The Urgent Need for Sustainable Population Management in Papua New Guinea

The Urgent Need for Sustainable Population Management in Papua New Guinea

 National

Date: May 7, 2024

Author: Duncan Gabi (https://aunamelo.wordpress.com/author/duncangabi/)

Professor Glen Mola speaking at the seminar at the National Research Institute in Port Moresby noted that the rapid population growth in PNG has the potential to destroy our nation and it is looming as an issue for the next generation.

In the development trajectory of PNG, population dynamics emerges as a pivotal factor that can either propel the nation towards prosperity or hinder its progress.

Professor Mola in his presentation stated that the rapid population growth can also stress the nation’s ability to cope. Professor Mola’s assertion on the stress induced by rapid population growth extends beyond straining essential services like healthcare and education. It covers a broader range of challenges, including the strain on infrastructure, social cohesion, and economic stability. The population surge worsens deficiencies in infrastructure, fosters social competition and conflict, and imposes pressure on employment opportunities and social welfare systems that are barely functional.

Mola also highlighted the importance of family planning methods, which are also important for managing the country’s population better. Family planning goes beyond mere population control; it constitutes an investment in human capital. The World Bank report on PNG revealed shocking statistics on the human capital development of our nation, which is in a dire need of saving. The World Bank report also noted that 58% of young people aged from 20-24 have only received a primary level or lesser education and nd more than 70% of 10 year olds are not able to read and understand an age appropriate text. Papua New Guineans are birthing children they are incapable of providing and caring for, in terms of providing education and proper nutrition in a country with dysfunctional health systems in both urban and rural areas.

The World Bank report further reported that by the age of 5, nearly half of the children (45%) in PNG are stunted from malnutrition- the fifth highest rate of stunting in the world- which affects brain development, hinders learning and can lead to lifelong impacts.

This problem needs to be addressed with urgency. Delays in addressing it will result will in PNG having a majority illiterate population who will be unproductive and unable to contribute effectively in nation building in the next 15-20 years.

This makes family planning essential as it is crucial that families plan their family size, so they can allocate resources towards education, healthcare, and overall well-being, thereby raising strong and healthy children who will have a chance of excelling in education at all levels and reducing the illiteracy rate in PNG.

From an economic standpoint, National Research Institute Director Dr Osbourne Sanida highlighted that rapid population growth would be seen as an opportunity to increase the country’s labour force. Dr Sanida also acknowledged the minimal employment opportunities available.

While it is a noteworthy statement by Dr Sanida, it must be understood that only the educated and literate populace can contribute to the country’s labour force and participate in formal employment, while the rest that are captured in the World Bank report will make up that percentage of the undereducated and underskilled population heavily involved in the black economy.

PNG as a developing nation must also reflect on the experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic that offer valuable insights into the consequences of straining resources during times of crisis.

Post-COVID-19, PNG faces inflation and soaring costs of goods and services, straining the general population. Economic disruptions from the pandemic have led to supply chain issues and increased production costs, resulting in higher prices for essentials.

To conclude, rapid population growth can be a double-edged sword for PNG. If managed effectively, it can drive economic growth, innovation, and social development. However, if left unchecked, rapid population growth can strain resources, worsen poverty, and hinder progress. Therefore, it’s imperative for PNG to prioritize sustainable population management strategies to harness the benefits while mitigating the challenges associated with population growth.