Solomon Islands Farmers Receive Over $300,000 in Agriculture Grants

Rural farmers across Guadalcanal, Malaita, and Makira provinces in the Solomon Islands have received a significant financial injection, with the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) disbursing SBD $304,234 in cash grants.

This funding, provided through the World Bank-funded Solomon Islands Agriculture and Rural Transformation (SIART) project, aims to bolster agricultural productivity and empower smallholder farmers.

A farmer from Wahia Farmers Association in Makira Province harvests ripe cocoa pods as part of efforts to boost local cocoa production. The support from the SIART project is helping smallholder farmers improve yields and market access. Photo: MAL

The grants were distributed to 28 Agri-Business Producer Organizations (ABPOs), comprising community farmer groups and family-run farms specializing in cocoa, coconut, and small livestock production. These funds will cover critical expenses, including administration, logistics, training, and the construction of essential drying facilities.

Twelve ABPOs in Malaita Province have received funding. These include the Kafonaliki Coconut Farmers Association, Green Ag Farm Community Company, Aibilaka Cocoa and Coconut Buying Enterprises, Faufua Cocoa Farmers Association, JED Farmers Association, Ngalifasi Farmers Associations, Taki Farmers Association, Alisuri CCCL, Malaha Farmers Association, Northern Dove Association, Rehoboth Farmers Association, and Lamokwa Kindred Farmers Association.

Ten ABPOs in Guadalcanal Province have received funding. These organizations include Haevango Cocoa Farmers, CAP Family Enterprise, Atunoda Family Farmer Association, Gold Ridge Community Women Association, MK Farm Fresh Organic Farm, Toromahi Cocoa Community Company Ltd, North Guadalcanal Fruit Tree Association, Ghautina Farmers Association, Makambo Community Company Ltd, and RP Family Enterprise.

Six ABPOs in Makira Province have received funding. These include Central Bauro CCL, Vaimatesa Produce Group, RRR Investments Farmers Association, Nukukaisi Agribusiness Networking, IGAU Cocoa Association, and Wahia Farmers Association Trust Board.

The SIART project allocated SBD $10,143,519.25 for 28 approved ABPOs. With an overall goal of supporting 66 ABPO projects, the total estimated grants will exceed SBD $20 million.

Each ABPO must be officially registered, maintain a bank account, and have a membership of 15 to 50 households. Additionally, all recipient groups contributed 10% of the total funding, amounting to SBD $1,004,351.93.

The SIART project represents a significant investment in the Solomon Islands' agriculture sector. It aims to improve rural farmers' productivity, market access, and economic resilience.

The project, which will conclude in December 2026, is expected to deliver long-term benefits by strengthening food security and supporting sustainable farming practices throughout the country.