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Scoop
3 days ago
- Business
- Scoop
Cultivating A Brighter Future In Maka: A Story Of Resilience And Revitalization In West Sepik, Papua New Guinea
Press Release – EU STREIT PNG Once struggling with low agricultural productivity and limited market access, an isolated rural community in West Sepik Province of Papua New Guinea has been transformed into a centre for valuable commodity production, thanks to the EU-STREIT PNG Programme. This shift is not only enhancing the villagers' living conditions but also paving the way for growth and prosperity of future generations. Vanimo, Papua New Guinea – In the remote stretches of Vanimo Green River, West Sepik Province of Papua New Guinea, the Maka community lived for years with a very limited agricultural commodity production. Rugged terrain and poorly maintained roads coupled with lack of any established market in the region also heavily impacted the daily life and livelihood leading to a state of seclusion. Basic amenities like education, healthcare, and transportation were often out of reach which left local families to face constant hardship. Generations grew up with these challenges, with little hope of unlocking their community's potential. Joseph, the Chairman of the Fugumi Cocoa Business Group, recalls those difficult times: 'We wanted to start a business but had less opportunity to sell our produce,' which was of low volume and quality. Referring to challenge they face due to lack of income, he adds, 'finding school fees was difficult [for us], and even [nutritious, protein-rich] food was hard to afford.' His words highlight the struggle in Maka, a place where promising crops, such as cocoa and vanilla, were lost due to low productivity, and infestation. Even if there were the quality products, they were suffered from the absence of accessible markets. For many, this isolation was equal to missed opportunities for economic progress. For Damia, the spouse of Joseph, life had been equally challenging. Interrupted by illness during her early schooling: 'I became very sick and had to leave school in Grade 5', because they had not enough money for treatment. She experienced firsthand the long-term impact of an education cut short. Now, every morning as she feeds their fish at the family ponds, she reminds her children of the importance of seizing every opportunity: 'I tell my children, 'You must do well to have a good future.'' Her determined voice, tempered by past hardships, fuels the hope that her children will break free of the limitations that once defined her lives. A Transformative Partnership Change began with the arrival of the EU-STREIT PNG Programme, an initiative aimed at reviving key agricultural value chains such as cocoa, fisheries, and vanilla. Funded by the European Union and implemented by FAO, ILO, ITU, UNCDF, and UNDP, the Programme is designed to improve these sectors by addressing gaps from production to market. The Programme provided vital technical training, agricultural inputs, and cocoa value chain support that had long been unaffordable or inaccessible to the villagers. Maka's farmers gained access to pest-tolerant seedlings, polybags, shed cloth, essential farming tools, nursery materials, and fermentary kits, alongside training in cocoa budding, block management, harvesting, post-harvesting as well as business development and management. Through this support, 40 farmers from the community were enabled to plant 4,033 pest-tolerant cloned cocoa seedlings, which transformed their rundown block fields into productive plots. These resources were more than just physical tools, they symbolized a renewed hope. Reflecting on support received, Joseph recalls, 'When I saw these things, I was very happy.' Building on the Programme's agricultural initiatives in cocoa, support was also extended to aquaculture within the community. In June 2024, the Programme supported Joseph and Damia to stock 400 fingerlings in their only fishpond, initiating aquaculture freshwater fish farming. Within 6–7 months, the fish matured quickly, leading to a high fingerling production rate, allowing the family to expand their fishpond from one to three, and to distribute 50–100 fingerlings to cluster groups and individuals in surrounding area. This expansion, driven by Programme intervention, is strengthening fish farming in Maka, increasing profitability and nutrition for involved households. This blend of expertise and resources empowered Maka's farmers to adopt sustainable, climate-smart practices, setting them on a path toward long-term prosperity. Revitalizing Production and Market Access One of the Programme's greatest achievements was restoring market access for Maka's agricultural produce. Previously, isolation and lack of reliable trading point meant that even the best harvests were left to perish in the fields with no