The Agriculture Investment for Markets and Nutrition (AIM‑N) Project is steadily advancing its baseline survey across Choiseul, Isabel and Western Provinces, marking an important early milestone for the six‑year national agriculture and nutrition initiative under the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development.
Despite transport disruptions and delays caused by Tropical Cyclone Maila, survey teams have continued fieldwork, gathering essential data on household livelihoods, food security, nutrition, agricultural production, income and market participation. This information will form the foundation for planning targeted investments and measuring progress throughout the life of the project.
So far, 447 households have been interviewed 298 in Western Province and 149 in the Southwest Region of Isabel Province. The baseline aims to cover 894 households, representing about 30% of AIM‑N’s total beneficiary communities. Preparations for Choiseul Province and remaining areas of Isabel are well advanced, with logistics now being finalised.
AIM‑N Project Manager Samantha Maeke said the baseline process is crucial for ensuring the project responds to real community needs. She emphasised that listening to farmers, women, youth and households will help shape investments that strengthen food security, nutrition and climate‑resilient agriculture.
Monitoring & Evaluation Manager Edward Suinao praised the cooperation shown by communities, noting that participants have been open and willing to share valuable insights. Community members including farmers, mothers and young people expressed optimism, highlighting the importance of linking agriculture with nutrition and welcoming AIM‑N’s direct engagement with rural villages.
Once data collection is completed, the information will be analysed and compiled into baseline reports to guide implementation and track progress over the next six years.
Despite weather challenges and the geographical spread of remote island communities, the ongoing survey demonstrates strong commitment from AIM‑N, provincial partners and participating communities to building a solid evidence base for future agricultural and nutrition investments.
Source: Ministry of Agriculture Media
