FARMERS in Malaita Province are getting worried with the ongoing suspension of shipping services to Auki as supplies for their piggery and poultry farms declines.
Speaking to Solomon Star Auki this morning (Thursday 27 January 2022) local poultry farmer Tom Tumu said any further delay of cargo shipment to Auki will definitely affect them as they depended very much on supplies from Honiara to keep their businesses running.
Mr Tumu said prices of feeds both for poultry and piggery have also increased.
He said by next week feeds are expected to run out and this will put local farmers in Auki under massive pressure which could negatively affect their small businesses.
With that, he said if things remain like they are in the coming weeks with no cargo shipment allowed to Auki, farmers will be greatly affected.
Not only that, but he said through observation, other essential supplies like; fuel and food are also running low and needs restocking to cater for the high demand in Auki.
Mr Tumu is of the view that even if passenger vessels are prohibited from visiting Auki due to COVID-19 restrictions, cargo ships should be allowed to travel to Auki with essential supplies to keep the local economy functioning and people’s needs met.
The last time cargo vessels visited Auki Township was a week ago before the Prime Minister announced COVID-19 community transmission in the country.
Since then no cargo vessels or passenger vessels have visited Auki due to COVID-19 restrictions.
By WILSON SAENI
Auki News Bureau