buyer. With the EU-STREIT PNG support, a Cocoa Trade and Depot Facility was constructed and established in Vanimo, the provincial capital, serving as a robust outlet for local produce. Trucks now make regular trips from Vanimo to Maka, transporting much-needed supplies and returning with cocoa beans. The arrival of these trucks has brought great relief and confidence to the villagers. Damia smiles with gratitude: 'Trucks finally reach our village. They help us sell cocoa, and I am happy.' This improved cocoa market infrastructure has not only revitalized the local economy but also inspired farmers to venture in better pot-harvest processing. Supported by the Programme, they constructed a cocoa fermentary in Maka, so that beans can be processed on-site and fetch higher market prices. Empowering Families Through Self-Reliance Beyond the tangible economic benefits, the Programme's impact is deeply personal. For Damia and Joseph, the changes go hand in hand with a renewed sense of independence. Every day, Damia tends to their fishponds with unwavering commitment, a task that often requires her to wake before dawn and go into the bush to secure extra nourishment for the fish. 'No one helps me, only my husband and I,' she says, capturing the spirit of self-reliance that now defines their daily life. This newfound independence plays a crucial role in shaping their future. Damia is determined to ensure her children, who attend schools in both Maka and Vanimo, have educational opportunities she never had. Meanwhile, Joseph dreams of a future where his children can break free of the legacy of missed opportunities. 'I dream of my children achieving their goals,' he confesses. Toward a Brighter Future Today, Maka is well on its way to emerging from its long history of seclusion. The the adoption of efficient agricultural techniques coupled with the restoration of market linkages have set the stage for sustainable development. As Damia reflects on the journey, her gratitude is evident: 'Thank you for everything, thank you for the fish and cocoa you provided, and thank you for all the support. We now have these things, and we feel very happy.' Her heartfelt words echo the sentiment of a community poised for change. Together, Joseph, Damia, and their neighbours are not only rewriting the story of Maka—they are forging a collective path toward a future defined by resilience, cooperation, and hope. Ensuring Long-Term Sustainability Sustainability is at the heart of the EU-STREIT PNG Programme's vision for lasting change. While the Programme rehabilitated a cocoa nursery to support local farmers in Maka to revitalize their cocoa blocks, long-term success depends on continued government ownership and investment. Recognizing this, the Cocoa Board of Papua New Guinea has now stepped in to oversee and support the nursery, ensuring its continued operation and benefit to the community. In parallel, the Cocoa Tarde and Depot Facility is handed over to be run by West Sepik Investment Limited, the business arm of the Provincial Government. The This transition reflects the Programme's core objective which is empowering institutions to take ownership so that these advancements endure beyond Programme interventions, and to foster a sustainable cocoa business in for Maka. A Flagship under the EU's Global Gateway EU-STREIT PNG contributes to the EU's Global Gateway Strategy by driving rural transformation through climate-resilient agriculture, sustainable infrastructure, and digital innovation. As the first articulation of the Strategy in Papua New Guinea, the Programme enhances market access for remote farmers by improving transport links, expanding digital tools for real-time farming advice and weather alerts, and promoting clean energy use. These 'smart, clean, and secure' solutions reduce transaction costs, boost productivity, and strengthen food security and incomes, delivering tangible impact in line with the EU's global development vision. About the EU-STREIT PNG Programme The EU-STREIT PNG Programme, is the European Union's largest grant-funded initiative in the country being implemented as a United Nations Joint Programme by FAO, ILO, ITU, UNCDF and UNDP. It focuses on boosting sustainable and inclusive economic development in rural areas. This is achieved by FAO's support in enhancing economic returns and opportunities within cocoa, vanilla, and fisheries value chains. Additionally, the Programme strengthens and improves the efficiency of value chain enablers, including access to Information & Communication Technology (ICT) by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and digital financial services by UNCDF. ILO also supports the development of sustainable, climate-resilient roads and other transport infrastructures while UNDP provides renewable energy solutions. The Programme directly benefits two provinces: East Sepik and West Sepik.
