THE Australian Government through its Small Grants Program is supporting to empower youth associations in Malaita Province, boosting economic opportunities and rural livelihoods.
This year, several youth associations have received funding support to implement small-scale projects aimed at driving economic empowerment in their communities.
So far, five youth associations are actively implementing projects with assistance from the program.
Each received a grant of $10,000.
The projects focus on a range of income-generating and community development activities, including small and medium enterprise development, cocoa and coconut rehabilitation, taro and melon farming, poultry farming, and advocacy initiatives on climate change, women and youth empowerment, leadership, and gender equality.
President of the Malaita Provincial Youth Council, Philip Subu, commended the associations for their commitment to economic empowerment through innovative, youth-driven initiatives.
The five associations currently rolling out projects are:
– Besi Youth Association
– East Baelelea Youth Association
– Highlands Youth Association
– Sikaiana Youth Association
– Aulutalau Youth Association (South Malaita)
– Kakara Youth Association
Mr. Subu said other youth associations member were unable to access the grant due to the limited timeframe of the funding cycle.
However, he encouraged them to continue working on their plans for future opportunities.
“Despite the challenges, I appreciate the determination of those youth groups who have met the requirements and are now putting their plans into action,” he said.
By SOLOMON LOFANA,
Solomon Star, Auki
Photo caption: Kakara Youth Association clearing the site for their melon project in West Kwara’ae.
