Asian Development Bank (ADB) has appointed Takafumi Kadono as its new Country Director for Papua New Guinea, effective 13 January 2026. Based in Port Moresby, Mr. Kadono will lead the ADB’s Papua New Guinea Resident Mission and oversee the development and implementation of the Bank’s new country partnership strategy.

In his new role, Mr. Kadono will work closely with the Government of Papua New Guinea to support economic growth and social development, with a focus on strengthening transport and energy infrastructure, expanding access to health and education services, and enhancing private sector competitiveness. ADB will also continue its efforts to improve the inclusivity and resilience of the country’s financial and health systems.

A Japanese national, Mr. Kadono brings over 26 years of international development experience with ADB and the World Bank Group. He previously served as ADB’s Country Director for Sri Lanka.