BY CHRIS ALEX

A key copra-buying agent from Ugi has raised serious concerns over the continued neglect of vital infrastructure in the region, calling on the national government and responsible ministries to prioritize road access and provide necessary tools like tractors to support farmers.

In an interview with Island Sun News, Jerry Wala, a dedicated buying agent for the Commodity Export and Marketing Authority (CEMA), highlighted the struggles farmers face in transporting copra due to poor roads and a lack of support from relevant ministries.

“What we urgently need is a proper road so we can move our products to a central point easily.

“Ships can still ramp at Marou port for now, that’s manageable. But without road access, everything becomes harder,” said Wala.

Wala revealed that Ugi Island produced more than 5,000 bags of copra in the last harvest season each averaging 85 kilogrammes but received no infrastructure support in return.

The current government allocation only supports 16 tons of copra, an amount he says only his village can produce, equivalent to around 200 bags.

Despite this, CEMA continues to rely on Ugi buying agents to drive export volumes.

“We are loyal and active agents.

“Yet we watch dishonest agents bring down production with no accountability. If the government wants real results, they should focus on those of us doing the work,” Wala emphasised.

Frustrated by continued delays and unfinished projects, Wala expressed disappointment in the performance of Ugi’s current MP, who has reportedly spent long periods away receiving medical treatment overseas.

“Our MP should now be resigned.

“I’m calling on the responsible authority to summon him and initiate a by-election. While he receives treatment in Australia and Fiji, we suffer back home with no roads and no support,” said Wala.

The ongoing hardship has even led local chiefs to welcome logging operations, a move traditionally opposed by many communities, simply to get road access a sign of growing desperation on the island.

Wala is now calling on international donors and aid agencies to intervene.

“We need quality roads, not half-done construction projects. We don’t want temporary fixes we want long-lasting solutions for our future. Now is the time for donors to step in,” he said.

With strong potential to expand copra supply to neighboring islands like the Three Sisters, Wala believes that proper infrastructure could transform Ugi into a key export hub.

“The economy of the Solomon Islands still stands on the shoulders of rural farmers. It’s time that our voices are heard, and our needs are met,” he said.

Photo: Jerry Wala

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