Scoop
3 days ago
- Business
- Scoop
Cultivating A Brighter Future In Maka: A Story Of Resilience And Revitalization In West Sepik, Papua New Guinea
Press Release – EU STREIT PNG Once struggling with low agricultural productivity and limited market access, an isolated rural community in West Sepik Province of Papua New Guinea has been transformed into a centre for valuable commodity production, thanks to the EU-STREIT PNG Programme. This shift is not only enhancing the villagers' living conditions but also paving the way for growth and prosperity of future generations. Vanimo, Papua New Guinea – In the remote stretches of Vanimo Green River, West Sepik Province of Papua New Guinea, the Maka community lived for years with a very limited agricultural commodity production. Rugged terrain and poorly maintained roads coupled with lack of any established market in the region also heavily impacted the daily life and livelihood leading to a state of seclusion. Basic amenities like education, healthcare, and transportation were often out of reach which left local families to face constant hardship. Generations grew up with these challenges, with little hope of unlocking their community's potential. Joseph, the Chairman of the Fugumi Cocoa Business Group, recalls those difficult times: 'We wanted to start a business but had less opportunity to sell our produce,' which was of low volume and quality. Referring to challenge they face due to lack of income, he adds, 'finding school fees was difficult [for us], and even [nutritious, protein-rich] food was hard to afford.' His words highlight the struggle in Maka, a place where promising crops, such as cocoa and vanilla, were lost due to low productivity, and infestation. Even if there were the quality products, they were suffered from the absence of accessible markets. For many, this isolation was equal to missed opportunities for economic progress. For Damia, the spouse of Joseph, life had been equally challenging. Interrupted by illness during her early schooling: 'I became very sick and had to leave school in Grade 5', because they had not enough money for treatment. She experienced firsthand the long-term impact of an education cut short. Now, every morning as she feeds their fish at the family ponds, she reminds her children of the importance of seizing every opportunity: 'I tell my children, 'You must do well to have a good future.'' Her determined voice, tempered by past hardships, fuels the hope that her children will break free of the limitations that once defined her lives. A Transformative Partnership Change began with the arrival of the EU-STREIT PNG Programme, an initiative aimed at reviving key agricultural value chains such as cocoa, fisheries, and vanilla. Funded by the European Union and implemented by FAO, ILO, ITU, UNCDF, and UNDP, the Programme is designed to improve these sectors by addressing gaps from production to market. The Programme provided vital technical training, agricultural inputs, and cocoa value chain support that had long been unaffordable or inaccessible to the villagers. Maka's farmers gained access to pest-tolerant seedlings, polybags, shed cloth, essential farming tools, nursery materials, and fermentary kits, alongside training in cocoa budding, block management, harvesting, post-harvesting as well as business development and management. Through this support, 40 farmers from the community were enabled to plant 4,033 pest-tolerant cloned cocoa seedlings, which transformed their rundown block fields into productive plots. These resources were more than just physical tools, they symbolized a renewed hope. Reflecting on support received, Joseph recalls, 'When I saw these things, I was very happy.' Building on the Programme's agricultural initiatives in cocoa, support was also extended to aquaculture within the community. In June 2024, the Programme supported Joseph and Damia to stock 400 fingerlings in their only fishpond, initiating aquaculture freshwater fish farming. Within 6–7 months, the fish matured quickly, leading to a high fingerling production rate, allowing the family to expand their fishpond from one to three, and to distribute 50–100 fingerlings to cluster groups and individuals in surrounding area. This expansion, driven by Programme intervention, is strengthening fish farming in Maka, increasing profitability and nutrition for involved households. This blend of expertise and resources empowered Maka's farmers to adopt sustainable, climate-smart practices, setting them on a path toward long-term prosperity. Revitalizing Production and Market Access One of the Programme's greatest achievements was restoring market access for Maka's agricultural produce. Previously, isolation and lack of reliable trading point meant that even the best harvests were left to perish in the fields with no buyer. With the EU-STREIT PNG