FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 24, 2025
Anglican Missions affirms continued partnership in Solomon Islands following MFAT funding decision
Anglican Missions has received confirmation from the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) that funding for the proposed Ontong Java Adaptation and Resilience Project will not proceed in the current Manaaki Round 6.
While this outcome is disappointing for all involved, Anglican Missions welcomes MFAT’s acknowledgment of the project’s strong design, transparent engagement, and sound due-diligence process. MFAT has invited a re-submission in the 2026 Manaaki round and remains committed to ensuring Anglican Missions is well positioned for future partnership.
The decision was primarily due to the sale of the MV Southern Cross X, a vessel owned by the Anglican Church of Melanesia (ACoM). The vessel was an essential component of the project design, and its loss significantly reduced feasibility due to the challenging logistics of accessing the atoll. With support from ACOM, Anglican Missions presented an alternative project design; however, MFAT also cited internal capacity constraints and the complexity of assessing a re-scoped proposal within the round’s timeframes.
Despite this setback, Anglican Missions’ commitment to supporting the Anglican Church of Melanesia remains unchanged. In line with the project in Ontong Java, work is already underway to deliver alternative development initiatives in the Solomon Islands, which will strengthen resilience and support practical outcomes for local communities.
Mark Mitchell, Humanitarian and Development Manager for Anglican Missions said:
“While we’re naturally disappointed by the outcome, this process has deepened our partnership with MFAT and strengthened our internal systems. We remain committed to the people of Solomon Islands and are actively working with ACoM to pursue new development opportunities. We look forward to sharing our progress soon.”
Anglican Missions’ due-diligence accreditation remains valid and reflects the organisation’s commitment to accountability and impact. The experience gained through this process enhances readiness for future MFAT partnerships and for broader regional work across Tonga, Vanuatu, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, and the wider Pacific.
Michael Hartfield, National Director for Anglican Missions, remains optimistic:
“Our partnerships are built on faith, trust, and long-term relationships. Our team is as committed as ever to ensuring help reaches those who need it most. The road ahead remains full of opportunity, and we look forward to sharing the next steps on that road soon.”
ENDS
For more information:
Kris Singh
Marketing and Communications Manager
Anglican Missions
kris@anglicanmissions.org.nz
www.anglicanmissions.org.nz
+64 27 371 0364
About Anglican Missions:
Anglican Missions is an international aid, development, humanitarian and mission organisation that works with and on behalf of the Anglican Church in Aotearoa New Zealand and Polynesia.
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