IFAD Impact Assessment - Solomon Islands Rural Development Programme Phase II (RDP II)

The Rural Development Programme Phase II (RDP II) in the Solomon Islands aimed to improve rural livelihoods through community-driven infrastructure investments and agribusiness partnerships that linked small-scale farmers to commercial markets. This impact assessment focused on cocoa and coconut value chains and analyzed data from 1,196 households. Results showed significant improvements in agricultural productivity, driven mainly by increased cocoa production and higher cocoa sales. Participating households also experienced better food security, dietary diversity and resilience. Impacts on coconut producers were less positive, as declining coconut prices reduced production and sales. Higher prices paid by supported agribusinesses, increased marketing opportunities, and stronger producer-business partnerships contributed to positive outcomes. The study recommends addressing market access constraints, promoting diversified incomes and strengthening resilience to external trade disruptions.