support, a Cocoa Trade and Depot Facility was constructed and established in Vanimo, the provincial capital, serving as a robust outlet for local produce. Trucks now make regular trips from Vanimo to Maka, transporting much-needed supplies and returning with cocoa beans. The arrival of these trucks has brought great relief and confidence to the villagers. Damia smiles with gratitude: 'Trucks finally reach our village. They help us sell cocoa, and I am happy.' This improved cocoa market infrastructure has not only revitalized the local economy but also inspired farmers to venture in better pot-harvest processing. Supported by the Programme, they constructed a cocoa fermentary in Maka, so that beans can be processed on-site and fetch higher market prices. Empowering Families Through Self-Reliance Beyond the tangible economic benefits, the Programme's impact is deeply personal. For Damia and Joseph, the changes go hand in hand with a renewed sense of independence. Every day, Damia tends to their fishponds with unwavering commitment, a task that often requires her to wake before dawn and go into the bush to secure extra nourishment for the fish. 'No one helps me, only my husband and I,' she says, capturing the spirit of self-reliance that now defines their daily life. This newfound independence plays a crucial role in shaping their future. Damia is determined to ensure her children, who attend schools in both Maka and Vanimo, have educational opportunities she never had. Meanwhile, Joseph dreams of a future where his children can break free of the legacy of missed opportunities. 'I dream of my children achieving their goals,' he confesses. Toward a Brighter Future Today, Maka is well on its way to emerging from its long history of seclusion. The the adoption of efficient agricultural techniques coupled with the restoration of market linkages have set the stage for sustainable development. As Damia reflects on the journey, her gratitude is evident: 'Thank you for everything, thank you for the fish and cocoa you provided, and thank you for all the support. We now have these things, and we feel very happy.' Her heartfelt words echo the sentiment of a community poised for change. Together, Joseph, Damia, and their neighbours are not only rewriting the story of Maka—they are forging a collective path toward a future defined by resilience, cooperation, and hope. Ensuring Long-Term Sustainability Sustainability is at the heart of the EU-STREIT PNG Programme's vision for lasting change. While the Programme rehabilitated a cocoa nursery to support local farmers in Maka to revitalize their cocoa blocks, long-term success depends on continued government ownership and investment. Recognizing this, the Cocoa Board of Papua New Guinea has now stepped in to oversee and support the nursery, ensuring its continued operation and benefit to the community. In parallel, the Cocoa Tarde and Depot Facility is handed over to be run by West Sepik Investment Limited, the business arm of the Provincial Government. The This transition reflects the Programme's core objective which is empowering institutions to take ownership so that these advancements endure beyond Programme interventions, and to foster a sustainable cocoa business in for Maka. A Flagship under the EU's Global Gateway EU-STREIT PNG contributes to the EU's Global Gateway Strategy by driving rural transformation through climate-resilient agriculture, sustainable infrastructure, and digital innovation. As the first articulation of the Strategy in Papua New Guinea, the Programme enhances market access for remote farmers by improving transport links, expanding digital tools for real-time farming advice and weather alerts, and promoting clean energy use. These 'smart, clean, and secure' solutions reduce transaction costs, boost productivity, and strengthen food security and incomes, delivering tangible impact in line with the EU's global development vision. About the EU-STREIT PNG Programme The EU-STREIT PNG Programme, is the European Union's largest grant-funded initiative in the country being implemented as a United Nations Joint Programme by FAO, ILO, ITU, UNCDF and UNDP. It focuses on boosting sustainable and inclusive economic development in rural areas. This is achieved by FAO's support in enhancing economic returns and opportunities within cocoa, vanilla, and fisheries value chains. Additionally, the Programme strengthens and improves the efficiency of value chain enablers, including access to Information & Communication Technology (ICT) by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and digital financial services by UNCDF. ILO also supports the development of sustainable, climate-resilient roads and other transport infrastructures while UNDP provides renewable energy solutions. The Programme directly benefits two provinces: East Sepik and West Sepik.
