In a significant stride towards enhancing rural connectivity and fostering economic prosperity, a historic Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was formalized between the Rural Airstrip Agency (RAA) and the Central Provincial Government.
The promising occasion, attended by Governor for Central Province, Madam Rufina Peter, Acting Provincial Advisor Edward Kila, and Mrs. Kim R. Opiti, CEO of the Rural Airstrip Agency, marked the beginning of a new era of development for Central Province’s remote communities.
In her speech, Governor Peter explained how the MOA had a significant impact on the region’s economy.
“This agreement is a testament to our commitment to inclusive development,” she declared, highlighting the essential role of aviation in unlocking the economic potential of rural communities.
“Today, we are signing the MOA, which allows RAA to go in and look at the scoping of how to maintain that and bring it to the status where it can then receive planes, into these airstrips,” said Mrs. Opiti.
Following the MOA signing, a surveying phase commences with an initial investment of K240, 000 by the Central Government.
Surveys will be conducted to assess infrastructural needs, and comprehensive reports will be provided to inform the rollout of necessary payments for maintenance and upgrades.
Governor Peter highlighted the partnership’s extensive effects, quoting agriculture, fisheries, forestry, and tourism as potential beneficiaries.
The MOA includes a comprehensive strategy for surveying and maintaining airstrips throughout the province, with a special importance on addressing infrastructure shortfalls in remote areas.
Mrs. Opiti, explained the agency’s order, affirming, “Our objective is clear: to identify and address the infrastructural needs of remote airstrips, facilitating reliable air transport for both goods and passengers.”
There are approximately eight airstrips that are identified in the Central Province which is Margarida, Dorobisoro, Efogi and five other airstrips in rural parts of Goilala district which were chosen as priority locations, the agreement promises to boost trade, tourism, and service delivery to these areas.
The MOA’s ability to catalyse growth in the region’s increasing coffee industry is particularly significant.
Governor Peter emphasized the critical role of aviation in supporting agricultural endeavours.
“We aim to foster interactions between coffee production and tourism.”
She further stressed the importance of a strong infrastructure for achieving this vision.
With ongoing projects in different parts of Papua New Guinea RAA is now looking forward to starting a survey as soon as possible and aims to provide the official reports as soon as possible.
The cooperative endeavours of the Central Provincial Government and the Rural Airstrip Agency signify a paradigm change in tackling the diverse issues that rural communities face.
Stakeholders are prepared to guide in a new era of opportunity and prosperity for the people of Central Province with a dedication to innovation and inclusive growth.