The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) is planning to provide regular shipping services to some of the high producing regions to collect cocoa, coconut and other commodities.
This is being done in collaboration with a local shipping provider. A trial is now underway in Makira province.
Minister of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) Franklyn Derek Wasi revealed this in Parliament on Tuesday.
He was contributing to the Motion to thank His Excellency the Governor General for delivering the Speech from Throne.
Speaking as one of the young ministers in the current Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) and a first-time member of Parliament representing his good people of East Makira Constituency, Minister Wasi said, “my ministry in collaboration with one of our indigenous ship operators has trialled a ship to the cocoa and copra high producing areas of Makira for 7 days.
“It was very effective and economical with shipment of local products to Honiara,” he said.
Based on the success of the trip to Makira the ministry is planning to make similar arrangements for Malaita Outer Islands, Shortland and Mono, Choiseul, parts of Western province, parts of Guadalcanal, and Isabel in the coming months.
“Its because the fruiting season for cocoa is now picking up and expected to peak from May until August this year.
“The ministry is expected to provide regular shipping to some of our high producing areas starting this month,” he informed parliament.
As part of the trial run MV Florence will department for Makira on Wednesday 14th May to collect cocoa, copra and other commodities in the province.
This is to offer an opportunity for farmers to transport their products to markets and buyers in Honiara.
In an advisory to the farmers, the ministry said, the vessel will travel via the following route:
Ulawa – Ugi – Kira Kira – Star Harbour, covering the main agricultural produce collection points around Makira.
MAL has advised all farmers and produce buyers to prepare their agricultural products in advance, particularly; cocoa, coconuts and other market-ready commodities.
“This trip provides an important opportunity for farmers to transport their goods to markets and buyers in Honiara, contributing to improved market access and income generation,” the statement said.
Farmers have been advised to prepare for the boat upon its arrival.
