment of two ablution blocks, shower and drainage system, fish market and jetty. He said this is important because women normally paddle to Noro to sell their products, therefore they need to have access to shower and sanitation before selling their products at the market. Furthermore, Nodua said a fence was erected around the market to keep people away from stealing and spoiling vendors’ products. Nodua said in the past the market and fish market stayed in one area. However, he said because the space is small, it was decided to build a new fish market on one area. In addition, Nodua said the jetty is to give access to fishing people, vendors and people accessing the market. He said a garbage place was also established for people to dispose their rubbish. Nodua said the Project team trained people to

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build the facilities. “We don’t engage a constructor. “We trained the people to build their capacity and our technical person down in Noro office supervise the workers during the work,” he said. Nodua said this initiative also allows the office to share the construction work to many people and not one group only. Noro town clerk Cavin Tuto said partnering with CAUSE Project to re-develop and upgrade the market is a positive step towards developing a holistic approach . Tuto said with the upgrade now taking place life of farmers coming to Noro market will be more comfortable. He on behalf of the Western Province government acknowledged CAUSE Project for the partnership. The CAUSE Project aims to improve basic infrastructure and services through the provision of basic skills training, short-term job opportunities and income generation for vulnerable populations in

INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT / INDUSTRY

the urban centres of Solomon Islands. The CAUSE Project is a Solomon Islands Government urban development project implemented jointly by the Honiara City Council and the Ministry of Infrastructure and Development with support and participation of the Provincial Governments of Guadalcanal, Western and Malaita provinces. CAUSE is financed by the World Bank and Govern-

ment of Australia through the Papua New Guinea and Pacific Islands Umbrella Facility Multi-Donor Trust Fund (PPIUF MDTF). World Bank has injected about USD$15 million into the project which runs from 2018 to March 2022. An Additional Grant of US$7.3 million for the project was made possible by Government of Australia through the PPIUF MDTF in September 2021. l

The ribbon cutting marking the official opening of the Munda market.

New Market for Munda Community

estern Provincial Government, has taken delivery of the New Munda Market which has been successfully constructed through the Community Access and Urban Services Enhancement (CAUSE) Project. The new market at Munda is situated within the West New Georgia-Vona Vona Constituency in Western Province, and is one of the Major Tourist Hotspots in the country which also house the Second International Airport of Solomon Islands. Thanks to the CAUSE Project, the success of the market may not have been possible without the joint support of the World Bank, UN Women, NZAID and the Member of Parliament for West New Georgia Hon. Silas Tausinga. The Components of the new market project which were successfully delivered, include 3 market stalls, 1 public toilet block, Perimeter fencing, and footpaths within and along the market and shoreline protection. The project as intended, will boost the capability and access by vendors and people within the Munda area to a safer and cleaner market venue.

The market also has a docking area where boats can dock alongside the market, and for villagers from the islands to travel safely to and from the market. Speaking at the event, Provincial Secretary Mr. Geoffrey Wickham acknowledged CAUSE Project for the partnership, and welcomed future development in partnership with CAUSE and also HCC. Also in attendance was CAUSE-MID Country Manager Mr. Sam Belamide, who also congratulated the people and community of Munda area and also the Western Provincial Government on the recognition of such facilities. The CAUSE Project aims to improve basic infrastructure and services through the provision of basic skills training, short-term job opportunities and income generation for vulnerable populations in the urban centers of the Solomon Islands. The CAUSE Project is a Solomon Islands Government urban development project, implemented jointly by the Honiara City Council and the Ministry of Infrastructure and Development with support and participation of the Provincial Governments of Guadalcanal, Western and Malaita Provinces. CAUSE is financed by the World Bank and Government of Australia, through the Papua New Guinea and Pacific Islands Umbrella Facility Multi-Donor Trust Fund (PPIUF MDTF). l

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OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2021 / ISSUE 08

SICCI HOSTS BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS WITH THE THEME

