Joy Sahumlal has been voted in as the new President for the PNG Women in Agriculture Development Foundation.
Joy was voted in unanimously during the inaugural Annual General Meeting held on the 25th and 26th of November 2025 at the National Agriculture Research Institute in Bubia, Morobe Province.
A journalist by profession, Ms Sahumlal has an extensive background in community engagement projects in agriculture and education, impacting women and youths.
She has since retired from active duty at the University of Technology, however the passion to see women excel in agriculture has seen her accept this new role.
Ms Sahumlal was among the driving forces behind the establishment of PNG Women in Agriculture through the Women’s Voices in Food Chain – a 2003 AUSAid funded project facilitated by NARI and DAL, that highlighted the need to support women in Agriculture.
In her inaugural speech, Sahumlal acknowledge late founder and President Mrs Maria Linibi for her resilience in upholding the organisation despite many challenges.
She further acknowledged NARI and donor partners Pacific Islands Farmers Organisation Network for recognising the important role PNGWiaDF plays in uplifting women in agriculture throughout the country.
The other executives voted in unopposed are:
Vice President: Jacinta Bera
Secretary: Ruby Artango
Treasurer: Lisa Linibi
The first order of business for the new executives include, furnishing financial reports and getting the house in order before calling for new farmer group registration.
Present to witness the election were representatives from the National Agriculture Research Institute who facilitated the voting process, including representatives from the Department of Agriculture and Livestock- Momase Region and two representatives from the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary.
Director General for NARI Dr. Nelson Simbiken whilst congratulating the newly elected President and her executives, committed NARI’s support in auditing their books and managing their account until they strengthen their Monitoring and Evaluation system.
NARI has been providing technical and logistical support to PNGWiADF since 2007.
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