For the first time in more than 4 decades, the Livestock Development Corporation (LDC) celebrated the certification of 28 officers who successfully completed a weeklong public service induction program delivered by the Somare Institute of Leadership and Governance (SILAG).

The officers, drawn from across various departments of the organization, were officially recognized in a small but significant ceremony held on 23 June 2025, at LDC’s headquarters in Port Moresby. The certification formally marks their transition into fully-fledged public servants.

LDC Managing Director Terry Koim, in his opening remarks, hailed the occasion as a historic milestone for the Corporation.

“This is the first time in the history of LDC that our staff have participated in a program that not only acknowledges their role as public servants but also prepares them for their future roles as pioneer employees of the forthcoming Livestock Industry Authority,” Mr. Koim stated.

The event underscores LDC’s ongoing commitment to professional development and its evolving role in supporting Papua New Guinea’s livestock sector.

“As we progress toward becoming a statutory authority, LDC remains committed to professional development and capacity building as top priorities. Preparing our staff to take on diverse roles within the future regulatory body is essential,” he said.

Representing the inductees, Kera Wenes Sagalau Station Manager (Madang) said, “this induction has taught us so much. It is our first time to be included, and we are grateful. This certificate we receive is not just a document — it carries great value. When we put our heads down and work with our soil — be it mud, bush, or swamp — we believe, it can be turned into something fruitful for the future generations of Papua New Guinea.

A special thank you to our Managing Director. Your commitment to reclaiming lost assets, restock and rebuilding our company has inspired us deeply. Your leadership gives us hope, and we say thank you sincerely.

We return to our stations motivated, equipped, and ready to serve our country with pride and dedication. Meantime, according to HR Manager Shirley Mariole 35 employees have now undergone the public service induction program. 

“The Livestock Development Corporation currently has 391 positions approved in principle by the Secretary of the Department of Personnel Management. Of these, 77 are filled by Permanent staff, with an additional 35 casual employees engaged across the country. This brings the total current workforce to 112. A total of 314 positions remain vacant.”

Managing Director Koim stated that all positions would be filled upon the completion of the regulatory and statutory transition. He further explained that LDC will continue to serve as the trustee company, maintaining responsibility for all assets and properties, while the Livestock Industry Authority assumes its mandated functions.

Ends…