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Enga PHA Recommissions the new wing, of the Laiagam District Hospital: A New Chapter for Rural Health in the Highlands Region

Laiagam, Enga Province | [17th July, 2025] — The Enga Provincial Health Authority (EPHA) is proud to announce recommissioning of the new wing of the Laiagam District Hospital, a significant milestone in its ongoing commitment to deliver high quality, accessible healthcare across Enga Province.

The event was officiated by Grand Chief Sir Peter Ipatas, with support from Enga PHA CEO Dr Vincent Pyakalyia, and attended by health partners including International SOS, Provincial Decision Makers, and other Sub-Contractors. Also of note is the significant contribution to the cost of the facility from the District Development Authority (DDA) of 4 million Kina, a worthwhile cost sharing initiative that has promoted the overall success of this key health facility.

“This recommissioning marks more than the reopening of long-awaited hospital services — it represents a strategic leap forward in how we design, staff and sustain rural health services in Enga,” said Dr Pyakalyia.

The upgraded facility is part of a broader health transformation effort being led by Enga PHA, with a focus on innovation, collaboration, and sustainability. The recommissioned hospital wing will deliver improved inpatient and outpatient services, emergency care, maternal health, and community outreach. The new facility also includes a fully resourced operating theatre, recovery bay, medical imaging (X-Ray and ultrasound), medical laboratory services, sterilization unit, accident and emergency department, and pathology laboratory.

Key elements of EPHA’s approach include:

·        Engagement of overseas medical professionals to support service delivery and address local staffing shortages;

·        Partnership with NGOs and technical providers, including International SOS, to maintain high-quality medical supply chains and equipment;

·        Development of local health workforce pathways, ensuring long-term provincial capacity and employment for Engan youth.

“We thank our partners, including the Asian Development Bank (ADB), and the Australian Government, for their ongoing support,” said Dr Pyakalyia. “Enga Province is demonstrating that rural health reform is possible — and that locally driven solutions, backed by strategic partnerships, can deliver real results.”

The Enga PHA remains committed to transforming the health landscape of the province, and will continue working with all stakeholders to strengthen healthcare access, equity, and resilience.

Hon. Elias Kapavore, Minister for Health also commented, “I commend the Enga Provincial Health Authority for its leadership and innovation in delivering this critical infrastructure, which will bring lifesaving services closer to the people of Laiagam and surrounding communities. The Government of Papua New Guinea remains committed to supporting rural health development. This project is one of many and sets a strong example for other provinces to follow.”

The Laiagam District Hospital development is proudly funded and supported by the ADB thorough the Health Services Sector Development Program (HSSDP), with funding support by the Australian Government and technical inputs from the PNG – Australia Transition to Health (PATH) bilateral health program.

Media Contact:

Enga Provincial Health Authority

📧 vincent.pyakalyia@engapha.gov.pg

📞 +675 7142 6306