A Home in Two Worlds: Rosalie Everest’s Hope for Papua New Guinea’s Future

Papua New Guinea, a land of breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, stands at a crossroads as it prepares to celebrate 50 years of independence in 2025. For Rosalie Everest, an Australian who calls this country home, PNG’s future is as complex as its past. Having grown up on a coffee plantation in the Eastern Highlands and later teaching in the country, Rosalie has witnessed the nation’s triumphs and struggles firsthand. Her deep affection for PNG is undeniable, yet she also sees the urgent challenges it faces—urban drift, law and order, and an increasing population. But amidst these trials, her faith in the younger generation remains unshaken.

During her visit in July 2024, Rosalie made an emotional journey, bringing her mother Muriel Larner’s ashes to rest beside her father Wally Larner at the Old Kainantu Cemetery. Muriel had been a pioneering force, managing Arau Coffee Plantation after Wally’s passing and founding the Eastern Highlands Cultural Centre. Her legacy of resilience and cultural preservation lives on, a reflection of the enduring spirit Rosalie sees in Papua New Guinea’s people.

Rosalie Everest

Click to watch the full interview with Rosalie Everest

The Urban Drift Dilemma

One of Rosalie’s greatest concerns is urban drift—the movement of rural populations to cities in search of better opportunities. Yet, she sees this trend leading to overcrowding, rising costs of living, and a greater strain on families.

“The best part of life in Papua New Guinea is in the rural areas,” she says. “In the villages, people have gardens, fresh water, and community. But in the towns, people come expecting jobs that don’t exist, leading to unemployment and crime.”

She acknowledges the weight of customary obligations, where educated individuals who succeed often carry the financial burden of extended families. While a beautiful aspect of PNG’s communal culture, this can be overwhelming in urban settings where costs are high, and opportunities are scarce.

Law and Order: A Challenge and a Deterrent

Law and order remain one of PNG’s biggest hurdles. For Rosalie, this is particularly heartbreaking because of the country’s untapped tourism potential.

“Papua New Guinea is one of the most unique places in the world—for its culture, geography, and wildlife. But many are too frightened to visit because of the stories they hear.”

While her recent visit was largely trouble-free, she recounts a minor incident that startled her sons at Koki Market. Yet, she insists that the true PNG is not what is often portrayed in negative headlines.

“Yes, there are challenges. But I refuse to be swayed by fear. I came back to visit my friends, my ex-students, my PNG family—and I have been safe.”

The Uncounted Population

Another concern Rosalie raises is the country’s rising population, which she fears is being underestimated due to census inaccuracies.

“If the government doesn’t have an accurate number of its people, how can it properly allocate resources?” she questions. Without precise data, critical infrastructure like schools, hospitals, and roads may not be built where they are needed most.

A Hopeful Future: The Power of Education

Despite these struggles, Rosalie remains optimistic. Her hope for PNG’s future lies in its young, educated citizens—those she once taught in national high schools, who are now stepping into leadership roles.

“I look at my former students—upstanding, driven men and women—working in social justice, agriculture, and business. Many of them are not just chasing profit but are working to uplift their industries and communities.”

She speaks proudly of an ex-student in the coffee industry, determined to ensure that more of the profits benefit local farmers. She admires the entrepreneurs who, despite the odds, continue to push forward with innovation and resilience.

“Every time they fall, they get back up. They refuse to give up. That’s what gives me confidence in this country’s future.”

The Spirit of Papua New Guinea

Through all the hardships, Rosalie sees something in Papua New Guineans that gives her lasting joy—their natural happiness, humor, and sense of community.

“People in Australia often say to me, ‘Rosie, you laugh a lot!’ I tell them, I learned to laugh because of Papua New Guinea. It’s a place where people share joy, no matter their circumstances.”

During her pilgrimage back to Kainantu, she was overwhelmed by the warmth of those who remembered her mother. “Everywhere I went, people welcomed me. ‘Oh, you’re Muriel’s daughter?’ They remembered her, and they made me feel at home.”

