Katrina ANGELI

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape recently opened a two-day forum on Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) in Port Moresby on Monday night this week, describing it as a milestone achievement aimed at empowering Papua New Guineans to participate in the country’s economy. The multi-million kina 'Improved TVET for Employment' project is co-funded by three partners including Australian Government, Asian Development Bank (ADB) and PNG Government, and is being implemented by the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology through ten TVET colleges in different parts of the country. While thanking the two co-sponsors of the project, PM Marape highlighted that if Papua New Guineans are to be empowered to the highest level, it has to be in the education sector, but more so in the area of TVET where they are provided the skills and ethics to be competent and to be able to participate meaningfully in the country’s economy. He stated that in the past five years, despite the country facing hardships due to COVID-19, it was able to grow its economy but also highlighted were huge deficiencies in the lack of properly skilled manpower to sustain the economy. “By the end of this year, we will post K40 million GDP (Gross Domestic Product). But in the midst of this growth, I’ve seen a major deficiency that we carry; we lack properly skilled workforce to fill in the gap to sustain the growth that is required.” “We aim to grow a K200 million economy. To grow it, we need a skilled workforce.’’ He emphasized that this sector is closest to his heart and thanked the Asian Development Bank for taking heed of his request few years ago to move from its traditional role in sponsoring the infrastructure projects such as roads, ports and airports, to the education sector with a particular focus on TVET. PM Marape also stated that the TVET project complements the improvements being made in the infrastructure sector as without skilled people, there would be no one to work in the construction sector. “In my view, it complements the ports, roads and airports that we are trying to invest in. Or what use is investment in roads, if we don’t have people to work in the construction sector, so thank you, ADB.” In addition, he highlighted that it has shown through studies that an economy is successful because it is anchored by a properly skilled blue-collar workforce. The Prime Minister also pointed out the efforts being made to address the growing problem of dropouts by phasing out grade eight and grade ten school leavers so all children can progress and complete grade twelve, who will be prepared to streamline into TVET or tertiary institutions such as universities. In thanking Australia for being PNG’s major bilateral development partner since Independence, he highlighted that the workforce being developed in PNG should not only benefit PNG but also Australia and New Zealand. Moreover, he urged the two countries to consider employing Papua New Guineans not just in working as seasonal fruit-pickers but also in professional jobs, including trades as, PNG has long been influenced by Western societies including through Christianity, which makes it much easier for Papua New Guineans to adjust in the two countries than realized. The project, Improved TVET for Employment, was initiated ten years ago when PM Marape was then the finance minister under the previous government. The key areas in the project include improving governance and management in the colleges, focusing on teacher training, improving the curriculum and gender-inclusive infrastructure. PM Marape’s role in the project was acknowledged during the opening night by other speakers, including Project Manager Dr George Bopi-Kerepa.

Kina Bank has recently donated K20, 000 to the National St John Ambulance (NStJA) service to support the training of ambulance staff at the National Ambulance Education college in Port Moresby city. The donation was made by the bank’s Business Banking team who raised the funds themselves as part of their community initiative. NStJA Chief Executive Commissioner, Matt Canon, expressed the National St John Ambulance Council’s gratitude for Kina Bank’s donation and expressed his thanks to this grant in which they were able to acquire essential training equipment for their new ambulance education center. “This equipment is instrumental in training hundreds of ambulance workers and first responders each year, ensuring patients receive higher-quality emergency care in their time of greatest need.” Kina Bank Executive General Manager of Business Banking, Rayleene Elston while thanking her staff for their fundraiser efforts, expressed how proud they were to see that their contribution is directly supporting the education and training of ambulance personnel, ensuring their readiness to serve now and into the future. The cheque presentation took place on the 22nd of October at the St John Ambulance headquarters at 3 Mile in Port Moresby and was attended by representatives from both the bank and the St John Ambulance teams. Kina Bank remains committed in supporting vital community services and looks forward to continuing its partnership with the National St John Ambulance Service Council.

