The Bulolo/Wau district in Morobe has a lot to offer in vegetables as more fresh produce is reaching Lae city.
The Fresh Produce Development Agency (FPDA) is behind a number of village-based programs on fresh produce development in the district with the intention to raise small to medium entrepreneurs.
Much of FPDA’s partnerships and field activities have been showcased during the Morobe Show this weekend.
One of their effective programs has been the Village Extension Workers, which involves farmers taking the lead in fresh produce production. FPDA is also pushing the marketing side of things through value chain players.
Through business partnership, the agency is empowering fresh produce SMEs and there have been a few success stories so far.
At the show, several Wau farmers displayed their produce for the general public. Among them was Joseph Michael, a fresh produce entrepreneur. He specializes in lettuce, tomatoes, pawpaws, pineapples, bulb onion, carrots and capsicums.
Michael was among FPDA officers in sharing his experiences and encouragement messages about agri business, especially vegetable production.
Michael and the FPDA team will be back today (25/10/15). Visit them at the DAL stall right in the heart of the showgrounds.