Australia supports Morobe Province response to COVID-19

The Australian Government has provided PGK1.9million to Morobe Province to support provincial preparedness and response to COVID-19.

Morobe recorded the country’s first confirmed COVID-19 case on 20 March 2020.

The new funding will support the Morobe Provincial Health Authority to implement its COVID-19 Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan and minimise health, social and economic impacts on the people and communities of Morobe Province. This includes a range of essential activities including community awareness and engagement, surveillance and rapid response, screening and clinical management.

The funds have been provided directly to the Morobe Provincial Health Authority, supporting the PNG Government in leading the response to this crisis.

Morobe Governor, Ginson Saonu (centre) stressing on the importance basic hygiene including hand washing with soap. He is joined by Lae MP, John Rosso (left) and Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Morobe Provincial Health Authority, Grant Muddle.

The new funding is in addition to PGK1.7 million already announced to support the Government of PNG’s overall COVID-19 response, including funding to the World Health Organization to provide technical assistance.

Chairman of the Morobe Provincial Health Authority, David Wissink said ‘thank you very much to the Government and people of Australia, for their heartfelt support towards assisting Morobe Province’s efforts to combat this crisis.’

Morobe Governor, Ginson Saonu demonstrates proper handwashing techniques, guided by Infection Prevention and Control Officer, Betty Mundua.

Australia remains committed to supporting PNG in its effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and will supplement PNG government funding to a range of Provincial Health Authorities to support their COVID-19 preparedness and response. We also encourage all Papua New Guineans to take note of public health messages and work together to keep communities safe.  

For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100