Enga Provincial Police Commander (PPC), Chief Superintendent Fred Yakasa in a video addressing incidents in the province, gave an update on the Sirunki incident that took place on the 22nd of October where a PMV bus was ambushed in Lagaip resulting in the death of six people who were passengers on board that bus. He made an appeal to the people of Sirunki specifically to the tribal groups of Lyain and Moen when he made a surprise visit along with some of his men. He also made an appeal to them to surrender the suspects. According to the Supt. Yakasa, the people of both tribes asked for the suspects of the previous incidents that had occurred before to surrender first before they surrender their own, however, Supt Yakasa told them they won’t be doing so and that they need to surrender those involved and from there can talk peace amongst the relatives of the victims. “After making the appeal, the people then spoke and came up with a decision to have the suspects surrender which saw a total of seven suspects who are now locked up at Wabag police station.” The next step is for the police force to now approach another tribe called Mulapin in which they would have their suspects surrender as well. This is according to Supt. Yakasa who stated that there are several tribes now involved, especially in the massacre that took place in Sirunki. “As it is now, the highway is now safe for public motor vehicles to travel, however, commuters are still advised to take precautionary measures.” “I have instructed my men to turn back PMVs from Wabag travelling further to Lagaip and further to Mulitaka.” The victims of the October 22nd killings include two from Mulitaka, three from Sirunki and one from Lagaip area. Supt. Yakasa also added that they are camping at Sirunki High School to ensure that no further conflict erupts from this situation. “There are so many tribes involved in the latest massacre so there’s potential for problems if we don't go up there and suppress it from the beginning. The law-and-order division in Enga would go out and try to mediate peace in terms of the communities but that will not stop the police from doing their normal duties in apprehending more suspects.” He further stated that this is as far as the police have progressed on the investigations, especially with the arrests of those suspects and are hoping to make more arrests in relation to these violent attacks and incidents that have occurred.

Police Commander of National Capital District (NCD) and Central Province acting ACP Benjamin Turi, is calling on all police officers down the rank and file to assist the acting NCD Metropolitan Superintendent, Mazuc Rubiang in ensuring Port Moresby city is clean and safe for everyone. He said all members must give their undivided support to the new Met. Supt. and expressed appreciation for having so far done a tremendous job under his leadership. According to Rubiang, fewer crimes were reported during the weekend in and around Port Moresby city. He said this was based on the police reports he had received through police reporting channels. He commented also on the looks of the city, stating that the city now looks clean especially at the traffic lights, bus stops and public areas where people usually do street vending. Rubiang said that since the awareness program in which the police did convoys and drunk patrols, some people have adhered to the awareness programs. “Police will continue to do awareness again this week and will start enforcing what they had been doing awareness on. The stricter police bail rates that had been set by the bail authorities of NCD command are active and police will not hesitate to arrest people who do street vending, in possession of offensive weapons, using or holding onto phones when driving, domestic violence and ethnic clashes.” “The police bail rates are as follows Ethnic clashes is K10, 000 police bail, alcohol-related offence is K5, 000, domestic violence is K2, 000, carrying of offence weapons is K10, 000, street vending is K5, 000 and using a phone while driving is K5, 000 police bail.” The penalty applies to all including police officers and anyone of the general public. He said so far there have been some improvements in the city, and this is a good sign that people are adhering to what has been said. He also stated that police are moving around observing locations where street vendors are still doing marketing, and they will come in numbers to arrest those who are selling or are loitering at places that are not designated marketplaces. “I want to call on the public to help police enforce these laws. It's not only the police who will police up these places because we are outnumbered. We have fewer police officers in the city who cannot be everywhere in the city at one time.” “Police officers are working one shift and when one shift rests, the other shift comes on duty. Those who are working in the specialist divisions work only during the weekdays. Those who work during the weekdays can be called in to assist when needed.” Supt. Rubiang further added that since the city is clean, and people are not congregating in public places, this must continue to be maintained. He said the police will still be out in numbers to whatever instructions that he tells them to do.