Scoop
22-05-2025
- Business
- Scoop
A Road Reopened, A Future Unlocked: EU-STREIT PNG Programme Delivers For Rural Sepik, Papua New Guinea
Press Release – EU STREIT PNG The International Labour Organization (ILO) under the EU-STREIT PNG Programme, helped fix the 16.7 km road between Rawo and Leitre villages. The work includes filling embankments, laying gravel, building 22 relief culverts, two slab culverts, and two … In Papua New Guinea's West Sepik, the EU-STREIT PNG Programme transformed lives by rehabilitating a 16.7 km road, reconnecting 12,000 rural villagers to markets and services. This climate-resilient infrastructure slashed transport costs, revived cocoa farming, and created jobs, empowering communities and fostering sustainable economic growth. A Decade of Isolation For nearly 10 years, over 12,000 people in five coastal villages in Papua New Guinea's West Sepik Province had no proper road. The only way to reach the provincial capital, Vanimo, was by boat. This was risky, especially during rough seas, and very costly for families trying to sell their goods or visit essential services. This situation was particularly challenging when villagers needed urgent medical attention, as transporting sick individuals by boat was difficult and often dangerous. Paving the Way: The EU-STREIT Intervention In June 2024, everything began to change. The International Labour Organization (ILO) under the EU-STREIT PNG Programme, helped fix the 16.7 km road between Rawo and Leitre villages. The work includes filling embankments, laying gravel, building 22 relief culverts, two slab culverts, and two box bridges. These features were carefully designed to ensure year-round, climate-resilient accessibility—even in harsh weather conditions. Now, cars, buses, and motorcycles can safely travel the road at any time of day or night. Reconnecting Communities, Easing Burdens The road now connects Rawo and Leitre with three other nearby villages in the Bewani-Wutung-Onei LLG of Vanimo-Green District to the main road leading to the Provincial capital. This has reopened access to markets and services, making life easier for many and enabling local agribusinesses to thrive. Father Joseph Runnai from the Catholic Mission Station in Leitre village says, 'This road is a very big plus for the rural community here and we're very pleased indeed. Though we have boats, it was risky at times during rough seas and also expensive compared to Public Motor Vehicle (PMV) fares.' Economic Revival: A Boost for Local Farmers Previously, cocoa farmers faced steep costs—PGK 50 for passenger fare and another PGK 50 per 63kg cocoa bag—to reach Vanimo by boat. Now, they pay only PGK 20 for both passenger fare and freight on PMV, saving PGK 60 per trip. Moreover, boat travel was limited to mornings due to afternoon sea conditions. If villagers stayed until early afternoon, around 2 or 3 PM, they had no choice but to find overnight accommodation in town, adding extra expense, inconvenience, and difficulty to their trips. The restored road has not only reduced transportation costs but also reignited interest in cocoa farming. Farmers, previously discouraged by logistical challenges, are returning to cocoa cultivation. This resurgence is supported by the EU-STREIT PNG Programme. The Programme provides pest-tolerant seedlings, tools, and materials, along with training in sustainable farming and business management. Additionally, the Programme has facilitated the upgrading of fermentary units, including meeting requirements for certification by Cocoa Board of PNG, and introduced renewable energy solutions to enhance processing efficiency. Sweet Success: Community and Cocoa Thriving Cocoa farmer and fermentary operator Mr. Penuel Amele shared, 'Every day we see excited women and children carrying their wet cocoa beans in small bags and smiling to the fermentary to sell. This is something we didn't see in the community for years.' He added that interest has picked up among youths to distribute and plant Cocoa Pod Borer (CPB) tolerant seedlings from their nurseries. Unlike before, there is an increase in cash flow with thousands of Kina being circulated in the community, and this will increase. They are planning for a storage house, with support from the EU-STREIT PNG Programme, because production is picking up. The fermentary, recently upgraded with support from the EU-STREIT PNG Programme, has already produced 467 kg of dried beans – within a month cycle – and earned PGK 6,424. Operated by 103 cocoa farmers under Saint Mary's Cocoa Growers Group, the fermentary reinvests profits to purchase more wet beans from local farmers, paying PGK 4/kg, with plans to increase to PGK 5/kg to further motivate cocoa cultivation. Expanding