Today on International Day of Forests we are celebrating the people and partnerships advancing economic opportunity in Solomon Islands by strengthening the long-term value of its forests.
Permanent Secretary Richard Raomae of the Ministry of Forestry and Research says, “Forests are vital to Solomon Islanders. They provide income, employment, food, shelter, and protect waterways for more than 80% of our people.”
Through the Forest Value Enhancement Project (FoVEP), the Solomon Islands Threshold Program—funded by the U.S. Government’s Millennium Challenge Corporation - MCC—is supporting communities to shift from short-term logging towards more reliable income streams such as improved forest management and performance-based forest finance—by Solomon Islanders for Solomon Islanders.
This work helps communities receive full value for their natural resources while broadening a critical sector that can also create commercial opportunities for U.S. firms.
“I am encouraged by the growing community awareness, enhanced forest management skills, and conservation initiatives developed in partnership with SITHP. Together, these promote an increased balance between traditional logging practices and alternative ecosystem services,” says PS Raomae.
“Going forward, I hope to see stronger local leadership, effective partnerships, and increased economic development for Solomon Islanders.”
