Marape commits K10 million to renovate Chimbu building

PRIME Minister James Marape has committed K10 million to refurbish the Kondom Agaundo Haus in Chimbu.
Constructed in the late 1980s, the Haus was a notable landmark but had seen significant wear over the years.
The building is named after a respected pre-Independence leader and former member of the Legislative Council from 1961-64, (the late) Kondom Agaundo.
Marape stressed on the cultural and historical significance of the Kondom Agaundo Haus during his visit to Chimbu on Tuesday.
“One of the first members of the Legislative Council from the Highlands region was (the late) Kondom Agaundo, whom we all know, and in whose honor and legacy we are gathered here today,” he said.
“Agaundo never spoke English, but one time, he went and addressed an audience in Australia and said: ‘I don’t speak in English, but one day, my children will come and speak to you in your language, English.’
“I fulfilled and relived that legacy when I addressed the Australian National Parliament in Canberra earlier this year, in English. Today I am standing in and addressing you in Kondom Agaundo’s house.
“Use the K10 million I give you today to refurbish and maintain the Kondom Agaundo Haus, so that the name and legacy of one of our first Highlands leaders must remain for generations to come.”
Further emphasising the Government’s support for local governance, Marape highlighted new measures aimed at reinforcing community leadership.
“I thank the councillors and presidents for your work in holding together your communities and maintaining peace. You are our leaders on the ground, and we appreciate the work you do,” he said.
“The Government, in recognition of your work, has put all ward councillors on the government payroll.
“We will introduce reforms to support your work in your council wards, and in the provincial government,” Marape said.