Horizons: Benefits for Vanilla and Fisheries Beyond cocoa, the rehabilitated road benefits 81 vanilla farmers and 350 fishers in the community. Vanilla farmer Desmond Sinene says, 'I'm very happy that I can travel easily into Vanimo town which is cheaper to find buyers for my beans.' He used the road to reach Batas Market at the PNG-Indonesia border and sold 6 kg of beans for PGK 800. Empowering Women and Enhancing Mobility Women, too, are experiencing newfound opportunities. Regina Naro, a mother trained and supported by the Programme, noted, 'I'm happy that the road has come to our village. We the mothers can travel easily by road anytime of the day into town markets. Now I'm waiting for a PMV to travel to Vanimo to sell some sago and greens in town.' The improved infrastructure has also facilitated the adoption of motorcycles, a popular mode of transport in the area. Jalwin Barbare, who recently acquired a motorcycle, stated, 'Without this road, I would not buy this motorcycle,' after using it to take a relative to a farm. In Leitre Village alone, more than 10 motorcycles can now be seen parked under houses. Creating Opportunities: Employment and Social Inclusion The road project also created decent employment opportunities. Six locals, including two women, were engaged as rural road maintenance group members for routine maintenance works of the road and earn PGK 700 each month. One of them is 27-year-old Raynatalyn Simewa, a young mother with hearing impairment. Her mother, Rachel, helps her communicate. This is her first job, and it gives her pride and purpose. She uses the money to buy clothes for herself and her child and saves for school fees. Once seen as insignificant, Raynatalyn is now a valued contributor to her family and community. Her story reflects the Programme's strong focus on social inclusion, empowering differently-abled persons and ensuring no one is left behind. Strengthening Essential Public Services Public services have seen improvements, too. The road makes it easier for teachers and health workers to execute their duties. Fr. Joseph explains, 'Our teachers utilize this road any time of the day to check for their needs and also to do their shopping in town. Basic medication supply for the sub-health centre are now delivered by road as well as building materials for our new staff house which was recently constructed in the mission station.' The Power of Partnership and a Brighter Future These developments are the result of robust partnerships. The EU-STREIT PNG Programme, led by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and implemented jointly with ILO, other involved UN agencies in close collaboration with government partners, demonstrates how collaborative efforts can drive rural development. By combining institutional knowledge, technical assistance, and community engagement, the Programme has constructed more than infrastructure—it has built a pathway to opportunity. The villagers are excited about the future. They now feel more connected and hopeful. With better access to markets, services, and income, the road is helping their community grow. As Penuel puts it, 'All we wanted was a road and we can now take off from here.' A Global Gateway Strategy Realized Locally This transformative impact aligns with a broader initiative. The support to sustainable infrastructure under the EU-STREIT PNG Programme represents the first articulation of the EU Global Gateway Strategy's rollout in Papua New Guinea. By advancing sustainable infrastructure, digital access, and renewable energy in rural areas, the Programme reduces transaction costs and boosts productivity, connecting local agribusinesses to global markets through 'smart, clean, and secure' solutions—making the EU's global vision a tangible reality on the ground. About the EU-STREIT PNG Programme The EU-STREIT PNG Programme, is the European Union's largest grant-funded initiative in the country being implemented as a United Nations Joint Programme by FAO, ILO, ITU, UNCDF and UNDP. It focuses on boosting sustainable and inclusive economic development in rural areas. This is achieved by FAO's support in enhancing economic returns and opportunities within cocoa, vanilla, and fisheries value chains. Additionally, the Programme strengthens and improves the efficiency of value chain enablers, including access to Information & Communication Technology (ICT) by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and digital financial services by UNCDF. ILO also supports the development of sustainable, climate-resilient roads and other transport infrastructures while UNDP provides renewable energy solutions. The Programme directly benefits two provinces: East Sepik and West Sepik.
