The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) and the Agriculture Investment for Markets and Nutrition (AIM-N) Project have paid a courtesy call to Western Province Premier Hon. Billy Veo, reinforcing provincial partnership ahead of the project’s implementation.
AIM-N Project Manager Ms. Samantha Maeke briefed the Premier and his Deputy Secretary on the project’s objectives, scope, and rollout plan, emphasizing the importance of provincial leadership, coordination, and alignment with development priorities.
“This project will only succeed through strong provincial ownership. Our goal is to work side-by-side with Western Province to deliver real impact for farmers, families, and communities,” Ms. Maeke said.
The courtesy call aimed to formally introduce AIM-N at the leadership level, clarify roles between MAL, the AIM-N Project Implementation Unit (PIU), and the Provincial Government, secure provincial endorsement, and establish coordination arrangements ahead of PIU staff deployment.
Premier Billy Veo welcomed the delegation and pledged his government’s support to the project.
“Western Province is fully committed to working with the AIM-N Project. We are ready to partner closely to ensure this program delivers meaningful benefits to our people,” Premier Veo stated.
While in Gizo the MAL and AIM-N delegation also had briefings with the provincial agriculture and extension staff at the MAL Extension Office. The team was received by Chief Field Officer Mr. Sipuru Rove, who praised the initiative.
“This project has the potential to transform agriculture in Western Province. It will strengthen extension services, empower farmers, and improve livelihoods across our communities,” Mr. Rove said.
Director of Agriculture Extension Mr. Andrew Melanolu highlighted the critical role of frontline officers.
“Our extension officers are the backbone of agricultural development. AIM-N will strengthen their capacity and ensure farmers receive practical, timely, and effective support,” he said.
The AIM-N Project focuses on boosting agricultural productivity, strengthening market access, improving nutrition outcomes, empowering women, and increasing incomes for rural households across Solomon Islands.
The visiting delegation is expected to held more briefings with Gizo nutrition team of the Ministry of Health & Medical Services, provincial education authority and provincial officials of the Ministry of Women, Youth and Children and Family affairs before returning to Honiara on Wednesday 28th.