SITA, the leading technology provider for the air transport industry, has announced a new partnership with Air Niugini to integrate STA’s recently launched SITA Connect Go Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) platform into the airline’s digital infrastructure. The solution will link Air Niugini’s six international airport and sales offices to the airline’s head office in Port Moresby and its cloud-hosted applications. SITA Connect Go is the only integrated networking and security solution designed specifically for the air transport industry, offering secure connectivity for Air Niugini’s global workforce, whether stationed in the office or working remotely. The solution will improve productivity, offer enhanced flexibility, and increase the average bandwidth by about forty times, all while mitigating risks associated with traditional internet deployments. With many other airlines in final discussions to embark on the SITA SASE journey, this partnership marks the first implementation of SITA Connect Go SASE in the APAC (Asia Pacific) region and showcases the solution’s value for airlines’ international operations. SITA Connect Go aims to help the industry transform its network capabilities to meet evolving bandwidth, resilience, security, and automation needs while remaining cost competitive. President of SITA APAC, Sumesh Patel stated that this new partnership with Air Niugini is a big step for the region as they look to continue offering solutions that cater to their customers’ needs. “Our end-to-end secure network solutions are a great way for airlines to stop worrying about their network capabilities and concentrate on other important priorities across their operations. By offering them robust security, increased bandwidth, and a higher flexibility for their staff, we can help them do just that.” Meanwhile, Air Niugini’s Chief Executive Officer, Gary Seddon said that their partnership with SITA to implement the SITA Connect Go SASE platform is a transformative step in the digital evolution. He further stated that this solution will significantly enhance the connectivity and security of their operations, allowing them to better serve their passengers, improve productivity across their international offices and future-proof their infrastructure as ANG continue to expand. “We are proud to be the first airline in the APAC region to adopt this cutting-edge technology, reinforcing our commitment to operational excellence and innovation.”

Prime Minister James Marape has welcomed the transformative policy aimed at ending the practice of Grade eight and ten dropouts in Papua New Guinea, promising a future where every young citizen can complete their secondary education. The announcement by Education Minister, Lucas Dekena that there will be no more grade eight and ten dropouts as of 2027, marks a historic step toward ensuring equal access to quality education for all Papua New Guineans, regardless of their background or location. “Our government believes that education is the cornerstone of a prosperous, united, and resilient Papua New Guinea.” “By eliminating grade eight and ten dropouts, we are breaking down the barriers that have held back too many of our young people.” “High schools will be empowered to incorporate Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) along with Christian ethics into their curriculum, equipping students with not only a strong academic foundation but also practical life skills and ethical values.” “This approach ensures that when students graduate, they step into the world ready to make a positive impact with both their knowledge and integrity.” “Today, we are saying that no child’s dreams should end at grade eight or grade ten.” “We are investing in their future because we believe that our youth have the power to transform this nation.” Under the new policy, all students will have the right to progress from grade eight through to grade twelve, preparing them for tertiary education or vocational training. This change will bring an end to a system that has, in the past, left many young people in rural and underserved communities with limited options for their future. Prime Minister Marape emphasized that the new approach goes hand-in-hand with the government’s commitment to building a stronger education system, including the construction of new schools, recruitment of qualified teachers, and investment in educational resources. "We are laying the foundation of a smarter, healthier, and more connected Papua New Guinea.” “Education is the great equalizer, and we want every young Papua New Guinean to be empowered with knowledge, skills, and the confidence to create positive change,” he added. The Prime Minister also highlighted the socio-economic benefits of the policy, pointing to research that links education to improved employment, health, and social outcomes. “With every child we empower through education, we are planting the seeds of future leaders, innovators, and changemakers.” “They will drive the economic growth and resilience of this nation, ensuring a brighter tomorrow for all Papua New Guineans.” Moreover, the government’s education reform aligns with Vision 2050 and is supported by partnerships with communities, international donors, and NGOs. This collaborative approach aims to ensure that the necessary infrastructure, training, and resources are in place to accommodate all students progressing through their education journey. He further called on parents, teachers, and community leaders to join the government in fostering a culture that values and supports education. “Our success will be driven by our people’s commitment to this vision.” “Together, we must encourage our children to dream big, work hard, and embrace the opportunities education provides.” Furthermore, he expressed his optimism for a more inclusive, educated, and prosperous Papua New Guinea, where every child has the chance to achieve their potential. “We are not just changing policy; we are changing lives, shaping our nation, and building a legacy of opportunity and hope.” “This is our promise to our young people, our future.”