Scoop
22-05-2025
- Business
- Scoop
A Road Reopened, A Future Unlocked: EU-STREIT PNG Programme Delivers For Rural Sepik, Papua New Guinea
Press Release – EU STREIT PNG The International Labour Organization (ILO) under the EU-STREIT PNG Programme, helped fix the 16.7 km road between Rawo and Leitre villages. The work includes filling embankments, laying gravel, building 22 relief culverts, two slab culverts, and two … In Papua New Guinea's West Sepik, the EU-STREIT PNG Programme transformed lives by rehabilitating a 16.7 km road, reconnecting 12,000 rural villagers to markets and services. This climate-resilient infrastructure slashed transport costs, revived cocoa farming, and created jobs, empowering communities and fostering sustainable economic growth. A Decade of Isolation For nearly 10 years, over 12,000 people in five coastal villages in Papua New Guinea's West Sepik Province had no proper road. The only way to reach the provincial capital, Vanimo, was by boat. This was risky, especially during rough seas, and very costly for families trying to sell their goods or visit essential services. This situation was particularly challenging when villagers needed urgent medical attention, as transporting sick individuals by boat was difficult and often dangerous. Paving the Way: The EU-STREIT Intervention In June 2024, everything began to change. The International Labour Organization (ILO) under the EU-STREIT PNG Programme, helped fix the 16.7 km road between Rawo and Leitre villages. The work includes filling embankments, laying gravel, building 22 relief culverts, two slab culverts, and two box bridges. These features were carefully designed to ensure year-round, climate-resilient accessibility—even in harsh weather conditions. Now, cars, buses, and motorcycles can safely travel the road at any time of day or night. Reconnecting Communities, Easing Burdens The road now connects Rawo and Leitre with three other nearby villages in the Bewani-Wutung-Onei LLG of Vanimo-Green District to the main road leading to the Provincial capital. This has reopened access to markets and services, making life easier for many and enabling local agribusinesses to thrive. Father Joseph Runnai from the Catholic Mission Station in Leitre village says, 'This road is a very big plus for the rural community here and we're very pleased indeed. Though we have boats, it was risky at times during rough seas and also expensive compared to Public Motor Vehicle (PMV) fares.' Economic Revival: A Boost for Local Farmers Previously, cocoa farmers faced steep costs—PGK 50 for passenger fare and another PGK 50 per 63kg cocoa bag—to reach Vanimo by boat. Now, they pay only PGK 20 for both passenger fare and freight on PMV, saving PGK 60 per trip. Moreover, boat travel was limited to mornings due to afternoon sea conditions. If villagers stayed until early afternoon, around 2 or 3 PM, they had no choice but to find overnight accommodation in town, adding extra expense, inconvenience, and difficulty to their trips. The restored road has not only reduced transportation costs but also reignited interest in cocoa farming. Farmers, previously discouraged by logistical challenges, are returning to cocoa cultivation. This resurgence is supported by the EU-STREIT PNG Programme. The Programme provides pest-tolerant seedlings, tools, and materials, along with training in sustainable farming and business management. Additionally, the Programme has facilitated the upgrading of fermentary units, including meeting requirements for certification by Cocoa Board of PNG, and introduced renewable energy solutions to enhance processing efficiency. Sweet Success: Community and Cocoa Thriving Cocoa farmer and fermentary operator Mr. Penuel Amele shared, 'Every day we see excited women and children carrying their wet cocoa beans in small bags and smiling to the fermentary to sell. This is something we didn't see in the community for years.' He added that interest has picked up among youths to distribute and plant Cocoa Pod Borer (CPB) tolerant seedlings from their nurseries. Unlike before, there is an increase in cash flow with thousands of Kina being circulated in the community, and this will increase. They are planning for a storage house, with support from the EU-STREIT PNG Programme, because production is picking up. The fermentary, recently upgraded with support from the EU-STREIT PNG Programme, has already produced 467 kg of dried beans – within a month cycle – and earned PGK 6,424. Operated by 103 cocoa farmers under Saint Mary's Cocoa Growers Group, the fermentary reinvests profits to purchase more wet beans from local farmers, paying PGK 4/kg, with plans to increase to PGK 5/kg to further motivate cocoa cultivation. Expanding