Rural power project benefits 20,000 people in Hagen Central villages

MORE than 20,000 people living between Ogelbeng and Mt Ambra in Hagen Central are now have electricity for the first time.
The electricity supply is funded at a cost of K1.4 million by the district development authority and it covers 11 kilometres.
For these populated villages outside Mt Hagen city, it was for the first time that they would have access to electricity.
Yamka leader William Namb said the project was benefiting more than 20,000 people of Jika, Moge, Yamka, Elti, Pinambe and Kugulka.
“This is a life-changing project and people really appreciate it. We will no longer live in the dark,” Namb said. Yamka councillor Joseph Rut said it was the first time people in the area to have electricity.
“We are very happy and appreciate this service. Electricity is an urgent need and vital service in this time and age. Without electricity, life is very hard,” Rut said.
“We are fortunate to have this service. Our children will have a better future. With the power, our communities will transform.
“We are relieved now. This project is benefiting us in so many ways and is making our lives much easier.
“This has never been the practice in the past. Only a few parts of the district have benefited from government services while the rest have been neglected.”
Yamka-Yatnamb youth leader David Knox said the power project was a timely boost for the new Kelua Teachers’ College.
Duma is also funding the construction of Kui High School which will enrol grades 9 and 10 next year.