BY JOY OFASIA
The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock made history yesterday when it launched the country’s first-ever Agriculture National Advisory Council (ANAC) during the World Food Day celebration at the Heritage Park Hotel.
Speaking at the event, Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL), Hon. Derek Wasi, said the launch of Agriculture National Advisory Council (ANAC) marks a new chapter for the Solomon Islands in how the country plans and develops its agriculture sector.
“ANAC will serve as a national platform for coordination, policy advice, and partnership,” Hon. Wasi said. “It brings together the best minds and experiences from government, private sector, farmers, academia, and partners to ensure that our agricultural sector is guided by sound advice, innovation, and shared responsibility.”
He said ANAC will help strengthen open dialogue and teamwork in agriculture, working toward a shared national vision of a productive, resilient, and sustainable sector.
The launch was supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), whose representative, Professor Raluca, praised the government’s strong commitment to agriculture.
“This launch reflects a renewed national commitment to strengthen agriculture — not only for food and nutrition security, but also as a foundation for economic growth, resilience, and national identity,” she said.
Professor Raluca added that this is the first time since independence that such a high-level body will be created to give expert advice on agriculture.
“This is a truly transformative step,” she said. “It shows the government’s forward-looking approach — bringing everyone together, from farmers and youth to private sector and government, so no one is left behind.”
Minister Wasi also thanked the UNDP, FAO, World Bank, Japan, UNICEF, New Zealand, Australia, China, and especially the farmers, women, and youth who continue to work hard every day to feed the nation.
“Let us work hand-in-hand, guided by our Solomon Islands values of unity, respect, and stewardship, to build a better food system for our children and generations to come,” Hon. Wasi said.