THE government’s initiative on downstream processing is beginning to take shape, with several projects set to commence soon.
Minister for Labor and Employment, and Member for Rai Coast, Hon. Kessy Sawang, during a press conference announced development projects for Rai Coast and Madang. She expressed gratitude to the Marape-Rosso government for their strategic initiative and policy aimed at shifting the nation towards downstream processing.
“Downstream processing is a crucial part of the ‘Take Back PNG’ initiative and is particularly timely now,” Sawang stated.
“We are rich in natural resources, but this wealth has not translated into jobs for our people or improved living standards for our communities.”
She highlighted the Ramu Nickel project in Madang Province as a significant investment that could greatly benefit the people of Madang.
Sawang also noted that a recent visit to Indonesia has provided valuable insights and inspiration. Learning from Indonesia’s experience, particularly in downstream processing, will be highly beneficial.
“Indonesia has progressed from being a raw material exporter to producing a wide range of products from those raw materials,” she explained.
Sawang said that for 50 years, Papua New Guinea has been exporting its resources, but the government has not generated sufficient revenue to improve the livelihoods of its people.
She identified this as a critical issue, emphasizing that the country is missing out on the opportunity to transform its own wealth and resources into projects and infrastructure that drive economic activities.
Sawang fully supports the policy shift towards downstream processing and thanked key figures such as Deputy Prime Minister Hon. John Rosso and Minister for Trade and Investment Hon. Richard Maru for establishing important dialogues in Indonesia.
“We want to add value to the country. We’ve had enough complaints, and we are determined to deliver for our people through initiatives like this.”
