Food security is defined as: when all people, at all times, have physical, social and economic access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food that meets their dietary needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life.
In both the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea, fish are the main source of protein for rural coastal communities, comprising almost 75% of the rural diet. Income from fishing also accounts for a large part of their livelihoods. It is predicted that by 2030 fisheries production will not be able to meet demand. Growing population pressure on marine resources and their habitats is resulting in over-exploitation, food security and poverty issues.
WWF in collaboration with the World Fish Centre, World Vision (PNG), local NGOs and Provincial and National government departments, have been working with communities in the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea to improve the sustainability of fisheries management and to develop small business opportunities particularly for women.
Funding for the project is provided by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP).
One element of the project is to work with communities to deploy small floating rafts (fish aggregation devices) anchored to the seafloor and close to shore, to attract different types of fish and move fishing away from the reef. Fishers can then quickly and easily catch enough fish to feed their families, with extra to sell at the markets and at the same time, reduce environmental damage to fragile reef areas.
The project also supports small business through the establishment of savings clubs. Loans issued by the savings club have helped established a number of small businesses including bakeries, small good stores and poultry and pig raising. Because women play such a key role in small business, women's groups have been strongly involved in the project.
Financial support has also been provided by John West Australia through its John West Pacific Islands Conservation Project.
More information on the John West initiative.
In 2014-15 through the ANCP, Australian aid supported 18 NGOs to deliver 46 projects in 26 countries focusing on food security.
