Districts told to direct 10% funding to SMEs

Prime Minister James Marape says 10% of funding allocated to each district in Papua New Guinea is intended to support Small and Medium Enterprises [SMEs], helping local businesses establish, grow and create opportunities for people in rural communities.

He says every district in Papua New Guinea has different economic opportunities and needs.

Some districts have strong potential in tourism, while others are better suited to agriculture, forestry, fisheries and other industries.

The Prime Minister was speaking at Government House after the swearing-in of the two vice ministers last week.

The Government’s approach is aimed at making it easier for people in rural areas to access support and participate in economic activity by ensuring that districts allocate funding to assist local SMEs.

Prime Minister James Marape says people seeking assistance for their businesses should approach their respective Members of Parliament and district administrations, rather than travelling to the Prime Minister’s Office, City Governors or national government departments seeking business funding.

He emphasized that district members have a responsibility to ensure local communities benefit from available SME support.

Where such funding is not being provided, he said, people have the right to hold their elected representatives accountable.

Prime Minister James Marape says there should be no excuse for districts failing to support their people.

He said instructions have been given to district members to assist local SMEs, with particular emphasis on agriculture and tourism, as well as creating opportunities for young people.