ADB Approves support for Tuvalu Maritime Infrastructure

The Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) board of directors has approved a US$15.4 million (FJ$32.99m) grant as additional financing for the ongoing Tuvalu Outer Island Maritime Infrastructure Project.

“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,” said ADB Pacific Department Director for Transport, Energy, and Natural Resources Olly Norojono. “Climate resilience is being incorporated in project design and operations.”

The additional grant will finance the construction of a harbor in Niutao to higher standards of climate resilience.

The ongoing project, approved by ADB in 2016, is financing the construction of a similar harbor in Nukulaelae and boat ramps in Niutao and Nanumaga.