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Enhancing Food Security and Combating Climate Change through Scaling Up Sago Palm Production - TCP/PNG/3901

Year of publication 2025

Place of publication Rome, Italy ;

Pages 8

Publisher FAO ;

Product type Project

Synopsis (short abstract) The project focused on addressing the pressing challenges of food insecurity and climate resilience in Papua New Guinea, where more than 81 percent of the population lives in rural areas and relies on subsistence agriculture. The diversity of crops grown by these farmers is largely determined by their geographic location and local climate. Despite this agricultural diversity, Papua New Guinea faces significant food insecurity, with 57 percent of the population experiencing moderate to severe food insecurity, a situation exacerbated by climate change, natural disasters and economic challenges. A key focus of this project is the development of the sago palm (Metroxylon sagu) as a viable commercial crop. A traditional staple food for nearly 30 percent of Papua New Guinea's population, particularly in lowland, atoll and wetland communities, sago has significant potential to improve food security. Despite being rich in carbohydrates, sago remains commercially underutilized, both within Papua New Guinea and internationally.

Language English

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