BY JOY OFASIA
The Minister for Agriculture and Livestock (MAL), Hon. Franklyn D. Wasi, has called on MAL officers to take bold steps in implementing key government policies during the official opening of the Ministry’s Annual Planning Conference at the Honiara Hotel yesterday.
Speaking to staff and officials, Hon. Wasi outlined eight priority areas that the GNUT Government has tasked the Ministry with since taking office. These include initiatives such as the cocoa and coconut revolving fund, cassava and taro export development, pineapple export infrastructure, and improving rural shipping access.
“These priorities form the bedrock of our sector-wide transformation, anchored in inclusive growth, improved market access, and food sovereignty,” he said.
The Minister highlighted the progress made through donor-funded projects, praising partners for their role beyond just financial support.
“These partners are not just funding sources but are strategic alliances helping us build resilience, systems, and capacity within our ministry and across provinces,” Hon. Wasi explained.
He reminded the team that planning alone is not enough and stressed the need for concrete action.
“Our goal is not just to develop plans but to implement them effectively, and that will require discipline, innovation, and stronger collaboration both within our ministry and with external partners,” he said.
Calling the conference a “critical moment,” Hon. Wasi encouraged staff to actively participate throughout the four-day event.
“This conference is a critical moment to reflect, reassess, and realign our plans. I encourage each of you to engage effectively—whether reviewing work plans, budgets, or institutional reforms—and remember that your contribution matters,” he urged.
The Minister concluded by commending the hard work of the MAL team and encouraging nationwide unity in transforming agriculture.
“Let us work together—across departments, across islands, across institutions—to truly transform agriculture into a vehicle for national prosperity,” he said.
The MAL Annual Planning Conference continues through Friday, May 23.
