National Development Bank

From Backyard to Breakthrough: Goroka Woman Leads Mushroom Farming Revolution with NDB Support

Groka, EHP – In the quiet village of Asaroyufa, a remarkable transformation is taking place. Tala Gotaha, a 38-year-old mother of two and founder of Gahuku Gipa Ltd, is leading a mushroom farming revolution that is empowering women and reshaping agriculture in Eastern Highlands Province.

Tala’s journey began in October 2022, when she planted just 500 mushroom tubers in her backyard. Inspired by her father, prominent businessperson Stanley Gotaha, she saw potential in mushrooms not only as a business but as a tool for community development. By early 2023, her small venture had grown into a mission to uplift rural women through training and shared knowledge.

Partnering with Juncao Technology–China Aid, Tala began conducting mushroom farming workshops for women’s groups across the province. From Gotopi Women’s Business Group in Daulo to Massy Women’s Agri Business Group in Goroka, her outreach has sparked interest and hope among dozens of aspiring female entrepreneurs.

With financial support from the National Development Bank (NDB), Tala and her husband constructed two mushroom houses in Nalepa village, expanding production to 4,000 oyster mushroom tubers. A new loan from NDB will soon allow them to plant 6,000 more, with plans to launch their own brand and packaging.

Her mushrooms now supply local families, the PNG Bible Church Guest House, and Pioneer Mushroom, with growing demand from the soon-to-open Juncao Demonstration Centre in Goroka.

Mr. Lloyd Piari, Acting Head of Branch Network and Loan Origination at NDB, praised Tala’s efforts and reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurs:

“NDB is here to assist our people by providing funding for startups, existing businesses looking to expand, and new ventures. With our SME loans at 7.5% interest and MSME loans at 4%, we ensure our people have access to the financial support they need,” Mr. Piari said.

He also expressed gratitude to the Marape-Rosso Government for its continued support in empowering the MSME and SME sectors across Papua New Guinea.

Tala’s vision does not stop at production. She is helping other women apply for NDB’s MSME Agriculture Loans, turning training into real businesses. She is also preparing to plant Juncao grass to supply the demonstration centre and build more mushroom houses to meet future demand.

“Land is not a problem,” Tala said. “I am ready to expand, create jobs, and buy mushrooms from other women at fair prices. With a solar-powered cooler and mushroom dryer, I will overcome transport challenges and grow even further.”

Tala Gotaha’s story is a powerful example of how vision, training, and financial support can unlock economic potential and transform communities. Her journey is not just about mushrooms—it is about hope, resilience, and the future of women in agriculture.

Photo: Ms. Tala Gotaha, Husband & Samson Junas (GKA Sales/Service Manager) standing in front of their Mushroom farm at Nalepa Community, Goroka EHP.