BY JOY OFASIA
Today, the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) held a official celebration at the Heritage Park Hotel in Honiara to mark World Food Day 2025.
The event focused on this year’s theme, “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future,” highlighting the importance of working together to improve food security across the Solomon Islands.
Hon. Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, Franklyn Derek Wasi, spoke at the opening ceremony, calling the day a “special moment for agriculture and the people of Solomon Islands.”
“Food is life, and agriculture is the heartbeat of our islands,” he said. “The theme carries a powerful message of unity and shared purpose. It reminds us that we must work together—government, private sector, development partners, farmers, chiefs, women, and youth—all hand in hand to build a resilient food system for our islands.”
The minister also noted the moral responsibility of ensuring food security. “It is not just a policy goal; it is a duty rooted deeply in our Solomon Islands way of life. Our customs, our sharing of food, and our respect for the land and sea that sustain us are all part of this responsibility,” Hon. Wasi said.
Agriculture remains the backbone of the rural economy, supporting nearly 80% of the population. “It connects our people to their land, sustains our families, and supports our economy,” he added. “Yet, we must also face the challenges our farmers encounter, including climate change, pests and diseases, limited access to markets, and lack of financing and technology.”
The day also featured presentations, food displays, and the launch of the Agriculture National Advisory Council (ANAC) and the MAL Corporate Plan 2025–2028, marking key steps forward for the sector.
World Food Day is celebrated globally every year on 16 October to commemorate the founding of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in 1945.
