Takafumi Kadono, a Japanese national, has taken on the role of country director for the Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) Resident Mission in Papua New Guinea (PNG), based in Port Moresby. In his new position, Mr. Kadono will be responsible for developing and implementing the ADB’s new country partnership strategy for PNG, which aims to enhance engagement and operational effectiveness within the country.
With over 26 years of international development experience at the ADB and the World Bank Group, Mr. Kadono brings a wealth of knowledge to this role. His most recent position was as the ADB’s country director for Sri Lanka.
In a statement, Mr. Kadono expressed his commitment to collaborating with the PNG government to stimulate economic growth and foster social development. He highlighted plans to support improvements in the nation’s transport and energy sectors, as well as initiatives to enhance access to health and education services. Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of strengthening the competitiveness of the private sector.
The ADB has underscored its role as one of PNG’s primary financial partners, particularly in infrastructure investments related to transport and energy. The bank also plays a significant role in promoting technical and vocational education training, with support from the Australian government, to ensure that students are well-prepared and responsive to employment opportunities.
As a multilateral development bank, the ADB is dedicated to fostering inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth throughout Asia and the Pacific. Since its founding in 1966, the ADB has evolved into a key player in addressing complex regional challenges, leveraging innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to drive positive change, build high-quality infrastructure, and protect the environment.
This new leadership under Mr. Kadono signals a proactive approach to addressing PNG’s developmental needs and enhancing its economic landscape, promising a hopeful future for the nation’s progress.
Leave a comment