‘Challenges to Opportunities in a COVID-19 World’ The 2021 edition of Solomon Islands’ leading business event, the Business Excellence Awards (BEA) was yet another success. Organised by the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI), the 2021 BEA was again hosted at the Coral Sea Resort in Honiara on Saturday 20th November with the theme ‘Challenges to Opportunities in a COVID-19 World’. In line with this year’s theme, the Chamber organised the event to recognise the hard work and efforts of local businesses who continue to operate despite the situation with the global pandemic. This year’s event saw ten (10) businesses and organizations being awarded in the different awards categories in front of more than 400 guests who attended the event and those who joined through livestreaming on social media. “In the midst of the challenges, you all have shown that you can grasp the opportunities that have been presented and persevered,” SICCI Board Chairman, Mr. Ricky Fuo’o, told guests at the event. “I believe it’s fair to say that the past couple of years have been few of the most mentally, physically and psychologically difficult years for businesses not only in the Solomon Islands but the rest of the world. Some businesses were forced to come up with creative ways to stay afloat as the world navigates itself through one of the biggest health pandemics the world has ever seen,” he added. The SICCI Board Chair quoted former American President, John F. Kennedy: “The Chinese use two brush strokes to write the word ‘crisis.’ One brush stroke stands for danger; the other for opportunity. Therefore, in a crisis, we must be aware of the danger--but recognize the opportunity.” Mr. Fuo’o said the current situation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic is beyond our control or influence. “While what we can control is how we respond to it. What we can take charge of is how quickly we bounce back. In the post COVID-19 world it would be important for every country and economy to be resilient,” he said. Guest of honour at the BEA, Honourable Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare reaffirmed his Government’s commitment to the partnership with SICCI. “We recognise SICCI as the main body that represents the private sector and their interests. SICCI is an incredible and valued partner of the Government in serving our country and people,” Prime Minister Sogavare said. He said the Government’s commitment in this partnership

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has been aptly demonstrated by the engagement with SICCI in various activities. Guadalcanal Plains Palm Oil Limited (GPPOL) won the ultimate prize of the night which is the Prime Minister’s Business Excellence Awards. GPPOL also won the Business Contribution to Sustainable Development & Community Award. The other award winners for the night included: • Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award – Soltrend • Small Business of the Year Award – Tower Insurance • Medium Business of the Year Award – Island Sun Newspaper • Inclusion and Diversity and Local Talent Award – SITCO & Our Telekom • Large Business of the Year Award – Solomon Islands Ports Authority (SIPA) • Entrepreneur of the Year Award – Chottu’s Guadalcanal Products • Agri-business of the Year Award – Cathliro • Innovation & Technology Award – SINPF You Save The BEA was initiated by SICCI with the support of the Solomon Islands Government in 2013 and has since been the premier event for Solomon Islands’ business community attracting increased submissions over the years. SICCI acknowledges the sponsors for the 2021 Business Excellence Awards: Solomon Islands Government, Australian High Commission, New Zealand High Commission, Strongim Bisnis, GPPOL, Our Telekom, ANZ Bank, Bank South Pacific (BSP), Bred Bank, Island Sun, Tongs, Solomon Water, PHAMA Plus, National Fisheries Development (NFD), Bulkshop, Hatanga, BJS, DHL, NGPL, Tropic Group Builders (TGB), Coral Sea Resort, Capital Insurance, Fleet Solomons, PACSOL, Motawa Enterprises, Heritage Park Hotel, Solomon Submarine Cable and Solomon Breweries Ltd. -SICCI Media

COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Winner of the 2021 Prime Minister’s Business Excellence Awards and the Business Contribution to Sustainable Development & Community Award, GPPOL. RIGHT - Our Telekom was awarded the Inclusion and Diversity and Local Talent Award along with SITCO.

SICCI Chairman, Ricky Fuo’o with the Prime Minister at the 2021 Business Excellence Awards.

Winner of the 2021 Innovation & Technology Award, SINPF You Save. RIGHT - Winner of the 2021 Large Business of the Year Award, Solomon Islands Ports Authority (SIPA)

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OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2021 / ISSUE 08

OCCUPATIONAL HAZARD: Remnants of war UXO risk in countries across the Pacific, recent incidents and how contractors should approach this risk DAVID SPRING PT COLUMNIST Sydney, Australia

XO, or Unexploded Ordnance , is a piece of military ammunition that has been fired but has not functioned (or exploded) as designed. Resulting from WWII battles between Japanese and Allied forces across the Pacific, an inestimable volume of these munitions remain scattered across the landscape and coastlines of PNG, Solomon Islands and Palau. Other countries such as Vanuatu did not see battles, yet the island of Santo housed a large American Air Force base and their post-war disposal was inadequate and incomplete. Every so often, tragic events remind us that the danger posed by UXO is real and present, more than 75 years after fighting ceased. On 20 September 2020, two expatriates working for Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA) were killed in a bomb blast in residential Honiara. Investigations found the detonation resulted from the unauthorised handling of unearthed explosives. On 9 May 2021, another bomb detonated during a social BBQ event. The 105mm US artillery shell had likely been sitting beneath the surface of the ground in Lengakiki, a residential ridge behind central Honiara, since the battle of Guadalcanal in 1942. This fatal event underlines the possibility that UXO can detonate even without interference or impact. The threat is real and hidden. Contractors and consultants working in the Pacific are typically aware of this danger. Works and services contracts have UXO provisions written into them. These are often qualified and general, (“if necessary, the firm may…”) leaving it up to the firms themselves to determine whether or not expert UXO assistance is required for any particular project. This allocates excessive risk to contractors. Mapping is an almost continuous task for NGOs and foreign-funded military projects (often combined with removal and disposal). The mapping shows finds and clusters of finds, but rarely shows the full areas scanned, to what depth and to what accuracy. Even

