BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Minister of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) Franklyn Wasi has acknowledged MAL provincial teams and partners for their ongoing support for the agriculture sector.

Minister Wasi expressed his gratitude at the Honiara Hotel on Monday this week when he officially opened the 2025, five-day MAL Annual Planning Conference.

He told the participants that agriculture continues to be the cornerstone of the Solomon Islands’ national economy.

He said that Agriculture serves as the primary source of national income, sustaining approximately 85 per cent of the rural population through food crops, cash crops and livestock which are essential for daily livelihoods and social security.

He said that the agricultural sector, excluding fisheries and forestry, on average, contributes about 16 per cent to the country’s gross domestic product.

“To our provincial teams: your role is crucial. You are the face of the ministry on the ground. To our development partners, we thank you for your continued support and welcome deeper collaboration,” Wasi said.

“To our technical officers and planners: bring your best thinking to this conference because what we do here sets the direction for the year ahead,” he said.

He also thanked the dedicated staff of MAL, the Permanent Secretary, Deputy Secretaries, Corporate Services Officers, Directors, Provincial Chief Field Officers and development partners.

“Your continued commitment and collaboration are the driving force behind our progress.  Let us work together across departments, islands and institutions to transform agriculture into a vehicle for national prosperity.

“May your discussions be productive, your resolutions ambitious and your vision for agriculture bold and inclusive,” Wasi concluded.

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