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The Voice Of Change - Oro, Popondetta (2026)

10/05/2026

CYCLONE MAILA RELIEF SUPPLIES FOR TUFI LLG AFFECTED WARDS.

Saturday, 9th May 2026

The Honorable Gary Juffa, Governor of the Northern Province, addressed the recent impact of Cyclone Malia. He assured constituents that immediate relief efforts are underway to support affected communities around Tufi LLG.

Governor Juffa acknowledged the widespread devastation caused by Cyclone Maila, which has impacted regions including Milne Bay, the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, East New Britain, and the Solomon Islands. He noted that while the damage has been significant, it remains localized, primarily along the coast of Tufi LLG and the border areas of Milne Bay and Oro.

Governor Juffa has overseen the procurement and deployment of essential relief supplies, ensuring aid reaches the most affected communities mainly Ward 1 Kewansasap, Ward 2 Marua and Ward 8 Itoto (Uwe Village). He confirmed that his Deputy Governor Hon. Robin Safitoa, Acting Provincial Administrator Mr. Roger Irurapa and the Oro Provincial Disaster Team is actively distributing relief materials to those in need with the support of Sector Chairman Sheldon Deilala.

Reaffirming his commitment, Governor Juffa emphasized his dedication to supporting all affected families in the coming days. He also highlighted ongoing collaboration with relevant authorities and stakeholders to strengthen disaster resilience and rebuild a better Oro.

The Oro Province Government remains committed to providing assistance and rebuilding efforts to restore safety and stability to the affected places.

06/05/2026

Safe Communities, Strong Futures: Oro's New Initiative with HALO Trust

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The Oro Provincial Government signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on 18th August, 2025 with the HALO Trust, acting on U.S. Government grant for an unexploded ordinance project in the province.

The MOA addresses three key areas:

• To locate and remove unexploded ordnance, The HALO Trust will survey and map UXO-contaminated areas in the Oro Province, and excavate hazardous areas identified during the survey to remove the buried UXO. The survey and disposal of UXO will protect the lives and livelihoods of people in Oro and will prevent UXO from being misused.

• To ensure the safety of the community, The HALO Trust will teach risk education in schools and community facilities to increase understanding of the UXO threat and to reduce risk taking behavior.

• To invest in the future of the community, The HALO Trust will employ and train people from Oro, including delivering explosive ordnance disposal (bomb disposal) training to the PNG Defence Force EOD and the Royal PNG Constabulary. Additionally, The Halo Trust will contribute to the review and improvement of national tracking for UXO

“This partnership is a commitment to the people of Oro. It is about safeguarding lives, fostering well-being, and paving the way for a brighter future.” Said Oro Governor Juffa. “Clearing the remnants of past conflicts liberates our communities, allowing them to rebuild, grow, and live free from fear.”

The team from HALO Trust has already begun this vital task in the province and are elated to have them here!

22/04/2026

GOVERNOR JUFFA REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO STRENGTHEN VILLAGE COURT SYSTEMS IN ORO

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Northern Governor Hon. Gary Juffa met with the Village Court Coordinator Mr David Iagoro on day Thursday April 16, 2026 to address pressing challenge facing the provinces village court system.

During the meeting, Governor Juffa recommitted the Oro Provincial Government to supporting village courts with a sharp focus on infrastructure development and capacity building.

Present at the meeting were Acting Provincial Administrator Roger Irurapa, Jnr, Provincial Police Commander Chief Inspector Charles Winuan, and Deputy Governor Robin Safitoa.

Of grave concern to Governor Juffa was the revelation that out of the 49 village courts across the province, only seven of the 11 court officials per zone are directly funded through the National Government’s Alesco Payroll system.

The remaining four officials from each of the 49 zones continue to deliver vital village court services diligently but have gone without remuneration for an extended period.

“It is unacceptable that those working at the frontline of justice in our communities are left unpaid for long period, Governor Juffa said.

“My government will not stand by while our village courts official serve without basic dignity of a salary.”

Mr Iagoro informed the Governor that a submission addressing this issue was originally made by his office in 2020 through former provincial administrator Trevor Mage, but little to no attention was given to the matter.

He expressed extreme delight that despite the long delay since the 2020 submission, village court services were finally receiving the recognition they deserved from the political hierarchy.

Acting provincial administrator Mr Roger Irurapa Jnr assured officials that he would intervene and determine why attention was not given to the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and submission for the activation of the provincial village courts committee.

