Local innovation: Raginam herbal medicine secures DDA backing to tackle PNG’s health challenges

Markham District is backing homegrown innovation in the fight against Papua New Guinea’s chronic shortage of medicine.

Last week, a groundbreaking ceremony was held in Raginam Village, Umi LLG, to launch the construction of a laboratory that will house research into the Raginam Herbal Medicine.

The project has won the recognition and support of Deputy Speaker of Parliament and Markham MP, Konie Iguan, who has pledged to invest in this breakthrough in Morobe.

The herbal medicine was developed by Allan Thompson, a Pacific Adventist University biochemistry graduate, who has been studying the healing properties of the locally known ‘gus’ grass.

“We all know there is a shortage of medicine in the country. If we don’t take the initiative to find solutions, who will?” Thompson asked, reflecting on his years of research.

While past studies on the plant focused on animals, Thompson’s experiments at PAU, Port Moresby International Hospital, and the University of Papua New Guinea identified compounds he believes could provide real benefits to humans.

“After countless tests in the labs, I was able to formulate this multi-purpose herbal medicine, which I believe has the potential to treat a wide range of diseases,” he said.

Deputy Speaker Iguan and the Markham District Development Authority [DDA] Board committed their support after witnessing first-hand accounts of patients who claimed to be cured by the herbal treatment.

To accelerate the initiative, Iguan personally presented K30,000 to Thompson, while the Markham DDA pledged K100,000 towards the construction of the new laboratory.

“This is a local solution to a national problem,” Iguan said. “We are proud to support innovation that can change lives.”