WORK ON KIUNGA HOSPITAL DIAGNOSTIC CENTRE RESUMED

BY KENNY ROMANUS

THE long-anticipated Diagnostic Centre at Kiunga District Hospital in North Fly District is now on course for completion before the end of 2026, following renewed construction efforts and co-funding support from Ok Tedi Mining Limited.

North Fly MP and Deputy Opposition Leader James Donald said work on the project had progressed slower than expected after it commenced last year, mainly due to logistical difficulties and funding limitations. However, with OTML stepping in as a co-funding partner, Mr Donald said confidence has been restored and the project is now moving ahead steadily.

“We can now assure our people that the project is expected to be completed by the end of this year, 2026,” he said, while thanking OTML for its financial backing.

He emphasised that Western Province deserves access to modern diagnostic health services comparable to those available in other parts of Papua New Guinea.

The development involves two contractors. Wokman Telioks Limited(WTL) has been tasked with the infrastructure works, while Hospiline Company Limited is responsible for supplying and installing specialised diagnostic equipment.

WTL is expected to resume construction next week after completing procurement processes, with building materials already being transported to the site.

Meanwhile, Hospiline is organising the shipment of medical equipment and related materials from overseas, with supplies currently stationed in Egypt.

Upon completion, the Diagnostic Centre is expected to greatly enhance healthcare services in North Fly and across Western Province.

Mr Donald also expressed optimism that, in the long term, the facility could transform Kiunga into a regional health hub, attracting patients from throughout the province and potentially other parts of the country due to its advanced diagnostic capabilities.

The Kiunga District Hospital Diagnostic Centre is set to become one of the most modern facilities in the region.