Pacific Industries Limited through its Pepsi brand announced the first draw event of the 2024 Pepsi "Thirsty for Merch" National Consumer Promotion (NCP) which was launched on October 14th at the Rangeview Plaza in Port Moresby city. This ground-breaking campaign, which took place at Stop & Shop Waigani Central and across participating centers nationwide, will see over fifty winners drawn and announced. Each winner will receive exclusive merch packs valued at K2, 500 from a total of more than 400 merch packs to be won nationwide, collectively valued at over One Million Kina (K1,000,000). Joining in the momentous event that took place last week Friday are local influencers, including Ms. Tyla Singarok, the reigning Miss Bird of Paradise and Miss Papua New Guinea plus PNG Kumul’s player Morea Morea. Their participation enhanced the excitement of the draw, alongside notable guests Rygene Tiu, GM of Stop & Shop Waigani Central and National Marketing Manager of Pacific Industries Ltd, Nathaniel Lepani. Lepani stated that with Pepsi’s teaser campaign kicking off this month with the involvement of some great PNG local talent and influencers, they really saw a growing excitement in the market and from the public, waiting with bated breath to see what exactly was the something big that Pepsi was building up towards. “When we launched the Thirsty For Merch promotion a fortnight ago, we saw this being actualized through engagement online, crowds flocking to stores around the country to get their Tupla Tasol cans of Pepsi to take part. And now we are excited to be conducting the first draw of the promotion; giving away 32 Merch Packs to some lucky winners here in Port Moresby.” “There are over fifty winners that will be drawn nationwide, ensuring that we’ll be seeing some pretty cool individuals wearing their varsity jackets, cool sunnies, listening to their favorite MMK and DJ Kainzy hits on their Bluetooth speakers and cruising around town!” In Port Moresby, 32 winners were selected, with additional winners in Hagen (eight), Lae (eight), Goroka (two), Kokopo (six) and Madang (two). Each merch pack contains seventeen exciting items, including sunglasses, socks, a tote bag, cap, T-shirt, Bluetooth speaker and headphones and a stylish varsity jacket. Each merch pack is valued at over K2, 500. This promotion not only offers prizes but also fosters community engagement and celebrates homegrown, local PNG talent. Following this initial draw, four more draws will occur leading into the festive season, giving everyone the chance to win their very own merch pack. With over 400 merch packs available, that's more than K1,000,000 (One Million Kina) in prizes up for grabs nationwide! The Pepsi "Thirsty for Merch" promotion started on Monday 14th October 2024 and will conclude on Sunday, 20th December 2024. Participation to enter the draw to get a chance to win is to simply purchase two or more cans of Pepsi or any of our product range, including Mountain Dew, 7Up, Mirinda and Pepsi Max. Write your name and contact details on the back of your receipt and drop it into the entry boxes at all participating stores. Throughout the promotion, keep an eye out on PEPSI PNG promo teams at your favorite stores, dressed to impress in merch gear and showing you how easy it is to take part and WIN! Those that attended the First Draw event also had the opportunity to pick up two cans or more from the PepsiCo range and then brought them over to the promo team on site. They then had the chance to spin the wheel and instantly win some great merch items or free product. Furthermore, Pacific Industries Ltd., through its Pepsi brand, thanked everyone in attendance. For updates on this promotion and more, the public can like and follow the Pepsi PNG Facebook and Instagram pages.

