More than 30 young people—including Volunteer in Action missionaries, local pastors and ministers—have launched a new mission-focused agricultural project at Dawadawa village in Papua New Guinea’s Alotau District.
The Total Member Involvement initiative centres on establishing a large-scale cocoa and coconut farm. Youth participants have been actively clearing land and preparing the site, laying the groundwork for what church leaders hope will become a sustainable income stream for the Northern Milne Bay Mission (NMBM) of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Dawadawa is the first site selected for the Mission’s broader agricultural strategy, marking a significant step toward financial self-reliance. The long-term aim is for locally generated income to support local gospel ministry, strengthening the Mission’s capacity to serve communities holistically—physically, mentally and spiritually.
A major early milestone was recently achieved with the completion of a cocoa greenhouse. A total of 2360 poly bags have been prepared inside the nursery, ready to receive cocoa seedlings. This facility forms a key component of the planned 10-hectare cocoa plantation at Dawadawa. Alongside this, 1000 coconut seedlings have been established in an outdoor nursery, supporting both the rehabilitation of existing coconut plantations and the introduction of cocoa as a high-value crop.
District director for the Alotau District Seventh-day Adventist Church, Minister Wonern Hirodidi, described the project as an answer to prayer.
By working the land and focusing on cocoa and coconut production, opportunities are being created that will support both the church and the local community, he said, adding that this approach will help ensure the gospel work in Northern Milne Bay continues without constant financial strain.
Minister Hirodidi explained that Dawadawa is only the beginning. With land generously donated by church members and community partners, the Mission plans to expand agricultural projects across the region, including 10 hectares in Gumini, 30 hectares in Abeu and 200 hectares in Koiagaru.
Agriculturist coordinator for the cocoa project, Lester Toukma, said the vision extends beyond production. His goal is for Dawadawa to become a regional model for sustainable agriculture and training.
