Malaita’s Ward 16 Member of Provincial Assembly (MPA), Preston Billy Farobo, has expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR) for continuing supporting seaweed farming initiatives in the Kwai and Ngongosila communities of East Malaita.

The Ministry provided essential items to help the communities further improve their seaweed farms, including two new water tanks, roofing irons, gutters, ropes, and other materials. 

This assistance is particularly significant as seaweed farming is a new venture for the people in the ward, offering them opportunities to develop alternative livelihoods and improve their local economy.

Mr Billy said, “I am very happy to see the communities expanding their seaweed projects everyday. 

“My goal is to support local farmers not just with materials but also by purchasing their seaweed and selling it at the Honiara market, ensuring they have a reliable income. 

“Together with the Ministry, we are helping people develop sustainable livelihoods,” the MPA for Ward 16, Faumamanu said.

Community member Micah Suraniu Mafane also expressed appreciation, saying, “We thank the national government through the Ministry of Fisheries and Mr Farobo for this kind assistance. 

“These materials and the support to sell our seaweed will make a big difference for our families and help us grow this new project successfully.”

Seaweed farming is increasingly being promoted in Solomon Islands as a sustainable way to generate income while protecting coastal ecosystems. 

This project in Ward 16 represents a positive step toward building new skills and economic opportunities for local communities.

In addition to seaweed, Mr Farobo continues to support local agriculture by buying copra and cocoa from farmers in East Kwara’ae through his operation of the CEMA buying center in Adakoa.