Marjorie Kemoi, a plant protection specialist and Australia Awards alumna, has been appointed as Chief Plant Protection Officer at the Papua New Guinea National Agriculture Quarantine and Inspection Authority (PNG NAQIA) – the first time a woman has held this important role!
Since her appointment in June 2024, Marjorie has been fostering collaborations and strengthening linkages between PNG NAQIA and international organisations, in Australia and beyond. “These collaborations can lead to significant advancements in plant protection and biosecurity in PNG,” says Marjorie.
With her expertise, Marjorie leads a team of scientists to protect PNG’s agriculture, ecosystems, and the livelihoods from exotic plant pests and diseases and provides technical advice to border management.
Her firm belief that, “I have the responsibility to be a steward of God’s creation,” has shaped Marjorie’s passion to become a plant protection officer and her dedication to education to deliver this role effectively.
After studying at Bavaroko Community School in Port Moresby and Kiriwina High School in Milne Bay Province, she completed senior high school in Australia through the Australian International Development Assistance Bureau scholarship.
Marjorie, with one of her many collections of books on exotic insects
Filled with dreams and enthusiasm for biology, Marjorie studied a Bachelor of Science in Biology at the University of Papua New Guinea in 1995. After graduating in 1999, she started work as an entomologist with NAQIA. She spent years studying insects and plants, and their impact on the environment, agriculture and human, which she loved. She played a significant role in ensuring NAQIA had access to sound research about plant health and biosecurity to do its work.
Motivated by a strong academic mindset and desire to advance her knowledge in biology after working for five years, Marjorie pursued a master’s degree at the University of Queensland through an Australia Awards scholarship. She graduated in 2006 with a Master of Plant Protection and returned to PNG, and NAQIA.
Marjorie’s scholarship journey not only enhanced her knowledge and skills but also deepened her connection with entomologists, botanists and quarantine staff at the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, especially in Northern Australia. “They have become like family to me,” she says. “They ensured I settled well in Australia. I was also privileged to be supervised by two internationally renowned entomologists.” The connections that she forged are now benefiting her work. “They have become my mentors and strong supporters. This support significantly benefits biosecurity efforts in PNG through programs such as joint plant health surveys, twinning programs, workshops and meetings both in the region and abroad,” says Marjorie.
Marjorie became the Senior Technical Officer of Plant Health in 2021 and was appointed as the Chief Plant Protection Officer in June 2024, a milestone achievement of her career. She now leads the strategic vision for national plant health initiatives and shapes policies and regulations that govern plant protection in PNG. She is also in charge of leading the country’s emergency response to pest outbreaks or disease incursions, building the capacity of her team, fostering collaboration and networking with local and international partners, and leading advocacy and communication for plant health issues.
A pioneer leading the way for women in environmental health, Marjorie’s experiences show what is possible for everyone with hard work and education.