MALD launches the AIM-N Project in Isabel Province to boost food security, nutrition and rural livelihoods
The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development (MALD) today has officially launched the Agricultural Investment for Markets and Nutrition (AIM-N) Project in Isabel Province, marking a significant milestone in the Government’s efforts to strengthen food security, nutrition, agricultural productivity, and rural livelihoods across Solomon Islands.
Launching the project, Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Hon. Franklyn Derek Wasi described AIM-N as one of the most significant agricultural investments delivered to rural communities in recent years.
“This is a historic morning for Isabel Province, for the people of Solomon Islands, and for every rural farming family whose hard work, resilience, and patience have brought us to this moment,” Hon Wasi said.
The AIM-N Project is financed through a partnership between the Solomon Islands Government, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and the Global Agriculture and Food Security Program, with a total investment of US20 million dollars over six years.
Minister Wasi emphasized that AIM-N is designed to create lasting change for rural communities.
“AIM-N is not a handout. It is not a short-term project that will come and go. It is designed for our farmers, our women, our youth, and our communities who deserve better opportunities and stronger support systems,” he said.
The project focuses on four key areas: improving nutrition, strengthening market access for farmers, investing in resilient agri-food systems, and enhancing disaster response capabilities. Isabel Province is one of three target provinces selected for full implementation, alongside Western and Choiseul Provinces.
Under the project, rural households will receive nutrition education, farmer groups will be linked to markets and buyers, women’s groups will access competitive grants, and young graduates will be recruited and trained as Young Professionals to support implementation at the community level.
Hon. Josiah Laumana, Acting Premier and Finance Minister of Isabel Province welcomed the initiative and reaffirmed the Provincial Government’s commitment to supporting its implementation.
“Today marks an important milestone in our province’s development journey. It reflects a shared commitment between the Government of Solomon Islands, our development partners, and our communities to improve food security, strengthen nutrition, increase rural incomes, and build more resilient farming systems for future generations,” he said.
Hon. Laumana noted that many communities throughout Isabel continue to face challenges associated with remoteness, limited market access, climate vulnerability, and dependence on subsistence livelihoods.
“The AIM-N Project responds directly to these challenges through an integrated approach that brings together agriculture, nutrition, market development, and climate resilience,” he said.
He assures the provincial government stands ready to work closely with MALD, development partners, and communities to ensure the project’s success.
Provincial Minister of Health Hon. Nathaniel Gudfraede highlighted the critical link between agriculture, nutrition, and public health.
“This is an important occasion and an important program. It will help farmers and improve nutrition by ensuring healthy food reaches our schools and communities as planned,” he said.
Hon. Gudfraede encouraged farmers to prioritize the production of nutritious foods alongside commercial crops.
“Good nutrition is essential because we need healthy students, healthy workers, and healthy communities. If we do not eat healthy foods, especially our local foods, we cannot expect to enjoy good health and long lives,” he said.
He also welcomed opportunities to align agricultural development with ongoing provincial infrastructure investments, particularly along the Kolosori Road corridor.
Chief Education Officer James Evo, speaking on behalf of the Provincial Minister of Education, emphasized the important relationship between nutrition and learning outcomes.
“Healthy and well-nourished children are better able to attend school regularly, concentrate in class, and achieve their full potential,” Mr. Evo said.
“By supporting local farmers and increasing access to nutritious food, this program contributes not only to economic growth but also to improved educational outcomes for our communities.”
Mr. Evo encouraged all stakeholders to actively support the initiative and work together to ensure its long-term success.
The AIM-N Project aims to reach approximately 17,000 beneficiaries across Solomon Islands, with a strong focus on women, youth, and Indigenous communities. Through partnerships, community participation, and targeted investments, the project seeks to improve household incomes, strengthen food systems, and build more resilient rural communities.
PRESS RELEASE
