Poraka Cultural Group from Central Bougainville welcomes dignitaries
Sack races were one of the children’s activities
Local cooks compete to bake the best chocolate goodies
be more training done by the Department of Primary Industry to teach farmers how to process cocoa that has the right quality.” An industry boost has come in the form of the recent establishment of BACRA (Bougainville Agriculture Commodities Regulatory Authority) to help grow commodities, streamline regulatory processes and uphold high standards of quality and sustainability. This body will also spearhead research and data collection, ensuring that Bougainville has the necessary evidence and bargaining power to effectively market its cocoa and other commodities abroad. But the festival was not for farmers alone. Tourists also were given a taste of the finest quality Bougainville cocoa, plus a chance
parts of the country immersed themselves in the large ‘green gold’ betelnuts that Bougainville is prized for across PNG. Local schools joined in on the fun with learning competitions and school debates, while a baking competition had local cooks vying for the top prize with baked chocolate goodies. As the festival came to an end, organisers announced the 2025 Chocolate Festival will be held next September in Buin Town in South Bougainville, just a few minutes’ boat ride away from the idyllic Happy Isles. Whether you’re a chocolate lover, a cocoa farmer or simply a curious traveller, the Bougainville Chocolate Festival is an event you don’t want to miss.
PNG Air flies from Port Moresby to Kieta (Arawa) once per week For bookings: Call + 675 7411 2644
to indulge in the local culture with
the performances of cultural groups from the region, while local visitors from other
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