The people of Obura-Wonenara District in Eastern Highlands Province recently celebrated a historic milestone with the completion of the Andadara Road, a transformative infrastructure project spearheaded by John Boito, the local Member of Parliament for Obura-Wonenara and Minister for Agriculture. The new road connects previously isolated communities in the rugged Eastern Highlands to vital service hubs like Aiyura and Kainantu, ending decades of struggle and inaccessibility. The completion of the Andadara Road is part of Minister Boito’s vision to modernize the district through infrastructure development, in alignment with the Marape-Rosso government’s pledge to connect all rural villages by 2025, a key target as Papua New Guinea (PNG) approaches its 50th Independence anniversary. During a site visit, Minister Boito addressed the people of Obura Wanenara, stating that this road is a game-changer for his people. “It bridges the gap between isolation and opportunity, unlocking access to markets, education, healthcare, and jobs. Today marks the beginning of a brighter future for Andadara and the entire district.” For over 50 years, the people of Andadara have faced immense challenges, with farmers trekking for days to transport coffee and fresh produce to markets and families struggling to access healthcare and education services. Funded under the District Services Improvement Program (DSIP), the Andadara Road project utilized part of the K10 million infrastructure budget allocated for development in the district. The construction was undertaken by Kopen Construction Company, a Kainantu-based firm. The firm completed the road to high standards, earning praise for its efficiency and quality. The Andadara Road now connects Wards 11, 12, and 13 in the Tairora-Gadsup Local Level Government (LLG), opening up access to essential services and revitalizing several coffee plantations. Previously neglected due to poor road access, these plantations are being restored by local landowners and are expected to boost the district’s economy significantly. Minister Boito said, “This road not only improves transportation but also creates jobs and revitalizes agriculture. By connecting our farmers to markets, we are helping them turn their hard work into income. This is how we create opportunities and lift our people’s livelihoods.” The Andadara Road is part of a broader strategy to expand road networks throughout the district, with the goal of creating jobs through agriculture, enhancing foreign exchange earnings, and improving access to critical services. “With better roads, our farmers can transport produce efficiently, children can attend school, and families can access healthcare. This is the essence of development, bringing services to the people who need them most,” Minister Boito added. He also stressed the importance of aligning infrastructure development with the national government’s vision to create one million jobs by 2030 and grow the economy to K200 billion. “When Prime Minister James Marape talks about creating one million jobs by 2030, it doesn’t just mean 8 am to 4:06 pm or 7 am to 5 pm office jobs. “It’s about creating opportunities for our people to work their land, access markets, and build livelihoods. If every MP in their respective electorates focuses on opening up road access to markets, we are indirectly creating jobs and meeting the government’s vision. “Let us work together to achieve this. The Andadara Road is not just a piece of infrastructure; it is a lifeline, a connection to hope, and a promise for the future. Together, we can transform our communities." Minister concluded.