Sepik Agripreneurs Break Through Digital Barriers, Expanding Market Outreach in Digitalized World
In an empowering leap forward, Sepik agripreneurs in Papua New Guinea, supported by ITU under the EU-STREIT PNG initiative, have transcended digital divides, launching their very own online marketplace platforms. This marks a pivotal shift from traditional agriculture to a digital frontier, enhancing their market reach and economic prosperity.
Lead farmers attending an E-commerce capacity building training held by ITU under the EU-STREIT PNG Programme at Maprik Secondary School.
©FAO-STREIT
Wewak, Papua New Guinea – In a groundbreaking development for the agricultural sector of Sepik, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), under the EU-STREIT PNG Programme, has successfully paved the way for lead farmers, agribusiness entrepreneurs, and MSMEs owners in the region to make significant strides in overcoming digital barriers. This initiative has equipped these beneficiaries with crucial knowledge and skills, enabling them to establish a robust online presence that was previously hindered by geographical and technological constraints.
Historically, the Sepik agripreneurs faced pressing challenges due to inadequate access to reliable transportation, digital connectivity, ICT skills, and exposure to broader markets. These limitations severely restricted their ability to engage with potential buyers and access premium markets, thereby impacting their economic gains and overall well-being.
The transformative support provided by the ITU has been instrumental in bridging this gap. By focusing on capacity building in digital skills, digital financial literacy, e-agriculture, and e-commerce, the initiative has not only upskilled participants but also significantly expanded their market outreach. The recent batches of training saw 335 participants, who were already part of the EU-STREIT PNG Programme’s support scheme, receiving comprehensive training that equipped them with the tools and technology necessary to elevate their agrifood production, processing, and business management practices.
A pre-survey revealed that prior to the training, exposure to online tools among participants was minimal, highlighting the acute need for this intervention. The series of e-commerce trainings introduced participants to the essentials of creating online marketplace pages through hands-on, project-based activities. This culminated in the establishment of websites on platforms like Google Sites and Facebook Business pages, which serve as live examples of the participants’ newfound digital capabilities. These websites, include:
- Aitape Solwara Fish Ltd (https://sites.google.com/view/aitapesolwarafishltd/)
- Wewo Gabusiness Group (https://sites.google.com/view/wewogabusinessgroup/home)
- Yakamul Turmeric (https://sites.google.com/view/yakamul-turmeric/)
- Amgawe Cocoa (https://sites.google.com/view/amgawecocoa)
- Mongiong Cocoa (https://sites.google.com/view/mongiongcocoa)
- Wingum Organic Cocoa Group (https://sites.google.com/view/wingumorganiccocoagroup/home)
- Kararau Cooperative Society (https://sites.google.com/view/kararaucooperativesociety)
These platforms are testament to the participants’ ability to transcend their previous limitations, presenting their products to a global audience and engaging with potential buyers in ways that were previously unimaginable.
The initiative's comprehensive approach, which also includes digital financial literacy, executed in collaboration with United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF), and e-agriculture training, ensures the sustainability and profitability of these digital ventures. Topics covered range from saving, budgeting, lending, investment, insurance, superannuation, and mobile banking tools to leveraging ICTs in overcoming agricultural value chain challenges. This holistic training model equips Sepik agripreneurs with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complexities of the digital world, secure their financial futures, and make informed decisions about their agribusinesses.
In parallel, the ITU, in collaboration with the UNCDF and national stakeholders, is working on improving the public access to ICT and digital services in the Sepik. It includes establishing 11 resources centres in strategic locations across across the region, as well as paving the way for improving network coverage and expansion and digital financial inclusion in the area.
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This monumental shift towards digital empowerment represents a significant milestone for the Sepik agricultural community. By effectively crossing the digital divide, these agripreneurs have not only enhanced their own economic prospects but have also set a precedent for rural development in the digital age. The ITU's initiative, supported by the EU-STREIT PNG Programme, stands as a beacon of innovation and resilience, demonstrating the transformative power of ICT in bridging gaps and creating new opportunities for growth and development in the agricultural sector.
About the EU-STREIT PNG Programme
The EU-STREIT PNG, being implemented as a United Nations Joint Programme (FAO as leading agency and ILO, ITU, UNCDF and UNDP as implementing partners), is the European Union's largest grant-funded initiative in the country. It focuses on boosting sustainable and inclusive economic development in rural areas. This is achieved by enhancing economic returns and opportunities within cocoa, vanilla, and fisheries value chains. Additionally, the Programme strengthens and improves the efficiency of value chain enablers, including access to ICT and digital financial services. It also supports the development of sustainable, climate-resilient transport infrastructures and renewable energy solutions. The Programme benefits two provinces: East Sepik and West Sepik.
Contact
Amir Khaleghiyan International Reporting and Communication Officer +675 8175 3146 [email protected]