The National Government in partnership with the Asian Development Bank and the Pacific Private Sector Development Initiative (PSDI) has launched the PNG Sector Inclusive Private Sector Assessment program on 14 October, underpinning its fundamental significance to promoting gender inclusiveness and fairness by all genders in the country.
Chief Secretary to Government Ivan Pomaleu, who was the keynote speaker at the launch stressed the importance of the PNG Gender Inclusive Private Sector (GIPS) assessment.
“This work in collaboration with the Government of PNG, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Pacific Sector Development Initiative (PSDI), speaks directly our national priorities and core ambitions of Papua New Guineas Medium-Term Development Strategy IV (MTDS 2023-2027),” he said.
Mr Pomaleu also reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable growth under MTDS IV, pointing out gender equality as a cross-cutting priority.
“Our shared aim is clear and that is to drive economic growth by unlocking the full potential of all Papua New Guineans, regardless of gender or disability.
“This matter is solely on account that women and people with disabilities remain underrepresented in formal employment, management, and business ownership,” he said.
The Chief Secretary pointed out that structural barriers such as limited childcare, unequal access to finance, and workplace discrimination constrain participation and productivity.
Therefore, the Chief Secretary has highlighted that our labor, gender equality, and disability, enforcement and implementation must become more consistent and effective across all sectors.
“Access to affordable care is a critical, addressable bottleneck that limits women’s workforce participation and economic contribution,” he said.
Mr Pomaleu stressed that women entrepreneurs are pivotal in both formal and informal economies, yet they encounter hurdles in moving from micro-enterprises to formal markets due to costs, collateral requirements, and credit access.
“The rapid growth of ICT and e-commerce presents new opportunities for women and persons with disabilities, provided they have digital skills and access to the necessary infrastructure,” he added.
Mr Pomaleu explained that closing gender gaps in employment and entrepreneurship can lift national productivity, with potential benefits contributing as much as 30% to Pacific region GDP growth over the next decade.
The Chief Secretary highlighted that gender-inclusive policies strengthened resilience, broaden tax bases, and diversified the economy by aligning with MTDS pillars and our overarching national vision.
“The GIPS assessment demonstrate how inclusive environments spur productivity, innovation , and private sector growth,” he said.
Mr Pomaleu maintained that investing in women’s skills, leadership, and protections in the workplace is essential to unlocking a skilled and adaptable workforce.
“We must pursue gender-responsive SME policies and expand affordable credit for women-led enterprises,” the Chief Secretary said.
Further, Mr. Pomaleu highlighted that maintaining gender equality across government and policy remains a central priority; the GIPS findings provide actionable road map for the private sector.
“Embracing digital platforms expands women’s access to jobs, finance, and markets, reinforcing our commitment to a modern, innovative economy.
“We recognize and celebrate the partnership with ADB and PSDI, which underpins our MTDS implementation and ensures rigorous assessment and accountability,” he said.
“Let us build on progress under the National Gender Equality Policy, the Family Protection Act, and the SME Strategy by translating policy commitments into concrete actions in the private sector.
“Let us work together to improve childcare access, promote fair work conditions, and expand access to finance to enable women-led businesses to thrive.” Dignitaries who participated at the launch included Asian Development Bank Country Director Mr Zidansyah and Economic of Women Empowerment Specialist, Ms Sarah Bozale, government officials, invited guests and development partners.