POMALEU EMPHASIZES AGRICULTURAL IMPORTANCE IN PNG’s DEVELOPMENT

THE Chief Secretary to Government Mr Ivan Pomaleu today reiterated the pivotal role of agriculture as a fundamental pillar of Papua New Guinea’s culture and livelihoods.
 
He made these remarks whilst applauding the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) Country Program Inception Workshop, this morning.
 
Emphasizing its significance in sustaining communities, ensuring food security, and driving economic stability, Mr Pomaleu reaffirmed the government’s resolute commitment to revitalizing and transforming the agricultural sector to foster sustainable development.
 
“I commend IFPRI’s extensive collaboration in Papua New Guinea for over five years and applaud the organization’s steadfast dedication to supporting evidence-based policy making,” he said. 
 
He praised IFPRI’s recent initiatives, such as the 2023 Rural Household Survey, which identified strategic opportunities for investments in agriculture to boost economic growth and enhance food and nutrition security in the region.  
 
Pomaleu further highlighted the new four-year IFPRI policy support program, supported by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and ACIAR, as a testament to the strong bilateral ties between Papua New Guinea and Australia.
 
He noted that this collaboration reflects a shared vision for sustainable development and economic prosperity in the two nations.
 
“I underscore the importance of the IFPRI program in enhancing local capacities in data collection and analysis to support evidence-based decision-making,”  Pomaleu said. 
 
“By establishing an in-country IFPRI office and engaging with local stakeholders, including government analysts and university graduates, the program aims to empower local experts in driving policy excellence.
 
“Through avenues for research dissemination and policy engagement, the IFPRI program, in collaboration with the government and stakeholders, will facilitate informed decision-making and foster dialogue on agricultural growth, competitiveness, and opportunities for improving food and nutrition security in Papua New Guinea households.”
 
He endorsed IFPRI’s PNG Agriculture, Food, and Nutrition Policy Support Program 2024-2028 and welcomed the proposal to establish a National Advisory Committee comprising members from various government ministries to enhance cross-sectoral coordination and government ownership of IFPRI’s programs.
 
Anticipating a productive brainstorming session, Chief Secretary Pomaleu expressed eagerness to shape work programs and delve into key areas for further investigation to inform strategic investments and economic and agricultural policies.
 
He extended heartfelt appreciation to the Australian government, particularly DFAT and ACIAR, for their unwavering commitment, support, and partnership.
 
Chief Secretary Pomaleu acknowledged the invaluable dedication and commitment of all stakeholders and participants present, underscoring their vital role in advancing a more prosperous and food-secure Papua New Guinea.