Horizons: Benefits for Vanilla and Fisheries Beyond cocoa, the rehabilitated road benefits 81 vanilla farmers and 350 fishers in the community. Vanilla farmer Desmond Sinene says, 'I'm very happy that I can travel easily into Vanimo town which is cheaper to find buyers for my beans.' He used the road to reach Batas Market at the PNG-Indonesia border and sold 6 kg of beans for PGK 800. Empowering Women and Enhancing Mobility Women, too, are experiencing newfound opportunities. Regina Naro, a mother trained and supported by the Programme, noted, 'I'm happy that the road has come to our village. We the mothers can travel easily by road anytime of the day into town markets. Now I'm waiting for a PMV to travel to Vanimo to sell some sago and greens in town.' The improved infrastructure has also facilitated the adoption of motorcycles, a popular mode of transport in the area. Jalwin Barbare, who recently acquired a motorcycle, stated, 'Without this road, I would not buy this motorcycle,' after using it to take a relative to a farm. In Leitre Village alone, more than 10 motorcycles can now be seen parked under houses. Creating Opportunities: Employment and Social Inclusion The road project also created decent employment opportunities. Six locals, including two women, were engaged as rural road maintenance group members for routine maintenance works of the road and earn PGK 700 each month. One of them is 27-year-old Raynatalyn Simewa, a young mother with hearing impairment. Her mother, Rachel, helps her communicate. This is her first job, and it gives her pride and purpose. She uses the money to buy clothes for herself and her child and saves for school fees. Once seen as insignificant, Raynatalyn is now a valued contributor to her family and community. Her story reflects the Programme's strong focus on social inclusion, empowering differently-abled persons and ensuring no one is left behind. Strengthening Essential Public Services Public services have seen improvements, too. The road makes it easier for teachers and health workers to execute their duties. Fr. Joseph explains, 'Our teachers utilize this road any time of the day to check for their needs and also to do their shopping in town. Basic medication supply for the sub-health centre are now delivered by road as well as building materials for our new staff house which was recently constructed in the mission station.' The Power of Partnership and a Brighter Future These developments are the result of robust partnerships. The EU-STREIT PNG Programme, led by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and implemented jointly with ILO, other involved UN agencies in close collaboration with government partners, demonstrates how collaborative efforts can drive rural development. By combining institutional knowledge, technical assistance, and community engagement, the Programme has constructed more than infrastructure—it has built a pathway to opportunity. The villagers are excited about the future. They now feel more connected and hopeful. With better access to markets, services, and income, the road is helping their community grow. As Penuel puts it, 'All we wanted was a road and we can now take off from here.' A Global Gateway Strategy Realized Locally This transformative impact aligns with a broader initiative. The support to sustainable infrastructure under the EU-STREIT PNG Programme represents the first articulation of the EU Global Gateway Strategy's rollout in Papua New Guinea. By advancing sustainable infrastructure, digital access, and renewable energy in rural areas, the Programme reduces transaction costs and boosts productivity, connecting local agribusinesses to global markets through 'smart, clean, and secure' solutions—making the EU's global vision a tangible reality on the ground. About the EU-STREIT PNG Programme The EU-STREIT PNG Programme, is the European Union's largest grant-funded initiative in the country being implemented as a United Nations Joint Programme by FAO, ILO, ITU, UNCDF and UNDP. It focuses on boosting sustainable and inclusive economic development in rural areas. This is achieved by FAO's support in enhancing economic returns and opportunities within cocoa, vanilla, and fisheries value chains. Additionally, the Programme strengthens and improves the efficiency of value chain enablers, including access to Information & Communication Technology (ICT) by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and digital financial services by UNCDF. ILO also supports the development of sustainable, climate-resilient roads and other transport infrastructures while UNDP provides renewable energy solutions. The Programme directly benefits two provinces: East Sepik and West Sepik.
