In Papua New Guinea, the introduction of the Pathogen Tested (PT) sweet potato variety, PT Gimani, is underway, targeting rural farmers. This variety is part of the Australian Centre for International Agriculture Research — Climate Smart Agriculture (ACIAR-CSA) project, with the Fresh Produce Development Agency (FPDA) playing a key role due to its emphasis on sweet potato cultivation.
Field trials conducted by FPDA technical officers aim to establish effective and simple management practices for farmers. Kuka village in the lower Asaro of Daulo district in the Eastern Highlands province, a major sweet potato production area, has been selected as one of the trial sites. The initiative seeks to enhance farmers' capabilities in producing high-quality yields for the market, thereby increasing their income, ensuring food security, and improving living standards. According to FPDA technical officer and ACIAR-CSA project assistant Lance Maina, the engagement has been fruitful, with farmers showing enthusiasm and gaining new skills in farm management practices. The project is now set to expand to other regions within the Eastern Highlands to further assist sweet potato farmers.
Source: postcourier.com.pg