Sago Central to New MOU for Sustainable Agriculture in SHP
The Santos Foundation and Wonderland Agristock Limited (WAL), a community-based inclusive business that engages local people in agricultural enterprises, have embarked on an exciting new partnership, signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to elevate the status of sago in Kutubu. This collaboration aims to blend traditional expertise with modern technology, unlocking economic opportunities and transforming sago, a beloved local staple, into a promising cash crop. This marks a significant milestone for the province, spotlighting the potential of community-based agricultural enterprises.
The MOU between Santos Foundation and WAL outlines six strategic priorities for collaboration in the Southern Highlands Province: enhancing social benefits through sago processing and community capacity building; developing sustainable sago production systems; establishing market access logistics; promoting diversified agricultural opportunities such as sago grub production and biofuel; ensuring environmental sustainability; and fostering social cohesion by managing potential social and economic tensions.
Jean Martin, Head of Santos Foundation PNG, shared: “This collaboration with WAL is a significant step toward achieving our vision of sustainable economic pathways through agriculture. It aligns perfectly with the Government of PNG’s development goals, particularly in economic diversification and sustainability. By combining our expertise and resources, we aim to create lasting positive impacts for local communities in Kutubu, Southern Highlands province.”
Larry Andagali WAL Chairman remarked: “This partnership aligns ideally with our dedication to building inclusive, community-based businesses. Engaging local communities in agricultural initiatives and using sago as a strategic investment supports sustainable farming practices and stimulates economic growth within our community. Looking ahead, we are confident that this partnership will pave the way for innovative agricultural solutions and long-term prosperity for the people of Kutubu.”
The signing ceremony took place at the Santos Foundation headquarters in Port Moresby, reaffirming Santos Foundation’s long-term commitment to support local partnerships and initiatives that help communities thrive.
Santos Foundation’s Jean Martin and WAL Chair Larry Andagali sign MOU to boost sustainable agriculture and economic growth in Kutubu, SHP.
Local crop, sago, is central in this MOU to boost sustainable agriculture and economic development
Local crop, sago, is central in this MOU to boost sustainable agriculture and economic development
About Santos Foundation
The Santos Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation investing in partnerships and local initiatives that help communities thrive.
We work with donors and local partners to make a positive and lasting impact in communities in Papua New Guinea and are working to expand our footprint across Australia, Timor-Leste and Alaska where Santos has a presence.
Our work addresses societal trends and local needs in the four key program areas of health, youth opportunities, community development, and family and sexual violence.
For more information or media inquiries, please contact: Santos Foundation Communications Officer on 74649041 or visit our website: https://www.santosfoundation.org/
