SOLOMON Islands is represented at the 4th Pacific Week of Agriculture and Forestry (PWAF) in Nuku’alofa, Tonga this week.
On behalf of the Solomon Islands Government, Minister responsible for the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) Franklyn Derek Wasi, his Permanent Dr Samson Viulu and other officials are attending the event which opens this morning.
It will run until Friday, 30th May.
The conference is hosted by the Government of Tonga (Ministry of Agriculture Food and Forest- Tonga) with support from Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Pacific-Community-SPC.
This bi-annual event will bring together Pacific Island nations to address critical challenges and explore opportunities to transform agriculture and forestry across the region.
Reps from Kastom Gaden Association (KGA) are also attending the event today, Monday 26th May during a side they will be sharing an impact on KGA on the role of germplasm centres in supporting farmers in the Solomon Islands.
Between 2021 and 2024, KGA worked with farmers in three provinces to establish nine germplasm centres.
These centres helped distribute seeds, provide training, and support improved food production and resilience in rural communities.
7,000 farmers received seeds
60% of farmers successfully grew their crops
Over 2,000 farmers sold produce in local markets
Estimated income generated: SBD 508,200
1,680 farmers grew additional produce for household consumption
These efforts contributed to improved food security and income opportunities in remote areas.
Photo caption: Minister Franklyn Derek Wasi and his PS Dr Samson Viulu with other officials in Tonga. Photo supplied.
