GROW PNG IS BASED IN LAE, PAPUA NEW GUINEA, THE GATEWAY TO THE MARKHAM VALLEY AGRICULTURAL CORRIDOR.
GROW PNG’S VISION IS TO ACCELERATE THE GROWTH OF THE AGRICULTURE SECTOR IN THE MARKHAM VALLEY BY ENABLING SMALLHOLDER HOUSEHOLDS TO INCREASE THEIR INCOME BY 20% WITHIN EIGHT YEARS.
Message from Grow PNG's Executive Director
Grow PNG accomplished several important workstreams aligned to its vision in 2020. These include the development of a Land Access Guide launched in February 2021; establishment of the Grow PNG Advisory Council; and establishment of the SME Working Group. Grow PNG also conducted the Household Income Baseline Survey for Markham District, and organized and hosted three learning events.
Having to adjust to the challenges brought on by the pandemic, we had to review our work strategy to ensure continued progress in our mission. It is important to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 on farming, and understand the extent of disruptions on the supply chain. Priority issues such as food security and sustainability of the country’s food supply chain requires collaboration between stakeholders in the agriculture sector and at different levels of government.
Looking forward, we are increasing our investment into activities that will specifically target the female population in the Markham Valley and provide support for women who depend on agriculture for their income. We intend to identify and document examples of existing gender inclusion practices and for these case studies to be disseminated among partners, encouraging greater attention to gender inclusion. We will also continue to support our Working Groups, particularly through raising awareness of the Land Access Guide.
Improving the livelihoods of farmers in the Markham region by 20% remains our focus. It is a tall order but a goal that can be achieved by engaging different levels of stakeholders – farmers, community, agribusinesses, and government. The Markham region plays an important role in shaping the national agenda on food security and industrial growth associated with an agriculture-based employment generation. Grow PNG is establishing this agenda through some of the work it has accomplished, such as the Markham Valley Land Map, household income survey, land access consultation, and land access guide. These insights will help us evaluate the Valley’s potential contribution to agriculture growth in Papua New Guinea.
John Simango, ML
