WASH rollout new water system and school infrastructure

MP Marsh Narawec along with the delegates at the recent launch of community water supply in wau-Waria (Supplied)

The people of Pinetop in Wau-Waria District have welcomed the official launch of a new community water supply, fencing for Pinetop Primary School, and a five-year Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Program aimed at improving health, education, and living standards.

The initiative is a partnership between the National Department of Planning and Monitoring, the PNGAust Partnership, and ADRA PNG.

The launch was held last Friday at Pinetop Primary School, the project marks the first major WASH initiative in the district and will begin in Pinetop before expanding towards Wau Town.

National Planning and Monitoring Director Richard Tanda highlighted the government's increasing investment in development projects.

Australian High Commission representative Luke Rasa reaffirmed Australia's ongoing commitment to supporting education in Papua New Guinea. He encouraged students to make the most of the opportunities provided and announced Australia's support for the construction of a double classroom, including desks and chairs, for Kasangare Junior High School.

Delivering the keynote address, Wau-Waria MP and District Development Authority Chairman Marsh Narewec thanked the National Government, PNGAust Partnership, ADRA PNG, and other partners for supporting the district's development priorities.

Mr. Narewec said K2.25 million had been allocated under the Memorandum of Understanding to implement the five-year WASH Program in Pinetop, with part of the funding already used for baseline studies and planning.

He added that the PNGAust Partnership has also supported several education projects, including the Bilum Books Program for elementary schools, water tanks and fencing for primary schools, and funding towards new classrooms for junior high schools in the district.

Mr. Narewec urged the Pinetop community to take ownership of the new water supply and ensure it is properly maintained.

He also announced that K1 million would be invested into the district's Mama Bank initiative and encouraged communities to establish cooperatives to access funding, promote small businesses, and improve household incomes.