ABG signs contract with PLANPAC PNG for Arawa Specialist Referral Hospital Design
The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG), through the Department of Health, has taken a significant step toward improving the region’s health infrastructure with the signing of a design contract with PLANPAC PNG Limited for the upgrade of Arawa Hospital into a Specialist Referral Hospital.
The contract was formally signed last week and marks the beginning of the design phase for Bougainville’s first-ever Specialist Referral Hospital.
ABG Minister for Health, Hon. Dennis Lokonai, described the signing as a landmark moment for Bougainville, setting in motion a bold and necessary step towards the future.
“As Minister for Health, I am proud to say that this project marks a significant advancement in health infrastructure development, a pillar of nation-building that must not be overlooked as we prepare for political independence,” he said.
Minister Lokonai emphasized that the development of a modern, well-resourced health facility is foundational to achieving a self-reliant and independent Bougainville.
“A functioning, well-resourced health system is not a luxury but it is a foundation for a self-reliant independent Bougainville,” he said.
The new Specialist Referral Hospital is envisioned to:
- Reduce dependence on outside referrals;
- Improve clinical outcomes across Bougainville;
- Attract and retain skilled medical specialists; and
- Serve as a national symbol of Bougainville’s readiness for statehood.
“We are not just building a hospital, we are building the backbone of a nation’s health sovereignty,” the Minister added.
Minister Lokonai congratulated PLANPAC PNG on being awarded the design contract and urged the company to ensure the final design reflects the realities and aspirations of Bougainville.
“Design with excellence, purpose and with the future of a new Bougainville,” he said.
In addition to the Arawa Specialist Referral Hospital project, the ABG Department of Health continues to make notable progress across the sector, including:
- Establishing Community Health Posts to improve accessibility in remote areas;
- Expanding training programs for health workers through strengthened partnerships;
- Ensuring consistent procurement and delivery of essential medical supplies; and
- Completing the functional and financial transition of Buka General Hospital to full ABG control—an important milestone under Bougainville’s autonomy arrangements.
Both the Minister and Secretary for Health acknowledged the continued support of the Bougainville Executive Council under the leadership of President Hon. Ishmael Toroama, particularly for the endorsement and allocation of K50 million for the Arawa hospital upgrade.
Also present to witness the contract signing of this high impact project included National Member for Central Bougainville Hon. Jimmy Miringtoro, ABG Member for South Nasioi Justin Bogia, ABG Member for Hon. Rodney Osioco and ABG Member for Central Veterans, Hon. Junior Dakei.
[ Back to News ]
