A small town in the Angoram District of East Sepik Province, Papua New Guinea, is undergoing notable changes driven by innovation. At the forefront is Tina Savinio, who leads the Kandangapma Women’s Business Group. Thanks to the support of the EU-STREIT PNG Program, Tina and her group’s nutrition, living standards, and overall well-being have significantly improved.
The program offered extensive training in various areas, including group business management, financial literacy, ICT skills, and family farming, which have empowered the Kandangapma Women’s Business Group. Tina, a natural leader, utilized this new knowledge to enhance her group’s operations. The training not only provided skills but also fostered a sense of solidarity and community welfare, encouraging women who had left the group to return and work towards a common goal.
One of the most significant advancements attributed to the EU-STREIT PNG Program is the FAO-Thiaroye Technique (FTT) for smoking and drying fish. Tina expressed her satisfaction with the new technology, stating, “Now that I have this new technology, I feel really good. My business with fish is going well, so I want to thank EU-STREIT for putting up this FTT.” The FTT has transformed the fish processing industry by improving the quality, safety, and marketability of the fish, ultimately enhancing the earnings of fishermen and others involved in the value chain.
Unlike traditional methods that require intense labor and expose workers to harmful smoke, the FTT offers a safer, more efficient, and environmentally friendly alternative. It reduces the amount of firewood needed and significantly lowers smoke emissions, leading to a healthier environment for the women. The FTT allows them to smoke fish with minimal supervision, freeing up time for other tasks and leisure activities.
Reflecting on the old methods, Tina noted, “I must stay close to the fireplace even during windy periods or when it rains to ensure the fish is smoked well,” contrasting with the ease of the new FTT approach: “I simply place the fish inside, close the lid, and go to take care of other household duties.”
Although there were challenges, such as initial skepticism among group members, many returned after realizing the benefits of the FTT. The fluctuating membership posed a significant issue, as stability is crucial for the group’s success.
Yet, Tina remained optimistic, stating, “Some mothers who had left have returned, and we continue working together,” showcasing the group’s resilience. She fondly recalls the excitement surrounding the FTT’s introduction and how she encouraged friends and neighbors to sample the fish prepared with the new technique, raising awareness about the advantages of FTT.
Community acceptance has played a vital role in the success of FTT technology. The women have improved their time management skills, allowing them to balance fish smoking with their other responsibilities. Financially, the benefits have been substantial, as the women can now smoke fish more efficiently, increasing their sales and incomes.
Tina proudly shared, “We can smoke up to 436 fish in a single day with FTT, filling 4 to 6 baskets that we sell at the market. Because of this, our income has greatly increased.” She added that they can earn between PGK 600 and PGK 1,000 daily, with sales rising in nearby towns.
The achievements of Tina and the Kandangapma Women’s Business Group highlight the power of creativity and community support. Their enhanced living standards not only demonstrate the impact of the EU-STREIT PNG Program but also position them as role models for others in their community. Tina’s journey exemplifies how positive change is possible with the right support, determination, and resilience.