National Planning Minister Sir Ano Pala has confirmed that K50M freight subsidy grant to assist locals’ farmers is yet to be released from his department.
He said these following questions put to him on the floor of parliament by Goroka Open Member Aiye Tambua.
Tambu stated that he is seeking clarification on the funding in light of increases to fuel prices as a result of USA-Iran war, that is really affecting local farmers to take their produce to the market.
“I’m asking these questions because as you all know know, fuel prices have gone up because of the war we have in Middle East,” Tambua said.
“This is not only affecting fuel prices but fertilizer prices will also increase. Our farmers are really struggling to move their cargos from rural areas and into the towns to (sell) at good prices.”
In response, Sir Ano confirmed that there is funding that is yet to be released to the farmers.
“The funding exists, K50m exists. This funding has not been released yet. It will be released from my department when we receive the warrant,” Sir Ano said.
Tambu also asked if the lists of companies that will be receiving the funds to provide freighting services will be published for public consumption.
He said many times funding as such go missing in departments and the people do not benefit from it.
“Many times, funds budgeted by the government do not reach our farmers to assist them, instead it is used for other purposes where funding goes missing in the departments,” Tambua said.
Sir Ano said when the funding is released it will be paid directly to the companies that will be providing freighting services for farmers to transport their produce to the markets.
