The Solomon Islands Government (SIG) and the New Zealand (NZ) Government on Friday 22 August 2025 have officially signed a grant funding arrangement for Phase 4 of the Mekem Strong Solomon Islands Fisheries (MSSIF) programme valued at SBD 45million.
This marked a new chapter in a partnership that has transformed the nation’s fisheries sector over the past two decades.
The signing was held at the New Zealand High Commission office, Town ground, West Honiara.
The signing celebration brought together senior government officials, representatives of the diplomatic codes and development partners.
The deal signifies the reaffirmation of shared values, enduring friendship, and collective vision for sustainable development.
New Zealand High Commissioner His Excellency Jonathan Curr opened the ceremony by reflecting on the depth of the relationship.
“Fisheries are vital to our both our countries-vital to our economies, vital to our communities and our way of life.
“And the fisheries sector has long been a cornerstone of the partnership between New Zealand and the Solomon Islands.”
He emphasized that MSSIF Phase 4 is focussed on the outcomes Solomon Islanders can “see and feel”, including stronger provincial services, improved food security, and new livelihood opportunities.
Permanent Secretary (PS) of the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR), Dr Chris Ramofafia, delivered a powerful speech and described the signing as a bureaucratic milestone which is a commitment to the people of the Solomon Islands.
“This partnership has been fundamental in building the strength of our Ministry and delivering tangible results to our people.
“Phase 4 will allow us to continue investing in food security, aquaculture, and provincial services so that Solomon Islanders across the country can benefit directly,” he emphasized.
Dr Ramofafia paid tribute to the New Zealand’s unwavering support, describing the partnership as one built on “true understanding, true determination, and true care for the growth of the fisheries sector.”
He highlighted the key achievements made possible through MSSIF, including:
- Seaweed farming, which has positioned Solomon Islands as a leading producer in the Pacific.
- Institutional reforms, including the creation of over 70 fisheries jobs and the strengthening of the anti-corruption systems
- Aquaculture development, with the Aruligo Tilapia Hatchery nearing full operational capacity.
- Provincial empowerment, with a strategy to enhance fisheries services in rural communities.
“We owe a lot to MSSIF for standing with us to change the systems for better. Systems that are transparent, systems that rise regionally and internationally in comparison with others.”
Looking ahead, Dr Ramofafia expressed optimism for Phase 4; “We look forward to the Tilapia programme, to the provincial fisheries strategy, and to the livelihoods that will be provided our people.
MSSIF Phase 4 will ensure the fisheries sector becomes more sustainable and gives life and opportunity to the future,” he said.
Valued at SBD 45 million over five years, MSSIF Phase 4 will;
- Scale up GIFT tilapia aquaculture to boost food security.
- Expand provincial fisheries services for community -level support.
- Invest in MFMR’s workforce, systems, and policy frameworks.
- Support new livelihood initiatives including seaweed farming and hatchery development.
These efforts will ensure that fisheries continue to nourish communities, generates revenue, and uphold Solomon Islands’ leadership in regional marine stewardship.
By ANDRIANAH DELASALET KOLE
Solomon Star, Honiara
