Agarobe sees potential in Sogeri

SOGERI town needs to be properly promoted and mapped as a tourist destination of Papua New Guinea, Central Governor Robert Agarobe said.
“Sogeri is attracting about 30,000 tourists, including 4,500 trekkers, every year,” he said.
“But we are not listed by the Government as a tourist attraction.
“Most of the tourist revenue flows through Port Moresby and the National Capital District. So, Central does not benefit.
“This must change.”
Speaking at Sogeri’s maiden floriculture show recently, Agarobe said the Central government would address the issues by identifying land that belonged to the government.
“Squatters will be evacuated to make way for development to transform Central into a conducive environment for tourists,” he said. “Land will be subdivided to cater for businesses and residential areas.
“Public servants will come and reside in Sogeri.
“Once the land has been subdivided and the plan is completed, all trekking officers will have offices in Sogeri.
“Payments will be made directly at Sogeri to benefit the locals.
“They will meet requirements before establishing their office.
“Even the Kokoda Tracking Authority (KTA) will set up office here.”
Last month, Agarobe directed the acting Central administrator to spend a week in Sogeri.
“Officers were instructed to go into every community, every sector and report how each sector will function within Sogeri and turn Sogeri into a tourism destination or hub. They are finalising their reports,” he said.
“I want annual cultural events to be staged to encourage tourists visiting the trek, or Sogeri, to prolong their stay.
“I want us to have a Floriculture Show, Sogeri Central Cultural Day and Pineapple Festival.
“We can also have a yacht club at the dam for fishing tournaments.”