The Papua New Guinea Forest Authority (PNGFA) has strengthened its operational capacity with new communication and video-conferencing equipment provided under the European Union-funded Forestry-Climate Change-Biodiversity (EU-FCCB) Programme, a move expected to improve efficiency, reduce operating costs and support sustainable management of one of the country's most important resource sectors.
The equipment was officially handed over on 12 June 2026 under the national component of the EU-FCCB Programme, implemented by Expertise France.
The package includes video-conferencing equipment, two computers, an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), a professional camera, a tripod and other accessories designed to modernise PNGFA's communications systems and improve digital connectivity across the organisation.
The investment supports the implementation of PNGFA's Communication, Knowledge Management and Visibility (CKMV) Strategy, which aims to strengthen institutional communication, knowledge management, stakeholder engagement and public awareness of the Authority's role in promoting sustainable forest management across Papua New Guinea.
The upgrade is expected to improve communication between PNGFA headquarters and its 22 provincial offices, enhancing programme coordination, accelerating decision-making and enabling more timely information sharing.
PNGFA Acting Managing Director John Mosoro said the handover marked the outcome of discussions with the EU-FCCB Programme and an important step in strengthening the Authority's information and communications technology capabilities.
"After discussions with the EU-FCCB Programme's Project Manager, Mr Alaric Vandenberghe, we recognised the need to update our systems. I am pleased to see these discussions now leading to practical support that will enhance PNGFA's operations and service delivery," Mosoro said.
He said the new equipment would significantly improve communication between headquarters and provincial offices, allowing forestry programmes nationwide to be coordinated more efficiently.
"The equipment will bridge the gap between headquarters and our field offices. We can now communicate more effectively with provincial teams, improve data management, strengthen reporting, and ensure that critical information reaches decision-makers, including the Prime Minister's Department and Finance, in a timely manner," he said.
Mosoro added that the introduction of video-conferencing technology would generate long-term savings by reducing staff travel while expanding opportunities for virtual meetings, training, workshops and consultations with national and international development partners.
The improved communications infrastructure is also expected to support the commercial activities of PNG Diwai Holdings Limited, PNGFA's recently launched commercial arm, by strengthening engagement with investors, clients and other stakeholders.
EU-FCCB Programme Project Manager at Expertise France, Alaric Vandenberghe, said the investment reflected the European Union's commitment to strengthening institutions responsible for sustainable forest management, biodiversity conservation and climate resilience.
"Strong institutions depend on effective communication systems. This support will assist PNGFA in better coordinating its provincial network, enhancing stakeholder engagement, and raising awareness of its vital role in managing PNG's forest resources," Vandenberghe said.
He said the initiative went beyond providing equipment and aimed to strengthen transparency, knowledge sharing and institutional collaboration.
"By enhancing PNGFA's communication and digital skills, we are supporting an organisation key to biodiversity conservation, climate action and sustainable economic growth," he said.
The latest support builds on earlier EU-FCCB assistance that helped develop PNGFA's CKMV Strategy and corporate website, reinforcing the Authority's transition towards a more modern, transparent and digitally connected organisation.
With forestry remaining one of Papua New Guinea's key resource sectors, the upgraded communications infrastructure is expected to strengthen governance, improve accountability, enhance engagement with government, industry and development partners, and support the sustainable management of the country's forest resources.
