HIGHLANDS — Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape has directed all provinces and districts across the country to prepare for a potential extraordinary and prolonged dry season. The directive follows the impact of the El Niño weather pattern, which has brought frost and extended dry conditions to the country, particularly affecting families in the Highlands.

Assessments conducted in the region have confirmed reduced rainfall, declining water sources, and moisture stress impacting food gardens, according to National Disaster Minister Billy Joseph. The National Weather Service in Papua New Guinea has attributed the severe drought and damaging frost to El Niño, noting it is shifting rainfall away from the country and reducing moisture levels.

Oxfam PNG has stated that rainfall in the country has been below average for nearly a year. The organization estimates that 1.9 million people in the Highlands region could be affected by El Niño impacts. Reports from Gembogl in Chimbu, Upper Mendi and Imbonggu in Southern Highlands province, and parts of Hela province indicate that food gardens in various communities have been affected by frost.

Last week, farmer John Wankar in Tambul, Western Highlands province, discovered his food garden covered in frost, with vegetables and staple crops damaged. Martha John, a resident of Kundiawa-Gembogl district, described the impact, stating, "Last week Wednesday, all our gardens were covered in frost. We wept, as these gardens are not only for us to eat but also our income. We have been growing potato and selling them in bulks, and all my children and grandchildren depend on this food for eating and also for income." National Agriculture Research Institute officers assessed frost-affected areas in Tambul and reported that one potato farmer lost half of their crop to frost.

Some communities are reporting that current food supplies may last only two to three months. Oxfam PNG also reported that many rivers and creeks in Papua New Guinea have dried up, leading communities to seek alternative water sources. Additionally, some schools have reduced operating hours due to heat and water shortages.

Prime Minister Marape emphasized the importance of readiness. "This is a time for preparedness, not panic. Every district and every province must know its vulnerable areas, know its water sources, protect its people and prepare early," Marape said.