- Enhancing Tuvalu's maritime connectivity: ADB invests $76.7M for 3 outer island harbors (Nukulaelae, Niutao, Nui), replacing a ship, and training to boost operational and maintenance capabilities.
- Tuvalu's unique geography and remote islands pose transportation challenges. ADB aids with safe harbors, improved connectivity, and cultural preservation for a resilient future.
- ADB partners with Tuvalu to overcome ocean-spanning hurdles. From constructing outer island harbors to funding new vessels, progress is underway for safer transport and economic growth.
Since 2015, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has been supporting Tuvalu to improve domestic and regional connectivity with a range of investments (technical assistances, grants) in infrastructure, shipping, capacity building and planning of total $76.7 million.
Tuvalu is a fragile microstate consisting of nine low-lying atolls with a population of just 11,000 people live.
Improving connectivity and maritime safety between the outer islands and the main island of Funafuti is critical to expand access to essential services and drive economic growth.
ADB is funding the construction of 3 outer islands harbors in Nukulaelae, Niutao and Nui, the replacement of a passenger and cargo ship and several training programs to strengthen the capacity of the Government and communities to maintain and operate these assets.
Transcript
Talofa and Welcome to Tavalu.
Tavalu is a small, remote island nation located in the South Pacific Ocean with dispersed geography comprising 9 atoll islands.
With a population of around 11,600 people, Tavalu is the second smallest country in the world by population and covers just 26 square kilometers of land.
It's unique geography and layout has shaped its culture and way of life.
Davalu's geography presents unique challenges for transportation and connectivity.
As the capital Funafuti and the rest of Tavalu's outer islands are spread out over 500,000 square kilometers of ocean.
The outer islands can only be accessed by boat.
Tavalu's limited access to safe harbors and the degradation of its maritime infrastructure has made it challenging for boats to operate and transport goods and services, including essential medical supplies.
Tavalu is receiving support from the Asian Development Bank to implement various projects aimed at improving its maritime connectivity and building the resilience of the country.
Under the Outer Island Maritime Infrastructure Project, a DB is funding the construction of three outer island harbors in Nukulaelae, Niutao, and Nui.
ADB’s support is provided through the Asian Development Fund or ADF, which provides grants to the poorest and most vulnerable, mainly through contributions from donor countries.
The harbors are designed to allow safe tender from the main passenger and cargo ships through the coral reefs to the communities on the islands, allowing the navigation through the constructed channels and taking safe harbor in the newly constructed Wharf.
The construction of the harbor in New Kulele is now completed and construction in New Tao and Newey is ongoing.
So far it has helped or assists in the fasting around of the boat when it goes to nuclear ally and also safety of passengers.
We look forward to have more or much improved transport services in the other outer islands when all of the boat harbors are being built.
Complementing the construction of the harbors, a DB has provided funding for a new passenger and cargo vessel to replace one of the two vessels that the government operates to connect the capital with the outer islands and Fiji.
The new vessel, which is expected to be delivered by the end of 2024, will be certified to international standards and will provide safer, more reliable transport.
Not only the community would benefit from a safe and secure transportation needs for that, but it will also allow for an improved trading arrangement for business and for trade purposes between the islands.
So this improved Bodapa facility project would enable that to to occur.
So there will be a greater national economic benefits because of that.
Tuvalu is a small nation, but its natural beauty and unique spirit serve as a reminder to stand with Tuvalu in its efforts to protect its maritime resources, become more resilient, and preserve its culture and way of life for generations to come.
Monte Manuia Otovalu for a prosperous Tuvalu.