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if it did, reliance on mapping alone could prove foolhardy. Enter, basic level metal detection equipment. This is often used but is not sufficient to positively identify UXO, especially in already disturbed areas. Sophisticated magnetometers and electromagnetic equipment is required to locate buried munitions, at greater depths and where other subterranean features are present, such as utility services, obstructions, waste and changes in geotechnical conditions. This scenario, combined with a ‘lump sum’ approach to field investigations by clients, could lead a contractor or drilling firm to falsely believe they have adequately checked and cleared the site. How can this be avoided? What is being done about it Historical records of the bombing zones and the spread of ordnances are not accurate enough to assist in the location of UXO. In 2010, the Pacific Island Forum (PIF) was persuaded to address the threat. They commissioned a study which resulted in a regional strategy, endorsed in 2012. The US ceased major funding of clearance programs in the South Pacific in the 1990s. But in response to the PIF initiative, provided $3.5m in 2012. Australia followed in 2013 with a biannual funding commitment to its Operation Render Safe program across the South West Pacific. Until the tragic accident in 2020, NPA was working in Solomon Islands to develop a centralised database of UXO. To clear or not to clear The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force has a specialised unit dedicated to the removal and disposal of discovered UXO but does not provide a clearance service. Firms looking for a definitive site clearance ahead of drilling or excavation works will need to engage an expert firm such as Milsearch to undertake

EXPLOSIVE ORDNANCE CLEARANCE / UXO

Top: The tail of a US 60mm mortar located southeast of Honiara (Credit: Australian Department of Defence) Below: Munitions on the island of Kolombangara, Solomon Islands (Credit: Safeground)

the clearance fieldwork. This will be thorough but expensive and needs to be planned well in advance of site works. When faced with the question of whether or not to undertake a full clearance, contractors and consultants need to take a risk management approach. The mapping, while imperfect, provides a reasonable starting point for identifying where UXO are likely or unlikely. The next step should be a community consultation. Even in areas where no UXO are mapped, talking to local people will quickly reveal the voracity of the mapping. In rural areas in particular, where UXO are known to exist, the stories and experiences of local people will help shape the emerging risk profile. Where the consequences of an incident occurring are fatal, an ‘extremely unlikely’ likelihood will still lead to High or Very High risks, on most risk matrices. Thus, if there is a possibility that UXO are present, a detailed clearance should be undertaken. If undertaken by professionals, the data collected from the site will be fed back into the mapping databases. As well as serving the progress of the project, this information will be used by the next firm, so serving the common good and reducing the menace of this legacy. l

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OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2021 / ISSUE 08

Airport Project halfway through completion By EDDIE OSIFELO Honiara, Solomon Islands

HE Honiara International Airport Improvement project is progressing well amidst COVID-19, which affected the proposed schedule. The project is already 8 months behind the initial schedule and the date of completion is now moved to February 2023. Kengo Hoshima, Project Formulation Advisor of Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) confirmed to Pacific Tender Magazine that the project team has been working hard to catch up with the schedule. “The border control has been a big challenge bringing in international experts, equipment and materials into the country. Due to very slow traffic at the airport, the project team are working extensively and longer hours without any disruption with airplane traffic. “Also, the local workers have been actively engaged in the project, filling in some of the gaps caused by the absence of international experts,” he said. “Although the project has suffered from 8 months of delay due to the pandemic, the project is now on a revised schedule and is expected to be complete by February 2023.” He said as of the end of October, the construction progress is about 52%. “And JPY 2.55 billion Yen (about $185 million SBD) has been spent,” he said. The Honiara International Airport Improvement Project consists of 6 categories namely: The expansion of Airport Apron, the construction a new Taxi way, Air Field Light (AFL) renovation, ETB renovation, construction of a new International Departure Terminal and embarkment for runway flood protection. Of the six categories listed under the project only three of these are currently in construction being; the Expansion of Airport Apron (Tarmac) which will include new aircraft spots for international aircrafts and exiting apron and taxi way, the construction of new taxi way and base structure for the new International Departure Terminal Building (IDT) which is a partly 2 story building which will be located next to the current International

