Miner kits farmers with cocoa tools

 MOROBE Mining has purchased and distributed cocoa tools worth more than K130,000 to locals in lower Watut, Morobe.

The miner has been assisting the Watut cocoa farmers since 2010. 

Depending on individual farmer’s commitment to their cocoa farms, the value of their cocoa trees will be worth over K5 million next year.

The last of the cocoa tools for four Babuaf villages along the Lower Watut were distributed in February.

Locals representing 27 cluster groups in Tsilitsili, Uruf, Malarina and Wampan gathered at the Wonkingz aid post to receive their materials.

Morobe Mining’s community and regional development manager Benjamin Kamaya said the company has so far distributed to 14 cocoa growing villages, that comprises of 36 cocoa cluster groups, 204 rakes, 408 secateurs, 30 bow saws, 204 pruning saws, 34 hand trucks, 150 pole pruners, 30 mini chain saws, 65 slashers, 18 long secateurs, 50 wheel barrows and 9 cut test knives.

“The total cost of tools purchased and distributed was worth over K130 0000,” he said.

Kamaya said the cocoa programme has progressed well since its implementation in 2010 adding that cocoa was one cash crop that could generate sufficient income to improve the livelihood of the Lower Watut people. 

“The tools are expected to keep cocoa plantations at a recommended standard to increase yield and improve productivity. 

“We’re at the stage where we can look at exporting our cocoa, but we must continue to work in partnership because we already have the support of Monpi Cocoa Exports, the Cocoa Board, and the Cocoa Coconut Institute,” he added.

The cocoa programme initiated and sponsored by the miner has attracted close to 1000 farmers.

Cocoa is one cash crop that can generate sufficient income to improve the livelihood of the Lower Watut people. 

Ward 26 Councillor Apollo Eliah thanked Morobe Mining for the support. 

He expressed disappointment over the government’s lack of support in agriculture in Lower Watut area.