Nationwide tree planting project to restore PNG forests

Aerial view of a lush mountain and valley landscape, blanketed by dense forest, highlighting Papua New Guinea’s rich natural beauty and the importance of protecting and restoring its tree cover (Image: PNGFP)

Schools, communities and landowners across Papua New Guinea will take part in a large-scale tree-planting program over the next five years, following National Executive Council approval of a major forestry initiative.

Forests Minister Salio Waipo confirmed that the National Reforestation and Afforestation Program [NRAP] 2025–2030 has been endorsed by NEC, paving the way for nationwide tree planting from 2025 to 2030.

Minister Waipo made the announcement during a meeting last Thursday with PNG Forest Authority Acting Managing Director John Mosoro and senior directors.

He said the submission was unanimously approved by NEC last Wednesday, with strong support from Prime Minister James Marape and Cabinet.

Under the five-year rolling program, PNG Forest Authority will manage tree planting through its provincial and community extension officers, targeting 800,000 hectares of grasslands and plantations for reforestation.

Minister Waipo commended the PNG Forest Authority leadership and staff for their work in preparing the submission.

“I want to thank and congratulate you Acting MD and your team for tirelessly working on the submission which will benefit Papua New Guineans. The submission received overwhelming support by Prime Minister James Marape and ministers of cabinet. I appreciate you all for your tireless effort.
While most talk about extractive industries we are focused on sustaining our renewable resource,” Mr Waipo said.

Mr Mosoro welcomed NEC’s endorsement and thanked the Minister for taking the submission forward. He described the program as a major turning point for the forestry sector.

“The target is to convert 800,000 hectares of grasslands into tree plantations. This is a major paradigm shift. This is a crucial strategy that will enable us to do away with logging of virgin forests and move on to carbon trading and nature-based solutions,” Mr Mosoro said.

Forest Minister Salio Waipo commended the PNG Forest Authority Acting Managing Director, John Mosoro, and his directors during a meeting last Thursday, following NEC’s endorsement of the National Reforestation and Afforestation Program 2025–2030 (Image: Supplied)

He also described the program as “home grown,” developed by national forestry officers using local knowledge and expertise.

“When you appoint the right people in the right positions and trust them, and when you set them on a task, they will do it well,” he said.

Mr Mosoro added that forestry reform has been a priority since he took over as Managing Director in 2021, and said he is pleased to see the plan now becoming a reality following NEC approval.