Takafumi Kadono Appointed ADB Country Director for Papua New Guinea

Takafumi Kadono has officially assumed office as the new Country Director of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for Papua New Guinea (PNG), heading the ADB Resident Mission in Port Moresby.

In his new role, Mr. Kadono will lead the development and implementation of ADB’s upcoming Country Partnership Strategy for PNG, strengthening the bank’s engagement across key development sectors.

“We will work with the Government of PNG to further boost economic growth and social development by supporting improvements to transport and energy infrastructure, expanding access to health and education services, and enhancing private sector competitiveness,” Mr. Kadono stated.
He also emphasized ADB’s commitment to strengthening the resilience and inclusivity of PNG’s financial and health systems against future economic and social shocks.

ADB remains one of Papua New Guinea’s largest development partners, particularly in transport and energy infrastructure financing. The bank is also deeply involved in advancing technical and vocational education and training, in partnership with the Government of Australia, to better align workforce skills with labor market needs.

Additionally, ADB continues to support PNG’s health sector through policy reforms, direct investments in healthcare systems, and improved public financial management.

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A Japanese national, Mr. Kadono brings over 26 years of international development experience with both the Asian Development Bank and the World Bank Group. Prior to this appointment, he served as ADB’s Country Director for Sri Lanka.

Founded in 1966, the Asian Development Bank is a leading multilateral development institution dedicated to promoting inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific through innovative financing, strategic partnerships, and high-impact devel