Koroba launches K70m hospital and youth center

Leaders and community members in Koroba, Hela Province, broke ground yesterday for two major infrastructure projects: a K65 million Level 4 District Hospital and a K5 million Community Development Center.

Local MP and Coffee Minister William Bando dedicated the projects to his district as a special gift for Papua New Guinea's 50th Independence Anniversary.

He reaffirmed his commitment to decentralizing services.

“Not everything should be built in the capital. Every district deserves access to the same level of services available in Tari Town," Bando said.

Health Minister Elias Kapavore and Community Development Minister Jason Peter joined MP Bando and other dignitaries for the ceremony.

The new hospital, only the fourth Level 4 facility in the country, will provide comprehensive health services and significantly improve medical access for the remote population.

Health Minister Kapavore stressed its strategic importance.

“This hospital will bring essential healthcare closer to the people, reducing the burden of long-distance travel for treatment,” he said.

Officials also launched the two-storey Koroba Community Development Center.

The facility will serve as a hub for educational, recreational, and economic programs aimed at empowering young people and fostering social unity.

Community Development Minister Jason Peter highlighted the center's role in addressing social challenges.

“Many law-and-order issues stem from youth disengagement," he stated.

"This center will provide a space for learning, growth, and community building.”