Firm installing machines to promote copra industry

MILNE Bay Organics, a small-medium business, will install 10 virgin coconut oil machines to promote the copra industry.
Company representative Rhona Conn said farmers and local businesses involved in Milne Bay’s copra industry would benefit from the partnership with the Pacific horticultural and agricultural market access-plus programme.
The company sources raw material from 10 farms with family farmer networks ranging from 50 to 100 farmers in four districts which contribute to its virgin coconut oil production.
Issues in the industry include a lack of infrastructure, access to transport and limited education and training in post-harvest processes for farmers and producers.
With support from Australia and New Zealand, the company will conduct training on the harvesting cycle, nut quality and post-harvest handling.
The investment will also strengthen the brand, visibility and online presence by engaging a website developer to update its website.
The partnership also plans to empower youths.
Through its youth leading positive change programme, young people are trained on agricultural activities ranging from planting, crop maintenance, post-harvest processing and value-adding of resources in five primary cash commodities – coconut, coffee, rice, cocoa and vanilla.