New CEO Sworn in for Sinasina-Yongomugl DDA

Monday, 27 October 2025, 5:16 pm

Atte Kerenga sworn-in as the new Chief Executive Officer. (NBC News)

A new chapter of leadership has begun for the Sinasina-Yongomugl District Development Authority (DDA) with the official swearing-in of Atte Kerenga as the new Chief Executive Officer.

Mr. Kerenga replaces Obert Waure, who had served in the position for several years.

The handover ceremony was held in Kundiawa and witnessed by Hon. Kerenga Kua,the Party Leader for PNG Party and Member for Sinasina-Yongomugl, along with representatives from the Simbu Provincial Government, DDA board members, and LLG presidents.

In his keynote remarks, MP Kua commended the outgoing CEO for his service and urged all district public servants to strictly observe public service laws and administrative procedures.

He said officers who fail to comply will face disciplinary action through the system.

“Public servants must operate within the rules. The system itself will hold you accountable. I do not tolerate corruption or misuse of public office,” said Kua.

Newly appointed CEO Atte Kerenga thanked the DDA Board and the local MP for their confidence in him.

He pledged to uphold the leadership style and development vision of Hon. Kua by working closely with communities and promoting transparency in all district operations.

“I will work with the people and for the people. I want to be a true servant of this district and do my best to move Sinasina-Yongomugl forward,” said Mr. Kerenga.

Representing the local communities, Suai LLG President Joe Waure congratulated the new CEO and assured him of strong cooperation from all LLGs.

“On behalf of our people, we welcome and congratulate Mr. Kerenga. The LLG presidents are ready to work together with him and the DDA to deliver tangible services and development to every ward in the district,” Mr. Waure said.

Deputy Provincial Administrator for Field Services, Chris Mondo also addressed the gathering, calling for closer coordination between the Provincial Administrationand District Administration.

“For effective service delivery, the district administration must work hand in hand with the provincial administration. Our systems and plans must align so that development priorities are delivered efficiently and resources are used wisely,” Mr. Mondo said.

He added that partnership and information sharing between both levels of government are crucial to achieving real impact at the community level.

The swearing-in marks a fresh start for the Sinasina-Yongomugl DDA, with a renewed focus on good governance, accountability, and coordinated service delivery for its people.