James Rutana

James Rutana was appointed to the board in November 2021. He is a well-respected Bougainvillean businessman and entrepreneur from North Nasioi, Kieta who has studied microeconomics and international commodity trading in London. James is committed to Bougainville’s economic development particularly in sustainable agriculture, and has operated several successful local businesses.

James is considered a pioneer in cocoa farming and exporting in PNG and Bougainville. He was instrumental in the establishment of the PNG Cocoa Board and served as founding chairman, as well as the establishment of the PNG Cocoa and Coconut Research Institute, where he served as chairman for 10 years.

James was appointed a Commissioner of the Bougainville Constitutional Commission and was involved in the drafting of Bougainville Constitution in 2002 during that important phase in the establishment of the Autonomous Bougainville Government.