BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
A cocoa farmer from Sumate in West Guadalcanal has commended the Commodities Export Marketing Authority (CEMA) for its continued support of rural farmers across the Solomon Islands.
Perole, a cocoa farmer who works with a group of farmers in Sumate and nearby Hoilava, said the group recently began purchasing wet cocoa beans and has now made its first sale of processed cocoa products.
Since entering the cocoa business, Perole said he has consistently sold his cocoa products to CEMA because of the organisation’s long-standing commitment to support local farmers.
“I choose to sell to CEMA because it is one of the original commodity companies in Solomon Islands and it continues to assist farmers with the resources we need,” he said.
According to Perole, CEMA has provided valuable assistance to farmers, including empty drums, nets, financial support for the construction of cocoa dryers, and other forms of practical support that many farmers struggle to afford.
“I am very happy with the support CEMA has given us. Since the organisation was revived, I have continued working with them,” he said.
Perole also recalls accompanying CEMA officers by boat to communities between Sumate and Marasa to conduct awareness programs and encourage farmers to engage in cocoa production.
He urges farmers across Guadalcanal and the rest of the country to recognise CEMA’s commitment to the agriculture sector.
“Even during some of the country’s most challenging years, CEMA continued to support farmers. Despite declines in commodity prices, CEMA has remained committed to helping producers of both cocoa and copra,” he said.
Perole said the continued support for farmers is essential to strengthen the agriculture sector and improve livelihoods in rural communities.
Photo: Supplied
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