Understanding the governance and accountability in food estate policies through challenges of public administration in food sector development

Purpose This study aims to evaluate how Food Estate policies are implemented and monitored in Indonesia. It analyzes several issues that public administration faces in ensuring transparency, collaboration, and sustainable development within the overall food security framework. Design/methodology/approach This study employs a qualitative descriptive approach using a case study design focused on the implementation of the Food Estate policy in Papua, particularly in Merauke and Keerom Regencies. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and document analysis involving policymakers, program implementers, and local community representatives. By concentrating on Papua as the primary empirical setting, the study ensures consistency between the research design, data analysis, and reported findings. Findings The research shows that the Food Estate program aids the country’s food resilience objectives; however, its effectiveness is diminished by a lack of coordination among institutions, inadequate community involvement, and a deficiency in accountability. Conflicts between regulations at the national and local levels, competition among government bodies, and issues regarding project transparency have posed significant challenges. Additionally, without adequate oversight and the active participation of key stakeholders, the program has experienced increased vulnerabilities and instability. Originality/value The study contributes to the field of public policy and administration by highlighting the pressing deficiencies in the efficient and responsible management of large agricultural programs. It clarifies how organizations, governmental declarations, and political ambitions collaborate in the implementation of policies. These findings provide helpful direction for enhancing governance and promoting responsible, community-focused approaches to alleviating hunger in Indonesia and similar contexts.