According to recent findings, Oro province is among the lowest ranking in the establishment of the provincial village court committee’s activation.

However, Mr Irurapa assured both Governor Juffa and the people of Oro that this matter is now being given the utmost priority.

Mr Irurapa further stated that village court services have for over six decades, served a key law and order function, and will continue to do so now that there is new political intervention from the head of the province.

In response, Governor Juffa assured the Department of Justice and Attorney General (DJAG) and all Oro village court officials that he would immediately direct a fact-finding mission to rectify the remuneration administrative oversight.

He pledged to the people of Oro that his government remains fully committee to revitalizing village court services across all 49 court zones.

Despite very limited provincial funding, Governor Juffa reiterated that his administration would remain dedicated to resolving not only the remuneration issue but also other longstanding challenges, particularly in infrastructure and capacity building.

Governor Juffa also commended Mr Iagoro for his tireless leadership in managing Oro’s village court services, often without proper office space or essential work tools needed to empower frontline justice officials.

“Mr Iagoro and his team are doing remarkable work under extreme difficult circumstances. They deserve our full support,” Governor Juffa said.

Further announcements on the fact-finding mission and subsequence remedial actions are expected in the coming weeks.

20/04/2026

THE ORO PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT DELIEVERS 98% COMPLETION ON KUMUSI-ASSISI HIGHWAY UPGRADE, SECURES K2.5 MILLION FOR BAILEY BRIDGE

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A major infrastructure milestone is nearing completion in Northern Province, with the Kumusi–Assisi feeder road upgrade now 98 percent complete, delivering improved access and services to more than 10,000 people.

The Provincial Executive Council (PEC), led by Northern Governor Hon. Gary Juffa, has confirmed significant progress on the critical road project, which serves as a vital link for communities relying on it for agriculture, education, and essential services.

Under Phase 1, Governor Juffa secured K9.6 million to fund the maintenance and upgrading of approximately 10.3 kilometres of road from the junction to the Somberu River in the Assisi area

Despite delays caused by funding constraints, adverse weather, community-related issues, and contractual claims, the project has reached near completion. The provincial government, through its newly established Project Management Unit (PMU), ensured continuity and oversight throughout implementation.

Joint inspections are currently being carried out by the Oro Department of Works and the Provincial Technical Division.

Governor Juffa highlighted the unique geographical challenges facing Oro Province, noting that the region is dominated by rugged terrain, large river systems, and high tropical rainfall.

He said nearly 90 percent of the province’s landmass presents difficult conditions for infrastructure development, requiring careful planning and adequate funding to address high mobility and logistics costs for contractors.

The Governor stressed that improving road access to markets, particularly for agriculture and small-scale commerce, has remained a key priority since he first took office in 2012.

He acknowledged that inconsistent national government support during his earlier term had slowed progress, but said the situation has improved under the Marape–Rosso Government.

Governor Juffa also thanked Prime Minister James Marape for recognising Northern Province in national development priorities, enabling the delivery of key impact projects.

Looking ahead, the provincial government is planning to extend the road to Tetebedi, with discussions underway with the Department of Works on the missing link and with the Prime Minister’s Department on the potential sealing of Phase 1.

In addition, the PEC has allocated K2.5 million for the construction of a Bailey bridge over the Kansol River, a critical component to ensure year-round access and strengthen the durability of the road network.

Governor Juffa expressed gratitude to the people of Oro for their patience and resilience, acknowledging their continued support for development efforts across the province.

He said the road serves nearly 10,000 people who depend on it to transport cash crops and agricultural produce, as well as to access schools and health services.

“Despite the challenges, we remain committed to delivering quality infrastructure,” Governor Juffa said.

“The establishment of our PMU ensures transparency and rigorous supervision. We will not stop until the people of Assisi, Kumusi and Tetebedi have the reliable road they deserve.”

With Phase 1 nearing completion, the Provincial Government will continue supervision through the PMU while advancing funding and technical approvals for the Tetebedi extension and the Kansol River Bailey Bridge.

10/04/2026

Friday April 10, 2025

MEDIA RELEASE

Governor Juffa calls for equitable resources of Oro Campus and a renewed national commitment to agricultural transformation

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Northern Governor Hon. Gary Juffa has called on the University of Natural Resources and Environment (UNRE) administration to address the long-standing resource imbalance affecting the Oro Campus.

Speaking at the 29th Graduation of UNRE in Kokopo, Governor Juffa pointed out that Oro Campus, as an integral and established component of UNRE structure, continues to receive disproportionately less funding and intuitional support compared to other campus.

