The ongoing deterioration of the access road to the Goldie River Training Depot has exposed deeper coordination challenges within government agencies, with Defence Minister Billy Joseph making it clear that responsibility lies outside his department.
Speaking in Parliament, Dr. Joseph responded to mounting concerns raised by Keith Iduhu, who questioned the lack of progress despite K20 million being allocated over four years for the 7-kilometre road linking Laloki to the military barracks.
The Minister stressed that while the state of the road directly affects military operations and welfare, the project is entirely under the jurisdiction of the Department of Works and Highways. He noted that Defence neither awards contracts nor oversees implementation, effectively distancing his department from accountability over the stalled infrastructure.
“The condition of the road is unacceptable, but the process from funding to constructionis managed elsewhere,” he told Parliament, pointing to what appears to be a disconnect between funding approvals and onground delivery.
Beyond infrastructure, the discussion also brought to light broader welfare concerns at the depot. Iduhu highlighted critical shortages in medical supplies and the absence of reliable ambulance services for personnel and their families—issues the Minister did not dismiss.
Dr. Joseph acknowledged the gaps, describing them as part of longstanding systemic weaknesses within Defence health services. Drawing from his medical background, he underscored the urgency of improving frontline healthcare support for soldiers.
In response, the government has initiated the procurement of four ambulances to be distributed across key locations, including Goldie River, as part of efforts to strengthen emergency response capacity within the force.
While reaffirming Defence’s commitment to improving living conditions and operational readiness, the Minister signaled the need for stronger inter-agency coordination—particularly with Works and Highways—to ensure that critical infrastructure projects translate from budget allocations into tangible outcomes.
The exchange in Parliament highlights growing scrutiny over public expenditure effectiveness, especially where essential services for security forces are concerned.