TO strengthen its agricultural sector, the Eastern Highlands Provincial Government has revealed its ambitious K432 million budget for 2024. The budget signals a strategic shift towards agriculture, aiming to reduce reliance on imported staples like rice and bolster local
food production. This landmark initiative was presented during a budgetary meeting
with Prime Minister and Treasurer, Hon. James Marape, on March 5, 2024.
Governor of Eastern Highlands, Hon. Simon Sia, accompanied by Unggai-Bena MP, Hon.
Kinoka Feo, Provincial Administrator Allen Los, Deputy Administrator Michael Mogia,
and other key officials, outlined the province’s agricultural-centric budget to Prime Minister
Marape. Marape commended the province for aligning its budget priorities with the national
agenda, emphasizing agriculture’s critical role in achieving food security and boosting economic growth.
With a total budget of K432,083,300, including K49,355,400 generated internally, the Eastern Highlands aims to navigate financial constraints with strategic allocations. Notably, K160 million and K130.6 million are earmarked for key economic ventures like coffee processing, poultry farming, and mushroom cultivation. These projects, while requiring substantial initial investment, promise significant returns, with coffee and poultry ventures alone projected to yield K1.4 billion within a year.
The province has already tasted success with projects like Juncao rice and mushroom cultivation, supported by Chinese technical expertise. Governor Sia expressed gratitude to
Prime Minister Marape for acknowledging Eastern Highlands’ agricultural potential,
notably appointing Obura-Wonera MP, Hon.John Boito, as Minister of Agriculture.
Furthermore, Governor Sia highlighted the Connect PNG program’s significance in enhancing infrastructure, particularly the construction of 850km of coffee roads across the
province. These roads play a crucial role in facilitating agricultural transportation, ensuring
farmers can efficiently transport their produce to markets.
The 2024 budget reflects Eastern Highlands’ commitment to agricultural development as
a pathway to self-sufficiency and economic prosperity. By investing in key projects and
initiatives, the province aims to reduce import dependency, boost local production, and contribute significantly to Papua New Guinea’s agricultural sector.
Overall, the Eastern Highlands Provincial Government’s agricultural-centric budget marks a strategic step towards achieving longterm sustainability and growth, positioning the province as a key player in Papua New Guinea’s agricultural landscape. The unveiling
of the Eastern Highlands Provincial Government’s K432 million budget for 2024 marks a
pivotal moment in Papua New Guinea’s agricultural landscape. This bold move towards
bolstering the agricultural sector not only reflects the province’s commitment to
self-sufficiency but also underscores the potential for economic growth through strategic investments in agriculture.
At the heart of this initiative is the recognition of agriculture as a cornerstone of national development. By prioritizing agricultural projects and initiatives, the Eastern Highlands
aims to diminish reliance on imported staples like rice and foster local food production. This
strategic shift aligns with the broader national agenda outlined by Prime Minister James
Marape, who commended Governor Simon Sia and his team for their forward-thinking
approach.
With a total budget exceeding K432 million, including substantial internal revenue generation, the Eastern Highlands demonstrates a clear commitment to navigating financial constraints while pursuing ambitious agricultural goals. Key allocations, such as K160 million
for coffee processing and K130.6 million for poultry farming and mushroom cultivation,
highlight the province’s focus on high-impact ventures with significant potential for
returns.
The success of projects like Juncao rice and mushroom cultivation, facilitated by Chinese
technical expertise, serves as a testament to the province’s agricultural potential. These
initiatives not only contribute to local food security but also open doors for expanded production and export opportunities. Governor Sia’s appreciation for Prime Minister Marape’s recognition of Eastern Highlands’ agricultural hub status speaks volumes about the province’s readiness to capitalize on its strengths.
Furthermore, the Connect PNG program’s role in enhancing infrastructure, particularly
through the construction of coffee roads spanning 850km, underscores the province’s commitment to facilitating agricultural transportation. Accessible transportation infrastructure is vital for farmers to efficiently transport their produce to markets, thereby maximizing their earning potential and contributing to economic growth.
The Eastern Highlands Provincial Government’s agricultural-centric budget represents
more than just a financial plan—it embodies a vision for a sustainable and prosperous future.
By investing in agriculture, the province aims to reduce import dependency, create employment opportunities, and foster economic resilience. Moreover, these initiatives
have the potential to uplift rural communities, empowering farmers and promoting inclusive
growth.
However, realizing this vision requires collaboration and support at both the provincial
and national levels. Prime Minister Marape’s acknowledgment of Eastern Highlands’ agricultural priorities sets the stage for meaningful cooperation between the provincial and
national governments. By working together, they can address challenges, leverage opportunities, and chart a path towards agricultural prosperity.
In conclusion, the Eastern Highlands Provincial Government’s bold budgetary move
signals a new era of agricultural development in Papua New Guinea. With a strategic focus
on investment, innovation, and collaboration, the province is poised to unlock its full agricultural potential, driving economic growth, and improving livelihoods for its people. As other provinces observe this pioneering approach, the Eastern Highlands may well serve as a
model for agricultural development across the nation.
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