CEMA Meet with Makira Ulawa Province PACRA
CEMA is driving efforts to support the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT)’s mission to reach rural farmers and enhance the agricultural sector. Through the revitalization and recapitalization of CEMA, the Sub-Committee and CEMA managements are taking significant strides to ensure rural farmers, particularly in remote provinces, benefit from national initiatives that promote agricultural trade and economic growth through producing dry Copra and Cocoa.
This mission aligns with GNUT’s 100-day policy, which emphasizes inclusive development, particularly for rural populations. CEMA, as part of its revitalization strategy, is focused on re-establishing buying centers and buying points across provinces to ensure that farmers have direct access to market their commodities such as copra and cocoa. Like the successful operation of the Pakera Buying Center and Ugi buying agent in Makira Ulawa Province (MUP), opened in May 2022. This demonstrates CEMA’s commitment to serving rural communities. “Since its opening, Pakera and ugi combined has facilitated the purchase of over 600+ MT of copra and 22+ MT of cocoa, injecting over SBD 2.1 million plus into the local economy, said CEO for CEMA.
CEMA has initiated partnerships with local agents to improve buying operations and commodity collection, fostering collaboration with rural communities. These efforts are crucial to supporting the GNUT government’s broader development strategy, as they focus on boosting production, improving farmer livelihoods, and enhancing the national economy.
Recognizing the importance of fair pricing and market access, CEMA is working to ensure that rural farmers receive competitive prices for their commodities. The Ministry of Agriculture has allocated funding toward CEMA to provide farmers with quality training and agro-service materials. These efforts include the supply of dryers to farmers in provinces like Makira and other provinces. Also plans for further quality and training programs across the country.
“CEMA fully supports the collaborative approach between provincial governments, the National Government, and other stakeholders,” said Director Simon Chottu. “Our mission is to ensure that rural farmers are not left behind in our national development efforts. By working together, we can overcome challenges and build a stronger, more inclusive agricultural sector.”
The CEMA Cabinet Sub-Committee together with CEMA management will continue to support GNUT’s mission, ensuring that rural farmers are equipped with the tools and resources they need to contribute to the Solomon Islands’ economic growth. These initiatives are part of the larger strategy to revitalize and recapitalize CEMA and build sustainable development through genuine and durable partnerships.
End…….
–Press Release, CEMA Cabinet Sub-Committee
