The Government of Papua New Guinea has stated that the agriculture sector is a priority area with vast potential to contribute to PNG’s economic growth.
The Australian Government-supported Grow PNG continues to support PNG’s agricultural growth ambitions, by working toward accelerating the growth of the agriculture sector in the Markham Valley. The Markham Valley is a key economic corridor in Morobe province, and Grow PNG aims to enable greater participation of smallholder households through agriculture.
Grow PNG today hosted the Markham Investor Development Forum 2024, bringing together leaders from government, landowners, business, financial institutions, development partners and other relevant stakeholders to hold discussions on increased agri-investments in the Markham Valley.
Australian High Commissioner, John Feakes, while speaking at the forum reaffirmed Australia’s support to PNG in the agriculture sector.
“Australia has great agriculture capability to support PNG, and we are doing what we can,” said High Commissioner Feakes.
“I call upon PNG to lead, and to see Australia, other donors, and the private sector as supporting partners – not the solution – to PNG’s agriculture challenges,” he added.
The forum also coincided with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Markham District Development Authority and Grow PNG to improve agricultural production in the Markham Valley and improve smallholder incomes.
Markham MP Hon. Koni Iguan (fifth from left), East Sepik Governor Hon. Allan Bird (sixth from left), Australian High Commissioner John Feakes (fourth from right) and other representatives from the public and private sector at the Markham Investor Development Forum.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100