PRIME MINISTER Hon. James Marape’s commitment to bolstering Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) oil palm industry underscores the government’s dedication to driving economic growth in the agricultural sector. As the country’s leading agricultural export, the oil palm industry contributed over K2.8 billion to PNG’s economy in 2022, making it a crucial pillar of the nation’s economic prosperity.
Prime Minister Marape’s reaffirmation of support for the industry comes in the form of
substantial funding allocated to the National Oil Palm Intervention Programme (NOPIP),
managed by the Oil Palm Industry Corporation (OPIC). With over K3.5 million disbursed
since last year, the programme aims to address key challenges facing the industry, particularly the ageing of palm trees, which has led to declining production rates.
Under the leadership of Oil Palm Minister Hon. Francis Maneke, NOPIP has made significant
strides in rejuvenating the industry.
Minister Maneke’s proactive approach has ensured the efficient distribution of funds to millers, facilitating the supply of quality seedlings to smallholder growers. This initiative aims to revitalize their fields with new, high-yielding palm trees, thereby boosting production and
ensuring the industry’s long-term viability.
The Prime Minister expressed appreciation for Minister Maneke, major milling companies,
and OPIC for their steadfast support of this crucial initiative, which is vital for the industry’s
sustainability and growth.
Last year’s intervention saw K576,000 allocated to New Britain Palm Oil Ltd (NBPOL) for
the distribution of 48,000 seedlings in Hoskins and K288,000 to Hargy Oil Palm for 24,000
seedlings in Bialla. This year, additional allocations include K540,000 to NBPOL for 35,000
seedlings in Hoskins, K216,000 to Hargy Oil Palms for 14,000 seedlings in Bialla, and another
K540,000 to NBPOL for the same purpose in Oro.
Future commitments include plans to allocate K216,000 to NBPOL for 100 hectares in Milne
Bay and K324,000 for 21,000 seedlings in New Ireland. These efforts underscore the government’s proactive stance in addressing the challenges faced by the oil palm industry and its commitment to revitalizing the sector amid economic uncertainties and rising living costs.
Prime Minister Marape emphasized the importance of providing high-quality seedlings
to support local growers, ensuring the sustainability of the oil palm crop nationwide. He
hailed the initiative as a commendable step towards enhancing the livelihoods of smallholder growers and securing the industry’s future prosperity.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Marape’s unwavering support for PNG’s oil palm industry
signals a promising future for the sector and its pivotal role in driving economic resilience
and prosperity. With targeted interventions aimed at addressing key challenges and supporting smallholder growers, the government is laying the foundation for sustained growth and development in the agricultural sector.
Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) oil palm industry stands as a cornerstone of the nation’s economy, contributing significantly to export revenue and livelihoods across the country. Prime Minister Hon. James Marape’s recent reaffirmation of the government’s commitment to supporting this vital sector underscores the importance of fostering growth and sustainability in agriculture.
With the oil palm industry generating over K2.8 billion in exports in 2022, its economic
significance cannot be overstated. However, like any industry, it faces challenges, particularly
concerning ageing palm trees and declining production rates. Prime Minister Marape’s
dedication to addressing these challenges through the National Oil Palm Intervention
Programme (NOPIP) is commendable and reflects a proactive approach to economic development.
NOPIP’s focus on rejuvenating the industry by providing support for replanting efforts is
crucial. By allocating over K3.5 million since last year, the government aims to boost production and ensure the long-term viability of the oil palm sector. This investment is not
only about increasing output but also about empowering local growers, particularly smallholder farmers who depend on agriculture for their livelihoods.
The distribution of quality seedlings to smallholder growers is a key component of NOPIP.
By facilitating access to high-yielding palm trees, the programme aims to improve productivity and income levels for farmers across PNG. This initiative not only supports economic growth but also contributes to poverty alleviation and rural development, aligning
with broader national development goals.
Minister of Oil Palm, Hon. Francis Maneke, deserves recognition for his proactive leadership
in spearheading NOPIP’s implementation. His efforts to ensure the efficient distribution
of funds and resources to millers and growers are instrumental in driving the programme’s
success. With Minister Maneke’s guidance, NOPIP has made significant progress in revitalizing the oil palm industry and positioning it for future growth. The positive impact of NOPIP extends beyond economic considerations. By rejuvenating palm plantations,
the programme also contributes to environmental sustainability and land rehabilitation
efforts. Furthermore, by supporting smallholder growers, NOPIP promotes social
inclusion and empowerment, empowering communities to take control of their economic
destinies.
Looking ahead, it is imperative to sustain the momentum of NOPIP and build upon its
achievements. Continued government support, coupled with private sector collaboration
and community engagement, will be essential for the programme’s success. Furthermore,
ensuring transparency and accountability in the allocation and utilization of funds is crucial
for fostering trust and confidence among stakeholders.
The oil palm industry’s potential to drive economic growth and improve livelihoods is
undeniable. With strategic interventions and sustained commitment from all stakeholders,
PNG can harness the full potential of this vital sector. Prime Minister Marape’s pledge to support the oil palm industry through initiatives like NOPIP is a testament to the government’s vision for a prosperous and sustainable future for all Papua New Guineans.
As we navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead, let us continue to work together
to unlock the full potential of PNG’s oil palm industry and build a brighter future for generations to come.
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