BY NED GAGAHE
The Australian High Commission, in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL), officially launched the design phase and stakeholder consultation workshop for the Solomon Islands Climate Resilient Agriculture Development Programme.
The event was held yesterday at Club HP, Heritage Park Hotel, Honiara.
Speaking at the launch, MAL Permanent Secretary, Dr Samson Viulu expressed deep gratitude to the Australian Government for its continued support towards strengthening the country’s agriculture sector and building resilience against climate change.
“It is with deep gratitude and a strong sense of shared purpose that I respond to the remarks delivered by your Excellency this morning.
“On behalf of the Solomon Islands Government through the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, and the many rural communities we serve, I extend our sincere appreciation for Australia’s continued commitment to our agricultural development and climate resilience.
“Today marks not just the launch of a design phase, it marks a reaffirmation of a partnership rooted in trust, respect, and a shared vision for a stronger, more resilient Solomon Islands,” he said.
Viulu highlighted that agriculture is not merely an economic activity but the “lifeblood of Solomon Islanders” a source of food, culture, and livelihood.
“We are especially encouraged by the focus of this new initiative not only on productivity and profitability, but on resilience, innovation, and empowerment,” he added.
Running from 2026 to 2029, this major Australian-funded project aims to strengthen agricultural productivity, resilience, and inclusivity across the country, particularly for rural communities facing increasing climate pressures.
Australia’s Deputy High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Andrew Schloeffel, said the programme represents a new chapter in the Solomon Islands–Australia partnership for sustainable agriculture.
“It is a great honour to join you today for the launch of the design phase of this important partnership — a new initiative that will help strengthen agriculture and support communities to become more climate resilient,” Mr Schloeffel said.
He noted that around 80 percent of Solomon Islanders depend on agriculture for food, income, and community wellbeing.
“People living across every corner of this beautiful country from shore to shore depend on the land and the sea for their daily wellbeing. When agriculture is strong, the nation is strong,” he said.
Schloeffel added that climate change poses serious threats to the livelihoods of rural communities through rising temperatures, changing rainfall patterns, and saltwater intrusion.
The consultation workshop brought together government ministries, development partners, farmers’ representatives, and private sector stakeholders to help shape a shared vision for a climate-resilient agricultural sector.
The programme is expected to play a key role in helping Solomon Islands adapt to climate change impacts while promoting sustainable growth and inclusive development across rural communities.
Photos: Supplied
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