PNG’s population crisis: Unplanned pregnancies straining national services

Unplanned pregnancy has been identified as a leading factor in Papua New Guinea’s rapidly expanding population, which has seen an increase of 6.5 million people over the last decade with an average annual growth rate of 2.2 percent.

While these statistics may not immediately alarm individual families, the resulting pressure on basic services is causing deep concern for government levels, state agencies, and development partners.

Health experts reveal that women between the ages of 16 and 35 are giving birth at an alarming rate. Dr. Glen Mola, a leading gynecologist, said lack of family planning is at the heart of the surge.

"Most men and women are not using family planning methods," Dr. Mola told NBC News. "They happen to be together, and it results in pregnancy. More young women and girls are giving birth every year without prevention."

Dr. Mola said the health system is currently failing to provide enough options to avoid preventable issues, placing immense stress on doctors and health workers. He said there is a significant rise in women and girls visiting the Susu Mama Clinic at Port Moresby General Hospital.

Current estimates place PNG’s population at over 12 million. While the Government announced this figure late last year, it remains a subject of debate. United Nations statistics suggest PNG accounts for 0.13% of the global population, recording an average growth rate of 3% over the last 20 years. UN officials predict the population could reach 18 million by the year 2100.

National Statistician John Igitoi said the 2024 National Census confirmed a continuous climb. "Our population figures continue to hike. The 2011 Census recorded around 6 million people; now in 2026, there is a significant increase," Igitoi said.

He admitted, however, that the official figure of 10 million-plus may still be an undercount due to logistical challenges during the 2024 exercise. The National Statistics Office [NSO] is currently working with provincial officers to account for citizens who were missed.

As the population rockets, the impact on service delivery has become critical. Education, health, and law and order are the sectors most affected. Teachers, health workers, and police are struggling to keep pace with the demand for schooling, medical treatment, and community safety.

Prime Minister James Marape acknowledged that the national budget is insufficient to meet these demands.

"No wonder we have had so many development issues in the past," Marape said. "The country’s economy cannot currently cater to this growing population. Since 2019, my Government has focused on growing a larger, stronger, and more robust economy to meet the demands of our people."

For Dr. Mola, the solution lies in urgent awareness and family planning. While a child brings joy, he said health risks of unplanned births are too high to ignore.

"My message to the younger generation and women is: please do not have a baby unless you are really sure and truly want one at this time," Dr. Mola said. "The death risk for both the mother and child remains very high."