For Rosalie, PNG will always be home. It is a nation facing tremendous challenges, but also one filled with resilience, passion, and an unbreakable spirit. As it steps into its next 50 years, she hopes that this spirit—carried forward by a new generation of leaders—will guide it towards a brighter future.

Remembering the Forgotten: The Tragic Tale of Badihagwa Cemetery

In the heart of Hanuabada, Port Moresby, where the echoes of Papua New Guinea’s colonial past still linger, lies the old Badihagwa Cemetery. Once a solemn resting place for the expatriates and colonial administrators who shaped the early days of Port Moresby, today, it stands as a neglected relic of history. Forgotten by many, desecrated by time and encroachment, its once-pristine graves now lie buried under layers of soil, their inscriptions eroded by the years.

On Remembrance Day, July 23, 2024, I walked through this historic ground with Hanuabada villagers Joe Mase, Udu Mase, and Frank Aisi. As we approached the graves, the weight of history settled heavily upon us. Among the silent witnesses of time stood the grave of Sir Hubert Murray, the Lieutenant-Governor of Papua from 1908 to 1940. His name, still etched on a weathered headstone, serves as a testament to the colonial administration that once governed these lands.

For Frank Aisi, a senior public servant and passionate advocate for historical preservation, the neglect of Badihagwa Cemetery is a painful reminder of the country’s fading connection to its past. With Papua New Guinea on the brink of celebrating its 50th anniversary of independence in September 2025, he stresses the need to restore and preserve such historical sites for future generations.

“This cemetery is of great historical significance. It laid the foundation for socioeconomic development as early as colonial times. It needs to be conserved, cleaned, and respected,” Aisi remarked as we stood before the graves. “While colonial rule had its negative aspects, it also brought governance, law, and modernisation. This is our history, and we must remember it.”

Frank Aisi at the Badihagwa Cemetery

Click to watch a video interview with Frank Aisi

Established on October 10, 1912, Badihagwa was known as the European Cemetery of Port Moresby, serving as the final resting place for many expatriates who could not return home. For decades, it remained a sacred space, protected from encroachment. However, after independence in 1975, the once-strict boundaries blurred. Over time, as Port Moresby’s population grew and land became scarce, informal settlements spread into the area, and the cemetery was left to decay.

Joe Mase, another Hanuabada villager, recounted how the land was once off-limits to locals, reserved solely for colonial administrators and expatriates. “Back then, everything was separate—the European hospital, the European shops. This was their final resting place. Now, many of these graves are lost beneath houses and roads,” he lamented.

Despite its state of disrepair, the cemetery still holds remnants of the past. Faded headstones whisper the names of those who played a role in Papua New Guinea’s colonial history. Among them lies Henry Montgomery, whose name remains faintly visible, and George Sadler, a man whose memory is nearly erased by time. Some graves, like that of Sir Hubert Murray, still stand resilient against the elements, but others have been swallowed by neglect and development.

As we walked further into the cemetery, we found ourselves knee-deep in overgrowth, stepping over broken headstones and crumbling plaques. The sacredness of this place had been disregarded. Soil had risen over many of the graves, obscuring their inscriptions. Some graves had been desecrated, their plaques removed, their identities lost forever.

Frank Aisi, standing solemnly among the graves, called for urgent action. “This place should be restored, cleaned, and protected. We must acknowledge the past, not erase it. There should be efforts to clear the cemetery, restore inscriptions, and allow descendants to pay their respects. This is not just about the Europeans buried here—it is about the Hanuabada people, the history of Port Moresby, and the shared story of our nation.”

The neglect of Badihagwa Cemetery is a sobering reflection of how history can be forgotten if not carefully preserved. With Papua New Guinea reaching a milestone in its history this year, perhaps it is time to rekindle respect for the past and ensure that these silent voices are not lost forever.

