BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
While the launch of the first ever Agriculture National Advisory Council (ANAC) reflects a renewed national commitment to strengthen agriculture, as a sector for food and nutrition security, importantly, it is a foundation of economic growth, resilience, and national identity.
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Deputy Resident Representative, Prof. Raluca highlighted this at the launch of the ANAC during this year’s World Food Day celebration at Heritage Park Hotel on Monday this week.
She said that the establishment of ANAC was truly a transformative step for the Solomon Islands.
“The country, for the first time, will have a dedicated high-level council that brings together experts, academics, value chain professionals, private sector representatives, to advise the government on matters of agriculture policy, innovation, and development. This initiative demonstrates the government’s forward-looking approach, its vision, recognising that the most powerful solutions emerge when we bring everyone together, everyone around this table,” she said.
She further said that it also reflects the UNDP spirit of leaving no one behind, and engaging farmers, women, youth, and the private sector, alongside government and academia in the sector.
“Agriculture in the Solomon Islands, as we all know, faces complex challenges, from climate change to invasive species, soil degradation, limited market access, and the need to attract young people into farming. ANAC provides a mechanism to confront these challenges head-on by generating evidence-based, science-driven, and inclusive policy advice to guide decision-making,” Prof. Raluca said.
She commends the Minister, the Permanent Secretary, and the entire Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) team for their visionary leadership in bringing the council to life.
Prof. Raluca also acknowledged the Minister for Health and Medical Services, the Permanent Secretary, distinguished members of the Diplomatic Corps, officials from government ministries, farmers, agribusiness leaders, women and youth representatives, and partners who were part of the celebration.
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