Kokoda Initiative delivers more health and education buildings for Kokoda communities

The Kokoda Initiative has delivered more health and education buildings and ablution facilities for communities in the Kokoda Track region.

On Kokoda Day - 3 November - Oro Governor Hon Gary Juffa, Kokoda Track Authority CEO Mr James Enage, and Managing Director of the PNG Conservation and Environment Protection Agency Mr Gunther Joku, joined by Mr Rod Hilton, Minister Counsellor from the Australian High Commission, opened a double classroom, two staff houses, a community health post, ablution facilities, an incinerator and three water tanks at Kanga.

The buildings and ablution facilities were funded by the Australian Government under the Kokoda Initiative.

Mr Copeland Ihove, Oro Provincial Health Advisor, said: “The opening of this aid post is an exciting development for the Kanga population which has had limited access to health services for over 10 years. The people of Kanga catchment have had to walk up to three hours to see medical staff.”

Mr Maino Vegoli, Oro Provincial Education Advisor, said: “We are confident that the new classrooms will achieve increased enrolment, but most importantly encourage our children to attend school. Kanga primary is the only upper primary school in Ward 1 and we are proud of this achievement.”

Mr Sam Vegogo, Oro Provincial Administrator, said: “What we have here in Kanga is a fantastic example of great development work and partnership. I’d like to thank the Kokoda Initiative and the Australian Government for supporting some of the best community projects we’ve ever seen in the Province.”

Mr Hilton said: “The Australian Government is very pleased to partner with communities to deliver better health and education outcomes to Kanga.”

The Kokoda Initiative is an arrangement between the Governments of Papua New Guinea and Australia to manage and protect the natural, cultural and historic values of the Owen Stanley Ranges, the Brown River Catchment and the Kokoda Track.