Enhancing Food Security through Sustainable Agriculture
A two-day workshop on organic farming and nutrition, hosted by WorldFish and the Kastom Gaden Association, brought together 25 participants from across the Solomon Islands. The event aimed to strengthen food security and promote sustainable agriculture in the region, with a focus on the Western Province.
| Event Details | Key Highlights |
|---|---|
| Location: WorldFish Nusatupe Innovation Hub, Gizo, Western Province | Partnership with the Kastom Gaden Association |
| Date: May 14th-15th, 2025 | Participation from 25 members of the Western Province Network for Sustainable Environment (WPNFSE) |
The workshop was part of the Island Food Systems programme, which aims to address food insecurity and promote sustainable agriculture across the Solomon Islands. This programme is funded by the CGIAR Science Program on Food Frontiers and Security.
Practical Skills and Community Engagement
Participants gained hands-on experience with organic farming techniques during a visit to the demonstration garden at the WorldFish Nusatupe Innovation Hub. This interactive session allowed attendees to learn from experts and apply these skills in their local contexts.
- Half of the participants were women, reflecting the growing involvement of females in agriculture and community-led sustainability initiatives.
- The diverse group included local community members, representatives from affiliated organizations, staff from the Western Provincial Government, and four intern students based at the WorldFish Nusatupe Innovation Hub.
Addressing Diet-Related Health Risks
A critical health message was shared by Ms. Merilyn Vana, a health worker, highlighting the urgent need to address diet-related health risks in the community. She emphasized the importance of prioritizing local, nutritious foods to combat the alarming rise in diabetes deaths caused by the increasing consumption of processed foods.
“It is vital to prioritize planting local vegetables to combat the alarming rise in diabetes deaths caused by the increasing consumption of processed foods.”
Empowering Participants
The training was the third in a series, building on the momentum of earlier workshops. It provided valuable insights into sustainable agriculture and nutrition, empowering participants to be agents of change in their communities.
- The knowledge shared during this workshop is expected to have a lasting and positive impact across communities in the Western Province.
- A similar workshop is planned for September–October 2025, with a special focus on youths in and around Gizo and nearby areas.
Conclusion
WorldFish and the Kastom Gaden Association extend their gratitude to all participants for their enthusiastic engagement and commitment to building more resilient local food systems. The success of this workshop demonstrates the potential of sustainable agriculture and nutrition to address food insecurity and promote community resilience.
