MMDDA advances rural electrification drive across Mendi-Munihu district
Mendi-Munihu District Development Authority (MMDDA) continues to expand power grid connectivity to remote communities across the district.
Local MP and MMDDA Chairman, Raphael Tonpi announced that people in Heyep, Posulim, and Oleya communities will soon be integrated into the main power grid. This follows the successful electrification of the Wambip, Tulum, and Wei villages in earlier phases of the rollout.
“Connecting one village at a time is the most effective way forward,” MP Tonpi stated, reaffirming the MMDDA's systematic approach to delivering vital utilities to rural households.
He said the ongoing electrification initiative is being delivered through a partnership involving the MMDDA, the Southern Highlands Provincial Government, Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL), and the Japan International Cooperation System (JICS).
In a parallel effort supported by the Japanese Government, 500 households in Mendi-Munihu were recently connected through a joint venture between the MMDDA and the JICS.
MP Tonpi revealed that grid extension work will expand deeper into remote areas. Planned targets include the Pingirip and Sengso communities within the Bush Karinz area, as well as the stretch from the Injed turn-off to Bim mountain along the Southern Highlands–Enga border.
He stressed that connections are also planned for Penrenz Hiri near the Hela Province boundary.
“Our goal is simple: we want all our people to have access to electricity,” Tonpi emphasized.
The MP emphasized that reliable electricity will serve as a catalyst for local economic development. It is expected to stimulate Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs), unlock new income-generating opportunities, and boost household livelihoods across the district.
"Furthermore, access to power will significantly improve public service delivery. Schools will be able to utilize modern educational technologies and upgraded facilities, while rural health centers will gain the capability to deliver continuous, 24/7 medical care," he said.
He encourage the people of Mendi-Munihu to safeguard these vital public assets and leverage the access to power to elevate our standard of living.