The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development (MALD), in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), has commenced a three‑day capacity‑building workshop designed to strengthen institutional systems ahead of implementing a USD 4.7 million Global Environment Facility (GEF) project.

Held on 30 June 2026, the training brings together officers from MALD and the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology (MECDM) to enhance competencies in work planning, risk management, monitoring and evaluation, asset and inventory management****, and financial management—key areas required to meet international accountability standards for donor‑funded programmes.

The workshop follows a Harmonized Approach to Cash Transfers (HACT) assessment conducted as part of preparations for the Revitalization and Transforming Solomon Islands Food Systems through Sustainable Agriculture and Livestock Production project, approved by the GEF CEO in May 2025.

MALD Deputy Secretary Special Duties, Simon Baete, said the training is timely and essential for improving ministry effectiveness. He highlighted that stronger institutional systems will help MALD plan better, manage risks proactively, safeguard public resources, and improve service delivery to farmers and rural communities.

FAO Representative Douglas Yee reaffirmed FAO’s commitment, noting that robust financial systems and governance are crucial as government agencies increasingly receive funding directly under FAO’s Operational Partners Implementation Modality (OPIM). He emphasized FAO’s strategic vision anchored on the “Four Betters”—Better Production, Better Nutrition, Better Environment and Better Life.

The workshop underscores the shared commitment of MALD and FAO to strengthen institutional capacity, improve project governance, and position Solomon Islands to effectively implement transformative inves