The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development (MALD), through the Solomon Islands Agriculture and Rural Transformation (SIART) Project, today successfully held its ground breaking ceremony for its new Auki Office in Malaita Province.
The ceremony was led by the Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development, Hon. Nestor Giro, and attended by the Prime Minister, Hon. Jeremiah Manele, as Guest of Honour, alongside officials from the Malaita Provincial Government and key stakeholders.
The event marked a major milestone in strengthening agricultural infrastructure and service delivery in Malaita, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to supporting farmers and agribusiness development across the province.
In his remarks at the event Hon. Nestor Giro highlighted the significance of the project and MALD’s commitment to rural transformation.
“Today marks a very significant milestone, not only for the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, but also for farmers, agribusiness groups, and communities across Malaita. Once completed, this office will serve as a key hub for delivering agricultural services, strengthening coordination, and supporting the growth of agriculture in the province.
“To our farmers and stakeholders, this development is for you. It represents our shared commitment to building a more resilient and productive agricultural sector that benefits all,” he said.
He added strong partnership between all stakeholders involved is needed for the successfully completion of the project.
“This is a jointly funded infrastructure project by the Solomon Islands Government and the World Bank through the SIART Project. MALD is proud to work in partnership with the World Bank and the SIART Project team to support initiatives like this, which aim to improve infrastructure, enhance service delivery, and empower our Agribusiness Producer Organizations,” he said.
Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele, in his remarks said the project is in line with the government’s national policy.
“The construction of this new office, supported by the SIART Project and implemented by MALD, is aligned with the Government of National Unity and Transformation policy particularly its pillars of infrastructure development and economic transformation.”
He added that the new facility will play a critical role in advancing agricultural development in the province.
“This modern, state-of-the-art facility will serve as a central hub for agricultural operations in Malaita. It will improve coordination, enhance service delivery, and strengthen engagement with farmers and Agribusiness Producer Organizations throughout the province.”
Malaita Province Premier Hon Elijah Asilaua in his remarks thanked the government for their support to the province’s agriculture sector.
“Agriculture we know is the backbone of the economy, it provides livelihoods for the majority of our people, with this new office the province looks forward to the sector developing and the government supporting our people through the services offered by the Ministry of Agriculture,” he said.
World Bank Representative Mr. Allan Tobalbal, Oliverin his remarks said World bank is happy to support the project and looks forward to completion of the project.
“We are pleased to support this project, as the Ministry of Agriculture’s extension services in the province will help drive growth in the sector. Through this initiative, we are committed to strengthening agribusiness in rural areas while supporting the Solomon Islands Government. The construction of the new Auki office for the ministry will significantly contribute to private sector development, particularly for those involved in agriculture,” he said.
Meanwhile JQY Enterprise Limited Owner Mr. JQY said they are committed to ensuring that the project delivers benefits beyond infrastructure.
“For me personally, this occasion holds special meaning. I am not a stranger to Malaita Province. I first came to Auki in 2002, and over the years, it has become like a second home. As we move into the construction phase, JQY Enterprise Limited is committed to ensuring that this project delivers benefits beyond infrastructure. We will prioritise local employment, provide opportunities for skills development, and actively support local businesses throughout the construction process. Through dedication, teamwork, and close coordination with all stakeholders, we are confident that the project will be successfully completed within the agreed timeframe,” he said.
The new Auki Agriculture Office is funded jointly by the Solomon Islands Government and the World Bank through the SIART Project. Construction has now officially commenced following the ground-breaking ceremony.
