The CDWAI library is perhaps unique in PNG. It contains many resources for your group to make use of, written by international experts including Markus Muntwiler from Switzerland, Dr Dave Askin, Kiwi agronomist who worked in and around the PNG/Indonesia from 1988 right through to 2019 – with a break for cancer treatment and some Lincoln University teaching thrown in.for good measure.
A key input was during the awful 1997 drought – practical training and visiting remote locations. That was followed by a NARI and AusAID partnership producing a drought management handbook. That is also available in the library – yes – the whole document!
Dave produced manuals based on experiences in the PNG Highlands, Islands and Lowlands – with Alan Oliver, Debbie Kapal, David Kulimbao, Peter Taul, Ben Heyward from Aussie, Dr Ian Grant and more. A key passion has been to create useful materials, practical and relevant – and made available free – whole downloads are in the library.
Ben Heyward started working in the PNG Highlands in the 1970’s in the Baiyer Valley and has continued interest and involvement, bringing an extensive set of experiences and skills to the CDWAI team as a leader and visionary.. Most recently he was involved in an NZMFAT program assisting in drought strategies development and training.
Presently Dave Askin and Ben Heyward are supporting the team (2023) as they work with women’s groups in EHP, helping prepare for El Nino drought and insect challenges. This work is funded by a NZ based Dove Trust.
