EU-STREIT PNG Programme Strengthens Fisheries Sector and Empowers Local Communities in Papua New Guinea. This time the Programme successfully distributed critical resources to over 13,000 fisher folks in the greater Sepik region, empowering local communities and enhancing their livelihoods through sustainable fisheries development. The initiative, which involved the delivery of 50 engine-powered boats and 200 durable fishing canoes to 91 fisher groups, is set to improve fish catch, boost income opportunities, and contribute to food and nutrition security for coastal, island, and riverine communities in the region. The EU-STREIT PNG Programme equipped coastal and island fisher groups with 23-foot craft boats, each powered by a 40 HP outboard engine, along with essential fishing and safety equipment. Riverine communities along the Sepik River received between one and five durable plastic canoes, depending on group size, designed to withstand various water conditions. In addition to the boats and canoes, the Programme provided crucial accessories, including fish baskets, 200 and 800-litre cooler boxes, and solar kits to improve fish storage and processing. “These communities rely heavily on fishing for their livelihoods, and many of them are located in hard-to-reach areas,” said Mr. Mohammed Zakir Hossain, Fisheries Officer for the Programme. “This support will directly enhance their ability to catch more fish, both for household consumption and for sale, ultimately improving their quality of life.” Mr. Job Opu, the Programme’s National Fisheries Value Chain Officer, emphasized the added value of the boats and canoes for transportation. “These resources are not only vital for fishing but also for delivering fresh and processed fish to markets, which will open up new economic opportunities for local communities.” A key focus of the initiative was empowering women, many of whom play an essential but often under-recognized role in the fisheries value chain. Among the beneficiaries were 57 mothers from the Kararau Cooperative Society Group in East Sepik, who received two canoes. Women's spokesperson Ms. Ruth Kami expressed her gratitude: "For many of us, our husbands have passed away, and we cannot afford dugout canoes. These new canoes will make a real difference in our lives." The Kandangapma Women’s Business Group, with 150 members from Angoram Service Camp along the Sepik River, also received support. Chairlady Ms. Tina Savinio highlighted the impact: "These canoes will help our mothers in the village catch more fish, improve nutrition, and generate income through fish sales." The Programme’s Gender & Youth Inclusion Specialist, Ms. Patu Shang, emphasized the importance of inclusion: “This initiative not only supports women in their role as food producers but also strengthens the entire community’s economy. Sustainable development is achieved when both men and women work together." The EU-STREIT PNG Programme's approach extends beyond providing equipment; it also focuses on building the capacity of local fisher groups through training in improved fishing techniques, as well as in fish production, processing, and marketing. East Sepik Deputy Governor Mr. David Kausik thanked the EU-funded initiative and urged recipients to use the resources effectively: “These boats are a valuable asset. I encourage all fishing groups to make the most of this support to improve both their catches and their incomes.” The distribution follows a fisheries value chain study commissioned by the Programme and conducted by the PNG National Fisheries Authority. The study identified key challenges in the Sepik region’s fisheries sector and informed the Programme’s strategies for upgrading and investment.

Westpac is pleased to announce the appointment of Andrew Cairns as the new Chief Executive for Papua New Guinea, effective immediately. Andrew brings a wealth of leadership experience in banking, social finance, telecommunications, and corporate social responsibility, having worked in Australia, the South Pacific, Asia, and the United States. With a proven record of driving business growth, operational success, and innovation, Andrew’s expertise will be crucial in further strengthening Westpac’s role as a reliable financial partner in PNG. Emma Low, Managing Director of Westpac Pacific, welcomed Andrew to the role. "It’s a pleasure to officially welcome Andrew Cairns as Chief Executive of Westpac PNG.” “With two decades of experience leading growth, innovation, and operational efficiency, Andrew has a strong focus on people development.” “His background in leading transformation and sustainable growth aligns perfectly with our mission to provide innovative banking solutions and promote financial inclusion.” “Under his leadership, we look forward to continuing to build strong relationships with our customers, expand our digital banking services, and contribute to economic growth in the communities we serve." “Andrew assumes the role at a pivotal time as Westpac focuses on enhancing accessibility, embracing digital innovation, and offering customer-centred solutions in PNG.” “His leadership will ensure that the bank remains adaptable in response to market changes while continuing to support financial empowerment and responsible banking practices.” Reflecting on Westpac’s longstanding ties to PNG, Andrew described joining the team as an incredible privilege. He remarked, "While banking is what Westpac does, it’s not what defines us.” “Our primary goal is to contribute to the prosperity of our customers, helping them achieve their dreams and build better futures for themselves, their families, communities, and businesses." "There’s much to be excited about as we move forward together. I first visited Papua New Guinea about ten years after its independence, and while a lot has changed, the opportunities to create sustainable outcomes and long-lasting value are still abundant.” “I’m eager to be part of the Westpac PNG team, and my initial focus will be to listen, learn, and ensure that our customers’ needs are at the center of our strategies." Westpac is excited about the future under Andrew’s leadership and looks forward to continuing to build on its strong foundation to deliver meaningful value to customers, employees, and stakeholders.

