Waba ‘Ani Agri Partnership Program Launches in the Markham Valley

A significant step forward for sustainable agriculture has begun in the Markham Valley with the launch of the Waba ‘Ani Agri Partnership Program (WAPP)—a collaborative initiative between the Papua New Guinea University of Technology (PNGUoT) and Grow Asia’s Papua New Guinea chapter, Grow PNG Ltd.

“Waba ‘Ani,” meaning welcome in the local Atzera language, reflects the program’s purpose: opening doors to new opportunities in inclusive, business-oriented, and climate-smart agricultural development. Designed as a Training-of-Trainers model, WAPP equips district officers and community leaders with the skills, knowledge, and tools needed to support farming communities and strengthen agriculture-led growth across the region.

A Launch Marked by Community Participation

The official rollout in Mutzing gathered more than 50 participants, including farmers, landowners, community leaders, agribusiness partners, and government representatives. Their attendance underscored the strong local interest and collective commitment to advancing agriculture in the Markham Valley.

During the ceremony, PNGUoT Vice Chancellor Professor Ora Renagi OL encouraged academic leaders to actively apply research, innovation, and technical knowledge to practical development programs that directly benefit smallholder farmers. His remarks reinforced the central aim of WAPP: bridging the gap between academic expertise and community-level implementation.

The event featured a ribbon-cutting led by Professor Ora Renagi, Markham District Development Authority CEO Willie Pilailo, Grow PNG Agri Partnership Manager Hosea Jr Mailil, and farmer representative Tom Francis. This was followed by the signing of a Letter of Intent, formally establishing the partnership and outlining support for the upcoming Training-of-Trainers rollout.

Driving Knowledge, Confidence, and Opportunity

WAPP focuses on strengthening capacity in key areas critical to agricultural progress in the Markham Valley. Through structured training and field-based learning, the program enhances agribusiness skills, financial literacy, and land management practices. These efforts aim to build stronger farming enterprises while improving the enabling environment for investment and long-term agricultural sustainability.

As the program now transitions into its pilot rollout phase, a network of certified trainers will begin working directly with communities. This approach seeks to create a scalable, community-rooted model capable of empowering farmers, improving productivity, and supporting broader economic development in the region.