LLG launches SME, eco-tourism policy

WAMPAR local level government (LLG) in Morobe has launched its eco-tourism and small and medium enterprise (SME) policy to help its people actively participate in small business activities in the Huon Gulf which has two major projects – the Wafi-Golpu mine and Nadzab Airport redevelopment.
The launch by eco-tourism consultancy services programme director Francis Steven was aimed at equipping locals with skills and knowledge on adult literacy, financial literacy and specific SME training on what businesses to venture into.
Steven said the SME policy was part of a five-year development plan (2021-2025) aimed at the medium-term development plan which would involve cooperation with public-private partnerships.
The policy was supported by local MP Ross Seymour and the district development authority and was expected to be endorsed by the provincial government.
Work on the policy started in the LLG in 2018 with awareness and literacy programme in 27 wards.
“With 451 members, a proposal was submitted to the provincial government on March 25 for the provincial government’s approval and support to the programme,” Steven said.
Steven said the projected SME programmes for the community were in poultry, trade stores, fishing, cash crops, clothing and wholesale businesses.
Deputy local level government president Bill Justine thanked the district development authority for endorsing the programme.
“Such programmes are important because it educates people in the community and they benefit by knowing what to do,” he said.