By ZEBEDEE KUMPIO
A major milestone in the healthcare landscape of the National Capital District (NCD) was reached with the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the Gerehu Level 5 Provincial Specialist Hospital today.
The ceremony, held at once a notorious Port Moresby’s Tete Settlement, Gerehu, was officiated by NCD Governor Hon. Powes Parkop, with Health Minister Hon. Elias Kapavore delivering the keynote address.
The event, which attracted high-profile dignitaries, included Health Secretary Dr. Osbore Liko and senior officials from the Department of Health, local leaders, community representatives, and residents also gathered to witness this important occasion, which marks a significant step in improving healthcare services for Port Moresby and surrounding regions.
In his keynote address, Minister Kapavore emphasized the government’s commitment to improving healthcare access.
“Health is a fundamental right, and everyone should have access to the health services they need. Today’s event reinforces the government’s commitment to improving healthcare access for all,” said Kapavore.
He added that the new hospital would not only serve NCD but also the Central and Gulf regions, providing essential services such as radiology, cancer treatment, pathology, and birthing facilities with a 200-bed capacity.
“This groundbreaking represents a new era of health services for the people of the National Capital District, Central, and Gulf regions.
The Specialist Hospital will provide vital services, including radiology, cancer treatment, birthing services, pathology, and more,” Kapavore said.
“These services are critical and very much needed by our communities.”
Minister Kapavore further noted that the new hospital would leasen overcrowding at Port Moresby General Hospital.
“The establishment of this hospital at Tete in Gerehu will alleviate the overcrowding at Port Moresby General Hospital, enabling it to focus on its role as the National Referral and Teaching Hospital,” he said.
He also highlighted that all foundational work has been completed, with the land secured and the Provincial Health Services Plan in place.
Minister Kapavore said the clinical service plan is being finalized to confirm the hospital’s capacity.
“It is vital that we all collaborate to ensure the hospital’s success. Ownership of the hospital sits with the NCDPHA, who will work with key stakeholders, including NCDC, to establish a Project Steering Committee and ensure compliance with the National Health Service Standards,” he explained.
Scheduled to be built on Portion 3530 in Tete, the new Gerehu Level 5 Hospital will be a state-of-the-art facility designed to provide comprehensive healthcare services, including advanced diagnostics, treatment, and specialist care.
Governor Parkop, who initiated the project, highlighted the long-term benefits of the hospital for NCD and the wider population.
“This hospital will serve as a beacon of hope for our people, offering top-tier healthcare right here in Gerehu. It will cater to specialist medical needs and become a central hub for provincial health services, ensuring no one is left behind in receiving essential medical care,” he stated.
Hon. Parkop thanked the Marape-Rosso government for supporting this project and providing the funding and necessary support needed.