He described this situation as untenable and called for its immediate rectification.

“It’s a matter of genuine concern that the Oro Campus remains neglected despite being foundational part of this university.”

“I respectfully submit that this institution cannot claim unity of purpose while one of its campuses is systematically underserved,” Governor Juffa said.

While acknowledging the efforts of the UNRE leadership, the Governor made it clear that the Northern Provincial Government though fully committed to supporting institutional strengthening through infrastructure development and operational assistance, cannot reasonably be expected to function as the lead agency for the Oro campus.

“The primary responsibility for resourcing and developing the Oro Campus must rest with the university administration and the national government. The role of the provincial government is to complement, not to supplant.

We will continue to support, but we will not accept being cast as the principal financier for what remains a national obligation,” he said.

Governor Juffa urged the vice-chancellor and the university council to undertake an immediate and transparent review of resource distribution across all campuses with particular attention to the needs of Oro.

He expressed confidently that such a review would lead to a more equitable allocation of funds, staffing, and facilities

10/04/2026

Friday April 10, 2025

MEDIA RELEASE

Oro, PNG’s premier production house for agriculture specialists

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Northern Governor Hon. Gary Juffa says Oro province is a primary engine in Papua New Guinea’s agricultural future.

Speaking at the 29th Graduation of the University of Natural Resources and Environment (UNRE) in Kokopo, Governor Juffa called the National Department of Higher Education, UNRE leadership and development partners to recognize Oro as the designated hub for agricultural specializations.

“Oro has since the early 1970s been the hub or training Papua New Guineans to be skilled captains of the industry.

“For more than five decades, this province has formed the backbone of our nation’s agricultural leadership, producing graduates who not simply follow instructions but command operations, manage estates, and drive agribusiness forward.”

“Let Vudal continue its vital administrative and research functions, but let Oro be resourced and elevated to formally endorsed as the premiere production house for the next generation of Papua New Guinea’s agricultural specialists.”

“The future of our food security and export economy will be grown inn Oro, not just on our farms, but in our classrooms.”

Govenor Juffa said while UNRE maintains its headquarters in East New Britain’s Vudal Campus the Oro provincial campus plays an integral non-negotiable role in ensuring that our nation produces job-ready resilient and innovative agricultural specialists.

“From cocoa and copra to vanilla, food crops and emerging export commodities, Oro’s land and coastal ecosystems offer a living classroom unmatched anywhere in the country.”

“Our campus is not a satellite; it is a production house. We do not simply teach agriculture, we cultivate specialists who understand the realities or smallholder farming, post- harvest management and climate-responsive agronomy.”

“The practical, hands on training delivered in Oro produces graduates who can
walk into any rural community and immediately add value. “The future of sustainable economic growth relies heavily on agricultural downstream processing and export.”

“Without specialists trained to and value at source, to process package and position our products for global markets, we will forever remain suppliers of raw material rather than architects of our own prosperity. Oro graduates are being forged to close that gap.”

Governor Juffa said the 29th graduation in commemoration of 60 years of agricultural service to PNG is by far a regional achievement.

“It is a milestone endeavor of the Pacific people’s way of existence. “Oro is proud to stand at the heart of that Pacific story.”

“From the highlands to the atolls, agriculture is not merely an economic activity, it is identity survival and sovereignty.”

He added that the UNRE graduation signified the Marape-Rosso government’s continued confidence in resourcing the agriculture sector as a core pillar of national purse.

“We acknowledge the government for recognizing the investment of human capital in specialist training that delivers greatest return to our economy.”

Governor Juffa challenged the government to walk the talk and recognize the importance of agriculture ensuring that funding is also allocated especially into rural areas where extension services are much needed.

He aded that there is also a need to train our people how to farm commercially not just subsistence farming, maximum utilization of the land ensuring that it is sustainable and environmentally friendly.

“PNG can reap so much from farming. We are a fortunate country in that greater of majority of our people are able to take care of themselves, in the event of food shortage around the world, we would be best placed to protect and look after ourselves.”

“We can also do more for others if we learn how to engage in commercial farming practices. The government needs to fund these activities, especially in rural parts of PNG, gravely affected by the 1995 reforms which saw the shutting down of these programs as funds were withdrawn back to Waigani.”

