East New Britain's south coast area of Sinivit Local Level Government (LLG) in the Pomio District is full of economic potential, but it needs more help in training and technical support for farmers and fisherfolk. The region, known for cocoa and rice farming, has opportunities to grow, but people in the area need more assistance to develop these industries. Rural Development Officer (RDO) Elwin Kaival said that local farmers are showing more interest in cocoa farming due to the recent rise in prices. “With the rise in the price of cocoa, farmers have shown interest, and we have been setting up fermentaries,” Kaival said, adding that he hopes for cocoa farmers to receive their licenses this month, September. Additionally, the station has been milling rice, another important crop for the area. In an effort to boost the economic sector, a new motorbike, worth almost K10,000, was presented to Kaival this week, provided by the Pomio District Administration. It will be an important logistics tool to support Kaival’s extension work, due to the large landmass of the area. Although Kaival is responsible for agriculture and livestock, the motorbike will be used for other programs under the economic sector, including commerce and fisheries. “We are trying our best to support the officers and programs here because this area has so much potential,” said Acting LLG Manager Pennie Maroro Junior. Currently, there are accommodation issues at the Mungou station, where Kaival is based. Three officers, including Kaival, are still working from Warangoi, however, renovations are underway to improve living conditions at Mungou. “We are renovating a house at the station for the Community Development Officer, and later next year, we will renovate another house for the Fisheries Officer,” Maroro said, adding that, “We are trying our best to move the officers over because Mungou is where they are supposed to be based.” Meantime focus on road and bridge development is underway, as part of the government’s efforts to improve access to the south coast. Materials for the Merai bridge is being transported by sea, with the National Department of Works responsible for the construction of roads and bridges at Marambu and Sikut. These infrastructure projects are expected to make it easier for farmers to bring their goods to market. Maroro also announced plans to acquire two more motorbikes for the other stations at Sikut and Arabam. The community is again being urged to take care of these assets. RDO Officer in Charge in Warangoi, Lynette Samuel, called on the host wards of Gar, Lat, and others in the south coast corridor to help Kaival in his work and take good care of the motorbike. “Although this motorbike may not be a big thing like a car, it is important because the government has spent money on this asset to bring services right to the ward level,” Samuel said. Sinivit LLG covers a large area of 2,117 square kilometers with 18 wards scattered between the Inland Baining ranges and the coastline along the south coast. The government is committed to supporting this region's development through resources and infrastructure.