Dik Knight: A Lifelong Love Affair with Papua New Guinea

Few people can claim a connection with Papua New Guinea  as deep and enduring as Dik Knight. Now 78, Dik first set foot in PNG in 1970 as a young Australian army officer and was immediately captivated by the country’s rugged beauty and warm hospitality. What began as a military posting soon evolved into a lifelong passion that saw him shape the nation’s education and tourism sectors.

His journey through PNG is one of adventure, determination, and an unwavering belief in the country’s potential. As PNG prepares to celebrate 50 years of independence in 2025, Dik reflects on its progress, challenges, and the boundless opportunities that remain untapped.

Dik Knight

 Click to watch the full video interview with Dik Knight

A Teacher at Heart

Dik’s love affair with PNG began in earnest when he returned in 1974, this time as a teacher at Goroka Demonstration High School. His dedication to education took him to Aiyura National High School in 1976, where he became one of its pioneering teachers.

“I had a wonderful time there,” Dik recalls. “The students were incredibly keen, and education was seen as the great equaliser. There was a real enthusiasm for learning.”

Reflecting on the current state of education in PNG, Dik expresses concern over the declining standards and lack of resources. “I still see dedicated teachers doing their best under difficult circumstances. Some go unpaid for months, yet they continue teaching. That kind of commitment needs recognition and support.”

Dik also notes that in the past, students across the country were eager to learn, and schools were harmonious spaces for both teachers and students. “Today, we need to focus on improving the quality and reach of education. The school system struggles to keep up with population growth, and many remote teachers go without salaries or support for months.”

Building a Tourism Dream

After his years in education, Dik took on a new challenge: tourism. In 1977, he co-founded Loloata Island Dive Resort near Port Moresby. At the time, tourism was an unfamiliar concept in PNG, and the venture required significant perseverance.

“The island had no water, no power. Everything had to be built from scratch,” he says. “Tourism was new to PNG, but the country had—still has—some of the most spectacular scenery and diverse cultures in the world. It was a goldmine waiting to be explored.”

For nearly four decades, Loloata became a premier diving destination, attracting visitors from around the world. However, Dik laments the current stagnation of the tourism industry, citing bureaucracy, security concerns, and lack of government support as major obstacles.

“In Vietnam, a country with a similar GDP per capita, they bring in 12 million tourists a year. Yet PNG, with its breathtaking landscapes and rich culture, struggles to attract even a fraction of that. The potential is there, but we need the right policies and infrastructure to make it work.”

He also recalls how challenging it was to keep the resort afloat in its early years. “At first, our main clientele were Australian public servants in PNG, but when they were suddenly recalled with three months' notice, we had to completely change our business model. It nearly shut us down.”

Despite these challenges, Loloata thrived, thanks to its dedicated and well-trained staff. “We had skilled chefs, mechanics, and dive instructors—many of whom we trained ourselves. Small-scale tourism businesses like ours played a crucial role in job creation and skills development, something that’s often overlooked today.”

PNG at 50: Hopes and Reflections

As PNG approaches its 50th anniversary of independence, Dik reflects on the nation’s progress and challenges.

“There was so much hope in the early years, and while some of it has been realised, many aspirations remain unfulfilled,” he observes. “We have everything we need—resources, culture, and people with incredible potential. But we must address issues like law and order, education, and employment if we are to truly thrive.”

Dik believes that change must come from within. “The people of PNG are the ones who will shape the future. When they decide they want real change, it will happen. The key is education and creating industries that provide jobs, especially for young people.”

He also acknowledges that law and order remains one of the biggest deterrents to tourism and business investment. “For most of the time we operated Loloata, 20% of our staff were in security roles. That’s a huge cost for a small business. Investors won’t come if they don’t feel safe.”

A Lifelong Bond

Despite his retirement in 2016, Dik’s connection with PNG remains unbreakable. “I still come back regularly. I love this country—the wilderness, the adventure, the people.”

