WVSI and Malaita Provincial Government sign landmark Memorandum of Understanding

World Vision Solomon Islands (WVSI) and the Malaita Provincial Government (MPG) officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 1 June, 2026 at Auki, Malaita Province, marking a significant milestone in strengthening collaboration and coordination to improve the well-being of children and communities across the province.  

The agreement formalizes a shared commitment to align development priorities, strengthen cooperation, and ensure that development interventions are effectively coordinated to maximize impacts for communities throughout Malaita Province.

The signing ceremony was attended by Malaita Provincial Premier Hon. Elijah Asilaua, members of the Provincial Executive and Assembly, senior provincial leaders, representatives from the New Zealand High Commission, government officials, development partners, faith leaders, community representatives, and other key stakeholders.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, WVSI Operations Manager Irene Marbun described the agreement as a powerful continuation of a long-standing partnership between World Vision and the people of Malaita.

“This MoU is not the beginning of our journey, but a powerful continuation. Since 1983, World Vision has walked side-by-side with the people of this province. This agreement is built on shared trust, mutual respect, and a common vision for our communities,” Ms. Marbun said.

She highlighted that World Vision currently implements five flagship projects across Malaita Province, namely the Addressm Klaemet Change for Strongim Komiuniti long Hapi Isles (ASK-SI) Regreening Project, Gender Equality and Protection Phase II (GEP2) Project, Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Project, Youth Social and Entrepreneurship Development Plus (YSED+) Project, Solomon Islands Ending Violence against Pikinini (SIEVAP), and the Climate Action for Resilient Asia (CARA) Project.

According to Ms. Marbun, the partnership will strengthen efforts to promote gender equality, child protection, climate resilience, disaster risk reduction, sustainable livelihoods, and community development.

“True development requires strong partnership between civil society and local government. This MoU provides a clear framework for us to work side-by-side with the Malaita Provincial Government, align our actions with provincial priorities, and support a shared vision for a green, safe, and prosperous Malaita,” she said.

Malaita Provincial Premier Hon. Elijah Asilaua welcomed the agreement and reaffirmed the Provincial Government’s commitment to the partnership.

“Today’s signing of the Memorandum of Understanding is more than just a formal agreement. It represents a shared mission, a shared responsibility, and a strengthened partnership between World Vision Solomon Islands and the Malaita Provincial Government,” Premier Asilaua said.

He emphasized that effective development can only be achieved through strong collaboration and proper coordination among government, development partners, and communities.

“When we work together in unity and proper coordination, we can deliver better and more effective services to our people. Through this MoU, we are setting a clear pathway for cooperation and strategic coordination to ensure development efforts empower our communities and bring lasting change,” he said.

Premier Asilaua also encouraged all non-government organizations operating in Malaita Province to work closely with the Provincial Government to ensure development initiatives are aligned with provincial priorities and avoid duplication of efforts.

Providing background on the agreement, WVSI Malaita Area Programme Manager Mr. Kelly Housiho explained that the MoU serves as an important framework for strengthening cooperation between WVSI and the Provincial Government.

“The MoU ensures that both parties understand each other’s development priorities and plans. It provides guidance for project implementation at provincial, ward, and community levels, while ensuring that development activities are coordinated and complementary,” Mr. Housiho said.

He added that the agreement will help improve information sharing, strengthen support from government stakeholders, and provide a clear mechanism for collaboration when implementing projects in communities throughout Malaita Province.

The signing of the MoU comes after more than 40 years of World Vision’s service and partnership with communities in Malaita Province and represents a renewed commitment to working together to address key development challenges affecting children, families, and communities.

Both parties expressed confidence that the strengthened partnership will contribute to more effective service delivery, improved coordination, and sustainable development outcomes for the people of Malaita Province.

PRESS RELEASE