Community development centre opens

By PETER WARI
THE Imbonggu district in Southern Highlands is pioneering a community development centre opened by Prime Minister James Marape on Friday.
The K4.2 million centre includes 50 offices and a 22-bedroom transit accommodation equipped with case management and referral systems equipment to improve protection of vulnerable people.
It will be a hub for Government agencies and other organisations.
Among those present for the opening were National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop, Chimbu Governor Michael Dua, Southern Highlands Governor William Powi, Minister for Health and HIV/AIDS Jelta Wong, Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology and Sports Wesley Raminai, Australian High Commissioner to PNG Jon Philp, Rachael Marape, department secretaries and other delegates.
Marape said the centre was seen as a channel for protection and empowerment services for people and bridge the gap between the district management and villagers.
“We have dozens of poor people that need protection from the state; they cannot continue to face social and civil problems, including all forms of abuses,” he said.
“The Government is focused on supporting and improving the lives of the rural population in the country and this centre will give hope to people, especially mothers and children.”