He hopes that more Australians will rekindle their ties with PNG, a nation with deep historical links to Australia. “It’s a pity so few young Australians today know about PNG. There’s so much history and so many opportunities to engage.”

For Dik Knight, PNG is more than a place—it is a part of him. And as the nation steps into its next 50 years, voices like his serve as a reminder of the immense possibilities that await, if only they are seized.

LDC Unveils Ambitious Plan to Revitalise PNG’s Livestock Industry

Port Moresby, 6 March 2025 – The Livestock Development Corporation (LDC) has outlined a comprehensive plan to revive Papua New Guinea’s livestock industry, aiming to reduce the country’s dependence on imported meat and position PNG as a self-sufficient producer of livestock products.

 

Speaking at a high-level agriculture meeting in Port Moresby on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, officiated by Prime Minster Hon. James Marape, LDC Managing Director Terry Koim presented the corporation’s 2025 key performance indicators, showcasing the progress made under Prime Minister Hon. James Marape’s directive to rehabilitate cattle ranches, restock livestock, and reclaim rundown abattoirs.

 

The meeting, attended by key stakeholders in the agriculture sector, provided an opportunity for the government and private sector representatives to discuss the future of livestock farming in PNG and the measures needed to ensure sustainable growth.

LDC Managing Director Terry Koim making his presentation at the meeting

 

Revitalising PNG’s Livestock Sector

 

Mr Koim outlined LDC’s journey from near collapse to a revitalised organisation playing a crucial role in the government’s Medium-Term Development Plan IV (MTDP IV) 2023-2027, which prioritises domestic food production and economic self-reliance.

 

“LDC was once regarded as a defunct entity, but through strategic interventions since 2020, we have reclaimed key state-owned assets, invested in infrastructure, and implemented initiatives that support smallholder farmers,” said Mr Koim.

 

He emphasised that the government’s 2020 directive was a turning point for LDC, focusing on reclamation, rehabilitation, and restocking to increase local meat production and reduce PNG’s reliance on expensive meat imports.

 

Key achievements under the revitalisation programme include:

 

·       Rehabilitation of five cattle ranches, two abattoirs, and two livestock stations

·       Restocking of 1,706 cattle, seven buffalos, and 14 goats

·       Expansion of honeybee farming, with 64 three-storey beehives distributed to local farmers

·       Significant investment in modern equipment, infrastructure, and logistics

 

“The ultimate goal is to make PNG self-sufficient in meat production by 2025 and beyond, ensuring that our people have access to affordable, locally produced meat,” he added.

 

Empowering Smallholder Farmers: The Sialum Cattle Buying Point

 

A key milestone in LDC’s efforts is the establishment of the Sialum Cattle Buying Point in Tewai-Siassi District, Morobe Province—a game-changing initiative that provides much-needed market access to smallholder cattle farmers.

 

“For 50 years, Sialum cattle farmers struggled to find a reliable market for their livestock. Our government’s intervention has now created a structured supply chain that connects them directly to processing facilities,” Mr Koim stated.

 

Through this initiative, LDC has ensured that Sialum cattle farmers can transport and sell their livestock efficiently, with logistics in place to move cattle to Erap Ranch in the Markham Valley and other key locations.

 

To further support farmers, LDC signed an MOU with the Tewai-Siassi Cattle Farmers Cooperative, providing them with:

 

·       K100,000 in financial assistance

·       A utility vehicle to support operations

 

“This intervention is a testament to our commitment to empowering rural farmers and creating economic opportunities in the livestock sector,” he added.

