Kokoda authority prioritised

THE Kokoda Track Authority (KTA) is an important tourism product that has the potential to be a catalyst for development, says Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Isi Henry Leonard.
During Tuesday’s swearing-in of KTA’s management committee, he said it was vital to see a board in place.
“Let’s work through this board by engaging the provincial government, the local level government, and the landowners so that the country can benefit,” Leonard said.
Nine board members were sworn in, with Koiari landowner representative Jack Deia appointed as the chairman and Tourism Promotion Authority chief executive officer Eric Mossman Uvovo as the vice-chairman.
KTA acting chief executive officer Julius Wargirai said there used to be only two landowner representatives, but now there are six.
“It would be more meaningful if more people are involved. We will achieve the true meaning of tourism when the locals participate. They are the key drivers of success of the Kokoda Track,” he said.
Leonard said: “In tourism, Papua New Guinea has so much to offer.”
Provincial and Local Level Affairs Department secretary Philip Leo said KTA was one of 14 Special Purpose Authorities in PNG.