TEKIPO 2 VILLAGERS IN NIPA USE MANUAL LABOUR TO BUILD NEW ROAD

CAPTION: Local villagers work tirelessly using manual labour to clear and establish a road corridor linking Montenda to Tongolo Village in Nipa, Southern Highlands Province.

BY JOE REMA

THE spirit of self-reliance is alive and well in Tekipo 2 Council Ward in the Upper Plateau of the Nipa–Kutubu electorate, where villagers have taken it upon themselves to open up a vital road link long overdue for their communities.

For years, the lack of basic services — including reliable roads, accessible healthcare and quality education — has hindered development and limited opportunities for people living in the area.

Now, a new chapter is unfolding, and with determination and unity, local villagers are working tirelessly using manual labour to clear and establish a road corridor linking Montenda to Tongolo Village.

The initiative is more than just a construction effort — it reflects resilience, ownership and a shared vision for a better future.

Once completed, the road will extend across the challenging Tira Range to Wara Wagi, providing a critical connection for surrounding communities.

The road is expected to improve the delivery of medical supplies, enhance access to health services, and enable school children to travel more safely. It will also connect the IP Wais communities with other council wards within the Nipa–Kutubu electorate.

Community leaders say the project represents a lifeline for people who have long been isolated due to difficult terrain and lack of infrastructure.

The progress has also been supported by the Nipa–Kutubu District Development Authority (NKDDA) under the leadership of Dr Billy William M. Joseph.

His support towards the initial phase of the project has boosted community morale and reinforced the importance of inclusive development.
Villagers have welcomed the recognition of the challenges faced by those living beyond the Tira Range, saying such leadership helps transform grassroots efforts into meaningful progress.

They reaffirmed their commitment to continue working in partnership with leaders to ensure no community, no matter how remote, is left behind.

The Montenda–Tongolo–Wara Wagi road project stands as a clear example of development driven by the people, for the people.