17/02/2026

Planting Positive Seeds: Oro’s Chris Soka Appointed OISCA Trainer

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Chris Soka, a beneficiary of the Oro Provincial Government’s Tertiary Students Scholarship Program, was granted the opportunity to study in Japan under the OISCA Organization. In Japan, Chris studied Integrated Farming Systems, which focus on eco-friendly agriculture through organic farming techniques. After completing his training from 2015 to 2016, he returned to Oro Province in 2017. Upon his return, Chris transformed an area of grassland into a forest using seedlings from his tree nursery. He also engaged communities, individuals, and schools by distributing tree seedlings, encouraging students and teachers to participate in annual tree planting initiatives on World Environment Day. His efforts were highlighted by the NBC news team during these events.

Chris’s individual endeavors caught the attention of Oro Governor, Hon. Gary Juffa. Impressed by his work, Governor Juffa appointed Chris as an agent of change in the province, pledging the support of the Oro Provincial Government (OPG) to his organization. This recognition has fuelled Chris’s determination to expand his operations, focusing on delivering impactful solutions in agriculture and environmental conservation for the people of Oro Province.

In November, 2025, Mr. Soka was contacted by OISCA International with an offer to become a trainer in Japan. This caught Mr. Soka by surprise as he wasn’t actively involved in training programs and was focused mostly on his sustainable agriculture activities in the province.

When asked why this was the case, Chris stated that he believes his work in eco-friendly agriculture and the converting of an entire grassland into a forest in Arahe, had caught the attention of OISCA.

“We send regular reports of our activities in the province and the work with have undertaken in partnership with the provincial government. They (OISCA) also follow us closely on social media. I believe it was through this that I was handpicked to be a trainer in Japan.” Mr. Soka added.

Thanks to OISCA, Chris will be attached as trainer for 15 months in Japan. A day before his journey, Chris met with Governor Juffa for a brief update on his engagement.

Governor Juffa stated that the Oro Provincial Government (OPG) supports ongoing efforts to promote activities and programs that mitigate climate change and global warming. He expressed his delight regarding the opportunity offered by Japan and commended their efforts in promoting sustainable development and programs aimed at addressing climate change.

“We very proud of Chris’ engagement. As a provincial government, we will provide a small grant from the provincial government and we will continue help Chris and his family, who are doing an excellent job out there. If you plant positive seeds, you will reap positive trees.”

“Young people like Chris have dedicated their efforts to return to the province and impart their skills, while also educating the younger generation on the importance of preserving our natural environment for the future. It is not just his valuable knowledge that he is imparting to his peers. It’s also his attitude to succeed using the resources that he has. The OPG will always assist those who take the first step to doing great things.”

07/12/2025

REBUILDING HEALTHCARE IN ORO: BOTTOM LAST TO TOP 10

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On Wednesday, December 3, 2025, the Northern Provincial Health Authority (NPHA) marked a significant milestone in the province's healthcare development with the official launch of three major strategic plans and the opening of critical medical facilities.

Northern Province Governor Gary Juffa, alongside the Northern Provincial Health Authority leadership—including Chairman Mr. Erastus Kamburi, CEO Mr. Titus Stanley, and the PEC Chairman of the Health Sector Mr. Sheldon Deilala, hosted this special event, welcoming the Minister for Health and HIV/AIDS, Mr. Elias Kapavore, to Popondetta.

the ceremony held at the Popondetta Provincial Specialist Hospital, the delegation officially launched three pivotal documents designed to guide the province’s health sector over the coming decade:

1. The Northern Provincial Health Authority Corporate Plan 2025 to 2028.

2. Popondetta Provincial Specialist Hospital Clinical Services Plan 2025 to 2035.

3. The Northern Provincial Health Authority Health Services Plan 2025 to 2030.

In addition to the strategic launches, Minister Kapavore and Governor Juffa officially opened several newly refurbished and constructed facilities aimed at improving patient care standards. These included the refurbished Accident and Emergency Department, the Adult Outpatient Department, the Family Support Centre, and a new Incinerator project. Governor Juffa noted that these projects represent a "four in one" achievement for the province, ensuring that facilities like the operating theater are now fully compliant with health standards after previous attempts to open them prematurely were halted due to structural inadequacies.

In his keynote remarks, Governor Juffa delivered a wide-ranging speech that touched on governance, law and order, and personal responsibility within the health sector.

Governor Juffa praised Minister Kapavore as the "perfect person for this job," citing the Minister’s previous experience as a top-performing hospital administrator in Sandaun Province. Juffa highlighted the transformation of the NPHA, noting that the authority had previously lingered at the bottom of national rankings. He attributed the recent turnaround to the provincial government’s insistence on merit-based appointments, specifically the engagement of Chairman Erastus Kamburi and the use of independent HR firm Vanguard to recruit the CEO.

