Yams are grown on smallholder farms using traditional methods and are often intercropped with other crops such as taro and sweet potatoes. In the Solomon Islands, the yam season usually lasts from June to October, but this can vary depending on the region, climate, and specific island locations. Planting generally begins in November and December, after the rainy season. It takes around 6-9 months for yams to mature after planting. Harvesting starts in June with early-maturing varieties ready for collection. The peak harvesting period is from July to August when most yams are ready for collection. Late-maturing varieties are harvested from September to October, marking the end of the yam season.

Yam Species

In the Solomon Islands, farmers cultivate several yam species to ensure a consistent supply. One important species is the Dioscorea alata, commonly known as Greater yam, which is widely cultivated for its large tubers. There are over 400 types of greater yams grown in the Solomon Islands. Greater yam can be stored for up to 6 months after harvest and is well-suited to seasonally dry areas. Another valuable species is the Dioscorea esculenta, known as Lesser yam, prized for its small to medium-sized tubers. Lesser yam takes longer to grow and can be stored for a shorter time compared to Greater yam. The Dioscorea nummularia, also called Pacific yam, is native to the Pacific Islands and produces small to medium-sized tubers like Greater yam. Additionally, Dioscorea hispida (Hairypin yam), Dioscorea pentaphylla (Five-leaf yam), and Dioscorea transversa (Cross-banded yam) are grown for their edible tubers and medicinal properties. Another species, Dioscorea bulbifera (Aerial yam), is cultivated for its edible tubers and bulbils.

Yam-producing Areas

The production of yams can vary across different regions and islands within the provinces, depending on factors such as soil quality, climate, and farming practices. Some of the main yam-producing areas in the Solomon Islands are Guadalcanal Province, which is the most populous province and accounts for over 40% of national yam production. The second largest yam-producing province is Malaita Province, known for its fertile soil and suitable climate. Other yam-growing areas include Isabel Province and Makira-Ulawa Province, which are known for producing high-quality yams. The Western Province, particularly around Gizo and Munda, also produces yams. Additionally, Honiara, the capital city, Central Province, Choiseul Province, and Temotu Province are smaller but still significant yam-producing areas.

Food and Nutrition

Yams are a primary source of carbohydrates and energy. In the Solomon Islands, yams are used in a variety of traditional dishes. Leftover yam peels are often fed to pigs, chickens, and other livestock. Below are some examples of traditional yam dishes that are an essential part of the Solomon Islands’ cuisine and culture:

• Pit-cooked yams: Yams are wrapped in banana leaves and cooked in an underground oven (umu) with hot stones and steam.
•  Boiled yam: Yams are boiled in water or coconut milk and served with traditional sauces or relishes.
• Roasted yam: Yams are roasted over an open fire or in a wood-fired oven, often served with traditional meats or fish.
• Mashed yams: Boiled yams are mashed with coconut milk, onions, and garlic, and served as a side dish.
• Yam soup: Yams are boiled with vegetables and coconut milk to make soup.
• Yam cakes: Grated yams are mixed with coconut milk and fried into crispy cakes.
• Yam fritters: Sliced yams are coated in a mixture of flour, eggs, and spices, and then fried until crispy.
• Yam and coconut cream: Boiled yams are served with a rich coconut cream sauce.
• Yam and fish: Yams are served with grilled or roasted fish, often wrapped in banana leaves.
• Yam and meat: Yams are served with traditional meats, such as pork or chicken, often cooked in an umu.

Economic Uses

The Solomon Islands produce approximately 100,000 to 150,000 tons of yams annually. While most of the yams are consumed within the country, some are also sold in domestic markets and to wholesalers for export to neighboring countries such as Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea.

Traditional Uses

The traditional uses of yams in the Solomon Islands go beyond just being a food source. Yams hold cultural significance and are important for various ceremonial reasons as shown in the following:

• Ceremonial rites: Yams are used in important ceremonial events such as reconciliation, traditional weddings (as part of the bride price), feasts to show one’s status, initiation ceremonies for young men and women, and birth ceremonies (yams are presented to new mothers and their families to celebrate the birth of a child).
• Funeral rites: Yams are offered to the deceased and their families during funeral ceremonies.
• Ancestral offerings: Yams are offered to ancestral spirits in traditional rituals.
• Food for special occasions: Yams are prepared and served during special occasions like feasts, festivals, and ceremonies.
• Purification Ritual: Yams are used in rituals to purify and cleanse individuals, families, or communities.
• Traditional medicine: Yams are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, such as fever, rheumatism, and skin conditions.

Yam Festivals

The Solomon Islands holds yam festivals to celebrate the yam harvest season and promote cultural heritage and traditions. These festivals also help to strengthen community bonds and showcase local food and agriculture. Notable yam festivals in the Solomon Islands include:

• Yam Harvest Festival: Celebrated in Guadalcanal in July or August, this festival marks the yam harvest season.
• Malamanga Yam Festival: Held in August by the people of Malaita province, this festival showcases yam displays, traditional dances, and feasting.
• Isabel Yam Festival: Celebrated in September in Isabel, this festival features yam competitions, traditional music, and local food.
• Makira Yam Festival: Held by the people of Makira province in October, this festival highlights yam cultivation, traditional crafts, and community bonding.
• Yam and Cassava Festival: Celebrated in November in Honiara, this festival promotes sustainable agriculture, traditional food, and cultural exchange.

Yam is crucial to the Solomon Islands' food security and economy, and it holds significant traditional and ceremonial importance in the country's culture.

REFERENCE

Information from https://www.solomontimes.com/news/yummy-yams/2995 and https://foodplantsolutions.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Food-Crops-of-Solomon-Islands-A-brief-introduction-to-the-crops.pdf was used in this story