While a Produce Distribution Depot for Highlands farmers was launched this week in Port Moresby, Enga Governor Sir Peter Ipatas, says the National Government still has an outstanding commitment of K6 million, which is to help complete out-grower programs.
“We do hope that public financing will be made available shortly to complete the out-grower engagement program, a program that creates opportunities for meaningful participation for local stakeholders,” Sir Peter said.
The Sirunki Farm project in Enga is a joint venture between the Provincial Government and Innovative Agro Industry PNG which required an investment of 23 million Kina to complete, after a two-year feasibility study.
Deputy Prime Minister, Charles Abel officiated the launch and acknowledged the Enga Governor’s request.
Supported by the National Government, the Enga Provincial Government made an initial investment of K5 million in 2017 in Sirunki Farm; however, there are currently some outstanding funding commitments which are still urgently needed.
Innovative Agro Industry kept their financial commitments to the project from the onset, whereas public financing is lagging behind.
“The project is a public-private partnership, and it is imperative that the National Government completes its commitment in line with its policy to promote agriculture in rural PNG,” said Sir Peter.
Minister Abel, who officially opened the depot, acknowledged the national government’s outstanding financial commitments to the project.
He said that government will work towards delivering the final instalment of K6 million required to further support the out-grower engagement program in Enga.
“ We are having just a few tight moments in the economy at the moment but let me assure you, we are coming through all these things … and I’m sure we will be able to meet all these commitments as the year goes on,” Abel said.
Despite shortfalls in the project financing, IAI PNG managed to deliver the project on time.
More than 70 employees are employed directly by the venture with up to 100 more engaged during harvesting periods.
