Production of rice, a hit in Pomio

By ROSELYN ELLISON
The cultivation and production of rice in Kokopo and Pomio, East New Britain are increasing, according to division of agriculture and livestock official Shilla Sato.
Sato said the Marambu, Ganai and others in Kokopo’s Bitapaka local level government area are leading the way with 25 hectares of rice farms.
Pomio’s Sinivit and Melkoi are the second largest producers of rice.
Sato said even though rice was expensive to buy at shops in Kokopo, Rabaul, Kerevat, Warangoi and Palmalmal, it remained a staple food in almost every family.
Sato said that small-holder farming was being encouraged.
It is also produced in institutions such as schools and the Kerevat Correctional Services.
She added that where there was surplus land, people should venture into rice planting for food security in the family and as a source of family income.
“Although it is labour-intensive, the ENB government is assisting with machinery and equipment.
“This is because the Government has already discussed a reduction on imports of products such as rice,” Sato said.
“If rice can grow in Melkoi and Sinivit in Pomio and Bitapaka in Kokopo, it can be grown anywhere in ENB because we are blessed with volcanic soil.”
She commended Sinivit’s Deep-Deep Plantation in the which planted about four hectares of rice and has harvested its second batch of rice.
Sato said those farmers or interested persons wanting rice seedlings and technical assistance should contact the division office in Kokopo, or rural development officers.