Rural electrification brings power to Dange communities in Jiwaka

Opening of the Mange Rural Electrification at Ngende Village in Nondgul LLG. Commissioned by the project initiator John Kuaim and witnessed by Sir Chris Haiveta - Governor for Gulf, Wake Goi - MP for Jimi Open and Civil Aviation Minister, Mark Saka-Director for PRK, Stanley Wantakson - Deputy PA Field Service amongst others *(NBC News: John Wena Dilu)*

Communities in the remote parts of Jiwaka Province will benefit from electricity for the first time, thanks to a rural electrification project spearheaded by a local son and supported by key development partners.

The beneficiaries are the people of the Dange Tribe, located in the Nondgul LLG of North Waghi District. For generations, these communities relied on hurricane lamps and solar lights. Now, they will have access to a more reliable and permanent power supply.

The electricity project spans a total of 10 kilometres, comprising 3km of high voltage and 7.5km of low voltage lines, aimed at servicing seven council wards, nine villages, and an estimated population of 8,000 people.

The initiative was driven by John Tuaim, a long-serving and dedicated employee of Petroleum Resources Kutubu [PRK] and Mineral Resources Development Company [MRDC]. Funding for the project came from PRK through its Community Benefits Fund, with additional support from individuals within MRDC.

Communities turned up in numbers celebrating the commissioning of Mange Rural Electrification that will benefit seven council wards, nine communities and more than 8000 populations of the Dange Tribe in Nondgul LLG of North Waghi District in Jiwaka Province *(NBC News: John Wena Dilu)*

Mark Saka, Director of PRK, explained that the project was funded in response to a formal request from Mr. Tuaim.

Sir Chris Haiveta, the longest-serving Governor for Gulf Province and a key figure at the commissioning, highlighted the broader significance of the project.

He said the two-phase electricity system was not just for lighting homes or powering appliances, but will be essential for industrial-grade and provide support small-scale industries.

Haiveta called on the Dange community to take ownership and safeguard the infrastructure.

The installation was carried out by ALKA Electrical, a certified local company based in Banz. During implementation, the company employed a team of 31 workers including five linesmen, eleven electricians, ten trade assistants, three welders, and two drivers.

The project was officially commissioned last Friday [June 6] in a ceremony attended by Sir Chris Haiveta, Civil Aviation Minister Wake Goi, PRK Director Mark Saka, officials from the Rural Electrification Office, and members of the business community.