 

Reclaiming and Restoring State-Owned Livestock Facilities

 

One of the major setbacks in PNG’s livestock industry has been the deterioration and misuse of state-owned ranches, abattoirs, and livestock stations. However, under the Marape Government’s reforms, LDC has successfully reclaimed and rehabilitated several key facilities, including:

 

·       Baiyer Cattle Ranch (Western Highlands Province)

·       Wariman Livestock Station (East Sepik Province)

·       Tiaba Abattoir (Central Province), which has undergone rehabilitation and perimeter fencing

·       Kornfarm Abattoir (Western Highlands), where eviction of illegal residents is in progress

 

“These properties, once neglected, are now being transformed into fully operational facilities that will support the growth of PNG’s livestock industry,” Mr Koim stated.

 

Restoring these facilities will ensure greater meat production, job creation, and stronger economic activity in rural areas.

 

Investing in Infrastructure and Equipment

 

To sustain the momentum of its reforms, LDC has made major investments in transport, infrastructure, and equipment, including:

 

·       16 new vehicles for operations nationwide

·       Two additional excavators and one grader for land development

·       Komatsu 210 Excavator for ranch and abattoir construction

·       Solar-powered bore water systems to provide sustainable water supply

·       50Kva diesel generators to ensure uninterrupted power for abattoirs and cattle stations

 

“Having the right infrastructure in place is essential for the long-term growth of the livestock industry, and we are committed to equipping our facilities with the necessary resources,” Mr Koim explained.

 

Overcoming Challenges and Moving Forward

 

Despite significant progress, Mr Koim acknowledged that several challenges remain, including:

 

·       Limited government funding and support for large-scale expansion

·       Inadequate data collection on livestock populations and market trends

·       Logistical difficulties in transporting cattle across PNG’s rugged terrain

 

However, he remained optimistic, pointing out that the livestock industry has enormous potential due to:

 

·       Rising domestic demand for meat products

·       PNG’s vast land resources, which provide ample space for cattle grazing

·       Favourable environmental conditions, with no major livestock diseases threatening production

 

“The livestock sector is a sleeping giant in PNG’s economy. With continued investment, partnerships, and policy support, we can build a sustainable and thriving industry,” Mr Koim stated.

 

Prime Minister Marape Reaffirms Government Support

 

Prime Minister Marape commended LDC’s efforts and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to strengthening the agriculture and livestock sectors.

 

“The work done by LDC is proof that we can revive PNG’s livestock industry. My government will continue to support these initiatives to ensure food security, job creation, and economic growth,” PM Marape said.

 

He reiterated that agriculture and livestock development remain top priorities under his administration, with policies aimed at:

 

·       Boosting local production

·       Reducing imports

·       Empowering rural communities

 

“Our goal is clear: We want Papua New Guinea to be self-sufficient in food production. The work of LDC is critical in achieving this, and I urge all stakeholders to support this national agenda,” the Prime Minister said.

 

A Bright Future for PNG’s Livestock Industry

 

As LDC continues its push to rebuild and expand the livestock sector, there is growing optimism that PNG can become a major player in the Pacific’s meat production industry.

 

With strategic investments, international partnerships, and strong government backing, PNG’s livestock industry is on track to becoming a key contributor to the nation’s food security, employment, and economic diversification.

 

“This is just the beginning. We have a long way to go, but the foundations have been laid, and we are determined to make PNG’s livestock industry a success,” Mr Koim concluded.

 

ENDS

CICL Unveils Major Reforms to Boost PNG’s Coffee Industry

Port Moresby, 6 March 2025 – The Coffee Industry Corporation Ltd (CICL) has outlined an ambitious plan to revitalise Papua New Guinea’s coffee industry, focusing on increased production, price stability, farmer support, and infrastructure investment.

 

Speaking at a high-level agriculture meeting on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, officiated by Prime Minister Hon. James Marape, CICL Chief Executive Officer Charles Dambui detailed the corporation’s 2024 performance and 2025 targets, aligning with the Medium-Term Development Plan IV (MTDP IV) and PNG’s Vision 2050.

 

Mr Dambui emphasised the importance of coffee as a national crop, grown in 19 provinces, and reaffirmed CICL’s commitment to improving production, expanding exports, and strengthening farmer support initiatives.

