Kate Halukeni Ahukela (KHA) Enterprise, is a Solomon Islander woman-owned and operated local chip manufacturer in Honiara, who’s success stems from its commitment to sourcing locally grown root crops.
The business, established in 2017, quickly became a leading supplier of high-quality chips to large retailers in Honiara.
Their taro is primarily sourced from Makira Province, while bananas and cassava are supplied by farmers in Guadalcanal Province.
Australia has partnered with KHA to build a new factory in Honiara and secure new state-of-the-art chip cutters, fryers, blanchers, and packaging machines.
This support will enable KHA to increase its monthly chip packet production to five times its current rate enabling it to partner with more farmers from additional communities in Makira and Malaita Provinces.
Australian High Commissioner to the Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton said it was inspiring to see a local business not only deliver high-quality products but also support women farmers, suppliers and jobs in remote areas.
“KHA has made a significant financial investment in this project, highlighting the importance of partnering with local business in driving sustainable development and local jobs,” High Commissioner Hilton said.
Managing Director of KHA, Kate Ahukela, said the new factory would help meet the growing demand for products while continuing to support local farmers and suppliers, most of whom are women.
“We’re grateful for the partnership with Australia, which is helping us take our business to the next level and creating more jobs for Solomon Islanders,” she said.
