Supported by AIFFP financing, the newly upgraded Nui Island harbour in Tuvalu was opened for use to the local community by the Governor General of the Government of Tuvalu alongside Australian Government and Asian Development Bank (ADB) representatives.
On 15 June 2024, Australia’s High Commissioner to Tuvalu, Brenton Garlick, attended the harbour opening. He was joined by the Governor General of Tuvalu, Reverend Sir Tofiga Vaevalu, ADB Country Team Leader Letasi Lulai, Taiwan Ambassador Andrew Lin, and other representatives from the Tuvalu Government and Royal Haskoning.
The improvements to Nui Island harbour form part of the Enhancing boat harbours across Tuvalu project, with Australia through the AIFFP providing AUD21.4 million in co-financing to the ADB to support upgrades to two of Tuvalu's outer island boat harbours. It is the second AIFFP project to be jointly co-financed with the ADB.
With many island communities in Tuvalu dependent on shipping for food and access to essential services and supplies, maritime transport is vital to Tuvalu's economy. The harbour improvements increase the availability and reliability of transport options for both passengers and cargo travelling between Nui and Tuvalu’s capital. Villages and households in more remote communities will have improved access to markets and services, schools and health services.
The works include a new boat ramp, cargo shed and passenger terminal as well as features such as 24-hour solar lighting, guard rails and signage, making it safer for women and children to travel.
The project has delivered local job opportunities, including 10 per cent of the local workforce being women.
The upgrades strengthen Tuvalu's resilience to climate change, with the harbour and landside facilities designed to ensure minimal disruption to Tuvaluans’ livelihoods in the event of severe weather.
Australia is proud to invest in high-quality, critical infrastructure projects which generate sustained economic and development benefits for Tuvaluan communities.
New cargo shed and passenger terminal at Nui harbour improve transport options for Tuvalu's island communities
The upgraded Nui Island harbour was officially opened on 15 June 2024, with support from the AIFFP and the ADB
Tuvalu's Nui harbour opens with climate-resilient upgrades, supported by the AIFFP and ADB funding
Upgraded Nui harbour strengthens local communities by improving access to essential services and boosting economic opportunities.