Farmers all set for NARI show

 INNOVATIVE farming and agri-business will take centre stage at the agricultural innovations show at the National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI) campus outside Lae next Thursday.

The annual event will have most exhibits and displays by agricultural research and development organisations, innovative farmers and agri-businesses. 

NARI will have all its research centres, projects and activities represented through its establishments including Bubia, Labu livestock (Morobe), Aiyura (Eastern Highlands), Tambul (Western Highlands), Keravat (East New Britain), Laloki (Central) and Kilakila (NCD). 

Agricultural and natural resource institutions and gencies such as the Coffee Industry Corporation, Cocoa and Coconut Institute, Fresh Produce Development Agency, Department of Agriculture and Livestock, Forest Research Institute, Cocoa Board and the  PNG University of Technology. 

Innovative farmers will have a bigger representation with demonstrations and showcase activities. 

Most of them are travelling into Bubia from outside of Morobe.

 These farmers include the famous African yam farmer from Eastern Highlands, Jennifer Kenna, broiler chicken farmers from Tambul, the Integrated Community Development Co-operative Society from Jiwaka, producers of honey bee from Goroka and the East New Britain Women in Agriculture. 

Among the agri-businesses that have already confirmed their attendance are Ramu Agri-Industries, Trukai, Tablebirds, Brain Bell and Project Support Services. 

There will also be commercial exhibitors, tertiary institutions, health partners, government departments, and agencies and other farming and women groups. 

The PNG Women in Agriculture Development Foundation is also bringing in women farmers and innovators from across the country to showcase their activities and learn from others.     

The theme of the event is “Innovative agriculture for sustainable development”.

Deputy Prime Minister Leo Dion will be the keynote speaker at the occasion which will be presided by Treasurer Don Polye. 

During the show, the new Dr Ghodake National Biotechnology Centre, a state of the art modern laboratory facility, will be opened at Bubia. 

Among other highlights will be the launching ceremonies and the release of two agricultural technologies for the farming of pyrethrum and potato. 

The one-day event is free and opens from 8am to 5pm.