Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has commended Samarai-Murua District in Milne Bay Province for its first fish export under a joint venture with Thai company Pornupphan 2018 Co. Limited, marking a milestone in the district’s economic development and fisheries sector.
The partnership involves the district’s fishing business, Kekeisi Limited, and the Thai firm, which launched its first export at the ARGO (TWL) Wharf in downtown Port Moresby aboard the fishing vessel FV Kekeisi. Of the 27 crew members, 17 are young Papua New Guineans and 10 are Thai nationals.
The export is expected to generate approximately USD 107,000 for the district and its shareholders. Pornupphan 2018 Co. Limited receives 49 percent, while the district retains 51 percent. Of the district’s share, 51 percent goes to the former Misima Mine Workers Union and 49 percent to the District Investment Company, Kubwuana Limited.
“I am pleased to formally launch and officiate at the first fisheries export by the Samarai-Murua District’s fishing business company Kekeisi Limited,” PM Marape said. “This milestone reflects a practical and forward-looking partnership between the district and an international fishing company, delivering real economic benefits to our people at the village level.”
He said such ventures will create jobs and improve the lives of coastal communities. “This initiative complements my government’s policy direction to promote Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), create employment, stimulate local economic activity, and ensure that money circulates within communities.”
The project, funded through the District Services Improvement Program (DSIP) and overseen by Kekeisi Investment Limited (KIL), the business arm of the District Development Authority, aims to produce and export seafood and fishery products to international markets. KIL was incorporated in 2024 under the Companies Act and registered as a formal fishing business entity.
PM Marape praised Samarai-Murua MP Hon. Isi Henry Leonard for leadership that focuses on inclusive development. “This project is designed to benefit many—local fishermen, women, and young people—by enabling them to fish and sell their catch through a structured and sustainable commercial arrangement,” he said.
He also highlighted the role of the National Fisheries Authority (NFA) in supporting the development of the Samarai-Murua Coastal Fisheries Project, including granting necessary fishing licences.
“The primary targets of this program are women, youths, and the majority of unemployed people in the district. By establishing fishing groups and supporting organised production, the program is stimulating MSME development and broad-based participation in the local economy,” PM Marape said.
Samarai-Murua District, a vast maritime district comprising Bwanabwana, Louisiade, Murua, and Yaleyamba local-level governments, has enormous potential in both commercial and subsistence fisheries. The district plans to leverage this potential to produce and export seafood from Samarai-Murua and Milne Bay to international markets.
PM Marape also addressed the challenges of maritime districts, including connectivity and transport infrastructure. “The Connect PNG Program is a strong initiative of my government, and I am confident that plans for coastal and maritime regions will continue to improve shipping infrastructure and connectivity,” he said, emphasising that the district’s geographical challenges can also be seen as economic opportunities.
The Prime Minister announced that the government will allocate an additional K5 million next year to expand and strengthen the initiative, ensuring sustainable livelihoods and socio-economic development for the people of Samarai-Murua.
