Fisheries Minister Hon. Polycarp Paea prepares to cut the ribbon to officially hand over the boats, which can be seen in the background.
Fisheries Minister Hands Over 50 Boats to Support Seaweed Farmers
Hon, 29 July 2026: Minister for Fisheries and Marine Resources, Hon. Polycarp Paea, this morning officially handed over 50 boats (18 ft) and outboard motors (15 HP) to seaweed farming communities in Solomon Islands. These boats and OBMs are funded by the Government of Solomon Islands under its Development Budget for MFMR, at a value of 3.45 million dollars.
Speaking before the handover, Minister Paea said the occasion marked more than the distribution of boats.
“It represents the Government’s continued investment in our people and its confidence in the future of the seaweed industry as a driver of economic growth, rural livelihoods, and sustainable development,” he said.
He added that the Government remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting the growth of the seaweed industry in Solomon Islands.
Minister Paea said seaweed farming has become an important source of income for many coastal communities, but limited access to reliable transport has remained a major challenge.
“These boats will enable farmers to travel safely and efficiently to their farms, transport materials and harvested seaweed, improve day-to-day farm management, increase productivity, improve product quality, and strengthen household incomes,” he said.
The Minister encouraged recipients to use the boats responsibly.
“These boats are not simply equipment; they are public investments entrusted to you to improve your livelihoods and contribute to the growth of our nation’s seaweed industry. Take good care of them so they continue to serve your communities for many years to come,” he said.
Minister Paea also acknowledged the hard work of the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources, technical officers, provincial fisheries teams, and all partners who contributed to the initiative.
“Your dedication to supporting our farmers is greatly appreciated,” he said.
He also thanked seaweed farmers for their resilience, commitment, and hard work, saying the success of the industry rests with them.
Minister Paea concluded by calling for renewed commitment to building a stronger, more productive, and sustainable seaweed sector that creates opportunities for rural communities and contributes to the national economy.
Fisheries Minister Hon. Polycarp Paea shakes hands with Marau seaweed farmer Pr. Thomas, symbolizing the official handover.
Fisheries Minister Hon. Polycarp Paea with Permanent Secretary Dr. Christian Ramofia (right) and Director Mr. Edward Honiwala during the handover ceremony.
Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR) staff at the handover ceremony.