With more support to show to our national sport “rugby league”, Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) has come on board to support the sport of football to grow and expand the code across the country with a financial support of K1 million to the PNG Football Association (PNGFA). OTLM Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Kedi Ilimbit, said just like rugby, many kids throughout the country also enjoy playing soccer, which is why OTML has come on board to support the development of soccer. He said OTML been a 100% owned company that’s been helping in the education, health, employment and other sectors want to see and grow renowned soccer players for tomorrow. Development pathways must start in schools and villages with financial aid to boost the code. “In order to get the kids involved from primary school and if we want to produce renowned soccer players, we must start in the schools and villages.” “However, they can’t just start without any support, they need soccer equipment such as balls, nets, cones, water bottles.” “Soccer needs to be encouraged in the country.” “Soccer will also bring many young girls to play.” “There is not boundary to soccer. Soccer will bring more people in to participate than rugby which is a more physical sport.” Mr. Ilimbit challenged PNGFA president John Kapi Natto not to play soccer politics but instead, to develop the code and stretch it out to the outmost parts of the country to encourage young athletes to join and develop their skills. “By 2030, the FIFA cup will be on and let us see some of our young people out there as reserves.” “We could also become the champions of the OFC FIFA qualifiers and participate in the World Cup.” “My challenge to John and the team is, don’t play soccer politics. It is all about helping our people, especially the young people.” He added that soccer brings more revenue than any other sport which is enough to look after a village. Meanwhile, PNGFA President John Kapi Natto said this sponsorship will go a long way to advancing football in the country by providing much needed resources for training programs as well as grassroots initiatives that are currently running, and the youth’s pathway programs all the way to the national teams. Kapi Natto reaffirmed their commitment to the development of youth programs with the annual Youth League that runs in all four regions. “Football is not just a game; it is a vehicle for change, a source of unity and a catalyst for person and professional growth.” “With your generous support, we will be able to nurture the talents of our young players, create opportunities for them to excel and inspire the next generation of football stars.” He further acknowledged OTML stating that it has long been recognized as a leader in corporate responsibility and its investment in sports exemplifies tour commitment to the communities to serve by supporting PNGFA. “You are helping to build a brighter future, especially for our youths.”

To tackle the increasing number of cervical cancers in Papua New Guinea, the Sir Brian Bell Foundation and the City Pharmacy Foundation Inc. have announced a new initiative called “Her Health Hub”, which will provide critical diagnostic services for early detection and prevention of cervical cancer for women and girls in PNG. Ultimately, this initiative will see the everyday Papua New Guinean woman have access to HPV and cervical cancer screening for only K20. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Sir Brian Bell Foundation (SBBF) Bronwyn Wright, said women and Girls will be assisted by Doctors and Nurses who have been specifically trained for this project, with test results provided on the same day as the screening. If a referral for treatment is required, it will be provided immediately, and their project partners will prioritize her care. “Cervical cancer remains a significant threat to the health and well-being of women across the country, and HPV is recognized as its primary cause.” “This project will utilise GeneXpert machines, which will be installed and maintained, along with a continuous supply of specific consumables and additional equipment,” said Wright. She said, the GeneXpert system is globally recognized for its rapid and accurate diagnostics and is endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO). All of these items, including key operational support, have been generously provided by the Sir Brian Bell Foundation and made possible by the expertise of the team at Meddent, a proud division of the Brian Bell Group and made possible by the expertise from the team at Meddent. “The Her Health Hub will be based at the Stop & Shop Badili supermarket premises and will house the first two machines, serving as the primary facility for administering the tests.” “The CPL Foundation has provided a qualified clinical team to deliver healthcare services, along with a brand-new facility and training and upskilling opportunities for the clinical team, ensuring high-quality service delivery.” “Additionally, the teams will collaborate with local stakeholders to encourage more women