Bougainville cocoa farmers must own the entire process starting with farming, manufacturing and even to marketing their own cocoa.

This was the message from the ABG Minister for Primary Industries, Hon, Clarence Dency, at the launching of the fourth Bougainville Chocolate Festival in Arawa today.

Minister Dency says now is the time for some change in the way the government supports cocoa farmers in Bougainville.

“I want to see that cocoa farmers have more monetary value compared to the current practice,” he said.

Minister Dency also announced some of the intentions of his Ministry which includes establishing a Cocoa Development and Research Division, three regional Incubation Centers, an agricultural farming school and a feasibility study into the possible establishment of a Cooperative Society College in Bougainville.

“The objective of the Cooperative Society College is to create an institution whereby a potential farmer can be exposed to business and marketing opportunities.”

“The Cooperative Society College will not be restricted to cocoa only but would include copra and other commodities, including fisheries and marine resources.”

While acknowledging the generous support from the development partners, Minister Dency also stated that he would like to see some radical changes happen in the next festival.

“I would like to see not only the Bougainville chocolate promoted, rather I would like to see Bougainville-made and Bougainville-owned chocolate promoted globally on the international market,” he challenged.

The Chocolate Festival began today with the official launching witnessed by invited guests from the Bougainville, Australia and New Zealand governments, cocoa farmers, and the general public.

The activities will continue tomorrow (Thursday 08th August) with more fun activities, competitions, and various stall displays.

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