BY TONY IROGA
The Solomon Islands Ports Authority (SIPA) launched a new digital application designed to improve access to shipping information and support the country’s growing domestic shipping industry.
Speaking during the launch of the SSH App at the SIPA Conference Room in Honiara yesterday, SIPA Information Technology (ICT) Manager Timothy Sikwauta said the application will provide the public with real-time vessel schedules, service updates, and important announcements.
“The vision behind this app is to support the growing local shipping industry, improve jetty management, and provide easy access to real-time vessel arrival and departure schedules,” Mr Sikwauta said.
He said the app will allow users to receive updates on vessel arrivals and departures, delays, cancellations, notices, available shipping services, and official announcements from Solomon Islands Shipping Services (SSH).
He said the local shipping industry plays a vital role in the country’s economy, with more than 100 vessels operating across the islands.
“Our local shipping industry is the lifeblood of the Solomon Islands economy. It moves processed goods and building materials to the rural areas and transports commodities to Honiara for export,” he said.
He explained that the app will improve visibility of vessel movements by providing real-time information on departure and arrival times, jetty status, and vessel bookings.
“For the first time, people will have access to online shipping schedules, allowing them to better plan their travel.
“Rural farmers can prepare copra, cocoa, coconuts, timber and other produce for shipment, while shop owners can organise the transport of goods more efficiently,” Mr. Sikwauta said.
He said the app will also strengthen jetty management by providing equal berthing opportunities for shipping operators, reducing congestion, preventing unplanned vessel berthing, and minimising lengthy berth occupancy.
In addition to shipping schedules, the SSH App includes live statistics on active vessels, delays, upcoming departures, popular routes, fleet operators, recent vessel activity, and emergency safety contacts.
Users will also have access to a five-day weather forecast featuring wind conditions, rainfall, humidity, visibility, wave height, swell height, and tide information to help passengers and vessel operators make informed travel decisions.
The app also includes safety guidelines, contact information for SSH, and a feedback feature, providing a one-stop platform for shipping information and customer support.
Photo credit: Tony Iroga
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