to seek health care.” “Together, CPL Foundation Inc. and the Sir Brian Bell Foundation are committed to: Delivering high-quality, accessible HPV testing services through trained staff at the CPL Wellness Clinics. Ensuring timely and accurate results to empower women with knowledge about their health. Raising awareness about cervical cancer prevention and the importance of early intervention.” This collaboration represents a significant step toward enhancing women’s access to essential health services, made possible by the private sector coming together and partnering with subject matter experts to positively impact the lives of women and girls, ultimately contributing to a healthier future for Papua New Guinea. Founder and Chairman of CPL Foundation, Sir Mahesh Patel said, it’s been their mission to provide this life saving treatment after they’ve seen a few of their female employee’s die at the hands of this treatable disease. “It’s always very heartbreaking. And it’s a silent killer. It claims far too many of our women and girls often without them knowing what they’re facing, and there are hundreds and hundreds of girls that die each year.” He stated that after one conversation last year, both foundations took the bold stand to come together and make a difference for women and girls with the opening of the “Her Health Hub” that will open in three weeks time. With the MoU signing, Sir Patel stated, “This is not just a document, it’s a promise that we will work together tirelessly, collaboratively with an urgency to fight cervical cancer in PNG.” “A promise that no women and no girl should have to die from a disease that is preventable.” Meanwhile, Australian Ambassador for Gender Equality Stephanie Copus Campbell said that this is a strong collaboration that aims to build a stronger community for women and girls. The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is a common viral infection and if left untreated, HPV can lead to cervical cancer. Furthermore, a call of urgency from Port Moresby General Hospital Obstetrics and Gynaecology Coordinator Dr. Mary Bagita, for women and girls aged 30-59 to do routine screening. “Early screening is extremely important because cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women in PNG.” She stressed that it's better to get tested than to wait until symptoms appear. She added that some common early signs of cervical cancer include bleeding after sex and foul-smelling discharge.

The inaugural Artificial Intelligence (AI) Summit 2025 was held today in Port Moresby city, giving a fair understanding of this transformative tool, its massive benefits and the responsibility that comes with using it. The Summit, which was hosted at the Crown Hotel, was organized by the International Training Institute (ITI) and the PNG Centre for Advancement of Internet Technology, themed, "Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for a Resilient and Inclusive Papua New Guinea." In his keynote address, Minister for Information and Communications Technology, Timothy Masiu, highlighted the Summit as a significant milestone in PNG's digital journey. He linked the event to the government’s digital transformation agenda that began in 2019, positioning AI as an essential component for both government and private sector adoption. “Issues such as AI bias, data privacy, and the risk of automation displacing jobs must be at the heart of our national dialogue,” Minister Masiu said. “We must not allow AI to deepen inequalities or threaten our cultural values. Instead, we must guide its adoption to serve the public good.” Minister Masiu announced that the Department of Information and Communications Technology is finalizing a National AI Adoption Framework—a national policy and governance structure that will guide how AI is used responsibly, ethically, and inclusively across the country. He also called on education institutions to take the lead in preparing young people to use AI wisely. “I take this opportunity to challenge our universities and higher education institutions to integrate AI and digital ethics into their curricula,” he said. “It is not enough to produce coders—we must produce citizens and leaders who know how to harness AI for national development, in a way that is ethical, inclusive, and grounded in our values.” The Minister emphasized that AI is already shaping the world, and its impact depends on how countries choose to handle it. “Artificial Intelligence is not the future—it is the now. But whether it becomes a tool for liberation, or a driver of division depends on the choices we make today,” he said. He expressed concern over the growing misuse of AI, especially in areas like fake videos and images, saying this raises important questions about how society should respond. “It can be abused and used for purposes that can be detrimental to our development,” he warned. Masiu said as a responsible government, it is our responsibility to make sure that the use of AI is governed to protect our citizens.” “Therefore, how we approach the use of AI must be guided well by policy and legislation.”

