By DALCY LULUA
NEWLY appointed Minister for Environment, Conservation and Climate Change, Hon. John Kaupa, has identified accountability, improved staff welfare and continuity in government programmes as his key priorities following his appointment to the portfolio.
Speaking during the Ministry’s handover-takeover ceremony on Friday (24/07/26), Mr Kaupa said his immediate focus would be strengthening accountability across the department and its agencies while progressing a long-awaited staff housing project on department-owned land.
He said all agencies under the ministry must improve compliance with government reporting requirements and ensure reports are submitted on time.
“We are entrusted with public funds, and accountability and transparency are essential. Reports must be submitted on time to ensure confidence in our institutions and the continued delivery of government programmes,” he said.
Mr Kaupa also announced plans to prioritise the development of the department’s Wildlife property into a staff housing project. He said work would begin on completing the necessary land title and planning documentation before construction could proceed.
The proposed housing development is expected to provide accommodation for departmental staff while making productive use of government-owned land.
The new minister also pledged to maintain continuity within the ministry, saying he was not taking office to introduce unnecessary changes but to build on the work already undertaken.
“I am not here to introduce anything new. My priority is to continue the good work that has already been done and move the ministry forward,” he said.
Mr Kaupa thanked outgoing Minister and Member for Lufa, Hon. Simo Kilepa, for his leadership and service and acknowledged Prime Minister James Marape and the Marape-Rosso Government for entrusting him with the environment portfolio.
Calling for unity among officers from the Ministry, the Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (CEPA) and the Climate Change and Development Authority (CCDA), Mr Kaupa said public servants play a vital role in ensuring continuity in government.
“As politicians, we come and go, but you are the people who keep these institutions functioning. Your responsibility is to uphold professionalism, accountability and deliver quality services,” he said.
He assured staff that his leadership would focus on supporting the workforce rather than making unnecessary personnel changes.
“I am not here to fire anybody. Ministers are policymakers, while you are the professionals responsible for implementing government policies.”
Mr Kaupa concluded by urging ministry staff, development partners and stakeholders to work together in advancing Papua New Guinea’s environmental protection, conservation and climate change agenda.
“Together we stand. Together we work. Together we deliver. Let us move forward with unity, commitment and purpose,” he said.