West Kambia opens up after 50 years in isolation
After more than half a century of isolation, the people of West Kambia in the Lower Nebilyer Local Level Government [LLG] of Tambul/Nebilyer District will finally have access to a proper road.
Known for decades as the “back page” of Western Highlands, the people of West Kambia are finally stepping into a new chapter - with road access bringing hope, dignity, and long-awaited basic services.
A 22-kilometre road, stretching from Pabrabuk to Guim, will soon be constructed, ending 50 years of reliance on a narrow bush track as the only connection to the outside world.
For decades, villagers walked through thick bush for up to 12 hours just to reach the nearest bus stop to travel to Mount Hagen City.
The journey was often dangerous and exhausting; especially for the sick, elderly, women and children.
An elderly man from the area shared the hardship many families endured for generations.
“We walked long distances with food, with sick people, even children. Sometimes we sleep on the road. Life was very hard.”
More than 7,000 people across six council wards have lived with this daily struggle; a situation that is now set to change.
West Kambia also holds historical importance, as it was home to the first missionaries of the Papua New Guinea Bible Church [PNGBC], who established a school and an aid post that brought early development to the Pabrabuk area.
Despite this, it remained the last ward in Western Highlands Province without road access.
Speaking during the launch of the project recently, Western Highlands Governor Wai Rapa said access to roads and basic services is a right of the people, not a privilege.
“Services must reach the people where they live. Roads are important so our people can access health, education and markets.”
One of the ward councilors from Pabrabuk, Korowi Koloa, thanked those involved, saying communities had suffered quietly for far too long.
“Our people waited patiently for many years. This road means relief and a better future for our children," stressed Councilor Koloa.
Leaders from all six council wards have agreed to allow the road work to proceed freely, without making demands that could delay construction.
Support has also been shown by the Tambul/Nebilyer District Development Authority, which will provide additional machinery to complement equipment from the provincial engineering division.
Governor Rapa cut the ribbon to mark the start of the project.
Machineries and workers are already stationed at the site, with construction expected to begin within the coming week.
For the people of West Kambia, the long and agonizing walk through the bush is finally coming to an end; replaced by a road, and the promise of a better life.