Rural SHP benefits from Aussie grant

 AUSTRALIA will improve the lives of people in nine Southern Highlands communities by providing a K620,308 grant for health, education and training development.

The grants are provided through the Strongim Pipol Strongim Ne­sen programme, a partnership between the governments of Australia and PNG funded by AusAID. 

The head of AusAID in PNG, Stuart Schaefer, said communities wanted better access to clean water and sanitation, upgraded or new classrooms and aid posts, and training to help women support themselves and their families.

“Communities decided they needed better services and opportunities for their people, and we are pleased to help turn their plans into reality,” Schaefer said.

“They are taking ownership of their own development and are in­vesting in these projects too by contributing 10% of the total cost.” 

The Gesege village development committee received K73,887 for a water, sanitation and hygiene project in the Nipa-Kutubu district.

The Komoli community health post will be upgraded to a permanent building in the Imbonggu district with a K69,385 allocation.

The Southern Highlands Women’s Association for Peace and Development received K54,081 to educate women on farming techniques and income-generating opportunities.

Provincial and district government officers would work with local community workers and SPSN staff throughout the implementation of the projects funded through the grant.