BY JOH HOUANIHAU
The Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development (MALD), Franklyn Derek Wasi highlighted his continued support for rural cocoa farmers on Makira’s weathercoast area through the purchase of wet cocoa beans.
In a social media post, Minister Wasi said it was a rewarding experience to see farmers receive payments for their produce, describing it as “a feeling to put smiles on their faces”.
He said the wet bean purchasing initiative aims to provide cocoa farmers with a reliable market while ensuring they receive prompt payment for their harvest.
According to Mr Wasi, cocoa remains one of the main cash crops for many families with income from sales helping to meet household expenses, school fees and other essential needs.
He adds that by buying wet cocoa beans directly from farmers, it reduces the challenges growers often face in transporting their produce to distant processing centres or markets.
He said that it also encourages increased cocoa production by giving farmers confidence that there is a ready buyer for their crop.
Minister Wasi said supporting rural farmers is an important part of strengthening the country’s agricultural sector and improving livelihoods in remote communities.
He said the initiative has been welcomed by local cocoa farmers, who expressed appreciation for receiving immediate payment for their hard work.
The Minister’s support reflects ongoing efforts to boost cocoa production and create more economic opportunities for rural communities, particularly in Makira-Ulawa Province, where cocoa remains a major source of income for many households.
Photo credit: Franklyn Wasi
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