Mt Hagen thrives amid chaos and instability

WHEN Papua New Guinea is faced with social, economic and political instability and chaos, Mt Hagen city strives to survive economically, largely driven by the private sector.
The business environment is complemented by the timely intervention of the Western Highlands Government (WHPG) in maintaining law and order and to provide a conducive environment for businesses to thrive.
The provincial government allocates 20 per cent of its internal revenue by direct arrangement through a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the Internal Revenue Commission (IRC) to the Mt Hagen City Authority to carry out its functions by providing essential municipal services and public amenities.
The WHPG also supported the provincial police unit by providing new motor vehicles, logistics and resources.
The provincial police command recently launched the sector patrol programme, which had been dysfunctional over the years.
In addition, the city’s 24 rules are also being enforced to maintain peace, law and order.
Offenders are being processed in separate cell blocks specifically allocated and maintained so that routine police functions are not disturbed.
Last week, two companies launched and opened their doors to the public for business. These were a double-storey grocery and drapery supermarket in the heart of the city and a tri-level family hotel.
There are several other similar projects by private companies in progress within and around the central business district of Mt Hagen city which are scheduled for opening before the year ends.

Philip Ukuni