Cacao farming is hard work, but for these women in Papua New Guinea, it’s about more than just money. Working alongside lead farmer Norman Mondo, they hope their efforts will bring spiritual and social transformation through the mission of Christ.
Story by Aquila Matit
“From cacao fruits, Norman earns and does the mission work of Christ,” said Misis Siwi.
In the remote Karimui District of Simbu Province, Norman Mondo stands as one of the area’s leading cacao farmers. Mission Aviation Fellowship has been a key logistics partner for him, enabling dry cacao beans to get to market. His vast plantation demands labour, and that help comes faithfully from the women in the community.
Misis, a mother of four and a voice for local women, shares the heart behind their work.
“God has opened a way since Norman has put God first. The first thing he does is fund God’s mission, support people, and help those in need,” she said.
“In his giving, those of us who support him are also blessed. All of it comes from God.”
Norman’s generosity and mission focus extend beyond his own village.
“I’ve built four churches in different communities, constructed houses for pastors, and flown in laymen to serve in those areas,” Norman said.
The women, including Misis, help by picking cacao pods and drying the beans.
“I see God’s hand in my life,” Misis said. “I may only pick a small amount, but when I weigh it, the quantity increases—and I earn more.”
Norman pays 1 Kina per kilogram of wet beans. Misis says the income is enough to meet basic needs.
I see God's hand in my life
“With what I earn, I buy oil, salt, and soap. The rest I save for my children’s school clothes and other needs.”
But for Misis and the women, it’s not just about the pay.
“We don’t expect him to give us more money. We support him because we know he is supporting the mission of Christ,” she said. “We want to see the Word of God reach everyone in Karimui. That’s why we help, we are seeing change, both spiritually and physically.”
Transporting cacao beans from these remote communities has always been a challenge. Without an aeroplane, the journey takes days on foot, as there is no road link.
“To walk, it takes two days sleeping in the bush, and on the third day, we reach the road to town,” Misis said.
For years MAF has been flying the dry beans – packed in enormous 63 kg bags – from Karimui airstrip to Goroka. But now, with the construction of a new airstrip in the area, things have become much easier. Only about a kilometre from Karimui, Sorita airstrip has been constructed right next to Norman’s cacao plantation.
“When the beans are ready, they are flown by plane to Goroka, and from there transported to Lae city for sale. Norman receives the money and pays us,” Misis said.
“Now, the MAF plane lands right here at Sorita and takes the cacao straight to Goroka.
“Our struggles have eased.”