The National St John Ambulance Service, accompanied by the National Department of Health Emergency Medicine Physicians, officially launched its Ambulance Clinical Practice Protocols as a smartphone app today. Marking a significant step forward in supporting high-quality prehospital care across Papua New Guinea, the development of this app was made possible by the generous donations raised by the staff of Deloitte Australia and its staff here in PNG during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Commissioner Matt Cannon OStJ, Chief Executive of the National St John Ambulance Council, shared that in the past, the ambulance field guide and clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) had to be printed, which was both expensive and difficult to keep up to date. Every time changes were made, new protocols had to be reprinted. Therefore, with the new Ambulance Field Guide and CPG App, this now makes it possible to have up-to-date protocols directly in the hands of ambulance staff. The App, which is called, ‘St John Ambulance PNG CPG’, operates on any modern android smartphone, providing a clear, medically approved instructions for managing a wide range of emergency conditions and simplifying the delivery of care. All guidelines are pre-approved by a panel of specialist emergency physicians, ensuring high standards of clinical safety and effectiveness. For doctors and paramedics, the new app includes an advanced medical care section, offering more detailed guidelines for advanced medical procedures. “We had to learn to modernize ourselves like other ambulance services in the region by moving to a platform that is sensible, practical and takes advantage of the technology that’s out there so we can deliver good quality care whether it be a first responder, ambulance officer delivering basic life support or a doctor or critical care doctor providing critical care and life support.” “Making the technology available for the health responders to have easy access and with that can now put in the palm of our hands the instructions that they need in their time of greatest need." Cannon also extended his heartfelt thanks to Deloitte PNG for their invaluable support and stated that the generous contributions from Deloitte’s staff and partners have been instrumental in the successful launch of this app. The project according to Cannon began years ago. He added that although the vision was there, the financial aid was not there to implement that vision. However, money was raised over the years with the great help from Deloitte making it possible to see a successful launch of the app today. Moreover, Cannon stated a disclaimer, meaning that health workers and professionals can use at their own risks. Meanwhile, Office Managing Partner for Deloitte PNG, Mr. Herbert Maguma expressed gratitude to the National St John Ambulance for their significant contribution to building safer and healthier communities. “This occasion marks a significant milestone in the journey towards improving health care delivery in PNG and Deloitte PNG is proud to have played a part in this important initiative.” “During the critical time of the COVID-19 pandemic, Deloitte recognized the vital role that SJA plays as one of our frontline health care providers.” “This application represents more than just a technological advancement. It is a tool that empowers St John frontline ambulance with up-to-date information right at their fingerprints.” This app ensures that healthcare professionals, no matter where they are in the country with the support they need to deliver high timely care. “We are proud that the support from our Deloitte team has helped make this app possible, enabling the ambulance service to deliver high-quality emergency care, free for all Papua New Guineans.” While the app is principally for use by trained national ambulance staff and PHA Ambulance reservists, it is also available for free on the Google Play Store in Papua New Guinea. This means registered health professionals can access it as a valuable point of reference, subject to their own organisation’s clinical governance. It is also expected to be available on the Apple App Store in the coming weeks. “Deloitte’s partnership with SJA is grounded in our shared commitment to improving health outcomes for all Papua New Guineans. I also want to recognize the tireless efforts of the SJA team. Your dedication in saving lives often in the most difficult circumstances is truly inspiring.” Also present during the launching was Health Minister, Elias Kapavore who said that the launch of the Clinical Practice Guideline smartphone app marks a significant Step in the digitisation of healthcare. “I commend the National St John Ambulance for spearheading this important Innovation. The Government and the Health Department stand ready to support any future initiatives you pursue in advancing healthcare."

