Prime Minister James Marape has reaffirmed his government’s pledge to strengthen child-focused reforms in health, education, and protection, during a high-level meeting with UNICEF, the United Nations, and key development partners in Port Moresby.
The meeting, held in the capital on Monday, brought together senior government leaders including National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop and Minister for Community Development, Youth and Religion Jason Peter. The focus was on improving access to education, healthcare, nutrition, and youth empowerment.
Dr. Claudes Kamenga Mendonca, UNICEF’s Representative in Papua New Guinea, welcomed the Prime Minister’s commitment. She praised his leadership and said UNICEF is eager to support the government in turning these pledges into real results for children.
“UNICEF looks forward to working with the Government and partners to help transform these commitments into meaningful improvements in children’s lives,” Dr. Mendonca said.
She noted that the upcoming 50th anniversary of Papua New Guinea’s independence is a chance to invest in the country’s young population and secure a stronger future for all.
The discussions highlighted several urgent areas. These included improving school access, increasing immunisation coverage, protecting children from violence, and ensuring full implementation of the Civil Identity Registry Act. This act aims to guarantee every child is registered at birth so they can access vital public services.
Prime Minister Marape stressed the need to address widespread child stunting and lack of access to clean water and sanitation. Currently, about half of Papua New Guinea’s children are affected by stunting — a condition that limits physical and cognitive development due to chronic malnutrition.
He outlined his vision for a healthier generation, starting with ensuring every child has proper nutrition and access to safe, clean water.
Dr. Richard Howard, the UN Resident Coordinator in Papua New Guinea, praised the meeting’s spirit of cooperation. He said the country’s children represent its greatest hope for the future.
“By working together, we can make sure every child grows up healthy, well-fed, educated, and safe,” he said. “The UN is fully committed to supporting the Government’s efforts.”
A key proposal from the meeting was the creation of a Parliamentary Committee on Children and Youth. This body would help oversee laws, budgets, and accountability measures related to child welfare.
The meeting closed with a joint commitment to deepen cooperation among government agencies, development partners, the private sector, and local communities. All parties agreed that only strong partnerships will bring lasting, positive change for children across Papua New Guinea.
