The recent announcements of significant resource development projects in Papua New Guinea are promising for the nation’s economic future. However, the success of these projects—and the prosperity of PNG businesses—relies on a healthy, productive workforce. While foreign investors and project operators are required to employ local workers, only PNG businesses bear the full burden of managing the worst rates of Tuberculosis (TB) on the planet, alongside rising HIV infections and persistent threats from vaccine-preventable diseases.
TB is not just a public health issue—it is a business investment issue. High rates of illness among workers mean increased absenteeism, lost productivity, and mounting costs for human resource management.
This year another 45,000 people will be sick with preventable TB, forcing businesses to absorb the economic impact. Over 3000 people mostly people of working age will die of TB. In PNG we know businesses are asked to cover the costs of flying thousands of coffins to the home provinces of people who died of a preventable disease.
With such large project in the pipeline, PNG can provide the world with trained and skilled resource sector workers, but this vision is only achievable if we eliminate TB from our workplaces, homes, and communities of our employees.
Businesses for Health (B4H) remains at the forefront of supporting PNG employers in tackling TB and HIV, ensuring that businesses have the knowledge and resources to protect their workforce. As we move into 2025, there has never been a more critical time for businesses to step up.
You are welcome to invite me to present at your next shareholders’ meeting to help them understand how TB-related costs are eroding productivity and what your company can do to be part of the solution. Together, PNG businesses can lead the way in eliminating TB, securing a healthier workforce, and strengthening the nation’s economy.
