Thursday February 11th 2021
From ANASTHASIA ANGORO IN Goroka
Prime Minister Hon. James Marape, MP, has worked with leaders of Eastern Highlands to secure K59 million for various projects in the province.
PM Marape announced in Goroka today that the National Government has transferred:
– K4 million for Kainantu-Aiyura Road;
– K4 million for Mauga-Sindari Road;
– K4 million for Goroka District roads;
– K10 million for Goroka Town Road;
– K3 million for Goroka Town water supply;
– K4 million for Lufa-Okapa Road;
K5 million for Daulo-Mando Road;
– K4 million for Okapa-Kimi Ring Road;
– K4 million for Unggai-Ramu Road;
– K4 million for Henganofi-Ramu Road;
– K4 million for Okapa-Lufa Road;
– K2 million for Goroka Town Market; and
– K7 million for coffee price stabilisation.
PM Marape says roads that are going to be constructed or maintained will give access to farmers to bring their cash crops and fresh produce to the market.
However, he stressed that road works would take some time to complete, and may take up to 10 years.
“As we build the roads, we will also run electricity pylons following the path of the roads,” PM Marape said.
“As we build roads and bring electricity, we want people to maintain law-and-order, and all young people who did not complete their higher school education must enrol with Flexible Open Distance Education (FODE) providers.
“I want those who have not completed their secondary education to complete it through FODE.
“It does not matter how old you are, you can go and enroll if you want to complete you grades nine, 10, 11 and 12.”
PM Marape said roads would also make it easier for children to have access to schools and for families to have access to health services.
He also launched a K150 million four-lane road project for Goroka Town.
What use is the K150 million four-lane road, than probably a sealed road to Okapa? K4 million allocated to this road is lousy.
Increase the portion for roads into the rural areas where people can have access to sell their produce and children to go to schools on nice sealed roads and which can last 10 years or more.
Coffee is the main cash crop reaching out with the world and it’s all coming out from rural areas so give priority to districts with most plantations and factories.
Otherwise ALL GOOD.
Thank you.