Newly appointed Agriculture and Livestock Development Minister Nestor Giro has signed two funding agreements under the Commercial Agriculture Development Support Project, underscoring the Solomon Islands government’s push to strengthen local agribusinesses.
A total of SBD780,000 has been awarded to two enterprises, with Varivao Holdings Limited receiving SBD700,000 and Malo Kitchen granted SBD80,000. The funding is drawn from the Commercial Agriculture Development Project Support Fund, which supports small and medium-sized agribusinesses in acquiring equipment and enhancing value-added production.
Varivao Holdings plans to invest in cold storage, roofing materials, labour, a grafting machine, and cassava processing and packaging equipment, in line with its approved work plan. Malo Kitchen will use its allocation to upgrade equipment and improve processing facilities to meet food safety and production standards.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Giro urged recipients to utilise the funds effectively, noting that they were selected following a rigorous assessment process.
“On behalf of the Government of Solomon Islands, I congratulate you both. Please ensure that the funds are fully utilised to support the growth of your business investments,” he said.
Malo Kitchen managing director Susan Timi described the funding as a milestone that would significantly improve operations, while Varivao Holdings human resource manager Redley Theomae said the support would benefit both the company and the communities it serves.
Varivao Holdings is currently the sole major exporter of cassava to Australia, having shipped nine containers last year and two containers so far this year, including both tubers and grated cassava. Malo Kitchen sources ginger from provincial women farmers to produce ginger-based products, as well as breadfruit flour and turmeric goods.
The signing marks Giro’s first official engagement since being sworn in earlier this week. The ministry said it will continue supporting agribusiness development under the GNUT Agriculture Policy to expand opportunities for local enterprises and strengthen rural economies.
