A new market equipped with water tanks and hygiene facilities has been launched at Sing Village in Bougainville – promoting greater economic participation and encouraging handwashing and hygiene to protect against the spread of COVID-19.
The facilities are part of a K14.3 million project that is providing water security and hygiene facilities at 50 markets and schools across Bougainville.
The market was launched today by the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) Lands Minister Hon. Robert Hamal Sawa, Bougainville Women’s Federation President Barbara Tanne and Australian High Commissioner Jon Philp.
The water security project, supported through the Bougainville Partnership between the ABG and the governments of PNG, Australia and New Zealand, will create nearly a million litres of clean water storage.
An ABG Department of Health mobile COVID-19 vaccination clinic was also present at the launch to conduct awareness and offer on-site vaccinations.
After the event, 83-year-old farmer Luca Kahi set an example for others by getting vaccinated at the mobile clinic.
Australian High Commissioner Jon Philp with 83-year-old farmer Luca Kahi who took the opportunity to get vaccinated.
Robert Hamal Sawa and former Deputy Speaker in the ABG parliament Francesca Semosa emphasised the importance of getting vaccinated for the health of oneself, one’s family and the community, and for the strength of Bougainville as a whole.
Australian High Commissioner Jon Philp said handwashing and proper hygiene are part of the Niupela Pasin approach which works alongside vaccination to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and bring an end to the pandemic.
“Vaccination is safe and effective and the top defence against COVID-19,” he said.
“More and more people across Bougainville and elsewhere in PNG are getting vaccinated every day.
“They are making a decision to protect their own health and the wellbeing of their families and communities.”
The water security project has also distributed hygiene kits, including COVID-19 information, soap, and face masks.
In addition to the water security project, Australia is working closely with ABG Department of Health to support the COVID-19 response, including more than K2 million for preparedness efforts and the vaccine rollout.
Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) Lands Minister Hon. Robert Hamal Sawa and Australian High Commissioner Jon Philp open the clean water storage tanks.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100