"If you take this approach where we have merit-based appointments... we felt that we would eventually bring the PHA to a better place," Juffa stated, adding that the PHA is now "moving in the right direction". He urged staff to put "internal politics aside" and focus on service delivery.

Governor Juffa addressed critical operational challenges, specifically the failure of logistics companies to deliver medical supplies. He insisted that contractors who fail to deliver drugs to health centers should have their services terminated.

“I strongly condemn attacks on ambulance drivers, doctors, and nurses. We will revamp theprovincial police command to ensure the safety of PHA staff. Our provincial government is absolutely committed to ensuring that your staff are safe and secure," he assured the attendees.

Governor Juffa concluded his speech by challenging health workers to model healthy behavior for the public. He urged them to cut down on smoking, alcohol, and betel nut consumption to combat the rise of lifestyle diseases.

"If you're working in the health system, you have to promote good health in everything you do," Juffa said, sharing his own decision to stop drinking, smoking, and chewing betel nut upon entering Parliament in 2012. "You have to look healthy, you have to talk healthy... and then our people will see you and they'll follow that example.”

In his keynote address, the Minister of Health expressed strong support for the Marape/Rosso government’s initiatives to enhance healthcare services. Accompanied by the chairman of the board, the Minister acknowledged the tireless dedication of health workers within the Northern Provincial Health Authority (NPHA), emphasizing that their invaluable contributions have not gone unnoticed.

“I commend Governor Juffa for his unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of the local population; this emphasizes the effective management of healthcare in the Northern Province.”

“A key aspect of the government's strategy is the notable expansion of the healthcare workforce, which now includes an increase from 600 stuff to 1,073 uploaded health workers in NPHA on the payroll system. This expansion reflects the government's commitment to building healthcare capacity and addressing critical staffing shortages. The latest performance report indicates a significant improvement, with the province's ranking rising from second-last in 2018 to currently ninth out of 21 provincial health authorities throughout the country.

" We have also increased next year's budget fir NPHA from K35 million to K46.9 million."

“To support these advancements, the government has allocated a substantial budget of K3.2 billion for the health sector this year, an impressive 50% increase compared to the previous year. This financial commitment highlights the government's ongoing focus on effectively funding healthcare initiatives and ensuring that vital resources are directed to where they are most needed.” He added.

“The government is also planning to enhance healthcare infrastructure, with the introduction of a new urban clinic in Popondetta town that will be funded by the Asian Development Bank at a cost of K15 million. This initiative aligns with the national health plan's emphasis on community engagement and partnerships in healthcare delivery.” He announced.”

“A national health board will also be instituted to monitor performance and ensure accountability, which is vital for upholding healthcare standards across the region.”

As the celebrations took place, stakeholders were reminded of the continued commitment to improving healthcare services, affirming the fundamental right to health for all citizens in the Northern Province. The Minister expressed gratitude to the Oro Provincial Government and the NPHA for their efforts, stating, "Together, we can achieve our goal of universal health coverage by 2030, leaving no one behind."

The launch of these strategic health plans and facilities marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to enhance healthcare in the Northern Province, signaling a brighter future for community health and well-being.

25/11/2025

New Medical Equipment Strengthens Healthcare Delivery in Northern Province

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The Northern Provincial Health Authority received a timely boost of medical equipment from donor partners. The equipment consists of 100 beds, 56 mattresses, 5 wheelchairs, linen, sanitizing wipes and other accessories.

Thanks to a partnership between the Oro Provincial Government and donor partners in Australia, the Popondetta General Hospital and other health centres will now receive these much-needed equipment and supplies.

While presenting the donated items to the CEO of the Northern Provincial Health Authority, Governor Juffa gave assurance of the continuation of this partnership in the future.

“This assistance is from former Papua New Guineans who now reside in Australia. They have seen the need for medical equipment consumables in PNG, especially in our province and lent a helping hand. Everything as been checked and is in working condition. We are very fortunate to be beneficiaries and must be good custodians of these items to will go far in helping our people of Oro province.’ He stated.

NPHA CEO Titus Stanley, was in high spirits when receiving the donated items.

“We are very grateful to our friends in Australia for this kind gesture. It will go a long way in helping our health centres here in Oro. Many times, we turn patients away because of lack of beds, but this boost will definitely make certain our people receive the service they require.”

