OUR PROVINCE
Welcome to West Sepik Provincial Website.
West Sepik Province, also known as Sandaun Province, is located in the northwest region of Papua New Guinea. It is situated along the northern coast and shares borders with the Indonesian province of Papua and the provinces of East Sepik and Enga.
The province covers a vast area of approximately 36,300 square kilometers, encompassing diverse geographical features. It is characterized by lush rainforests, mountain ranges, rivers, and coastal plains. It hosts the headwater of the Sepik River, one of the longest rivers in Papua New Guinea, playing a significant role in the lives of the local communities downstream. Agriculture is the primary economic activity in the province, with subsistence farming being the main source of livelihood for many residents. The fertile soil and favorable climate support the cultivation of crops such as sweet potatoes, taro, bananas, and sago. Fishing and hunting also contribute to the local economy. The province also boasts stunning natural landscapes, including waterfalls, caves, and rainforest reserves, which attract nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Efforts are underway to improve infrastructure and services in West Sepik Province, including road networks, healthcare facilities, and education systems. The government aims to promote sustainable development, preserve cultural heritage, and enhance the quality of life for the province’s residents.
Provincial Government
The Province has economic potential in agriculture in rice, cocoa, spice, livestock, rubber, oil palm, forestry, mining, tourism, aquaculture and fisheries development. It will be the host to the Vanimo SEZ.
The head water of the Sepik River is situated in the Province. The Province needs to utilize the river system to reap the economic benefits – increase the agriculture and forestry productivity, generate electricity and become the transport means to support the riverine communities along the waterway.
The Province is strategically located to harness the economic opportunities across the border and leverage the low cost of doing business in Indonesia. Extend Connect PNG to Indonesia including connecting the existing and available electricity grid from Wutung to Vanimo. Make Vanimo the next Bali (surfing and tourism) in PNG.