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Terminal. The Tarmac expansion will now cater for 6 aircrafts and 2 taxi ways parallel to each other. Originally asphalt was used for the tarmac pavement, but now reinforced concrete, which is stronger and harder than asphalt will be used for the apron where the planes are parked. The concrete will cater for bigger airplanes and their heavy dead loads, especially when they are parked or is in a stationary position. Asphalt will still be used for the finishing. The current tarmac has the capacity to receive 3 planes at the same time on the airport. The expansion will increase the capacity to 4-5 planes parking at the same time with an additional 6 small planes for the domestic terminal. Passengers will however still disembark on the tarmac. Kitano Construction has been contracted to undertake the project. The project now costs an estimated total of SB$347 million including the additional SB$26.5 million. l

INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT

PNG Government’s Commitments to Make Connect PNG Plan a Reality DOW MEDIA STATEMENT

he Government in line with its long term commitment to improving the country’s road network to 70% good condition and connecting the 4 major regions by opening up strategic missing link roads, has committed more than K4.5 billion combining the ongoing contract commitments and tenders to deliver an equivalent targeted road lengths of 3000 km in the next 5 years. In order to remain focus with the program targets, Department of Works must track at minimum program funding of K1 billion to K1.5 billion per year over the program period. The success of the Connect PNG Program depends on the availability of guaranteed funding to avoid stop and start implementation practice that has denied achievement of long term plan targets. This Marape/Basil Government has made history by making three very key decisions that establishes a solid foundation for success of the Connect PNG Plan: The Government has approved a legislation to provide minimum funding commitment through the annual Na-

tional Budget up to 2040. This decision addresses the problem of chronic underfunding therefore affecting timely implementation of planned road programmes, both road maintenance and new construction. The Government has approved the establishment of PNG Highways Corporation as the implementation vehicle for the Connect PNG Plan. This company will manage and implement the Connect PNG Plan applying contemporary best business practices in the road sector. The Government established the PNG Road Fund under the Road (Management and Fund) Act, 2020 that aims to secure road maintenance funding from road user charges and fees in order to maintain and sustain on long term basis the road works delivered under the Connect PNG Plan. With serious commitment by this Government, the road sector is headed on a path to transform PNG into a middle-income country. The people can enjoy improved lives as they enjoy the benefits generated by the road connectivity achieved under the Connect PNG Plan.l

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OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2021 / ISSUE 08

The SINU students who are currently undertaking studies in Civil Engineering.

SINU OFFERS EXCITING CIVIL ENGINEERING PROGRAMME

mong the new and exciting relevant course programmes being offered at the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) in Semester 2 of 2021 is a Diploma in Civil Engineering, focusing mainly on road construction. At the commencement of Semester 2 in September 2021, the Programme has enrolled 39 students. About 50 percent of the students enrolled are in-service students from government ministries and the private sector. In-service students undertake classes after work from 5 pm till 9 pm while the pre-service students undertake full-time classes from 8 am to 5 pm. The Diploma in Civil Engineering programme aims to produce graduates with the technical skills the country need for its economic development. Moreover, the programme also aims to provide placebound professional engineers in public works and industry positions with access to modern tools to efficient designs and construct durable roads. The programme in road construction and development would also address economic development needs to create incentives for more economic activities which will contribute to expanding the economic base of the national economy. Roads form a large component of the national investment in infrastructure but they have deteriorated due mainly to poor design and lack of maintenance and destruction during natural disasters. These call for national and provincial governments

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to be proactive in ensuring that infrastructure development programmes meet the highest quality standards and are implemented within the proposed time frame. Hence, there is increasing appreciation of the need for efficient design and construction to minimize the long term life cycle with costs including operation, maintenance, management and renewal of these major physical assets. These also increase the demand for technical specialists with road engineering skills to take up career opportunities that exist within national and provincial governments, local authorities, and private sector civil and mining companies, construction consulting and regulatory organizations. For semester one, the subjects undertaken under the Diploma in Civil Engineering programme include construction mathematics, engineering communication, basic computing skills for engineers, fundamentals of civil engineering, civil engineering survey, and civil engineering technical drawing. For semester two, the programme includes book-keeping for engineers, fluid mechanics, soil mechanics, solid mechanics, computer-aided drawing (CAD); and civil engineering materials. There are 6 lecturers currently teaching the students, 3 with masters’ degrees and 3 with bachelors’ degrees with vast work experience and in teaching. l

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OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2021 / ISSUE 08