EU SIGNS K5.5m PROJECTS TO SUPPORT CIVIL SOCIETY & COCOA FARFMERS

BY RICKY ISRAEL

THE European Union has launched two important projects in Papua New Guinea to support civil society organizations and small cocoa farmers.

EU Ambassador Erika Hasznos said the first project, with the United Nations Development Programme, will help strengthen civil society groups.

These groups provide important services in health, education, and the fight against gender-based violence. She explained the project will give them better skills, financial support, and help to grow stronger and more independent.

This project is worth about 5.5 million kina and will run until March 2028.

The second project, with World Vision, focuses on cocoa farmers in Bogia, Madang Province. Ambassador Hasznos said the aim is to help farmers produce higher quality cocoa, reach better markets, and learn financial and business skills. This project is valued at about 7 million kina and will also run for about three years.

She added that both projects show the European Union’s strong support for democracy, community development, and economic growth in Papua New Guinea. The EU will work closely with UNDP, World Vision, and the Department of Community Development and Religion to make sure the programs succeed.

The agreements were signed today, marking the start of these new programs to strengthen communities and boost livelihoods across the country.