Cocoa growers get direct market link

THE Adelberts Cooperative Society, in Almami, Bogia district, Madang, yesterday celebrated the official launching of its fair trade certificate giving growers direct access to certified cocoa markets.
Guests were entertained by dancing groups as the community in the Almami area converged on the Kabak Lutheran church to witness the historic event.
The Adelberts Cooperative Society is an entity evolved through the work of a conservation programme undertaken by the communities of Mugumat and Sanvat census division of the Almami LLG.
The conservation programme, in partnership with Nature Conservancy and Almami LLG, used skills to develop effective land use and management.
Beginning in 1996, The Nature Conservancy and Adelberts Range communities now have programmes they use to manage their land and environment.
The project is located along the Adelberts Ranges, which begins from Nobenob, in South Ambenob LLG, Madang district, and back to Almami itself.
So far, nine communities comprising about 20 clans, have set aside conservation areas and developed land use and management plans. 20,000ha have so far been conserved.