The Popondetta General Hospital recently begun a much-needed renovations, with areas such the adult outpatient, emergency department, newly constructed ‘Family Support Centre’ and the renovation and expansion of the morgue, to name a few.

“Furthermore, we have acquired a new portable digital x-ray machine and a cardiotocograph machine to help monitor the fetus in the uterus for any signs of distress in pregnant women.” Governor Juffa added.

We are committed to maintain this collaboration in addressing healthcare challenges. As renovations progress and new equipment is put to use, the people of Oro Province can look forward to improved medical care and support, particularly for vulnerable populations such as women and children.

24/11/2025

Oro Provincial Government Launches State-of-the-Art Solar Power Project at Martyrs Memorial and Bareji High School, Championing "Green Province" Vision

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The Oro Provincial Government (OPG), under the leadership of Governor Honorable Gary Juffa, officially launched a new, state-of-the-art solar power installation at Martyrs Memorial School (MMS). The project marks a significant step in the province’s commitment to electrifying its education sector and achieving its vision of becoming PNG’s first “Green Economy”.

The ceremony included the Principal of MMS, Mr. Solomon Aniel and Governor Juffa, representatives for the provincial division of education, members of the OPG and representatives from the contractor K.I. Pacific. Governor Juffaspoke about the transformative impact of the 24-hour power supply on the school and the long-term provincial strategy for securing educational environments.

Speaking first, Mr. Aniel of Martyrs Memorial School expressed gratitude for the realization of the project, which had been initiated by the Governor two years prior.

"This afternoon we are privileged to have our Governor Honorable Gary Juffa and the team from his office. This afternoon marks the location where a project through the Governor, his office, have initiated. He came around 2 years ago and had a look at our facilities. But then it came about and I'm pleased and glad that he has honored what he said by delivering a 24-hour power for the school." He stated.

Governor Highlights Strategic Investment in Future Generations

Following Mr. Aniel’s remarks, Governor Gary Juffa elaborated on the provincial scope of the project, confirming that the MMS installation is one of two inaugural sites, the other being Bareji High School.

Governor Juffa announced: "The provincial government has a plan to ensure that all our high schools have a conducive environment for our children to learn. That means that they have to be secure. They have to have decent dormitory facilities and they have to have power so that the children can learn."

He emphasized the quality and longevity of the investment, confirming that the installation is now powering 13 buildings at MMS: "They are modular kits and their status, latest state-of-the-art technology from Germany and Israel. So, this will provide power for 24 hours, 7 days a week, 365 days a year for 22 years with no maintenance. We know that Divune Hydro will be coming along and will be powering the entire school eventually, but while that's happening, at least you have backup that provides 24 hours power for you in the event that there is no power."

“It is our intention that all High Schools in our province should have power.”

The Governor affirmed his commitment to comprehensive student welfare, stating: "I've also spoken to the contractor so that we could look at powering up the dormitories as well, which is what I'm very keen on so that our students can have a good night's sleep, wake up and get ready for their classes."

Oro's "Green Province" Commitment

Governor Juffa reiterated that the solar project is integral to the broader provincial vision: "Oro province wants to be a green province in every way. We have the largest conservation area in the country, the Managlas conservation area. We have Divune Hydro and we are looking at building a solar farm in town... Solar energy is the way to go. It's green energy. It's clean energy and we reduce the emissions that are going into the atmosphere and by doing that we are mitigating climate change."

He outlined the immediate rollout schedule for the project across the province's educational institutions: "The starting place for me is all our high schools. So Martyrs first, Bareji High School, Embogo, Popondetta High School, Kokoda. We're going to power up all these high schools."

The Governor also detailed concurrent educational and security initiatives:

• E-Granaries: "Another installation which will be coming your way soon is the e-granaries. The e-granaries are a containerized electronic library system where you've got years of internet backed up into a container that can be accessed by local Wi-Fi. In that way students and teachers will be able to access these learning resources that should be installed before the end of this year."

• Security: "We've done Popondetta Secondary School already. We put a security fence around it. We're looking at Bareji... We're looking at developing policing capacity. So if there's no police station nearby, then we will build a police station... and that will then allow our education and health facilities to be secure."

In closing, the Governor stressed the need for local stewardship, stating, "This is an investment into the future and it's the best thing we could do as a government to invest into our children's future, our province's future. Students, staff, everyone that works here. It's all your responsibility to take care of this very precious technology that we have available."

The Voice Of Change - Oro

10/05/2026

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22/04/2026

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