SI government sets up funding scheme to assist rural farmers

By Ralph Sao with SIBC

The Solomon Islands Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock has recently revealed that a funding scheme has been established to help rural farmers.

Speaking to the SIBC, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Edward Kingmele, stated that the move is part of Government's initiative to stimulate and encourage rural participation in agriculture to help boost economic development in the country.

Mr Kingmele went on to say that the scheme will assist small holder farmers to engage in projects such as coconut and copra, cocoa, honey, vegetables, coffee and cattle.

Mr Kingmele says people who want to get funding assistance under the scheme are required to provide relevant information proving their management skills and credibility.

He says applications must be channeled through Agricultural Extension services within their respective provinces for verification and endorsement before the Ministry provides the help.

Source: Solomon Times