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Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA) and the Nawaeb District Development Authority (NDDA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Friday 18 October aimed to promote sustainable tourism development in the Nawaeb District, Morobe Province.
The MOU outlines a framework for collaboration, financial support, capacity building, and the strengthening of local tourism institutions in the district.
The MOU establishes a structured partnership between PNGTPA and NDDA, focusing on tourism development at the district level. It will provide a clear division of roles and responsibilities, while promoting sustainable practices in line with national policies such as Vision 2050, the Development Strategic Plan (DSP) 2010-2030, and the Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP).
The MOU is also aligned with the NEC Decision No. 94/2010, which emphasizes the need to integrate provincial and national tourism initiatives. This collaboration will ensure that Nawaeb District’s tourism plans are not only localized but also contribute to national tourism goals.
The MOU highlights the importance of protecting the cultural heritage of Nawaeb. This includes supporting local festivals, promoting arts and crafts, and creating cultural exchanges for local artists. In addition, the agreement aims to develop tourism products that are environmentally sustainable, promoting conservation efforts and helping communities adapt to climate change.
Executive Manager for Partnership & Product Development, Kennewton Kennedy, speaking during the official signing of the MOU in Naewab District, reminded the people of their district’s tourism potential.
“The district is blessed with unique cultural and natural assets. This partnership with PNGTPA will allow us to promote these treasures to the world while ensuring that our people benefit from the economic opportunities tourism brings. We are particularly excited about the capacity-building initiatives that will empower the communities,” said Kennedy.
The MOU also outlines a comprehensive business framework, addressing key areas such as infrastructure development, marketing, and product innovation. The focus on developing tourism infrastructure is expected to drive economic growth in the district by creating jobs and supporting local industries such as agriculture, transport, and hospitality.
To ensure inclusivity, the agreement emphasizes policies that promote gender equality and equal opportunities, particularly for vulnerable groups. The district will also work on developing a self-sustaining tourism bureau, ensuring that tourism initiatives can continue to thrive independently.
Under the terms of the MOU, PNGTPA and NDDA will focus on protecting Nawaeb’s cultural identity through joint programs and information sharing. There will also be a strong emphasis on supporting performing arts, exhibitions, and festivals, which are key to attracting visitors and preserving the district’s unique cultural heritage.
The MOU will be reviewed every five years to assess its progress against the District Development Plan and the Tourism Sector Development Plan (TSDP) 2022-2026. Both PNGTPA and NDDA will produce annual reports, presenting milestones and financial audits to ensure accountability and transparency.
Performance metrics will include the number of tourism projects initiated, the level of local business participation, and the overall impact on the district’s economy. A Joint Milestones Matrix (JMM) will be used to track progress, and third-party participation will be encouraged if aligned with the objectives of the MOU.
TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo highlighted the importance of the MOU between TPA and Nawaeb District.
“Tourism is a key driver for local economies, and through this MOU, we are laying the foundation for a sustainable tourism industry in Nawaeb. Our commitment is to work hand-in-hand with the district to unlock its full potential, while ensuring the protection of its rich cultural heritage.
By investing in tourism, we are not only creating economic opportunities but also protecting and promoting our district’s culture and environment for future generations,” said Uvovo.
Uvovo also added that the MOU with PNGTPA and NDDA, they are confident that Nawaeb District will soon become a key player in Papua New Guinea’s tourism landscape. The partnership aims to transform the district into a model for sustainable tourism development, benefiting not only the local communities but also contributing to the national economy.
📸Above Banner Image: (L-R): Director Corporate Affairs of SME Corp, Mr. Rodney Sumale, Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority’s (TPA) Acting CEO & the Executive Manager for Partnership & Product Development, Kennewton Kennedy, Member of Nawaeb District, Hon. Theo Pelgen, TPA’s Executive Manager for Research and Business Development, Douglas Keari (third from right), Chairman & CEO of the NDDA, Mr. Buds Botike (second from right) and TPA’s Senior Provincial Liaison Officer, Stanley Relson (far right) following the singing of the MOU between TPA and NDDA in Nawaeb District, Morobe Province.
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