A K10 million pilot cattle project is set to revive the livestock industry in Western Province, with the national government and the Fly River Provincial Government partnering to rebuild cattle farming and create economic opportunities for rural communities.
The initiative follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Fly River Provincial Government and the Livestock Development Corporation at Iaru House in Daru recently.
The MOU was witnessed by Livestock Minister and Delta Fly MP Agena Gamai, Western Governor Taboi Awi Yoto, South Fly MP Sekie Agisa, LDC Managing Director Steven Yangis and senior government and provincial officials.
The agreement provides a framework for cooperation between the national livestock authorities, the provincial government, districts and local-level governments to develop the industry through community-based farmer cooperatives.Under the pilot, 200 cattle will be brought from the Launakalana ranch in Rigo, Central Province, to selected areas in Western Province.
Initial project sites are Awaba, Kenewa and Morehead, with the K10 million funding to support fencing, farm supplies, cattle facilities and technical assistance for local farmers.Western Governor Taboi Awi Yoto said the project shows leaders putting aside electoral differences to work together on provincial issues.“Although we are members from four different electorates, when it comes to the issues of the province, everyone comes together,” Governor Yoto said. “This is a way forward.
”He said cattle farming is not new to Western Province, having existed since the 1960s, and the return of the livestock portfolio presented an opportunity to rebuild it.Minister Gamai said Western Province will remain a priority and the province’s history, particularly among the Gogodala people, shows strong potential.
“This industry was originally established by missionaries and once thrived here, particularly among the Gogodala people. I am here to rebuild it and restore confidence among our farmers,” Gamai said.
He said the first cattle are expected to arrive within the remaining months of the year and the project will enhance income generation.
South Fly MP Sekie Agisa welcomed the partnership, saying it is better to work together to see progress.Before rollout, LDC technical officers assessed Awaba, Kenewa, Wasua, Oriomo, Morehead and Weam for suitable land for cattle ranges, abattoirs and Post-Entry Quarantine facilities. The project is seen as a major step toward restoring an industry that once had a strong presence in Western Province, with long-term plans to expand through farmer cooperatives and explore export opportunities including the Indonesian market.
