As Papua New Guinea braces for Covid-19 pandemic threat, African Swine Flu has hit parts of its Highlands Region.

Thus, the head of NAQIA Joel Alu is requesting K18 million from the Government to arrest the African Swine flu outbreak.

“The National Quarantine and Inspection Authority (NAQIA) has declared the areas as ‘Disease Areas.'”

Agriculture and Livestock Minister John Simon has confirmed the outbreak of African Swine flu.

Minister Simon said: “The African Swine Flu has killed hundreds of pigs in parts of Southern Highlands, Enga and Hela provinces.

The African Swine Flu outbreak had to be contained immediately to save an industry which is worth millions of Kina. It is a threat to the local pork industry and food security.

“The fever does not pose any risks to human beings.

“Importantly, pigs are part of their lifestyle and the Highlanders highly value them for income generation. Additionally, it is significant for customary obligations like pride pride payment and peace-making activities.