PAPUA NEW GUINEA’s Prime Minister,
James Marape, has introduced
what is believed to be a world-first:
dedicated ministerial portfolios for coffee
and palm oil. Against the backdrop of a recent
election marked by turmoil, delays,
and allegations of fraud, Marape’s unveiling
of this groundbreaking cabinet signals
a strategic shift towards revitalizing key
sectors of the country’s economy.
Joe Kuli, a seasoned figure in commerce and
industry who previously served as vice minister, has been entrusted with overseeing the
coffee portfolio. Meanwhile, Francis Maneke, a distinguished parliamentarian since 2017,
assumes the helm of the palm oil ministry.
Marape’s decision to carve out specific ministerial roles for these vital agricultural commodities reflects a targeted approach aimed at fostering economic growth and sustainability.
“Traditional Papua New Guinea crops have lost focus over the last 30 to 40 years. We
want to bring them back to the table,” Marape declared. “We are breaking them down to
specific ministers so that these programs get managed by a minister properly at the micro
level.”
Papua New Guinea boasts a rich agricultural landscape, with coffee and palm oil standing
out as the nation’s top two agricultural exports. Palm oil, in particular, has emerged
as a powerhouse, contributing significantly to the country’s export revenue, surpassing 1
billion kina ($283 million) since 2008 and accounting for over 40% of agricultural export
earnings.
Although coffee ranks as the second-largest agricultural export, its impact extends far beyond mere revenue figures. Marape acknowledges the multifaceted role of coffee, which
not only bolsters GDP but also sustains ancillary industries, ranging from transportation
to construction, and from insurance to banking.
Despite facing challenges in recent years, including a decline in global market share,
Marape remains optimistic about the prospects of Papua New Guinea’s coffee industry.
With Joe Kuli at the helm, hailing from the esteemed coffee-growing region of Wahgi
Valley, Marape envisions a revitalization of the sector, fueled by renewed focus and dedication.
“The Honorable Joe Kuli will have no other task than coffee, coffee, coffee alone,” Marape
affirmed. “I want to drink coffee made in Goroka, made in Hagen, made in Lae.”
As Papua New Guinea embarks on this bold endeavor, the world watches with anticipation,
recognizing the potential of these pioneering ministerial appointments to reshape
not only the country’s economy but also its global standing as a leader in agricultural innovation.
Papua New Guinea’s decision to appoint dedicated ministers for coffee and palm oil marks
a significant departure from conventional governance practices, signaling a visionary
approach towards economic revitalization. Prime Minister James Marape’s strategic allocation of ministerial portfolios reflects a keen understanding of the pivotal role that agriculture plays in the nation’s prosperity.
By elevating coffee and palm oil to the forefront of government attention, Marape underscores the intrinsic value of these industries in driving export revenue, sustaining
livelihoods, and fostering rural development. The appointment of seasoned individuals like Joe Kuli and Francis Maneke underscores a commitment to leveraging expertise
and local knowledge to propel these sectors forward.
As Papua New Guinea navigates the complexities of a rapidly evolving global economy, the
spotlight on coffee and palm oil serves as a clarion call to prioritize homegrown solutions
and capitalize on indigenous resources. This bold initiative not only positions Papua
New Guinea as a trailblazer in agricultural governance but also paves the way for inclusive
growth and sustainable development. As the nation embarks on this transformative
journey, the world watches with anticipation, hopeful for the promise of a brighter, more
prosperous future.
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