BY JUNELYN KELLY
The Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Solomon Islands Knowledge Action for Sustainability Project (SOLKAS) to strengthen climate-resilient and inclusive fisheries systems across the Solomon Islands.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Save the Children said the agreement, signed in Honiara, formalises a partnership to integrate climate-resilient and inclusive approaches into existing Community-Based Resource Management (CBRM) programmes in six provinces.
MFMR Permanent Secretary Dr. Christian Ramofafia described the MOU as a strategic step to support ongoing community-level fisheries initiatives.
“This programme will complement the important work already delivered by our Community-Based Resource Management teams,” Ramofafia said.
“Sustainability must remain at the centre to ensure long-term benefits for our villages,” he added.
He also highlighted the important role of community institutions, including churches, in strengthening participation and ownership of the programme.
SOLKAS Team Lead Semi Qamese said the initiative is grounded in sustainability and inclusion, with a strong focus on engaging women, youth, and vulnerable groups in fisheries management.
“We are committed to working closely with MFMR and communities to ensure all groups are meaningfully involved and benefit from this partnership,” Mr. Qamese said.
He said under the agreement, key focus areas include community engagement and planning, capacity building, strengthening fisheries governance, implementing climate-resilient practices, and supporting alternative livelihoods such as offshore fishing.
Meanwhile, a dedicated SOLKAS Fisheries Coordinator will be embedded within MFMR to support effective implementation and coordination.
The SOLKAS Project is funded by the Green Climate Fund, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade (MFAET), and the Solomon Islands Government. It is implemented by Save the Children Australia.
The partnership aims to equip communities with the knowledge and skills needed to sustainably manage marine resources while adapting to the impacts of climate change.
Photo credit: Save the Children
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