CIF Islands Foods Masterclass Calls for Stronger Local Food Systems to Improve Nutrition and Food Security

Strengthening local food production, protecting traditional farming knowledge, and making healthy food more affordable were key messages from the Centre for Islands Futures (CIF) Islands Foods Masterclass held at the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) on 5th November 2026.

The session was facilitated by  Dr. Jillian Tutuo, a nutrition scientist with the WorldFish , on how agriculture, fisheries, food imports, and government policies are shaping food security and nutrition in Solomon Islands.

Dr. Jillian highlighted the growing nutrition challenges facing the country that around 31% of children experience stunted growth, making Solomon Islands the second highest in the Pacific. Overweight and obesity affect one in three males and nearly one in four females. Iron deficiency also affects approximately 50% of pregnant women and 38% of children under five.

These figures show the importance of ensuring families across Solomon Islands have access to nutritious and affordable food, especially as eating habits continue to change.

While agricultural exports from coconut, cocoa, and other cash crops have grown, local food production for household consumption is declining. At the same time, the country is importing more food, including processed products and sugary drinks.

The session also discussed the important role of fisheries in supporting the economy and feeding communities. Offshore tuna fishing brings valuable income, while inshore fisheries provide an important source of food for local families, with an estimated annual catch of 33,556 tonnes.

During the discussion, Dr. Morgan Wairiu who joined the session online, highlighted how government policies since the 1970s have focused heavily on cash crops, while traditional food production received less support. Despite this, local food systems have supported communities for thousands of years.

Participating post-graduate CIF students also raised concerns about the growing preference for imported foods because they are convenient, widely promoted, and sometimes cheaper than local produce. This change, together with declining traditional gardening knowledge, creates challenges for household food security and healthy eating.

The masterclass identified practical solutions, including encouraging backyard gardens, improving transportation between islands, supporting small-scale hydroponic farming, and bringing agriculture and nutrition education back into schools.

During the discussion, the participants stressed the need for stronger food safety measures and policies that encourage healthier food choices.

The masterclass reinforced the importance of investing in local food systems, traditional knowledge, agriculture, and fisheries to build healthier communities and a stronger food future for Solomon Islands. CIF will produce a web-series on Islands Superfoods before the end the year to promote Islands foods and advocate for stronger Islands food system

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