Local farmers growing maize to feed Ilimo dairy cows

Ilimo Dairy, operated by Innovative Agro Industry (IAI) PNG Ltd, has received another delivery of maize from growers in Central.
The latest delivery was from local farmers in Aroa and Kairuku.
The company has been working with the Central administration to develop the maize growing programme for local farmers.
It provides seeds and extension support to the programme, which provides the feed for the Ilimo Dairy farm herd.
IAI chairman Ilan Weiss said: “By creating this cash-cropping opportunity for Central farmers, we are developing an avenue for them to participate in the formal cash economy.
“Families can now maximise revenues from their own plots, with a secure market.
“If they can grow it, we will buy it.”
Ilimo is Papua New Guinea’s first commercial dairy farm.
The operation has created 200 new jobs and provided a new cash-crop opportunities for farmers in Central.
Weiss said: “We are happy with the sale of our one-litre and 250ml fresh milk, which are now retailing at a special rate of K5 and K2.50 respectively.
“The community has supported us immensely.
“People understand that by supporting a local product, they are supporting local communities like the farmers of Central.