MCT signs SBD $50,000 Grant Agreement with MUPG for Youth Arts and Cultural Festival
Honiara – 29/10/2026: The Ministry of Culture and Tourism (MCT) through its Culture Division signed a Grant Agreement with Makira Ulawa provincial government (MUPG), committing SBD $50,000 to support the Makira Ulawa Youth Arts and Cultural Festival.
The agreement, which signed on Monday 26 October 2026, by MCT Director of Culture, Mr. Dennis Marita and Makira Ulawa Provincial Secretary (PS), Mr. Christopher Waiwori, aims to encourage youth participation in cultural activities and promote the preservation and appreciation of their culture.
The grant will support the provincial government in hosting the festival, which will be held on the margin of the province’s Second Appointed Day on 3rd August 2027.
PS Waiwori said for the start, the province decided to begin with school children from schools in and around Kirakira, extending as far as Ugi Island. As the initiative takes root, the festival will accommodate youths across the province.
During the festival, school children expect to showcase cultural dances, preparation of traditional cuisine and other cultural displays.
Waiwori thanked MCT for its support, saying the funding would make a valuable contribution to the province’s young people and future generations in preserving their culture and identity.
“We appreciate the assistance, as it will go a long way in supporting our youths,” he said.
Mr. Marita said the ministry welcomed the initiative, considering the importance of creating opportunities for young people to practise, enjoy and share their cultural heritage.
“To sustain this important aspect of our culture, we need to provide opportunities for young people to share their traditions. In doing so, it will foster cultural understanding and unity among our young people,” he said.
On that note, he encouraged other provinces interested in organising similar initiatives to liaise with the ministry for support.
Mr. Marita also noted that supporting cultural festivals aligns with the GREAT government’s policy direction, particularly in building a resilient economy through tourism development.
He added that the ministry hopes to explore arrangements for annual support to MUPG to sustain the festival. That would help the ministry and Tourism Solomons promote the festival to international audiences through their calendar of event.
Makira Ulawa Provincial Secretary, Mr. Christopher Waiwori (left) and Director of Culture Division under Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Mr. Dennis Marita (right), sign a SBD $50,000 grant agreement for the Makira Provincial Youth Arts and Cultural Festival. Witnessed by Premier Stanley Siapu and Deputy Director of Culture, Mr. Steven Paukari.
Director Dennis Marita and PS Christopher Waiwori display copies of the signed Grant Agreement. They are flanked by Premier Siapu (left) and Deputy Director, Mr. Paukari (right).