In the quiet village of Ukaukana in Central Province, Ms Gou Ava is proving that small-scale farming can grow into a thriving enterprise with the right support.

Her business, PNG Blue Green Initiative, began modestly with fewer than 100 chickens and limited market access.

Today, thanks to a Business Link Pacific (BLP) grant, her farm houses around 350 chickens, producing nearly 1,000 eggs weekly.

The K10,000 grant in 2023 enabled the construction of proper shelters and the purchase of 300 young layer chicks. Though some losses occurred early on, production soon flourished. With new sales outlets opening both in local villages and Port Moresby, monthly revenues now reach K4,000–K4,600.

Beyond profits, the farm is deeply rooted in community life. Eggs are sold at a lower price than in urban markets, providing affordable protein for villagers.

Youths are engaged in farm work, gaining both skills and allowances, while the initiative also supports church functions and communal activities. Recently, Gou has ventured into cocoa, nursing 1,000 hybrid seedlings, with plans to share 20% of them among villagers.

Challenges remain, from security concerns to financing future expansion. Yet Gou’s vision is ambitious: a fully functional chicken farm with 2,500 layers, producing local feed, and employing a dozen permanent staff within five years.

She also aims to expand cocoa and vegetable farming, creating wider opportunities for her community.

Gou’s journey reflects resilience, innovation, and a commitment to support her local community.

Image Captions:

Image 1: A thriving poultry layer farm in Ukaukana Village, Central Province, is bringing new life and opportunities to the community.

Image 2: Chicken feed made from fresh, locally grown produce ensures healthier birds and supports village farmers.

Image 3: Every day, the farm gathers fresh eggs ready to be distributed for sale.

Image 4: Carefully packed and ready for sale, these eggs provide food security and income for families.

Image 5: Beyond poultry, the team is trialling hybrid cocoa seeds, exploring new ways to grow village livelihoods.

Image 6: Construction of new shelters is underway, expanding the farm to meet growing village demand.

Image 7: Young people are being engaged in farm work, creating skills, jobs, and hope for the future.

Image 8: From farming to faith, the project also supports church and community activities, keeping village life strong.