Vanimo hosts key fundraising dinner as cocoa industry expands in West Sepik

The Greater Sepik Cocoa of Excellence & Trade Expo [GSCETE] committee staged its third Corporate Fundraising Dinner on Saturday as part of its growing momentum for cocoa production in West Sepik Province.

The event follows previous dinners in Wewak and Port Moresby, the latter also marking the national launch of the initiative.

Sandaun Provincial Administrator Jacob Areman said the province’s evolving cocoa industry. “While Nuku and Aitape have long been recognized for cocoa production, districts like Amanab are now joining the sector,” Areman said, urging that cocoa continues to be a vital economic driver for the region.

The dinner also served as a platform for stronger collaboration between the GSCETE Committee and provincial authorities. Interim Chair Jeffrey Yawi urged Sandaun to formally join the committee to fully represent the “Greater Sepik” identity, with plans for the Provincial Administrator to nominate a co-chair to work alongside him.

Although the Sandaun Provincial Government did not announce funding at the event, the dinner showcased growing private and public interest in expanding cocoa production, which experts say could significantly boost local livelihoods and trade opportunities.

NBC News covered the dinner as preparations for the Greater Sepik Cocoa of Excellence & Trade Expo continue, underscoring the province’s increasing role in PNG’s cocoa industry.