Thursday 23 December 2021

Prime Minister, James Marape has highlighted one of the many challenges faced by the Government in 2021,  is  that of the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

In his Christmas Message to the nation, Mr Marape reflected on the challenges faced  by the country, in  which, the COVID-19 pandemic  is among those  , which has caused deaths globally and  in  country.

He added the challenges this year have been unprecedented for families, communities, countries and the global community.

“My government is not alone in the fight to protect our people from this deadly virus – we had support from the PNG business houses, donor partners, bilateral and multilateral partners, United Nation, etc. who provided advice, medical and financial assistance and we are humbled by this gesture,” said Prime Minister Marape.

Mr Marape expressed his sincere gratitude  on behalf of government,   to everyone  who gave assistance during this crucial time.

He  admits, the healthcare system in the country is at the brink of collapsing, and has been neglected for far too long.

The government in the 2022 Budget ,has allocated K876, 290 million to the Department of Health and of that total, K518, 900 million is for the investment budget

This makes up 11 per cent of next year’s budget, which is the biggest allocation since independence.

“Health is our people’s fundamental right, and that is why we give you a greater increase to improve the total deficiency and inherent weaknesses that we inherited in our healthcare system

He has made a commitment that COVID-19, which exposed the weakness of the country’s health system, be used as an example to  improve  the current  healthcare system and facilities for Papua New Guineans..

“Tthrough the 2022 Budget appropriation, National Government has allocated funds for the construction of modern general hospitals for the 21 provinces and the Special Region of Bougainville”, Prime Minister Marape added.

Prime Minister Marape reiterated that by truly giving back to the people, it must be shown through an improved healthcare system and facilities right across the country.