BY CHRIS ALEX
The recent rise in copra prices has uplifted livelihoods in Ugi island, Makira-Ulawa province, it is reported.
Jerry Wala, a local copra buying agent from Ugi Island, shared this sentiment saying this positive effect is helping local businesses, particularly small operations like his own.
He expressed that the increased price of copra is having a positive impact on people in the sense that people can afford to pay schools fees and improve their standard of living.
“The high price of copra is boosting livelihoods here. The cash flow in the village is circulating much more than before. People are buying and exchanging goods and there are even more contributions to church offerings and other community areas. It’s touching many lives on the Ugi Islands”, said Wala.
He emphasized that the boost in the price of copra is helping education and healthcare as local farmers in the area are using the additional income to contribute to the development of schools and clinics.
“There’s more money going towards clinics and schools in and around Ugi Island. This has helped Ugi Island move towards becoming a more developed and prosperous area”, said Wala.
Several local farmers, who have been producing copra for years, also shared their thoughts on the unexpected surge in prices.
According to them, such a dramatic increase in price is something they have never experienced before.
One farmer expressed that they have been producing copra for years but have never seen prices skyrocket like this.
“We’re very happy to see this and feel it’s making a real difference in our lives.”
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