Empowering Rural Women Through Agriculture: UNDP Training Boosts Market Skills in Solomon Islands

Malaita Province, Solomon Islands – June 3, 2025

A group of 37 women market vendors in the Busurata and Gwailiki communities of Malaita Province are now better equipped to improve their livelihoods, following a four-day agricultural training focused on post-harvest management and pest and disease control. Organized by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) under its Markets for Change (M4C) project, the training aimed to enhance productivity, promote sustainable farming practices, and empower women economically.

Held 20 kilometers inland from Auki Town in the Central Kwara’ae constituency, the intensive sessions covered essential farming techniques to reduce produce damage, maintain food quality, and manage crop diseases using locally available and organic solutions.

“Learning about post-harvest techniques opened my eyes to how proper handling can improve the quality of our produce,” said one Busurata vendor. “I can’t wait to apply these practices!”

Participants ranged in age from 24 to 69 and have varying market experience, with some having sold produce for over 30 years. Despite this, only 22% kept farm records, and many had never been exposed to structured agricultural training before. Most earned between SBD 10,000 and 20,000 annually, though incomes ranged from SBD 1,000 to 50,000.

The training included practical diagnosis of diseased plants, hands-on learning with natural pest control methods, and education on minimizing post-harvest damage. In Busurata, farmers practiced handling techniques to prevent bruising and spoilage during transport. While continuous rainfall in Gwailiki hampered garden visits, indoor sessions kept engagement high.

One farmer, Rita Virginia from Gwailiki, described the experience as transformative:
“Before the training, I didn’t know about ‘post-harvest’ practices. We used to handle our crops carelessly, which reduced our sales. Now, I understand how crucial it is to manage them properly after harvest.”

The M4C initiative, currently in its second phase, is a regional program operating in Fiji, Vanuatu, and the Solomon Islands. It focuses on strengthening the socio-economic security of women vendors by supporting access to training, financial literacy, and essential services.

Patrick Tuimalealiifano, Inclusive Growth Team Leader at UNDP Pacific Office, highlighted the project’s broader goal:
“UNDP’s commitment is to leverage strategic partnerships to empower rural market vendors. By integrating sustainability with economic resilience, we ensure that women entrepreneurs have the tools and knowledge they need to thrive.”

The training was conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock and supported by partners including the Auki Market Vendors Association and Auki Town Council. Topics included vegetable management, plant health, soil care, and fertilizer application.

Participants recommended further support through access to tools and seeds, and many called for ongoing training to reinforce the knowledge gained. Early results are already visible, with vendors at Auki and Busurata markets reporting fresher, more durable produce and increased customer satisfaction.

The UNDP M4C project continues to play a critical role in promoting food security, sustainable agriculture, and financial stability for women in rural communities across the Pacific.

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