The Development Dilemma of Papua New Guinea

The simplest answer to why Papua New Guinea (PNG) is still considered a developing country is that it has just gained independence and is in the early stages of nation-building. This stage involves overcoming various challenges ranging from geographical isolation to internal conflicts and inadequate governance.

Geographical Challenges and Neighborly Conflicts

One of the significant obstacles to development in PNG is its extreme temperature, which can hinder progress in certain regions. Additionally, PNG shares borders with several countries, and sometimes tensions arise between neighboring communities, which can obstruct development efforts.

Progress and Promise

Despite its potential, PNG still faces numerous challenges. However, the country is making strides towards self-reliance. A cultural shift towards modernization is necessary but can be both beneficial and fraught with difficulties. The good news is that the government framework and economic direction indicate a promising future for PNG.

Personal Experiences and Perspectives

I share my perspective as a native of PNG. The country is often referred to as an island of gold floating on a sea of oil, highlighting its abundant natural resources. However, this wealth has not translated into a better quality of life for all residents. For instance, the capital city, Port Moresby, is ranked one of the worst cities to live in, primarily due to mismanagement and corruption.

Back in 1975, Pangia had basic infrastructure such as a bank, post office, airstrip, and roads. Today, the infrastructure has improved in many areas due to political support, but other regions are developing as well. The challenges are multifaceted and encompass both a lack of long-term maintenance and current development efforts.

Key Challenges to Development

PNG faces several key challenges that have hindered its development:

Readiness for Modernization: When PNG gained independence in 1975, it was not adequately prepared for modern governance. The new concepts of modernism or westernization were not fully understood, leading to associated social and economic issues. Gross Mismanagement: Mismanagement at the highest levels of government has led to the improper use of resources. Revenue from natural resources is often used for personal benefit rather than the betterment of the people. Rampant Corruption: Corruption is widespread, with contracts often awarded to family members, further entrenching the corrupt system. This corruption perpetuates a cycle of dependency and inequality. Literacy and Manipulation: A significant portion of the population is illiterate, making them more susceptible to manipulation by traditional associations. Loyality to these associations often leads to corruption being condoned within the community.

These challenges have contributed to the current state of development in PNG, where a beautiful and rich nation faces degradation due to greed and selfishness. However, there is hope, as PNG is making progress and showing signs of promise. Continued efforts to address corruption and mismanagement, along with cultural shifts towards modernization, can pave the way for a brighter future.

Conclusion

In conclusion, PNG is still classified as a developing country due to a combination of geographical, social, and economic factors. While the country has immense potential, challenges like mismanagement, corruption, and a lack of readiness for modernity continue to hinder progress. Addressing these challenges is crucial for PNG to reach its full potential and achieve self-reliance.