The Autonomous Region of Bougainville is looking toward greener future economic opportunities.

Congratulating the Autonomous Bougainville Government and the Government of Papua New Guinea on the inaugural socio-economic baseline report to inform a green, inclusive and sustainable economy for Bougainville, United Nations Resident Coordinator a.i., Mr. Dirk Wagener declared the milestone report will guide long-term sustainable development.

“There are some very good findings from the baseline survey to develop the economy of Bougainville taking into consideration issues such as climate change. It’s a perfect opportunity to explore greener economic opportunities through the sustainable use of resources,” said Mr. Wagener.

A first for Bougainville, the Socio-Economic Baseline Survey report is the benchmark for future progress in the Autonomous Region with social and economic data that covers all 441 wards of the 13 districts of Bougainville.

A reference point to guide both Governments, investors, development partners, civil society organizations, the private sector and other interested stakeholders, the report allows comprehensive development and investment planning via resource allocation.

Outlining a clear development framework for Bougainville to chart its roadmap - with technical and financial support of UNDP – the baseline survey was conducted by engaging all relevant stakeholders, followed by consultations and technical data validation sessions in Buka and Arawa, in Bougainville.

Secretary Koney Samuel, Department of National Planning and Monitoring, underscored the importance of the ongoing partnership between both Governments to ensure the forthcoming Bougainville Economic Summit will support the development agenda for Bougainville's people. The final two-day validation workshop in October 2021 also helped to develop the agenda for the proposed Summit.

“The baseline survey provides a good analysis to help both governments prepare actions to encourage economic growth for Bougainville,” Mr. Samuel said.

Once finalised, the Bougainville Socio-Economic Baseline Survey report will be officially launched by both Governments.