Empowering cocoa and coconut entrepreneurs: MAL Minister presents funds to first 57 CCRF recipients
The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) has officially honoured the first recipients of the Cocoa and Coconut Revolving Fund (CCRF), acknowledging their vital contributions to strengthening the nation’s cocoa and coconut industries.
In a ceremony held on Friday, 2 May, MAL Minister Hon. Franklyn Derek Wasi personally presented cheque payments to 57 outstanding buyers, traders, and exporters selected for the CCRF.
In his congratulatory remarks, Minister Wasi praised the recipients for their pivotal role in advancing agriculture in the Solomon Islands and supporting the broader national economy.
“You are not only vital to the future of agriculture in the Solomon Islands but also central to the growth and success of our economy,” he said.
Mirrial Faifu of Mirrial Faifu Copra Buying from Murajanja village in Ulawa Island, Makira Ulawa Province receiving her funds from Simon Baete MAL DSSD
The Minister also highlighted that while the allocated funds were less than requested, recipients are urged to use the grants wisely and strictly for their intended purpose—primarily for the purchase of cocoa and copra.
“The government remains committed to supporting you, provided you honour the terms of your agreements. Our goal is to reach 10,000 tons of cocoa bean exports and 30,000 tons of copra exports by the end of this current term,” Minister Wasi stated.
He added that MAL’s support would continue through the provision of cocoa driers and reliable shipping services under its development programs.
Importantly, Minister Wasi emphasized that the funds disbursed are grants—not soft loans—underscoring the government’s commitment to empowering agri-entrepreneurs and building a resilient agricultural economy.
Deputy Secretary Special Duties, Mr. Simon Baete, also addressed the gathering, praising the dedication, innovation, and perseverance of the recipients.
Elvis Kekegolo of Gajendra Investment in Central Guadalcanal receiving his cheque payment from MAL PS Dr. Samson Viulu
“Today is not just about disbursing funds. It is a celebration of our shared belief in the potential of our agricultural communities—those laying the foundation for a self-reliant and prosperous Solomon Islands.”
The CCRF was established to offer accessible financial support across the cocoa and coconut value chains. Its goal is to enhance productivity, improve rural livelihoods, increase exports, and foster long-term economic stability.
“To our recipients—your initiative and perseverance are inspiring.
“We trust that you will turn this support into a lasting, positive impact for your communities and for the country as a whole,” Deputy Secretary Special Duties Mr. Baete said.
Speaking on behalf of the recipients, Davidson Rarumae of Haumauri Investment Service and Waimapuru Cocoa Plantation in West Makira, Makira Ulawa Province, expressed his gratitude:
“We are honoured to be selected from among the 636 applicants to partner with MAL through the CCRF project.
“Although the approved funding does not match the amounts we initially applied for, we are thankful for the recognition and partnership.
“We assure the ministry of our commitment to this scheme’s success. Its future depends on all of us, and we count on the ministry’s technical support moving forward.”
Beaver Biti of Konnect Maketing Today from Lata, Temotu province receiving his cheque payment from MAL Minister Hon. Franklyn Derek Wasi
MAL also extended appreciation to its development partners, financial institutions, and stakeholders for their ongoing collaboration in promoting inclusive and sustainable agricultural development.
The revolving fund is fully funded by the Solomon Islands National Government through its development budget allocation to the ministry.
The ceremony concluded with a message of gratitude and unity:
“Tagio Tumas”—a heartfelt thank you to all those working together to secure a brighter future for agriculture in the Solomon Islands.
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