Project Case Study
Empowering Economic Growth in the Solomon Islands
Fostering Partnerships, Job Creation, and Sustainable Development for Local Communities
Despite its substantial economic potential, the Solomon Islands remains one of the poorest countries in the Pacific. High operating costs, high transportation costs, dispersed geography of archipelago, thin market, low export volumes and low human resource capacity hamper the Solomon Islands’ efforts to promote domestic and international investment and drive economic growth.
The Strongim Bisnis programme aims to enhance peace, stability, and prosperity in the Solomon Islands by creating jobs and improving incomes, particularly for women, youth, and people with disabilities. Using a market systems development approach, it partners with businesses, government, and civil society to address barriers and foster new business growth. The programme focuses on value chains in agriculture, timber, waste management, and tourism, promoting productivity and resilience. Strongim Bisnis advocates for gender equality and social inclusion, implementing targeted interventions to empower marginalised groups. Key strategies include facilitating locally led solutions, supporting market-led sustainability, and emphasising collaboration with the private sector to drive economic opportunities and investment.
- By June 2023, Strongim Bisnis established 45 partnerships, benefiting 593 households with SBD 5.0 million in increased incomes and creating 188 jobs.
- In Phase 3, four local management roles were created, and major research on logistics and cocoa production commenced.
- The program also facilitated international cocoa buyer visits and launched a new internship programme for 80 participants.
