Residents of Pakia and Mille wards in the Inland Pomio Local Level Government (LLG) area, located in East New Britain, have turned to coffee farming to improve their livelihoods.
Linus Bai, a local coffee farmer, explained that the coffee farming initiative was introduced and supported by the Pomio Development Authority (DDA) and MPElias Kapavore. The goal is to help farmers produce high-quality coffee beans and develop the resource as a source of income.
Bai, who is managing the DDA’s coffee farming project, shared that two cooperatives are currently operating in the area, involving more than 500 farmers from Mille and Pakia wards. The farmers are cultivating the Arabica variety of coffee, as it promises the best returns.
However, Bai mentioned that the project has faced some challenges, particularly with delayed payments for coffee sales. To secure a reliable and consistent market, he and Kapavore visited Lae, Morobe, in July to confirm buyers and set a price for Pomio coffee. The sale was successful, with positive feedback highlighting the rich quality of Pomio coffee.
The Inland Pomio LLG now has two active cooperatives, with a third expected to begin operations next year. Kapavore has urged farmers to maintain high standards in growing and milling to ensure the best quality beans.
The next coffee harvest is expected around Christmas and New Year. The two cooperatives plan to expand into milling and packing by next year, aiming to celebrate Papua New Guinea’s 50th anniversary with their products.
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