Mr. Charles Dambui

 

Coffee Industry Performance and Trends

 

·       PNG’s coffee production peaked in 2016 but dropped to record lows in 2020.

·       Since 2021, production and exports have steadily increased.

·       2024 saw a significant boost, surpassing one million bags of coffee exported.

·       Price increases and improved farmer access to markets were key influencing factors.

·       Freight Subsidy Scheme (FSS) contributed 4% of total exports by bringing coffee from remote areas to market.

 

Key 2025 Targets Under MTDP IV

 

The CICL’s 2025 investment programme focuses on six priority areas:

 

1.       Large Plantations Rehabilitation Programme

·       K25 million allocated in the MTDP IV budget.

·       Target: 31 plantations to be rehabilitated.

·       2024 progress: 81 submissions received, MOAs signed with 13 plantations, and work commenced on seven.

 

2.       Coffee Commodity Roads Programme

·       K10 million allocated for 2025.

·       Target: 20km of roads to be built or upgraded.

·       2024 achievements: Completed construction of key access roads and footbridges, including:

o   Minimbi to Maril Footbridge (42m)

o   Kukpa-Bilu Footbridge (117m)

o   Omuru Station Road (5.2km)

o   Panga Road (1.2km)

o   Aiyura Station Road (817m)

 

3.       Downstream Processing & Exports Support Programme

·       K40 million allocated under MTDP IV, with K5 million for 2025.

·       Target: Two new international-standard coffee processing plants to be operational.

·       2024 achievements:

o   Three indigenous processors supported in Eastern Highlands, Morobe, and Simbu.

 

4.       Price Stabilisation Programme

·       K10 million allocated for 2025.

·       Target: Launch the "Green Gold Card" system for direct farmer payments.

·       2024 progress: IT company engaged to develop the database and payment system.

 

5.         National Coffee Development Programme

·       K30 million allocated for 2025.

·       2024 progress:

o   2.59 million coffee seedlings planted.

o   113 hectares rehabilitated and 321 hectares newly planted.

o   87 coffee grower groups supported, with exports to Dubai, South Korea, and Melbourne.

 

6.       Coffee Freight Subsidy Programme

·       Target: 100,000 tonnes of coffee to be airfreighted in 2025.

·       2024 performance:

o   382 tonnes airfreighted and 106.3 tonnes shipped by sea (total: 488.2 tonnes).

o   GoPNG funding K394,653.00 used for logistics with NASL, MAF, AAS & LSS.

 

Introducing the "Green Gold Card" System

 

A major highlight of CICL’s reform agenda is the Green Gold Card system, which aims to streamline payments and ensure direct benefits for farmers.

 

Key features of the system:

 

·       Direct payments to registered farmers, reducing exploitation by middlemen.

·       QR-coded records for greater transparency and accountability.

·       Prevention of fraud through unique farmer registration and expiry dates.

·       Encouraging fair trade certification and higher coffee quality standards.

·       Linking farmers to bank accounts to promote financial inclusion.

 

“The Green Gold Card system will ensure that funds reach genuine coffee farmers directly, making the industry more transparent and efficient,” Mr Dambui stated.

 

Legislative and Policy Reforms

 

To ensure long-term sustainability, CICL has been working on key legislative and policy reforms:

 

·       National Coffee Policy – Approved by NEC Decision #326/2024 on 18 December 2024, and scheduled for launch at the end of this month.

·       Coffee Industry Act 2024 – Drafting instructions completed and awaiting clearance from Treasury and the Office of State Solicitor before submission to NEC.

 

“These reforms will provide the legal foundation for a more structured and efficient coffee industry,” Mr Dambui said.

 

Prime Minister Marape Backs CICL’s Vision

 

Prime Minister Hon. James Marape commended CICL’s efforts, reaffirming his government’s commitment to strengthening the coffee sector as part of PNG’s broader agriculture-led economic strategy.

