By ORCHY REX
The president of the Papua New Guinea Nurses Association (PNGNA), Frederick Goddard Kebai, has urged the government and stakeholders to prioritize the welfare, safety, and professional development of nurses in PNG.
In his 50th Independence Anniversary message, Mr. Kebai extended heartfelt greetings to all nurses, acknowledging their critical role in the country’s health system.
“From the busiest urban hospitals to the most remote rural health posts, your dedication, resilience, and commitment to excellence are the backbone of our healthcare system,” he said.
Mr Kebai reminded members that the association, established in 1972, has stood as a beacon of solidarity for more than five decades.
“This Independence Day is not only a celebration of our nation’s freedom but also a powerful reminder of how we, as a profession and a union, have stood united since our establishment,” he said.
The PNGNA president highlighted major milestones achieved under the union’s leadership, including:
• The introduction of insurance cover for all nurses.
• The establishment of the PNG Nurses Savings and Loan Society.
• The successful signing of the 2025–2027 Industrial Award, which will deliver improved conditions and wages.
“For the first time in our history, every nurse is now protected through a dedicated insurance scheme. This is more than a benefit, it is recognition of the value and risks of the noble work you do every day,” he announced.
He added that the industrial award, once implemented, would cost the state about K22 million. “We request that this award be implemented during the Independence celebrations, or before the end of September. If it delays for a year or two, it will cost a lot more for the government,” Mr Kebai said.
Looking to the next 50 years, he called for affordable and accessible housing for nurses, competitive wages, and modernization of nursing education to meet the evolving healthcare landscape.
“We want a stronger focus on workplace safety, mental health, and well-being of our nurses across all levels of health facilities.”
Mr Kebai appealed for government accountability in upgrading hospitals and health facilities across the country.
“We will continue to advocate to ensure the government builds state-of-the-art hospitals where nurses can work safely without risking their lives.”.
He condemned recent attacks against health workers in East Sepik Province, including the robbery of a doctor and the harassment of nurses by armed locals.
“If this behavior continues, we will not hesitate to withdraw all our nurses at ESP PHA,” he cautioned, while also urging police and community leaders to intervene.
“Nurses and doctors provide essential service 24 hours, seven days a week. They must be respected. Criminals, if they end up in an accident, will always run to the hospital and the first people they meet are nurses.
“We have pledged to serve humanity, especially the sick. We must change our attitude and approach to the service we deliver, and let’s ensure we provide quality healthcare to our people,” Mr Kebai said.