The Department of Provincial & Local Level Government Affairs (DPLGA) has set a target to open the long-awaited Wutung Border Post on 16th September 2025, aligning with Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations. This milestone will benefit the people of Wutung and the wider West Sepik Province, while strengthening ties between Papua New Guinea and Indonesia. Minister for Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs, Soroi Marepo Eoe, stated, “There is no better time or gift for the people of Wutung than to open the long-awaited Wutung Border Post and light up their homes on Independence Day 2025. This project reflects our commitment to improving lives and enhancing our relationship with Indonesia.” To ensure successful completion, an Inter-Agency Border Development Working Committee has been formed, led by DPLGA Secretary Philip Leo. This committee coordinates the efforts of various agencies, including PNG Customs, Immigration, ICA, NAQIA, and others. The PNG Government acknowledges the support from the Republic of Indonesia and its state power company, Perusahaan Listrik Negara (PLN), for extending power lines to Wutung village as part of Indonesia’s 78th Independence Anniversary gift. This strengthens their ongoing partnership, which includes providing essential services such as healthcare, telecommunications, and education. Key progress on the Wutung Border Post includes: Infrastructure Readiness: Inspections of facilities and staff housing are complete, with refurbishments underway. Water Supply: A water reservoir is under construction, with completion expected by July 2025. Electricity Connection: Efforts to connect power from the Indonesian grid are ongoing. A budget of K10 million has been allocated to ensure the project’s timely completion. The opening of the Wutung Border Post will not only enhance border management and trade but also deliver critical services to the people of Wutung, improving their quality of life. Minister Eoe reaffirmed his commitment to delivering the project and thanked all stakeholders, especially the people of Wutung, for their patience and cooperation.

Sir John Pundari has reiterated that any leader who seeks to bring about change in the current regime must be free of systemic corruption and dishonesty, emphasizing that individuals who embody these negative traits are unfit for the office of Prime Minister. "A leader who aspires to make a difference must first be clear of corruption and theft. These behaviors have no place in the leadership of our nation, and those who engage in such practices are unfit to govern," said Sir Pundari. He also expressed concern over leaders with authoritarian tendencies, drawing comparisons to figures like Idi Amin of Uganda and Saddam Hussein of Iraq, noting that such leaders, who impose dictatorial control in their regions, are unsuitable to lead a democratic nation like Papua New Guinea. "Leaders who exploit conflicts for personal gain, or who rejoice in the destruction and loss of life, are faceless and unfit for public office. Our nation deserves better," Sir John added. He further emphasized that true leadership is about unity, stating, "A leader who cannot unite their people for peace and stability, or fails to bring fellow leaders from their own province together, cannot unite the nation. True leadership requires authenticity, humility, and a focus on prioritizing the well-being of citizens." As a senior leader from Enga Province, Sir John Pundari expressed his unwavering support for Prime Minister James Marape, stating that he and other leaders have supported Marape through votes of no confidence because they believe stability is crucial for the country's progress. “With only two years remaining before the next general elections, it is important to continue standing by Prime Minister Marape. The people of Papua New Guinea will decide who they want as their next leader at the ballot box," he said. Concluding his statement, Sir John affirmed, "As a senior leader in support of Prime Minister Marape, I will always prioritize my district's and the nation's interests over personal gain. I remain steadfast in my support and will offer advice whenever needed."

People in the northwest part of New Britain have been urged to stay alert after a 7.5 magnitude earthquake hit this morning at 6:05am, April 5th, 2025. According to a member of the West New Britain Provincial Disaster - Kimbe Volcano Observatory Officer in Charge Mr. Hereman Volele, they are still monitoring the situation at this time. He said, the earthquake shook Pomio and came down to northwest of New Britain, where the Ulawun station is. He said, after the earthquake that struck in the early hours of this morning, his team is very busy at this time as they are monitoring increased seismic activity around Mt Ulawun which is currently on Stage-One. “Stage-One means that you have to get yourself alert, meaning that you have to be prepared and get your emergency bag ready. Emergency bag contains water, you know, service card, school certificates and medical, things like utensils from the kitchen, beddings and such, and then you have to put yourself into, a situation that we are getting ready just about whatever comes in the event of fluctuation of the activity. And then we will let the communities to move in the events where you get stage two.” He said, in the event when anything strikes, either an earthquake or a volcano eruption, the people are already prepared. So far, no causalities and no damages have been reported yet at this time. He added that, there could be a tsunami warning, but his team are waiting on reports from the Geophysical Observatory in Port Moresby to give more updates. He said, “We identified that kind of earthquake as a natural earthquake because after it hit Pomeo, it came down to northwest of New Britain, where Mt Ulawun is.” He has called on the coastal communities living around a radius of 40 kilometers of New Britain not to go out to sea, especially fishing and urged parents to watch over their children during the holiday break and the Stage-One notice.

