OKAPA DISTRICT STILL WITHOUT A PUBLIC MARKET

BY VICKY BAUNKE, in Goroka, EHP

MORE than 50 years after Papua New Guinea gained independence, Okapa District in Eastern Highlands Province remains without a designated public market, with local farmers continuing to sell their produce from an informal site outside the Okapa District Office.

Okapa Mane Community Development Association (MCDA) Chairman Samuel Ataya said the lack of a public market has remained a long-standing issue for the district, despite its reputation as one of Eastern Highlands’ leading agricultural producers.

Every Friday, growers from across the district gather at the location to sell fresh vegetables, coffee and other agricultural produce, despite the absence of a permanent market facility.

“For more than 50 years since Independence, our farmers have continued to trade without a proper market. Every Friday they gather in front of the district office because there is nowhere else for them to sell their produce,” Mr Ataya said.

He said the district produces large volumes of vegetables and coffee, with agriculture serving as the main source of income for many households.

“Okapa is one of the richest agricultural districts in the province, yet our farmers continue to operate without basic market facilities such as shelter, sanitation and storage. A permanent market would improve trading conditions and support economic growth for our people,” he said.

Okapa is recognised as one of Eastern Highlands Province’s key agricultural districts, supplying fresh vegetables and coffee to markets within and outside the province.

Mr Ataya is calling on the Okapa District Development Authority, the Eastern Highlands Provincial Government and relevant national authorities to consider the construction of a permanent market to better support local farmers and vendors.