SOLOMON PORTS COMMISIONS SOUTH PACIFIC'S LARGEST DOMESTIC SEAPORT TERMINAL BUILDING.
Solomon Ports and Solomon Islands marked a monumental milestone today with the commissioning of the Millennium Terminal, the largest domestic seaport terminal in the South Pacific. The state-of-the-art facility, which took two years to complete, was officially opened by Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele, who served as the guest of honour and delivered a keynote speech highlighting the terminal’s significance for the nation's development.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Prime Minister Manele emphasized the terminal’s broader implications for the nation:
“Today we are not simply opening a new infrastructure facility; we are unveiling a symbol of progress, a tangible manifestation of our collective ambition, and a milestone that will forever change the way we connect with each other and the world around us. This terminal represents much more than bricks and steel; it is a testament to our determination, the power of self-reliance, and the resilience of the Solomon Islands.”
The three-story Millennium Terminal boasts cutting-edge facilities designed to cater to passengers and businesses alike:
- Ground Floor: A spacious main seating area for passengers, alongside shops, a bakery, a mini supermarket, food outlets, and public toilets.
- First Floor: Home to ticketing offices, cafés, and additional office spaces.
- Top Floor: Primarily office spaces, complemented by warehouses.
The terminal was built entirely by Solomon Ports, with funding and construction managed locally. SIPA Chief Executive Officer Eranda Kotelawala lauded the teamwork and dedication that brought the project to fruition:
“We are here today to celebrate the commissioning of the largest domestic passenger terminal in the region. The significance of this achievement lies in the fact that it has been designed, built, and funded by Solomon Ports. This is a testament to our team's dedication and the support of our board of directors, both past and present, in realizing this significant milestone.”
The commissioning day concluded with a festive celebration as Honiara hosted a free concert, drawing thousands of people to mark this historic moment. The event featured vibrant performances and created a sense of unity and pride among the people of the Solomon Islands.
The Millennium Terminal stands as a beacon of progress, underscoring the nation’s commitment to growth and innovation while enhancing connectivity and services for the people of the Solomon Islands and beyond.