The Makira-Ulawa Provincial Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening agricultural development through a high-level courtesy call to the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development (MALD) on 23 April 2026.
The Premier, accompanied by members of the Provincial Executive and the Provincial Secretary, met with the Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development, Hon. Nestor Giro and his management team to review progress on joint commitments made over the past year and to discuss priority development initiatives for the province.
Discussions centred on advancing key agricultural programmes, including the development of a 5-hectare site at Okea. Both parties acknowledged the importance of accelerating implementation efforts to deliver tangible benefits to rural communities.
Minister Giro welcomed the delegation and reiterated the Ministry’s strong support for Makira-Ulawa Province. He emphasized MALD’s commitment to ensuring that all agreed initiatives are effectively implemented, highlighting the importance of collaboration in achieving sustainable agricultural growth.
Among the key outcomes discussed was the Okea Land Project, where processes are underway for unexploded ordnance clearance, to be considered by the Central Tender Board. Once completed, development plans will include land clearing, fencing, and the establishment of a commercial poultry project.
The meeting also addressed the temporary suspension of the Coconut and Cocoa Rehabilitation Programme due to challenges surrounding CEMA fees, which have impacted farmers and market prices.
Both parties acknowledged the need for resolution to restore confidence in the sector.
Progress was noted under the Revolving Fund Programme, with funds already disbursed to support beneficiary identification. The province also expressed interest in reviving cattle breeding and production, with MALD confirming its support.
In addition, discussions covered the proposed re-establishment of the Hauratarata Agriculture Training and Field Experimental Station at Marou Bay, as well as plans for a new MALD office in Kirakira, supported by the World Bank.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both parties reaffirming their shared commitment to enhancing agricultural productivity, strengthening partnerships, and improving livelihoods across Makira-Ulawa Province and the Solomon Islands.
