Minister for Public Utilities Jay Ngwele signed this week the contract for the repair of two of the country’s most significant wharf infrastructures in Lenakel on Tanna and Litzlitz on Malekula which both come under Vanuatu Inter-Island Shipping Support Project (VISSP). Read More
The signing took place between the Government and Fletcher Organisation (Vanuatu) Ltd at the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, and witnessed by representatives from the Asian Development Bank and the New Zealand Government – two of the key financiers of the project.
Fletcher’s successful bid of USD1.2 million, or approximately Vt130 million was announced last month following a competitive procurement process that took about 12 months to conclude.
Following the signing, Minister Ngwele said: “It has been a while unfortunately, but I am very happy to say that today’s signing will make the 41st anniversary more meaningful.
“I am very pleased that this could be a signal for a new beginning for Tanna and Malekula wharfs. We look in anticipation for the next phase of VISSP where will see construction of buildings at the two wharf sites.
“No doubt the partnership between the ADB, New Zealand Government and the Vanuatu Government has been a success (and) even though it has taken a while, we all look forward to the resumption and completion of South Paray wharf,” noting progress that has been made to date under VPMU and the partners involved.
In response, Fletcher’s Anthony Care said:
“Thank you to the Minister of Infrastructure, MIPU, VPMU and the aid donors for giving Fletchers the opportunity to work on these two important assets on Tanna and Malekula. Fletchers were involved in the construction of Lenakel Wharf in 1999 and look forward to be working with the Vanuatu Governments representatives, island representatives and custom landowners to ensure the repairs are undertaken quickly and to ensure another 20+ years of safe access for the shipping to communities on both of these important islands.”
The initial phase will include extensive repairs to both Lenakel and Litzlitz wharves. This will include the removal and reinstatement of damaged sections of the infrastructure and replacing the fenders and bollards. In addition new lighting will be installed to improve safety and operability of the facilities. Several wrecks will also be removed from the Litzlitz site.
Under the contract Fletcher will have 180 days to complete the repair works.
Lenakel and Litzlitz wharf repairs come under Vanuatu Inter-Island Shipping Support Project (VISSP), delivered by VPMU and funded by the New Zealand Government and Asian Development Bank (ADB). The project’s key aim is to strengthen inter-island connectivity through construction of new island wharf or jetties in at least seven islands of Vanuatu including Santo, Pentecost and Ambae.
