PNG Defence Partnership Boosted as New Zealand Backs Kumul Leadership Centre Upgrades

 PNG Defence Partnership Boosted as New Zealand Backs Kumul Leadership Centre Upgrades/Photo supplied

Papua New Guinea's long-standing defence partnership with New Zealand is set to grow stronger following a visit by New Zealand Defence Minister Hon Chris Penk to the Kumul Leadership Centre at Murray Barracks in Port Moresby.

During his visit, Minister Penk announced further support for the leadership training facility, with New Zealand funding upgrades that include a new shower block, solar panels and battery storage to improve the centre's operations.

The minister toured the Kumul Leadership Centre, which was established in 2022 with funding from the New Zealand Government and has since trained more than 830 Papua New Guineans through leadership development programs.

Speaking with Papua New Guinea Defence Force personnel, Mr Penk described the centre as an important pillar of the defence relationship between the two countries, saying leadership development remains a key area of cooperation.

He said the Kumul Leadership Framework demonstrates the shared commitment of both nations to preparing leaders who can work across organisations, sectors and national borders to respond to opportunities and challenges facing the Pacific.

PNG Defence Force Commander Rear Admiral Philip Polewara also highlighted the value of leadership training, saying technical skills and modern equipment alone are not enough to build a capable force.

New Zealand's latest investment is expected to improve facilities for future training programs while reinforcing cooperation between the two countries.

"One of the most important aspects of our partnership is our shared commitment to people and leadership development. The Kumul Leadership Framework reflects a shared commitment to developing leaders capable of working across organisations, sectors, and national boundaries to address the challenges and opportunities facing the Pacific region."

"We can have the right technical knowledge, we can have the right equipment, but it is leadership that matters."