(Mendi, SHP)
YOMBI is located along Ialibu in the Southern Highlands Province, with an estimated elevation of 2069 metres above sea level.
This area experiences a consistently cool climate due to its proximity to more than five mountain peaks, and on the foot of the famous Mt. Ialibu and Mt. Giluwe.
Temperatures in Yombi typically range from 14 to 19 degrees Celsius, accompanied by significant precipitation that results in swampy terrain characterized by savannah grasslands across the valleys.
Adjacent to a meandering freshwater creek that flows down from the rugged savannah heights is a mini fishery project. This initiative, comprising three interconnected ponds, has been established by a group of young men who have dedicated their efforts to transform the area.
The three ponds host over 3,000 Rainbow Trout, which are farmed through a series of running streams that cascade at each end through polyvinyl pipes. The local boys in Yombi consistently feed and care for the fish on a daily basis.
Mr. Paka Limbio is the manager of this mini fishery project, and oversees job designation and daily sales for his small in-house team.
During a brief interview at the farm site, Mr. Limbio shared with the Sunday Bulletin that the fishery project holds significant importance for his family, extended relatives, and clansmen.
“We use this project as a means of making money to sustain the family, as well as supporting young children in the family who are attending schools,” he explained.
He further mentioned that the standard price for the fish is K20, with various sizes available, ranging from small to medium, large, and extra-large.
The project has built a substantial customer base, primarily consisting of travellers along the Okuk Highway in Southern Highlands and Hela Province.
“Due to competition between other local fishery project in the province, we decided to put a reasonable price that is affordable by all classes of people in the province, as well as the travelling public,” Mr Limbio noted.
He has urged the National Fisheries Authority to support local fish farmers who have initiated life-changing projects that can sustain their livelihoods in the long term.
