Eddy Silyath, a local entrepreneur, established the butchery in response to the growing demand for fresh meat in Torba. Speaking with VBTC News, Mr. Silyath shared that his decision to open the business stemmed from his desire to reduce locals’ reliance on canned meat. “I wanted to help people eat less canned meat, so I set my mind on opening this butchery,” he explained.

A significant milestone has been reached in Torba Province with the opening of the region’s first butchery in the provincial headquarters of Sola, with funding from the European Union’s EDF11 program through the Department of Industry.

With the help of the EU-funded Industrial Development Fund, Mr. Silyath successfully launched the business, which is now providing fresh meat, including beef, chicken, fish, and prawns, to the community. The operation is small, with just four freezers for storing meat, but it is meeting the needs of locals every week.

However, challenges persist, particularly in transporting meat from Santo due to unpredictable sea conditions, which can lead to shipping delays and flight cancellations. Despite this, the Torba Rose ship, which delivers the goods, has earned the community’s trust for its regular service.

Mr. Silyath mentioned that running the business has been manageable due to his prior experience in retail, and it has also provided vital financial support for his family.

Torba Industrial Development Officer Jeff Wovei commended Mr. Silyath for effectively utilizing the 12 million Vatu fund to support the people of Torba with fresh meat, highlighting the positive impact of the program now operating in the Sola Provincial Headquarters.