The grade ten and twelve students of Maprik Secondary school in East Sepik province recently successfully concluded two weeks of the National Examinations that took place nationwide. The grade ten students who sat for their exams on the scheduled dates from the 7th to the 10th of October 2024 and the grade twelves from the 14th to the 18th of October, have each ended their exam week on a high note. This is according to Principal of Maprik Secondary, Mr. Alfred Akai, who told PNGHAUSBUNG how pleased he was with how the students carried themselves before, during and after the exams with no issues faced. “The students in both grades did well in terms of preparations and remedial classes so during the exam weeks, we didn’t have any issues at all with the students.” A total of 193 grade ten students and a total of 230 grade twelve students sat for the exams. Mr. Akai also confirmed that all students from both grades sat for the exams with no one absent and with that, he was happy with the turnout from the students. Students and staff will now await the marking of exams which will take place in the month of November for grades eight, ten and twelve. Meanwhile, the grade eight National Exams are currently taking place nationwide this week and will end tomorrow with the final paper, English Paper 2.

In another successful show, it was certainly one’s dream to deliver a wow factor to the audience and to all who attended on the night. Entrepreneur and Owner of Maku Gifts, Ms. Annette Sete, yet again delivered her second Lavagirl Xplosion Show or LGX Fashion Show at the APEC Haus in Port Moresby city on the Saturday 19th of October. The event showcased a total of ten collections in honor of celebrating the 10th Anniversary of both Lavagirl and Maku Gifts. Each collection displayed on the night, each telling a story of the journey of Lavagirl and most importantly, portraying a cultural journey representing both provinces of East New Britian and East Sepik provinces of which Ms. Sete originates from. Cultural identity is something Sete creates her fabric styles from and that is exactly what she showcased in her culturally inspired collections. A special highlight on the night was the ten winners who won the recent Lavagirl competition to design a unique stylish piece of garment with a Lavagirl fabric design. Each winning designer displayed a piece each showcasing their designs paraded on the runway. Warlapang, Origins, Tabu, Kokonas, Recognition, Croc and Leather, Showtime, Xtra, Collabs (with Barata PNG) and Big City Lights were the different inspired collections that were showcased on the night. The collection, Tabu, which means shell money in Kuanua language, is a huge inspiration to Lavagirl which is used by the ‘tolai’ people of East new Britian province and plays a very significant role in their culture. “We developed the tabu print so tonight for that collection we wanted to show the culture of the tabu shells. With this collection, we predominantly want to make the tabu shine and we have showed that in our fabrics and the garment that we’ve sold.” “The story itself on the other hand, is about how this culture in Papua New Guinea has not died out like others. It is very strong, very vibrant and rich in the tolai culture. For us using the tabu shells itself and incorporating them into our brand, is a piece of identity for us at Lavagirl.” Ms. Sete later thanked all sponsors for their support in making this year’s 2nd LGX fashion show a success and thanked everyone including her team in making this an exciting show and to give everyone who attended the event, an opportunity to see how each collection telling a story and representing the significance of the culture in both provinces and regions.

