A youth-led community organization has completed a comprehensive baseline survey in the Unggai Local Level Government (LLG), Eastern Highlands Province, marking a major step toward data-driven and community-led development.
The survey was conducted on 30–31 December 2025 by Beautiful Unggai Our Future (BUOF) Initiatives, a non-political community-based organization formed three months ago by 100 members of the Unggai lineage.
The exercise gathered critical data on socio-economic conditions, cultural assets, environmental and climate challenges, natural resource potential, and the state of basic government services and community partnerships within the LLG. The information is intended to inform development planning and attract donor and investment support.
Unggai LLG president Micheal Leinama welcomed the initiative, saying sustainable development requires strong collaboration between communities and government.
“Communities must be organized to attract support beyond government funding, and government must recognize and partner with credible community-based organizations,” he said.
BUOF Initiatives is believed to be the first known Community-Based Organization in Papua New Guinea to formally include LLG leadership, including the President and ward councilors, as ex-officio members of its board, a move aimed at strengthening coordination and accountability.
BUOF chairman Kim Roary said organized community action is essential to address issues such as biodiversity loss, HIV/AIDS, and governance challenges.
“Resilience means building local capacity to secure donor funding for projects prioritized by the community,” he said.
The survey was supported by local sponsors including CNU Hire Cars Ltd and Night Owl Security Service.
A full report is now being prepared and will be presented to the Unggai LLG and the Unggai Bena District Development Authority to guide future planning and development strategies.