A group of vanilla farmers from Mandi Village, Wewak District, East Sepik Province, have successfully secured an export deal with a buyer in Singapore. Supported by the EU-STREIT PNG Programme, over 200 farmers—including women and youth—are preparing their first shipment. Vanilla farming, one of the world’s most expensive spices, offers significant potential to boost rural incomes and strengthen PNG’s position in the global vanilla market. The farmers are benefiting from comprehensive support, including climate-smart agricultural training, healthy vanilla cuttings, and exposure to global trade shows. Through the Programme, Mongs AgTrade Services Ltd, which represents these farmers, received critical training in agribusiness, gender inclusion, and youth engagement. They also adopted new pollination techniques that have resulted in healthier, more productive vanilla vines, with increased resilience to heavy rainfall. This success culminated in an agreement with a Singapore-based company, guaranteeing monthly exports and generating PGK 100,000 (approx. USD 25,000) annually for the community. The farmers’ participation in the FHA Singapore Expo 2024, supported by the EU-STREIT PNG Programme, showcased their high-quality vanilla and solar-drying method, leading to the partnership. Additionally, farmers have been trained in e-marketing and digital skills, allowing them to connect with international markets. The Programme’s emphasis on capacity-building, climate-smart practices, and innovative equipment has been instrumental in their success, positioning PNG as a rising player in the global vanilla trade. This achievement highlights the broader potential of the EU-STREIT PNG Programme to drive rural development by integrating agriculture with digital innovation, empowering local communities to sustainably access global markets.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) is set to expand its rural transformation strategy by adopting South Korea's successful Saemaul Undong (SMU) model, following a 13-year pilot in Eastern Highlands Province (EHP). This decision, announced by Minister for Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs Soroi Eoe, will extend the model to five additional provinces. The SMU, or New Village Movement, is a community-driven development approach that helped transform South Korea from a war-ravaged, poor nation to a global economic leader. The model emphasizes self-help, cooperation, and community ownership, principles that PNG seeks to apply in empowering its rural areas. Launched in the 1970s, SMU transformed rural Korea by fostering a mindset of diligence, self-help, and cooperation, enabling communities to take ownership of their development. Today, PNG stands to benefit from this inspiring model as we seek to uplift our rural populations and bridge the urban-rural divide. Minister Eoe said this is more than a development program—it’s a mindset change. “The Saemaul Undong model teaches us that real progress begins when our people take full ownership of their future. It’s about empowering communities to identify their needs, harness their resources, and work together for lasting change. After 13 years of piloting in the Eastern Highlands, we’ve seen its potential firsthand, and now we’re ready to take it nationwide." The expansion to five additional provinces reflects the government’s commitment to rural development as a national priority. By embracing SMU, PNG aims to replicate Korea’s success story, fostering self-reliance and collective action to improve livelihoods, infrastructure, and opportunities in rural areas. The model’s emphasis on community participation aligns with PNG’s vision of inclusive growth, where every citizen plays a role in building a stronger, more prosperous nation. Minister Eoe extended heartfelt gratitude to the Marape/Rosso government for its visionary leadership and unwavering support in championing this initiative. “On behalf of the people I wish to thank Prime Minister James Marape and Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso for their dedication to rural development and for recognizing the transformative power of the Saemaul Undong model." "Their approval through the NEC paves the way for a new era of progress in our provinces." This announcement builds upon PNG’s long-standing efforts to strengthen rural service delivery through community-driven development approaches. The Department for Provincial and Local Government Affairs has been at the forefront of such transformative initiatives, including the Rural Service Delivery Project (RSDP), which has successfully demonstrated how communities can lead and sustain their own development through active participation and ownership. Like the RSDP, the adoption of the SMU model reflects the government’s commitment to establishing effective mechanisms that reach rural populations, ensuring that development efforts are impactful and sustainable. As PNG embarks on this ambitious expansion, the government will work closely with local leaders, communities, and international partners, including the Republic of Korea, to ensure the successful implementation of SMU. This initiative promises to unlock the potential of our rural heartlands, fostering a future where every Papua New Guinean can thrive. Minister Eoe, who is also the Kikori MP says this announcement is especially meaningful as it coincides with Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary. “As the nation celebrates half a century of sovereignty, the adoption of the Saemaul Undong model symbolizes a renewed commitment to self-determination and nation-building." “The golden jubilee of independence is not only a time to honor our past achievements but also a pivotal moment to chart an ambitious course for the future—one where empowered rural communities drive our National Vision of a meeting smarter, stronger, healthier, wealthier, and more prosperous Papua New Guinea by 2050."

