Dr. Sergie Bang is a distinguished public servant and academic leader, currently serving as Secretary of the Department of Agriculture and Livestock in Papua New Guinea. With a career spanning over three decades, Dr. Bang has played a pivotal role in shaping national policies on food security, sustainable agriculture, and rural development. His leadership has been instrumental in advancing Papua New Guinea’s engagement with international partners, fostering collaboration to strengthen food systems and climate resilience.
A respected scholar, Dr. Bang holds advanced qualifications in agricultural science and public administration and has contributed extensively to research and policy dialogue on agribusiness, food systems, and community livelihoods. His commitment to evidence-based policymaking and inclusive development has earned him recognition both nationally and internationally.
Dr. Bang is passionate about empowering farmers, promoting innovation in agriculture, and ensuring that food systems are resilient, equitable, and sustainable. His vision continues to guide Papua New Guinea’s efforts to align agricultural development with broader national goals of economic growth, health, and environmental stewardship.
Dr. Bang has championed the government’s push to move subsistence farmers into commercial entrepreneurship, positioning agriculture as a cornerstone of national development. He has spearheaded reforms to reduce import taxes on critical agricultural inputs, making farming more accessible and profitable for local producers. His leadership has also emphasized building stronger public-private partnerships, encouraging investment in commercial agriculture, and supporting industries such as oil palm, coffee, and livestock, etc.
Dr. Bang’s vision is to modernize Papua New Guinea’s agriculture sector by fostering innovation, strengthening value chains, and ensuring farmers benefit from market opportunities. His work continues to inspire confidence across the sector, with a clear focus on turning agriculture into a commercially viable and globally competitive industry.