 

“The work being done by CICL aligns with our national vision of making PNG a leading coffee producer in the Pacific. My government will continue supporting these initiatives to drive economic growth, job creation, and rural development,” PM Marape said.

 

He urged all stakeholders – including provincial governments, private sector partners, and international buyers – to collaborate with CICL in achieving its 2025 targets.

 

“Our focus remains on empowering smallholder farmers, ensuring fair pricing, and improving market access for PNG’s premium coffee,” he added.

 

A Promising Future for PNG Coffee

 

With strong government backing, strategic investments, and a focus on farmer empowerment, PNG’s coffee industry is on track for significant growth.

 

CICL’s 2025 roadmap aims to:

 

·       Expand coffee plantations and processing facilities.

·       Improve market access through road infrastructure.

·       Ensure better prices for farmers through direct payments.

·       Strengthen exports and partnerships with international buyers.

 

“The coffee sector has immense potential to contribute to PNG’s economy. With the right support and commitment, we can make PNG a global leader in premium coffee exports,” Mr Dambui concluded.

 

ENDS

 

A Nation at a Crossroads: Bart Philemon’s Vision for Papua New Guinea’s Next 50 Years

As Papua New Guinea (PNG) approaches its 50th anniversary of independence, respected national leader and former Finance Minister Bart Philemon offers a sobering yet hopeful reflection on the country's journey. With decades of experience in governance and economic management, Philemon’s insights present a powerful call to action for the nation’s future.

A Dream Deferred

When PNG gained independence in 1975, the vision was clear: a self-reliant, prosperous nation ranking among the world’s developed economies. Yet, as Philemon candidly observes, this dream remains unfulfilled. Despite abundant natural resources and billions of kina in revenue from mining, oil, and gas, the country has not translated its wealth into sustainable development. Infrastructure, healthcare, education, and agriculture—sectors vital for national progress—have instead deteriorated.

Bart Philemon

                        Click to watch the full video interview with Bart Philemon:

Philemon attributes this failure to one critical factor: leadership. “Leadership plays a crucial role in any development, including nation-building,” he asserts. “The quality of our leadership since 1975 has not been up to the standard needed to take us to the ‘promised land’ we envisioned at independence.”

Lessons from the World: Botswana and Singapore

Drawing comparisons with Botswana and Singapore—nations that transformed themselves from poverty-stricken states into economic powerhouses—Philemon highlights the importance of leadership grounded in international-standard education. Botswana, which had little to offer at independence in 1966, is now among Africa’s most stable and prosperous nations, boasting an income per capita close to US$20,000. Singapore, led by Oxford-educated Lee Kuan Yew, is now a global economic hub, standing on par with the United States in terms of development.

In stark contrast, PNG’s income per capita hovers below US$3,000. The difference, Philemon argues, lies in the leadership’s ability to implement long-term, strategic development policies backed by world-class education.

The Education Crisis: A Roadblock to Progress

“Nothing will save Papua New Guinea unless we improve our education system,” Philemon warns. He reflects on his own experience in the colonial education system, which, despite its limitations, provided a higher standard of learning than what exists today. He believes that education should be PNG’s foremost priority in the next 50 years.

The current system, he says, fails to equip young Papua New Guineans with the skills needed to compete globally. Yet, success stories exist—PNG pilots flying Airbus jets across the world demonstrate the potential of those who receive international-standard training. “Every Papua New Guinean is capable of achieving greatness,” Philemon states. “But we need to give them the right education first.”

A Broken System: Where Is the Money Going?

Despite a national budget nearing K30 billion, Philemon questions why essential services remain underfunded. In 2021, PNG’s internal revenue was K11 billion, yet K5 billion—nearly half—was spent on public service wages for 155,000 government employees. The result, he argues, is an inefficient bureaucracy that consumes national wealth without delivering tangible benefits to the people.

Rural health facilities lack basic medicine, roads are crumbling, and agricultural development has stagnated. “We must ask ourselves: where is all the money going?” Philemon challenges.

