Congratulations to the Rai Coast District in Madang province for the completion of the Pawa Bilong Kirapim Raikos project.
The project implemented by the Rai Coast District Development Authority (DDA) and the Australian Government is powering more than 12,000 households and 781 streetlights in 140 remote villages, bringing clean, affordable electricity to more than 60,000 people. With a co-funding contribution of PGK1 million from the Rai Coast DDA, the project demonstrates Australia’s longstanding partnership with Papua New Guinea.
Police Minister Hon Peter Tsiamalili Jr MP last week joined Australian High Commission Minister Counsellor Dr Cate Rogers to mark the completion of this project.
Speaking at the event, Dr Rogers said, “Access to electricity creates economic opportunities and supports inclusive development. It ensures that everyone – no matter where they live – can participate in and prosper from economic development.”
Mr Tsiamalili Jr who represented the project champion and Labour Minister Hon Kessy Sawang MP described the project as transformational: “Access to electricity is not only transforming lives today but also bringing the promise of a better tomorrow. By lighting up homes, we are enabling our children to study at night, ensuring every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential. Our future will be built on their achievements,” Mr Tsiamalili Jr said.
The project is a prime example of Australia’s locally led approach to development. Local partners and participating communities made vital contributions to the project, informing decision-making and driving implementation every step of the way.
To ensure the new solar systems power Rai Coast communities in the years ahead, the project trained 1,104 community solar champions to provide ongoing maintenance support. In addition, a dedicated solar hub in Basamuk has been set up to provide troubleshooting assistance and spare parts.
Papua New Guinea and Australia are working in partnership to increase access to clean, affordable energy for the country’s remotest communities. This long-term commitment aims to ensure PNG achieves its electrification targets – to connect 70 per cent of the population by 2030 and 100 per cent by 2050.
From left to right: Minister for Police, Hon Peter Tsiamalili Jr, Australian High Commission Minister Counsellor Dr Cate Rogers, Gawar community member, Governor for Madang, Hon Ramsey Pariwa, & Rai Coast District Administrator, Mr Hans Tanguri.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100