The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL), through its Solomon Islands Agriculture and Rural Transformation (SIART) Project, has successfully handed over 30 generators to Agribusiness Producer Organizations (ABPOs) across the provinces of Malaita, Makira/Ulawa, and Guadalcanal.
A formal handover ceremony was held on Wednesday, 25th June 2025, at the SIART Project Office located at MAL Headquarters, Lee Kwou Kwen Building, Point Cruz. During the event, generators were symbolically presented to six ABPOs from Guadalcanal Province, with the remaining equipment scheduled for delivery to ABPOs in Malaita and Makira/Ulawa Provinces.
The Guadalcanal ABPOs receiving generators included:
- MK FARM ABPO – Fruit trees.
- NORTH GUADALCANAL ABPO – Fruit trees.
- TOROMAHI ABPO – Cocoa.
- CAP FAMILY – Cocoa.
- RP FAMILY ABPO – Cocoa.
- THAVOA ABPO – Cocoa.
Overall Generator Distribution by Province:
- Guadalcanal Province – 15 generators
- Makira/Ulawa Province – 10 generators
- Malaita Province – 5 generators
Total beneficiaries: 30 ABPOs
Total value of equipment: SBD 198,000.00
Speaking at the event, MAL/SIART Project Manager Mr. William Okekini emphasized the critical role of such investments in supporting rural agricultural development:
“These machines are catalysts for change. We urge all recipients to ensure their proper use, care, and maintenance to maximize their long-term value for both the farms and the wider community. Use them for their intended purpose.”
Representatives from the ABPOs expressed sincere gratitude, noting that this was the first time they had received such significant support from the Ministry. Many highlighted the expected positive impact of the generators on their operational management, particularly in improving efficiency in farm record-keeping, office administration, and overall productivity.
The event concluded with a shared commitment to responsible equipment use and strengthened collaboration between MAL, the SIART Project, and beneficiary ABPOs to drive inclusive rural transformation in the Solomon Islands.
The MAL/SIART Project is proudly funded by the World Bank Group and aims to increase agricultural production and empower rural communities through capacity-building, access to appropriate technologies, and improved market access.
Source: MAL Press Release
