THE Malaita Provincial Youth Council (MPYC) has achieved another milestone by issuing sub-grants to youth groups across Malaita Province through the support of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).
A total of 14 sub-grants were awarded to youth groups throughout Malaita, including the Polynesian inhabited Malaita Outer Islands (MOI), which encompass Lord Howe and Sikaiana.
The recipients of the grants include Besi Youth in Ward 7, Ambu Youth in Ward 1, Lilisiana in Ward 1, Malaita Youth Hub, Kakara Youth in Ward 4, a youth group in East Baelelea, Ngariwane Youth in Ward 27, Manawai Youth Group in Ward 19, Aulutalau Youth Association in Ward 21, two youth groups in MOI, Tabaa Youth Association in Ward 9 and Red Cross Volunteers in Auki.
The grant awards were signed and issued following a weeklong young leaders’ advocacy and empowerment training held in Auki last week.
The training featured visits to youth-led business initiatives and presentations from leaders of the Malaita Provincial Government and local indigenous entrepreneurs.
The grants will support youth-driven initiatives identified by the respective groups, focusing on activities such as small and medium enterprise development, cocoa and coconut rehabilitation, taro farming, poultry and melon farming, as well as advocacy efforts on climate change, economic empowerment for youth and women, leadership and gender equality.
At the signing ceremony, the Malaita Provincial Government Minister for Women, Youth and Children, John Sugono urged the grant recipients to approach the funding support with determination and commitment to implement their activities.
He highlighted that the youth of Malaita have the potential to contribute meaningfully to their communities and the province as a whole.
“Remember, youth are the future of Malaita and the Solomon Islands. We must continue to work hard and push forward for a better future,” Minister Sugono said.
Speaking on behalf of all 14 sub-grant recipients, Abel Wanesuia from the Besi Youth Group from Ward 7 in North Malaita, acknowledged DFAT and MPYC for their support towards the empowerment of youth groups across Malaita, including MOI.
Each youth group received a grant of SBD10,000 dollars to carry out their respective projects.
By SOLOMON LOFANA
Solomon Star, Auki