The National St John Ambulance (NStJA) has successfully completed the first two of five scheduled Basic Emergency Care (BEC) courses in Papua New Guinea (PNG), including two train-the-trainer programs. These sessions, conducted over four days at Port Moresby General Hospital, have trained more than 20 BEC facilitators, marking a significant step in strengthening emergency care capacity in the country. These courses are being delivered as part of the Regional Emergency and Critical Care Systems Strengthening Initiative (RECSI), which is funded by the Australian Government. NStJA is facilitating BEC course rollout in PNG alongside other stakeholders. The BEC course was developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) in collaboration with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the International Federation for Emergency Medicine (IFEM). It is designed for frontline providers of emergency care and is intended to support a safe and structured approach to managing the acutely ill and injured. NStJA Chief Medical Officer, Dr Mangu Kendino, said delivering these training courses was a milestone for PNG. “The BEC course is an important tool for up skilling frontline healthcare workers and building an effective emergency care system. This training will help improve outcomes for patients who are acutely ill or injured. “National St John Ambulance is delighted to be able to coordinate this training on behalf of the RECSI program, and with the support of the Australian Government. It has been a truly collaborative effort, which will help strengthen emergency healthcare provision across the country. We are particularly grateful to Port Moresby General Hospital for hosting this first series of training courses. This collaboration demonstrates the important connection between pre-hospital care delivered in the community, and facility-based care delivered in clinics and hospitals.” The BEC courses are being led by Papua New Guinean BEC Master Trainers Dr Frederick Koha and Dr Clementine Goimba from Mendi, who were themselves trained by the ICRC. The first cohort of participants includes 50 health workers from 13 provinces. Within Port Moresby, there are staff from Port Moresby General Hospital, Gerehu General Hospital and NStJA. Seven NStJA staff will complete BEC training, with NStJA nurses Idana Enai and Ipi Noppy to become Master Trainers. Along with the other clinicians completing the train-the-trainer course, they will be able to teach BEC throughout PNG to improve emergency care. To help lead and coordinate this effort, the National Department of Health’s Chief of Emergency Medicine, Dr Desmond Aisi, will also become a Master Trainer. More courses are planned to be delivered under the RECSI program in Mt Hagen (later in 2025) and Rabaul (in 2026). In the meantime, health workers trained through the initial series of courses in Port Moresby will be implementing the training within their own healthcare facilities. Congratulations to the recent graduates.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Papua New Guinea has officially presented the draft Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Policy to the Department of Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs (DPLGA), marking a key milestone in PNG’s efforts to support displaced persons. During the handover ceremony, DPLGA Secretary Mr. Philip Leo emphasized that the IDP policy is designed to comprehensively address the immediate and long-term needs of internally displaced persons. “The situational analysis conducted by the DPLGA and its partners identified critical policy gaps requiring immediate attention. It revealed that a significant number of people within our communities is periodically displaced by various factors, becoming among the most vulnerable and marginalized citizens. Although these individuals remain within the borders of our nation, they are often excluded from essential social and economic services provided by the government, further exacerbating their challenges,” Secretary Leo said. He added that the policy identifies specific areas within existing legislation and related policies that require review and amalgamation to ensure practical and functional effectiveness. Internal displacement disrupts and separates people from their familiar environments, families, clan groups, cultural practices, and identities. It results in substantial losses of social and economic activities, sometimes lasting months or even years. IOM Chief of Mission, Mr. David Arnold, stated that once the policy is implemented, it will provide a comprehensive framework aimed at addressing the multifaceted needs of displaced populations, ensuring long-term solutions, and promoting their integration into society. In 2015, the Central Agency Coordination Committee (CACC) mandated the DPLGA to formulate a national policy to address the needs of internally displaced persons. This directive was issued in response to the alarming increase in IDP numbers across the nation. Subsequently, DPLGA, working in partnership with IOM, and relevant government agencies, undertook a desktop review and a situational analysis, gathering data and information from 17 provinces to assess the various causes of internal displacement, including disasters, conflict, and development related displacements. The National IDP Policy was developed on the basis of these documents, supplemented by extensive consultations with stakeholders at both the national and regional levels. The drafting of the policy received financial support from the IOM Development Fund, facilitating its development and ensuring a comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges faced by displaced populations.