YESTERDAY marked a significant milestone for the Child Nutrition and Social Protection (CNSP) Project with the official launch of the NextGen Mascot, a key tool to support nationwide awareness efforts aimed at reducing child stunting in Papua New Guinea.
The NextGen Mascot will play a central role in promoting social and behavior change, encouraging healthy nutrition choices for children, positive parenting practices, and stronger community support systems. The initiative seeks to empower families and communities to build resilient environments where children can grow, thrive, and reach their full potential.
Speaking at the launch event held at Loloata Island Resort, Dr Eric Kwa, Secretary for Department of Justice and Attorney General, giving emphasis to the significance of the occasion.
The official launch of the NextGen Mascot is not just about unveiling a mascot for the CNSP Project it is about declaring our commitment to the children of Papua New Guinea. When we speak of NextGen, we are speaking about something far greater than a campaign, he said.
Dr Kwa further highlighted that the mascot represents healthy choices, positive parenting, strong families, and empowered communities, positioning it as a national symbol of the CNSP Project.
The launch event, though small scale, was vibrant and impactful, featuring energetic performances by students from St Annes Primary School in Gerehu, Port Moresby. The performances highlighted key messages on nutrition and healthy living for children, reflecting the core objectives of the CNSP Project.
The event was attended by key CNSP Project partners, including the World Bank, National Department of Health, Department for Community Development and Religion, Department of Justice and Attorney General, Department of Agriculture and Livestock, World Vision, alongside other implementing partners, as well as parents and teachers.
The launch also signals the beginning of the Helti Pikinini Campaign rollout, which will run from April to May 2026 across East New Britain, Madang, Simbu, Western, and Morobe provinces. Through this campaign, the CNSP Project will deliver awareness programs and practical community-based learning initiatives focused on improving nutrition for children aged 0-5 years.
Provincial implementation teams are now equipped to integrate the NextGen Mascot into their outreach activities, using it as an engaging tool for community-level education and social behavior change. The CNSP Project is encouraging all partners and stakeholders to incorporate campaign messaging into daily family and community practices to strengthen the national mission of ending child stunting throughout Papua New Guinea.
The CNSP Project calls on provincial governments, communities, parents, and development partners to take an active role in supporting child nutrition initiatives and adopting healthy practices that will shape a stronger, resilient next generation.