The Way Forward: A Call for Reform and Intervention

Philemon proposes a two-pronged solution: urgent educational reform and external expertise. He points to his tenure as Finance Minister in 2003, when he sought Australian assistance to improve PNG’s financial management. With 22 Australian Treasury officials working alongside local counterparts, PNG achieved its best economic performance in decades.

He believes the same model should be applied across government departments. “We need outside intervention in key areas. We cannot fix PNG alone; we need help,” he asserts.

A Nation at a Turning Point

As PNG stands at the crossroads of history, Philemon’s message is both a stark warning and an urgent call to action. The next 50 years will determine whether the nation rises to fulfill its potential or continues down a path of stagnation.

The choice, he says, is clear: “We must stop dreaming and start acting. The time for change is now.”

PNG Energy Authority and Oil Palm Industry Corporation Sign MOU for Waste-to-Energy and Bioenergy Projects

Port Moresby, 6 March 2025 - In a landmark move towards sustainable energy solutions, the National Energy Authority (NEA) and the Oil Palm Industry Corporation (OPIC) have  today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to implement waste-to-energy and bioenergy projects in Papua New Guinea. This initiative aims to transform oil palm waste into a renewable energy source, contributing to PNG’s growing efforts in energy diversification and environmental sustainability.

The agreement was officially signed by OPIC General Secretary Kepson Pupita and NEA Managing Director Ronald Meketa in the presence of key government officials, industry stakeholders, and representatives from both organisations. The signing marks a significant step forward in harnessing PNG’s agricultural waste for energy production, paving the way for innovative solutions in rural electrification and industrial energy needs.

OPIC General Secretary Kepson Pupita and NEA Managing Director Ronald Meketa after the signing.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, OPIC General Secretary Kepson Pupita highlighted the immense potential of the oil palm sector in contributing to energy generation. “Papua New Guinea’s oil palm industry generates significant biomass waste, which, until now, has been underutilised. Through this partnership with the National Energy Authority, we are unlocking a new opportunity—turning agricultural waste into a valuable energy source. This will not only support rural electrification but also reduce environmental impact and create economic benefits for farmers,” Pupita stated. The partnership is expected to support smallholder oil palm farmers by providing them with a sustainable outlet for their biomass waste, ensuring that agricultural byproducts contribute to the country’s energy needs instead of being discarded. National Energy Authority Managing Director Ronald Meketa emphasised that bioenergy is a key part of PNG’s energy strategy, particularly as the country seeks to diversify its energy sources beyond fossil fuels. “This MOU marks a crucial step in integrating bioenergy into our national energy policy. Waste-to-energy technologies can significantly improve energy access, particularly in rural communities, while also addressing waste management issues in the oil palm sector,” Meketa said. He further outlined the government’s commitment to renewable energy, stating that bioenergy projects align with PNG’s Vision 2050 and National Energy Policy, which prioritises clean, affordable, and reliable energy for all. Waste-to-energy and bioenergy projects are seen as critical components in reducing PNG’s reliance on imported fuels, stabilising energy costs, and improving energy security. The initiative is also expected to contribute to PNG’s climate commitments, as converting organic waste into bioenergy helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The first phase of the collaboration will involve feasibility studies, assessing the technical and economic viability of waste-to-energy projects in major oil palm-growing regions such as West New Britain, Oro, Milne Bay, and New Ireland. Once implemented, these projects will power local communities, reduce dependence on diesel-powered generators, and support industrial growth. Both OPIC and NEA reaffirmed their commitment to working together in developing sustainable energy solutions for PNG. The agreement sets the stage for further investment in biofuel, biogas, and other renewable energy projects, ensuring that PNG maximises its natural and agricultural resources for national development. With this MOU in place, PNG is taking a significant step towards a cleaner, greener, and more energy-secure future, leveraging its agricultural strengths to drive sustainable energy transformation. ENDS