BY NED GAGAHE
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has been supporting Solomon Islands’ preparations for its scheduled graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status in 2027, including efforts to strengthen the country’s capacity to access international export markets.
Speaking to the media on Solomon Islands’ readiness for graduation, UNDP Programme Specialist Solomon Kalu highlighted one example of the organisation’s assistance through support for the country’s public health laboratory accreditation process.
Mr Kalu said UNDP had worked closely with the Government through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Health to assess the National Public Health Laboratory and prepare it for international accreditation standards.
“Years ago, we supported the Government through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Health to conduct assessments of the National Public Health Laboratory so that it can eventually be accredited to certify exports,” Mr Kalu said.
He explained that achieving accreditation is an important step towards expanding Solomon Islands’ access to overseas markets and strengthening the country’s competitiveness as it transitions from its LDC status.
“We are looking at what products and opportunities Solomon Islands can access in external markets. At the moment, the laboratory does not yet have that accreditation, but the process has been initiated and supported by UNDP,” he said.
Mr Kalu said while the accreditation process remains ongoing, the support provided is part of broader efforts to ensure the country is better prepared for the economic realities that will come with graduation.
He said that strengthening national institutions and meeting international standards are important components of Solomon Islands’ transition from LDC status, particularly as the country seeks to diversify exports and participate more effectively in global trade.
The comments come amid growing discussions on the country’s readiness for graduation in 2027, when Solomon Islands is expected to lose access to some of the special concessions and preferential treatment currently available to Least Developed Countries.
UNDP continues to work alongside the Government and development partners to support reforms and capacity-building initiatives that aim to ensure a smooth and sustainable transition.
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