World Bank Funded, CIC-PACD signs Partnehsip Contract Value of K432,000 with Koezo Lakhihutt Coperative Society Ltd

The Koezo Lakihutt Cooperative Society Limited has significantly advanced its coffee processing capacity through its involvement in the World Bank-funded PNG Agriculture Commercialization & Diversification Project (PACD) via the Coffee Industry Corporation (CIC). The PACD initiative, through its 3.2 Matching Grant Facility, has partnered with Koezo to enhance the cooperative's infrastructure and operational capabilities.

Under this partnership, Koezo contributes 20% of the project costs, while CIC-PACD covers the remaining 80%. In practical terms, Koezo has committed K20,000 towards the project. With the assistance of Agmark Ltd., which provided an additional K52,000, Koezo's total contribution amounts to K72,000. This substantial contribution has enabled Koezo to access K360,000 in funding from CIC-PACD, culminating in a total project investment of K432,000.

The investment has been allocated to several critical activities aimed at bolstering Koezo's coffee processing and storage capacities. The project includes the construction of six storage sheds, each measuring 8x10 meters. These sheds provide essential space for the safe and efficient storage of coffee parchment, protecting it from environmental factors that could compromise quality.

Additionally, a warehouse measuring 8x15 meters is being constructed. This facility will serve as a central hub for aggregating coffee from various smallholder farmers, streamlining the collection and distribution processes. The warehouse will also facilitate better inventory management and enhance the overall logistical efficiency of the cooperative.

To further support the farmers, the project provides 50 canvas tarpaulins and 50 pulpers. The tarpaulins will be used during the drying process, ensuring that the coffee beans are adequately protected from adverse weather conditions. The pulpers will enable farmers to efficiently remove the pulp from the coffee cherries, a crucial step in the coffee processing workflow.

Agmark Ltd.'s involvement extends beyond financial support. The company has been instrumental in providing technical assistance and guidance to Koezo, ensuring that the cooperative can maximize the benefits of the new infrastructure and equipment. This support aligns with Agmark's broader commitment to fostering sustainable and equitable growth in the coffee industry.

The partnership between Koezo Lakihutt Cooperative Society Limited, CIC-PACD, and Agmark Ltd. exemplifies a successful model of collaboration and capacity building. By leveraging the strengths and resources of each partner, the initiative aims to enhance the quality and marketability of coffee produced by smallholder farmers in the region. The investment not only improves the cooperative's operational efficiency but also contributes to the long-term sustainability and economic resilience of the local coffee industry.

Overall, this project represents a significant milestone for Koezo and its members, enabling them to better compete in the global coffee market and secure a more prosperous future for the community.