Thursday October 3, 2024
(l-r) Deputy Secretary for National Planning Mr Michael Kumung, Minister for ICT Hon. Timothy Masiu and Member for Kerowagi Hon. Francis Siune Kikin at the launch of the Kerowagi’s 5 Year Development Plan, at Kerowagi, Simbu Province, Thursday October 3, 2024.
Minister Hon. Timothy Masiu, representing Prime Minister Hon. James Marape, officiated several key initiatives in Kerowagi, Simbu Province on Thursday, October 3, 2024.
The launch ceremony celebrated the unveiling of Kerowagi District’s official website (www.kerowagi.gov.pg), the commissioning of the ALESCO Payroll System, and the introduction of the District’s comprehensive Five Year Development Plan.
Minister Masiu emphasized the importance of these initiatives in enhancing accessibility and transparency within Kerowagi.
“With the launch of the district’s official website, www.kerowagi.gov.pg, anyone from anywhere in the world can now easily access updates and insights about Kerowagi,” he noted.
He commended the proactive approach of local MP Hon. Francis Siune Kikin in providing educational resources through the distribution of e-learning materials to schools in the district.
“This initiative underscores Kerowagi’s commitment to investing in its youth and future human resource,” Minister Masiu remarked
Reflecting on recent cabinet-approved policies, Minister Masiu outlined the government’s commitment to digital governance and media development.
“ICT today is not merely about mobile phones; it has national development function, cross-cutting education, health, planning, agriculture, finance, and beyond,” he affirmed.
Hon. Francis Siune Kikin, Member for Kerowagi, expressed gratitude for governmental support in realizing these initiatives, and appreciates the shift towards rural investments for the benefit of local communities.
“With 80% of our people residing in rural Papua New Guinea, these efforts are crucial, and I appreciate our government for supporting me with this initiatives,” he emphasized,
Deputy Secretary for the Department of National Planning, Mr. Michael Kumung, urged closer collaboration between Kerowagi’s residents and leadership to foster inclusive growth.
He elaborated on the importance of interoperability in government, “now our systems are not talking to each other, and our public servants are not being assets to their sector.”
“Digitalizing government processes ensures seamless workflow across all sectors. The process is there, we have to be smart and just digitize the process,” he stated.
The launch ceremony also included the commissioning of Kerowagi’s Five Year Development Plan, accompanied by the rollout of e-learning tools, distribution of Coaster Buses to SME holders, and the presentation of cultural certification by the National Cultural Commission. These initiatives, aimed at promoting education, entrepreneurship, and cultural preservation, mark a significant stride towards comprehensive community development in Kerowagi.
Delegates at the event included Petrus Ralda, CEO of SME Corporation, who encouraged land development as a pivotal asset; Loyed Pirari from the National Development Bank, who highlighted business opportunities for local residents; and Steven Kilanda of the National Cultural Commission, who presented cultural show certification.