Animal Health Capacity Building in Papua New Guinea: A Comprehensive Approach to Strengthening Animal and Wildlife Health Systems Through Biosecurity, One Health, and Cross-Border Collaboration

Abstract

Papua New Guinea (PNG) occupies a critical position in regional biosecurity as a biodiversity hotspot and geographical nexus between Southeast Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands, yet faces unprecedented challenges in animal and wildlife health management. This comprehensive review examines the interconnected challenges confronting PNG's animal health systems and their impacts on public health, economic stability, food security, cultural preservation, and regional biosecurity. Through systematic analysis of geographical vulnerabilities, infrastructural constraints, and systemic limitations, this review reveals critical gaps in PNG's capacity to manage emerging infectious diseases. The research identifies four strategic pillars for transformation:

1. Developing a sustainable veterinary workforce through innovative training and community-based networks,

2. Establishing robust disease surveillance systems integrating traditional knowledge with modern technologies,

3. Strengthening diagnostic capabilities through strategic partnerships and point-of-care solutions, and

4. Fostering cross-sectoral collaboration through One Health frameworks and transboundary partnerships.

Recent disease incursions, including Newcastle Disease (ND) and African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreaks, demonstrate PNG's vulnerability and the urgent need for enhanced preparedness. With only four qualified veterinarians serving over 9 million people and limited diagnostic capacity concentrated in Port Moresby, PNG's current animal health infrastructure is inadequate for addressing transboundary disease risks threatening national and regional security. The review emphasizes exceptional opportunities for PNG-Australia-Indonesia-Pacific Island Countries collaboration for mutual biosecurity enhancement, coordinated disease prevention, and knowledge exchange across shared ecological boundaries. By adopting integrated One Health approaches that honour indigenous knowledge systems, leverage digital technologies, and establish strategic multilateral partnerships, PNG can transform its animal health landscape from a regional vulnerability into a cornerstone of Pacific biosecurity. This framework addresses immediate capacity gaps while positioning PNG to manage climate-induced disease emergence, protect culturally significant species, ensure food security for rural communities, and contribute to global health security. The study provides a comprehensive roadmap for sustainable animal and wildlife health system development with significant implications for public health resilience, economic development, biodiversity conservation, and regional stability across the Asia-Pacific region.