Plan International Pacific Solomon Islands, together with its implementing partner, the Solomon Islands National Youth Congress (SINYC), has successfully handed over youth project facilities across Gizo Township, Paelonge, and Rarumana last week.
The Girls Tekem Akson Lo Climate Change (GTACC) project aims to strengthen the adaptive capacity of communities and reduce their vulnerability to climate change.
Through capacity-building activities, the project empowers adolescent girls and young people to actively participate in climate action, gain economic knowledge, access livelihood opportunities, and ensure their voices influence decision-making at local, organizational, and government levels.
The project also connects youth with regional and international climate activist networks to foster collective climate action.
GTACC began in 2022 and is scheduled to close in March 2026.
The handing-over ceremony for Gizo Township and Paelonge on Wednesday 25th February 2026 were highlighted by the presence of the Minister of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs (MWYCFA), Hon. Cathy Nori, and Permanent Secretary Mr. Aaron Pitaqae, accompanied by Deputy Secretary of the Western Provincial Government, Mr. Collin Zamu.
The delegation also included members of the SINYC Board, a representative from Plan International, the YECSI Chairman, and representatives from the Western Provincial Youth Council and the Western Province Entrepreneur Council.
Speaking during the official program in Gizo, Hon. Cathy Nori emphasized the value of the facilities provided through generous donor support and encouraged youth to take ownership and demonstrate their ability to manage and sustain these assets.
Hon. Nori also highlighted that the GTACC project aligns directly with the National Youth Policy, underscoring the government’s commitment to recognizing youth not merely as a vulnerable group but as productive leaders and drivers of the national economy.
The Minister further stressed that climate change is real and poses a serious threat to the islands and communities.
“Our response must be rooted in social, cultural, and economic resilience, in line with our National Development Strategy,” she stated.
PS Mr. Aaron Pitaqae represented the Ministry in officiating the openings in Paelonge and Rarumana, where he was welcomed in Rarumana on Thursday with a traditional Tomoko paddled by local youths.
Through GTACC, seed grants were provided to support youth-led initiatives including:
– Recycling and craft
– Jewellery making and printing
– Poultry and seaweed farming
– Fish storage and honeybee production
This resulted in 10 facilities built across five communities in Paelonge and four in Rarumana.
The project also supported the formal registration of youth associations and helped them open bank accounts.
Plan International representative Ms. Glenda Iso reminded youth leaders that sustainability is key to the long-term success of the facilities and businesses.
“Take ownership of these facilities, apply the knowledge and skills gained through GTACC, continue strengthening your associations, and ensure these facilities remain active, organized, and sustained,” Ms. Iso said.
GTACC is funded by GNO under a partnership agreement between Plan International Pacific through the Plan International Solomon Islands Program Unit, and is implemented by the Solomon Islands National Youth Congress (SINYC).
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star Gizo
