Reliable and safe access to clean water is a key focus for Papua New Guinea, aligned with the National WaSH Policy 2015-2030 and critical development and climate change policy priorities for Australia.
To achieve this objective, Australia is partnering with the East Sepik Provincial Administration to improve water security in participating rural markets across the province.
This initiative is part of Australia's commitment under the PNG–Australia Comprehensive Strategic and Economic Partnership, aimed at strengthening cooperation in PNG's priority regions and economic corridors to drive growth, enhance stability, and improve service delivery.
The Water Security Project aims to improve access to clean, safe water for market vendors. This includes installing water tank facilities, small scale market infrastructure such as shelters, tables and benches and engaging communities to manage the market facilities.
East Sepik Governor, Hon. Alan Bird today presented a cheque of K420,000 to the Australian High Commission Minister Counsellor Ms Penny Morton as counterpart funding alongside Australia's investment of K4.5million toward this project.
Governor Bird thanked Australia for the partnership adding that the water security project aligns with the province’s plans for market development and water security priorities. Over 3,000 local market vendors, mostly women, across 15 markets in 6 districts of East Sepik province will benefit from these improved market facilities.
In line with East Sepik’s Development Plan, empowering communities to enhance their governance capacity is at the centre of this project. Technical working groups have been established at provincial and district levels to manage and implement the water security projects.
“The technical working groups with representation from various sectors including civil society strengthens the active participation of local stakeholders to drive improved service delivery in East Sepik. This initiative is a significant milestone for East Sepik as it empowers our communities to actively engage in local development and the promotion of economic growth.” Governor Bird said.
Minister Counsellor Morton said, “The Australian Government's partnership with the East Sepik Provincial Administration exemplifies our collaborative approach which seeks to empower local communities and supporting local businesses.”
Governor for East Sepik, Hon. Allan Bird handing over the provincial government co-contribution to the Water Security Project to Australian High Commission Minister Counsellor Ms Penny Morton.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100