COCOA NURSERY INITIATIVE TO BOOST LIVELIHOODS IN CENTRAL POMIO

By Wasita ROYAL

THE United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in collaboration with the Cocoa Board of PNG, the East New Britain Provincial Administration’s (ENBPA) Natural Resources Management & Development Unit, and the Pomio District Administration, has launched a transformative initiative to establish cocoa nurseries across six wards in Central Pomio LLG.

“This program empowers communities to grow high-yielding cocoa, ensuring long-term benefits for their livelihoods,” said Ms. Albina Rarau, Cocoa Board Regional Coordinator.

Funded by the Global Environment Facility 7 (GEF-7) under the World Bank-led Food Systems, Land Use, and Restoration (FOLUR) program, the project aims to enhance cocoa production, promote sustainable land use, and uplift community livelihoods through training and infrastructure development.

Each of the six wards—Galuwe, Marmar, Pomio, Sali, Olaipun 1, and Olaipun 2—will receive nurseries with a capacity of 10,000 seedlings, alongside budwood gardens hosting 18 cocoa varieties.

“We’re not just planting trees; we’re planting opportunities for sustainable income,” said Mr. Cornelius Wangun, CCB Field Officer.

Approximately 500 farmers per ward will each receive 625 seedlings, with Marmar Ward having already operationalized its 10,000-seedling nursery.

“This project secures our children’s future—cocoa is our golden crop,” said Galuwe Ward Member Peter Mire.

Farmers will receive training in nursery management, block lining, polybag filling, and drainage techniques. Additionally, the Centre for Excellence in Financial Inclusion (CEFI) will provide financial literacy training.

Post-planting, solar dryers and storage facilities will be constructed to add value to cocoa production.

This initiative represents a commitment to environmental restoration and economic resilience in Pomio District, where rising cocoa production has signal a brighter future. By integrating technical training and financial education, the project ensures communities are equipped to thrive sustainably.

As seen in Galuwe Ward, even the youngest members are already part of this green revolution, carrying polybags filled with hope.