Teams from the government, church, civil society and private sector are now developing new ways to solve policy problems using an innovative approach that was developed at Harvard University and brought to PNG by The Voice Inc (TVI). The teams gathered this week for a check-in session as they near completion of their 12-week course, called Problem Driven Iterative Adaptation (PDIA), offered as part of TVI’s Local Leadership for Collective Action Program (LLCAP) supported by the Australian Government. Teams include the Department for Community Development and Religion (DfCDR), the National Youth Development Authority (NYDA), the National Gender Based Violence Secretariat, the Department of Justice and Attorney General, the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), the Simbu provincial government, civil society and Catholic Diocese of Kundiawa. Each team works with TVI and Harvard Kennedy School’s Building State Capability program to analyse and strategize on how best to act on a complex policy problem including youth opportunity, corruption and sorcery accusation related violence. The check-in session allowed teams to share key learnings from the last 10 weeks of their participation in the PDIA course. The session allowed them to further engage with other members of their cohort and government authorizers. Also present during the session was Department of Community Development and Religion Secretary, Jerry Ubase commended TVI on offering PDIA as a tool for developmental leaders to critically look at the root causes of problems affecting Papua New Guinea. “The PDIA has also allowed me to assess how my department operates and encouraged me to empower my team to effectively carry out their responsibilities.” “As an authorizer who has participated in the course, I hope that TVI can offer this program to more government agencies within the country.” Director of the National Gender Based Violence Secretariat, Diane Kambanei and Director General of NYDA, Joe Itaki are also leading teams in their areas of Gender Based Violence strategy implementation and youth policy reform. The PDIA program is delivered by Professor, Matt Andrews of Harvard Kennedy School, who has seen the approach work in more than 150 countries around the world, all facing similar challenges to PNG. The teams will complete the PDIA course in two weeks, the third cohort to join TVI’s Local Leadership and Collective Action Network, a growing group of reform minded leaders supporting policy reform on ten critical issues in seven provinces across PNG.

Cocoa farmers along the Teo-Buin to Sipotavai feeder roads in Tinputz area of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville (AROB) will soon travel in comfort with their cocoa bags and other agriculture produce to the markets. Road infrastructures are one of the top priority services linking people and basic essential goods and services and with good roads anything is possible. The Teo-Buin Sipotavai 5.80km upgrade and sealing project is under the World Bank funding the Papua New Guinea Agriculture Commercialization and Diversification (PACD) Project Management Unit - Cocoa Component (Cocoa PMU), which operates under the Cocoa Board of PNG. The official awarding and signing of the contract were signed on the 16th of October 2024 at the Technical Services Conference in Tinputz. The K6.9 million road project was awarded to Raibro Construction Limited through tender by the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) Tendering Board. A contract was then signed between the Cocoa Board of PNG through the PACD Project Management Unit and contractor Raibro Construction Limited. Representing ABG was Chief Secretary, Keanerth Nanai, Ralito Mitra on behalf of Raibro Construction Limited and PACD PMU-Cocoa Project Manager, Roland Kerina. Speaking during the signing event was, Cocoa PMU Project Manager, Mr. Kerina, who spoke on the Agriculture Feeder Roads as one of the components under the PACD project that aims to improve access to value chains and markets for farmers through rehabilitation and maintenance of priority feeder roads, paths, or other small transport infrastructure. "Apart from the road project, there are three cocoa partnerships in AROB that involved a total of 1, 500 farmers and that the Bank will fund cocoa seedlings, tools, trainings to the farmers to plant cocoa and when the cocoa is ready, will then take it to the market.” “This will improve their lives that is the main object of the PACD project, and the roads are attached to that so the farmers can have access to the market.” “We are happy today that in the long run in the process of awarding the contract, we say thank you to the Bougainville Tenders Board the process is now complete with the signing.” “Today signifies that it is a win-win situation for the more than 800 farmers or people in Tinputz.” Meanwhile, on behalf of the ABG Government, ABG Chief Secretary, Mr Nanai thanked the World Bank, the PACD PMU and the Cocoa Board of PNG as well as the technical services to have been nominated to have this important road project. He expressed that this is a very significant occasion especially when tapping into this program where the government is not reaching in terms of rehabilitating feeder roads throughout AROB. “We are so grateful that the World Bank has seen our needs as a priority in terms of our farmers and this road will greatly help them in bringing their commodities to the outside world.” “This will be a real benefit for the communities, the government infrastructure and facilities and most importantly, the farmers.” He added that in AROB cocoa is a very important cash crop for them and this year alone the people have received so much from cocoa alone and putting a feeder road through the World Bank funded is a bonus in terms of complementing the cocoa farmers. Furthermore, Nanai congratulated Raibro for having successfully being awarded the contract commenting that Raibro has been doing a very good job throughout AROB and they are qualified and has brilliant performance record delivering quality work.