Papuaaround.com – The Provincial Government of Papua, operating through its Department of Plantation and Animal Husbandry, has achieved a significant milestone by facilitating the inaugural shipment of 10 metric tons of cocoa beans valued at Rp1.2 billion. These beans were dispatched through Jayapura Port, bound for Olam Food Ingredients located in Surabaya, East Java.
In his comprehensive statement, Acting Secretary of Papua, Derek Hegemur, emphasized the pivotal role of this inaugural shipment as a tangible manifestation of the commendable progress made within Papua’s cocoa development program.
“We persistently advocate for programs aimed at bolstering the productivity of local businesses, including the cultivation of cocoa,” expressed Derek Hegemur during his address in Jayapura on Monday.
He further underscored that the successful shipment of cocoa beans stands as a testament to the effective collaboration between the central government, local administrations, and the diligent efforts of farmers.
“This moment marks a significant juncture, serving as a driving force for both the government and farmers to continually enhance their performance in sustainable natural resource management across Papua,” Hegemur added, stressing the importance of this achievement.
Moreover, Hegemur articulated his optimistic outlook for the future, expressing his aspiration that beyond cocoa, other prized commodities native to Papua would also witness similar opportunities for exportation. He highlighted the potential positive ramifications, including the stimulation of regional economic growth and the elevation of community welfare.
“The government remains steadfast in its commitment to intensify the production of additional high-value commodities boasting promising market prospects such as vanilla, coconut, sago, and palm oil,” he affirmed, illustrating the diversified approach towards agricultural development.
Concluding his remarks, Hegemur emphasized the holistic nature of the efforts being undertaken, elucidating that the implementation of strategic and integrated developmental initiatives, spanning from upstream to downstream sectors, is paramount. Such measures aim to ensure that both plantation owners and regions renowned for their agricultural output can derive enhanced value, thereby fostering sustainable prosperity within local communities.
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Source: Antaranews.