Gulf farmers complete cocoa pruning training

Nearly 30 local farmers, including a strong turnout of women and youth, have successfully completed a practical cocoa pruning training session in the Keipi Melaripi Local Level Government [LLG] area of Kerema, Gulf.

The five-hour hands-on workshop, conducted on Tuesday by Cocoa Board Extension Field Officer Heni Smith, was a step forward for local growers following a years-long lapse in agricultural extension services previously provided by the Department of Agriculture and Livestock.

During the session, participants applied their new skills directly in the field, successfully pruning 2,500 cocoa trees across a four-hectare development block, according to a statement from Lavare Cocoa officials.

Smith said each participant was equipped with a secateur [hand pruner], purchased and distributed by project leaders, to assist with proper maintenance techniques.

"The farmers were given hands-on instruction in proper pruning techniques for both old and young cocoa trees," Smith said. "This included removing unwanted growth to encourage healthy tree development and preparing the plantation for higher yield and productivity as the trees mature."

Smith added that the next phase of the program, focusing on broader cocoa block management, is scheduled to commence in October.