As Papua New Guinea celebrated fifty years of independence, rural communities in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville (AROB) and East New Britain (ENB) are now witnessing a transformative milestone with the near completion of three vital agriculture feeder roads under the PNG Agriculture Commercialization and Diversification (PACD) Cocoa Project.
Funded by the Government of Papua New Guinea with support from the World Bank, the PACD Cocoa Project is driving rural development by improving access to markets, services, and economic opportunities for cocoa-growing communities.
During the 10th Implementation Support Mission (ISM) visit last week, Senior Agriculture Specialist and PACD Team Leader Allan Oliver commended the progress of the road rehabilitation works.
Oliver also urged communities to take ownership of road maintenance once contractors complete their work.
“These roads are very important, and you are lucky to have them. There are other areas in the country still crying for better roads.”
Oliver emphasized that PACD includes road maintenance training to empower communities to keep the infrastructure in good condition.
He encouraged local wards to engage with their Local Level Governments (LLGs) and Districts to ensure long-term upkeep, noting that the roads contribute directly to the economic growth of the region.
In addition, local leaders and residents have welcomed the development, describing it as long overdue.
Meanwhile, Russel Anip, Chairman of the ward development committee for infrastructure in Kulungere, said that they have waited over ten years for this road.
“It will benefit not only cocoa farmers but also provide access to schools, health centres, and basic services for everyone.”
On the other hand, Youth representative Clive Niali, highlighted the impact on women and young people.
“Mothers have carried cocoa and children on foot over rough terrain. This road will ease those burdens and make transport safer.”
“During the wet season, we have had to cross flooded rivers just to transport cocoa. This road will give youths better access to farming and market opportunities.”
Furthermore, as the PACD Cocoa Project continues to unfold, communities are being urged to use the improved infrastructure to strengthen their livelihoods, invest in better housing, and save for the future, especially with rising cocoa prices offering new economic potential.
