Fresh-produce agency happy with new plans for market

Fresh Produce Development Agency general manager Mark Worinu has applauded moves by Eastern Highlands Governor Peter Numu and Goroka MP Philip Ame to develop the controversial Goroka Market.
This follows the stalemate of the last five years caused by differences between former governor Julie Soso and Goroka MP Bire Kimisopa, which has seen the K22 million project halted, and pigs wandering freely through the market.
“I applaud the two leaders for recognising and planning to deal with a major issue which has been left unattended for years,” Worinu told The National yesterday.
“Unlike many major cities and towns in the country, Goroka has been disadvantaged by a poor market facility for a long time, due to lack of support and leadership.
“This is unfair for residents of Goroka and people of Eastern Highlands.
“The announcement is fresh off the board and is welcome news for Goroka and Eastern Highlands.”
Worinu said Eastern Highlands had “huge potential to be the major hub for food production, storage and marketing to feed the country”.
“A proper market having both retail and wholesaling facilities, with support services, can provide the platform to spur economic growth and improve livelihoods for the majority of the people who indulge primarily on agriculture,” he said.
“FPDA, as an organisation responsible for the development of the fruit and vegetable industry in the country with its head office in Goroka, is keen to work with the Eastern Highlands Provincial Government, Goroka District Authority and the farming communities in the province to realise this vision.”
Nunu, after being sworn in as Eastern Highlands Governor earlier this month, promised to make the controversial Goroka Market one of his top priorities.