MAL Hosts Farewell for ODI Fellow Ofer Dotan
The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) hosted a farewell gathering on March 11th to honor ODI fellow Ofer Dotan for her contributions to the Ministry.
Ofer Dotan, originally from a small village in Galilee, Israel, arrived in the Solomon Islands in January 2023 to serve in the Planning and Land Use Department as Deputy Director for Planning. By June, she took on the role of Technical Consultant for the SIART project.
The Honourable Minister for Agriculture and Livestock, Franklyn Wasi, expressed heartfelt gratitude for Ofer’s significant contributions to the Ministry, noting, “Your dedication and service to the government and the people of this country are invaluable.”
Ofer in her farewell address, thanked the Ministry staff for their collaboration over the past two years. Ofer highlighted some of her achievements, including the organization of a WFP training on GPS data collection and the donation of 20 devices to enhance data gathering processes. Ofer played a key role in developing a Management Information System for the SIART project, enabling better data management, and supported donor proposals, such as the UNICEF nutrition project funded by the Government of Japan and the GEF cocoa and livestock project. Furthermore, she created an Excel tool for tracking MAL donor projects to improve planning efficiency.
Ofer contributed to the revision of MAL’s national development policy through internal consultations and supported the review of extension services. She provided project management support across various initiatives, facilitated discussions, and conducted cost-benefit analyses that strengthened strategic links with key institutions. She also led capacity-building sessions for staff and helped eight agriculture graduates secure placements in a 10-month program in southern Israel.
Permanent Secretary Dr. Samson Viulu thanked Ofer for her unwavering commitment to the Ministry, remarking on the significant gap her departure would create. He praised her willingness to assist staff in need, stating, “Your dedication has made a lasting impact on the Ministry.” “You are a living library for MAL because whatever information we require, you have them all at the tip of your fingers”, remarked PS Viulu.
Deputy Secretary Corporate, Elda Wate, speaking on behalf of the women of MAL, expressed appreciation for Ofer’s dedication and the positive influence she had on those around her. She noted that Ofer set a commendable example and would leave a lasting legacy within the Ministry.
Undersecretary Technical Michael Ho’ota echoed these sentiments, highlighting the invaluable impact of Ofer’s work and contributions to the Ministry.
“Your work and contributions to the government, particularly the Ministry (MAL), will be treasured for many years,” Mr. Ho’ota said
Ofer In her closing remarks, expressed gratitude for her time in the Solomon Islands and with MAL. She encouraged her colleagues to continue working with positivity, motivation, and dedication, and she looks forward to continuing her support for MAL from afar or in future assignments.
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Some farewell pictures
Permanent Secretary Dr. Samson Viulu and Honourable Minister for Agriculture Franklyn Wasi Present Gift to Ofer Dotan