Outreach program boosts farmer capacity on Ugi Island
BY LORETTA B MANELE
A week-long livestock awareness and veterinary outreach program has successfully strengthened farming knowledge and animal health practices across six communities on Ugi Island in Makira/Ulawa Province.
A statement from the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development (MALD) yesterday said the initiative funded by the Solomon Islands Agriculture Rural Transformation (SIART) Project, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development (MALD), was conducted from April 23 to 29, 2026.
A total 173 community members including women and youth participated in the program.
MALD said the project aims to increase agricultural production, improve market access, and enhance rural livelihoods through supporting farmers with training, infrastructure, and resources across 3 key provinces of Malaita, Guadalcanal and Makira-Ulawa.
“Through activities such as livestock outreach, agribusiness support, and extension services, SIART plays a critical role in improving food security and building the capacity of rural communities,” said MALD.
The program led by senior officers from the Livestock and Extension Departments covered Su’Ena, Hakanipua, Makia, Mwanipua, Tawarodo, and Sungesau communities.
The outreach was carried out using classroom-style awareness sessions and practical demonstrations with focus on livestock disease prevention, nutrition, husbandry practices, and biosecurity measures.
Farmers were also trained to carry out basic procedures like pig castration and proper animal handling techniques.
One community representative appreciated the initiative saying it has helped them to better understand how to care for their animals.
“We have learned practical skills that will improve the health of our livestock and support our families’ livelihoods.”
MALD said a key component of the program was veterinary services of which livestock were treated for common conditions including parasitic infections such as mange and worm infestations.
The Ministry highlighted that these issues were found to be largely preventable through improved hygiene and feeding practices.
A MALD livestock officer said their goal is to empower farmers with the knowledge and skills needed to prevent disease and improve productivity.
The officer said such a program is essential to strengthen rural livelihoods and ensure sustainable livestock development.
A major challenge found among the farmers by the touring team is the limited knowledge of animal husbandry.
“….but initiatives such as this program play a vital role in bridging that gap and building long-term capacity,” said MALD.
MALD said despite having faced logistical constraints, including transport and equipment limitations, the program successfully delivered training, treatment, and advisory services to participating communities.
The Ministry said the initiative is expected to contribute to improved livestock productivity, enhanced food security, and stronger rural livelihoods across Makira Province.
The (SIART) Project is a World Bank-funded initiative implemented by the MALD to strengthen the country’s agriculture sector.
Photo credit: MALD
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