By KC Maderia
The World Health Organisation’s (WHO) ongoing partnership with the Government of Papua New Guinea (PNG), the National Department of Health (NDoH), Provincial Health Authorities (PHAs), the Australian Government, development partners and PNG communities was highlighted during Dr Saia Ma’u Piukala’s, WHO regional director, week-long visit to PNG from June 1 to 8 2025.
High-level talks with important stakeholders, such as the Australian High Commissioner and the Health Minister, were held by the Regional Director during the visit.
These talks reaffirmed how crucial multi sectoral cooperation is for tackling public health issues, such as the ongoing polio outbreak response, for which WHO has been collaborating closely with NDoH and partners to create a thorough response strategy, according to a media statement issued by WHO.
To close financial shortfalls, this entails repurposing internal resources and bolstering routine vaccination.
Signing of DFAT–WHO–NDoH Partnership
During the visit, the DFAT–WHO–NDoH Partnership (2025–2028) was formally launched, marking a key milestone in regional health collaboration.
This strategic effort aims to improve primary health care, strengthen health systems and increase emergency preparedness in the country.
The launch ceremony, which Health Minister Hon WHO representative to PNG Dr Sevil Huseynova, WHO regional director Dr Saia Ma’u Piukala, Australian High Commissioner HE Ewen McDonald and WHO regional director Elias Kapavore reaffirmed an internationally supported partnership that is strongly aligned with WHO’s Country Cooperation Strategy 2024-2028 and PNG’s National Health Plan 2021-2030.
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Dr Piukala goes to Milne Bay Province
Meanwhile, the trip to Milne Bay Province, one of the provinces designated for primary health care (PHC) intensification by the regional director, was a noteworthy feature of the visit.
The chief executive officer of the Milne Bay Provincial Health Authority, Dr Perista Mamadi, met with Dr Piukala to talk about ways to reach island and distant communities.
The East Cape Health Centre, Lelehudi Health Post, Alotau Provincial Hospital and the Gadudu Community Malaria Volunteer Site were among the sites visited.
The training of Village Health Assistants, the integration of maternal health care, community-based disease surveillance and frontline workforce development were among the WHO-supported projects highlighted in these engagements.
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