Leaders open key development projects in Awi Lakayu

Hela Governor Philip Undialu and Koroba Lake Kopiago MP William Bando have handed over a 40-bed dormitory and a double classroom at Paka High School in Awi Lakayu LLG in the Koroba-Lake Kopiago District of Hela Province last week.

The visit began on Friday, March 13, which the leaders announced three major development initiatives for the area – road upgrading, a coffee development program and an off-grid solar project in partnership with the National Energy Authority.

The Awi community is expected to benefit from the solar power project which will provide reliable electricity for the growing community.

Coffee remains a major economic activity in the area, with local farmers currently cultivating nearly 30,000 coffee trees and preparing another 60,000 seedlings in nurseries for planting.

MP Bando announced plans to establish a coffee factory to support farmers and improve coffee processing and marketing in the district.

Both leaders encouraged communities to continue planting coffee, saying the crop would provide long-term financial security for families.

Governor Undialu says during the visit, they also inspected Awi TVET, the newly established Noma Aid Post, and Paga Health Centre, which is currently undergoing major upgrading.

"Additional developments announced for Paka High School include another 40-men dormitory, a double classroom, five staff houses and a solar power project for the school," he said.

Governor Undialu also thanked the National Government for funding the first stage of sealing works on the Koroba Lake Kopiago Road, which has begun from Maria to Pori. The second stage will continue from Pori to Paka and then to Kopiago.

The two leaders urged communities to maintain peace, respect the rule of law and work together to support development across the district.