Australia is partnering with Primerise Limited, a local woman-owned business, to increase the supply of high-quality, locally grown flowers in Solomon Islands.
Under its flagship private sector development program, Strongim Bisnis, Australia will co-invest in irrigation and greenhouse infrastructure to improve flower quality and enable more consistent year-round production and support the introduction of new flower varieties suited to local growing conditions.
Australia’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Jeff Roach, said he was proud to back Solomon Islands women in the business sector.
“Supporting locally grown flowers from Primerise will build a stronger local market,” Roach said.
“Through this partnership, more economic opportunities will be created for women involved in flower growing, floral arrangements and related services,” he added.
Primerise owner Sarah Rove said the co-investment would help the business respond to increasing demand for fresh, locally cultivated flowers.
“For about 20 years, we have seen strong demand for fresh flowers in Honiara, but access to a reliable local supply and a good variety of flowers can be challenging,” Rove said.
“This partnership will help us grow more flowers throughout the year and introduce new varieties to the local market, while creating opportunities for people involved in flower growing and floral services,” she added.
Apart from the economic benefits, increasing local flower production will also reduce reliance on imported and artificial flowers, helping to reduce plastic waste.
Rove joined representatives of the Australian High Commission and Solomon Islands Government at the business’s Alligator Creek site to mark the partnership.
Australia says it remains committed to working with Solomon Islands businesses to strengthen the private sector, create jobs and increase incomes.
“Through partnerships with local businesses, Australia is supporting a more diverse, sustainable and resilient Solomon Islands economy.”
