The Deputy Prime Minister of Solomon Islands, Hon. Francis Sade, participated in the launch of the groundbreaking Commonwealth Nature Initiative (CNI) during the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) held in St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda.
At the launch event aboard the Fortescue Green Pioneer on 2 November 2026, the Commonwealth announced a landmark initial pledge of USD 202.2 million from governments, philanthropic organizations, and conservation partners to accelerate progress towards the global 30×30 target, which aims to protect at least 30% of the world’s land and oceans by 2030.
The initiative plans to raise a further USD 1 billion by 2030 to finance conservation work across Commonwealth countries.
In his statement during the launch, Hon. Francis Sade emphasized the significance of this initiative for Small Island Developing States like Solomon Islands:
“The Solomon Islands welcomes the Commonwealth Nature Initiative as a critical platform to mobilize collective action and resources for the protection and restoration of our unique ecosystems. For our communities, nature is not just our environment, it is our life source.
“We commit to aligning our national development strategies with this initiative, advancing conservation, sustainable resource management, and climate resilience at every level.”
The CNI brings together nations from regions including the Caribbean, Pacific, Africa, and beyond, combining efforts of governments, Indigenous peoples, local communities, and philanthropic partners to:
• Establish and expand terrestrial and marine protected areas,
• Invest in programs that strengthen Indigenous peoples’ rights and local governance,
• Support conservation finance initiatives such as the Eastern Caribbean’s 30×30 Transformation Program, the Africa Keystone Protected Area Partnership, and the Unlocking Blue Pacific Prosperity initiative.
The launch underscores the Commonwealth’s pivotal role in protecting biodiversity, spanning nearly a quarter of the world’s land area and over 40% of global ocean Exclusive Economic Zones.
This initiative addresses the urgent need to accelerate conservation, enhance climate resilience, and support sustainable livelihoods across member states.
The Solomon Islands is proud to be part of this historic commitment, reinforcing its dedication to safeguarding nature as a foundation for climate resilience, economic prosperity, and human security.
