TAKAFUMI Kadono has officially taken on the role of Country Director for the Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) Papua New Guinea (PNG) Resident Mission located in Port Moresby. In his new position, Kadono will be responsible for developing and executing ADB’s new country partnership strategy tailored for PNG, while enhancing the institution’s engagement throughout the nation.
In a statement, Kadono emphasized the importance of collaboration with the PNG government to stimulate economic growth and promote social development. His focus will include advancing initiatives in the transport and energy sectors, improving access to health and education services, and strengthening the private sector’s competitiveness. “ADB will continue to work closely with key partners to enhance the inclusivity and resilience of PNG’s financial and health systems to future shocks,” he added.
The ADB stands as one of PNG’s prominent financial partners, particularly in infrastructure investments within the transport and energy domains. Additionally, the bank is committed to supporting technical and vocational education and training, in collaboration with Australian co-financing, to equip students with the skills needed to meet the demands of the job market and industry.
Kadono, a Japanese national, brings over 26 years of international development experience to the role, having previously served as ADB’s Country Director for Sri Lanka. The ADB, founded in 1966, is dedicated to promoting inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific and utilizes innovative financial solutions and strategic partnerships to tackle complex challenges, enhance infrastructure quality, and protect the environment.
With the leadership of Kadono, there is hope that PNG will continue to thrive and leverage ADB’s support to capitalize on its development potential while addressing critical needs in various sectors.
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