The Commodities Export Marketing Authority (CEMA) is proud to announce the official opening of the Tarekukure Buying Point in Choiseul Province on 11th Oct 2024, a key milestone in the government’s ongoing efforts to revitalize the agriculture sector and enhance economic opportunities for rural farmers.
The opening ceremony was officiated by the Honorable Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele, alongside Minister for Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration (MCILI) Hon. Harry Kuma, the Minister for Infrastructure Development (MID) Hon. Manasseh Maelanga, and the Chairlady of the CEMA Cabinet Sub-Committee Hon. Katy Nori. The event was attended by provincial government representatives, landowners (CBA), and local farmers, all of whom witnessed this historic moment for Choiseul Province.
The establishment of the Tarekukure Buying Point is part of CEMA’s Revitalization and Recapitalization Plan (2021–2027) and is set to provide local farmers with better access to markets for their commodities, including copra and cocoa. By creating a direct link between farmers and both domestic and international markets, this initiative addresses one of the most significant challenges faced by rural producers—access to reliable buyers and fair pricing for their products.
In his remarks, Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele, emphasized the importance of supporting rural communities through initiatives like the Tarekukure Buying Point, which will stimulate economic activity and uplift the livelihoods of farmers in Choiseul. “Today’s opening is a commitment to the people of Choiseul and to the rural communities of the Solomon Islands. We are bringing markets closer to you, ensuring that your hard work is rewarded with fair opportunities and sustainable income.”
Director CEMA Cabinet Sub-Committee, [Simon Chottu], echoed the Prime Minister’s sentiments, highlighting the transformative potential of the buying point. “This facility represents a cornerstone in CEMA’s strategy to empower local farmers by reducing the barriers between production and market access. We believe that by supporting the agriculture sector, we are creating sustainable growth opportunities for the Solomon Islands.”
The Tarekukure Buying Point will play a crucial role in facilitating the collection and processing of agricultural commodities [Copra and Cocoa], enabling farmers to meet export standards while reducing logistical challenges. It is expected to strengthen the local economy, foster food security, and contribute to the overall development of Choiseul Province.
The presence of National and provincial government representatives, landowners (CBA), and farmers underscored the importance of community collaboration in this project. Their active participation is critical to the long-term success of CEMA’s revitalization efforts, which aim to modernize the agriculture sector and create lasting economic benefits for Solomon Islanders.
CEMA’s revitalization program, trading under the name Solomon Commodities, is aligned with the government’s vision of modernizing the agriculture sector and creating a robust value chain that connects local farmers to markets, both locally and internationally. The opening of the Tarekukure Buying Point is one of many strategic initiatives designed to empower rural farmers and ensure the sustainable growth of Solomon Islands’ key commodities.
About CEMA:
The Commodities Export Marketing Authority (CEMA), trading as Solomon Commodities, is the government agency responsible for the marketing, export, and development of key agricultural commodities in the Solomon Islands. Established to promote sustainable agriculture, CEMA’s mission is to empower local farmers, strengthen the value chain, and contribute to national economic growth.
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PR CSC
