Western Border Outpost officially opened at Lofung

The Solomon Islands Government has officially opened and received the newly completed Western Border Outpost and Patrol Boat Base at Lofung in the Shortland Islands.

The facility was officially opened during a ceremony attended by the Deputy Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands, the Honourable Francis Sade, and the Deputy Prime Minister of Australia, the Honourable Richard Marles.

The opening marks a significant milestone in Solomon Islands’ efforts to strengthen national border security, maritime surveillance and multi-agency coordination across the country’s western border.

In his address, the Deputy Prime Minister Francis Sade of Solomon Islands described the facility as more than a new infrastructure project, saying it represented “a statement of national purpose” and demonstrated the Government’s determination to protect the country’s sovereignty, strengthen border management and safeguard its maritime domain.

The Deputy Prime Minister said the outpost would give practical effect to the Solomon Islands National Security Strategy and National Border Strategy by supporting a coordinated approach to border management.

He stressed that border security should not be viewed solely as an enforcement issue, but must also protect communities, facilitate legitimate movement, support lawful trade and strengthen confidence among neighbouring communities.

The facility will support a multi-agency operational model involving the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force, Immigration, Customs and Biosecurity. The model is intended to improve information sharing, surveillance, coordination and operational response.

The Western Border Outpost includes:

• A long-piled wharf and jetty capable of accommodating Guardian-class patrol boats.
• A barge ramp and customs landing beach.
• Modern navigational aids to support maritime patrols and response operations.
• A Multi-Agency Operations Centre.
• Water storage and wastewater treatment facilities.
• Fuel, generator and maintenance facilities.
• Boat shelters and accommodation for up to 30 personnel, with surge capacity for up to 60 personnel.

The outpost will strengthen Solomon Islands’ ability to maintain a consistent presence along its western maritime border, respond to incidents, support emergency and humanitarian operations, monitor maritime movements and address transnational crime and other security threats.

Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, the Honourable Richard Marles, reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to working closely with Solomon Islands to support a safe, secure and prosperous Pacific.

Mr Marles highlighted the importance of the Western Border Outpost to Solomon Islands’ national security and maritime capability, noting that the facility reflected the strength of the partnership between the two countries.

He acknowledged the leadership of the Solomon Islands Government, the contributions of local communities, and the work of personnel from the Solomon Islands and Australia who supported the project.

The Australian Deputy Prime Minister said the outpost would provide a stronger platform for Solomon Islands’ border agencies and security institutions to work together, while enabling the country to exercise greater sovereign control over its borders and maritime spaces.

He also emphasised that Australia’s partnership with Solomon Islands was based on mutual respect, shared interests and a commitment to supporting Solomon Islands’ own priorities and national capabilities.

The project represents an investment of AUD 101.6 million, equivalent to approximately SBD 576.1 million, by the Government of Australia.

The project has also delivered important economic and skills-development benefits for communities in the Shortland Islands and surrounding areas.

A total of 498 people worked on the project, including 368 Solomon Islanders and 69 women. More than 1,000 local contracts were awarded during construction, supporting local businesses and enterprises.

Workers also received training in workplace safety, first aid, heavy plant operation, engineering and professional development.

The Solomon Islands Government said the economic benefits demonstrated that effective border security could contribute to broader national development by creating the conditions for lawful trade, tourism, investment, employment and community growth.

The opening of the Western Border Outpost also reinforces Solomon Islands’ commitment to contributing to a peaceful, secure and resilient Blue Pacific.

The facility will enhance the country’s capacity to address challenges that extend beyond national borders, including transnational crime, illegal maritime activities, people smuggling, health and environmental threats, and emerging security risks.

The Government stressed that regional security must remain grounded in peace, dialogue, cooperation and respect for national sovereignty.

The outpost will therefore serve not only as a national security asset, but also as a practical contribution to regional stability and cooperation.

The Deputy Prime Minister called on all personnel serving at the outpost to carry out their responsibilities with integrity, discipline, vigilance, and respect.

He urged officers to exercise their authority firmly but fairly, while respecting the rights and dignity of travellers, fishers, traders, neighbouring communities and members of the public.

He also said the long-term success of the facility would depend on continued cooperation between the national government, border and law-enforcement agencies, the Western Provincial Government, traditional leaders, local communities and development partners.

“The infrastructure we hand over today provides the platform. What we build upon that platform will determine its lasting value,” he said.

The Government expressed its appreciation to the traditional landowners, the 13 Chiefs and the people of the Shortland Islands for their hospitality, cooperation and support throughout the delivery of the project.

As a mark of respect, the ceremony observed a moment of silence in remembrance of those who contributed to the initial development of the Western Border Outpost and have since passed away.

It also acknowledged the Government and people of Australia, the Australian Defence Force, the Australian Federal Police, contractors, government agencies and all individuals who contributed to the successful completion of the Western Border Outpost.

The ceremony concluded with the formal receipt and acknowledgement of the facility by the Solomon Islands Government.

Officials receiving their garlands upon their arrival at the Western Border Outpost.

From L-R: Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, the Honourable Richard Marles; Deputy Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands, the Honourable Francis Sade; and the Minister of Police, National Security & Correctional Services, the Honourable John Tuhaika Jr.

Deputy Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands, the Honourable Francis Sade, receives the keys of the Western Border Outpost from the Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, the Honourable Richard Marles.

Officials attending the ceremony.

Komalaia performing their cultural dance during the handover ceremony.

Cultural dance group from Gaomai performing during the handover of the Western Border Outpost.