Central provincial government to address intimidation of farmers and fishers in NCD markets

The Central Provincial Government [CPG] is moving to address escalating levels of intimidation, harassment, and extortion faced by farmers, fishers, and betelnut growers transporting their produce into the National Capital District [NCD].

Deputy Governor Desmond Tiara Baira announced earlier this week that a series of high-level consultation meetings will be held to protect the livelihoods of rural producers across the province.

“For too long, our people from the coastal and inland districts have been subjected to provocative and predatory behaviour by middlemen and resellers at major market hubs, including Gordons, Boroko, and Koki,” Baira said.

The deputy governor highlighted an aggressive practice in which youths chase moving public motor vehicles (PMVs) to claim carrying rights over produce bags.

“Our farmers are being forced to pay so-called ‘carrier fees’ of up to K10 per bag for services they never requested or agreed to. This practice also contributes to the rising cost of PMV fares and freight,” he said.

To address these systemic issues, Deputy Governor Baira plans to brief Governor Rufina Peter to organise and convene meetings with a broad range of stakeholders. These include the NCDC Board and market managers, Members of Parliament for Moresby North-West, North-East, and South, Assistant Commissioner of Police for NCD and Central, Benjamin Turi, and Central Provincial Police Commander Joseph Salle.

Local-level government (LLG) presidents from Koiari, Hiri, Cloudy Bay, Amazon Bay, Rigo North, Rigo Central, Rigo East, Vanapa Brown, and Kuni have also voiced the collective concerns of their communities.

“Central Province provides food security for the capital city. While we have the land, the produce, and the transport, our people lack the safety and respect they deserve upon arrival in NCD,” Baira said.