Government News

Biography for Sir Peter Ipatas – Prime Ministerial Candidate.

Sir Peter Ipatas GCL, KBE, MP, is one of Papua New Guinea’s most seasoned and visionary political leaders. Serving as the Governor of Enga Province since 1997, he holds the distinction of being the longest-serving governor in the country’s history — a testament to his enduring popularity, stability, and effective leadership.

Widely known as the "Action Governor," Sir Peter is nationally recognized for his groundbreaking policies, particularly in education. He pioneered PNG’s first Free Education Program in Enga long before it became national policy — a bold move that transformed access to schooling for thousands of rural children and set a new standard for public service delivery.

Under his stewardship, Enga Province has become a model of rural development. He spearheaded major infrastructure projects including the state-of-the-art Enga Provincial Hospital (completed in 2022), the Enga Teachers College, Enga College of Nursing, and the Enga University of Goroka campus. These institutions now serve as national training grounds for the country’s future professionals.

A founding member and current leader of the People’s Party, Sir Peter Ipatas has built his political career on principles of equity, service delivery, and decentralization. He is a unifying figure who understands the need for inclusive development and strong leadership at the national level.

Knighted as a Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE) and awarded the Grand Companion of the Order of Logohu (GCL), Sir Peter’s contribution to nation-building has been formally recognized at the highest levels.

Now stepping forward as a candidate for Prime Minister, Sir Peter Ipatas brings with him not only decades of political and administrative experience but a proven vision for a more united, educated, and self-reliant Papua New Guinea. His leadership promises a results-driven government that empowers provinces, builds human capital, and puts people first. 

Enga Provincial Hospital Opening Ceremony on March 31, 2025, Led by Prime Minister James Marape and Sir Peter Ipatas.

Date: March 31, 2025

The Enga Provincial Hospital will officially open its doors on March 31, 2025, in a grand ceremony led by Prime Minister James Marape and other high-ranking officials. This significant event marks a new era for healthcare in Enga Province and the broader Papua New Guinea Highlands. With state-of-the-art medical facilities, this hospital is set to transform healthcare services and improve access to quality medical care for thousands of residents in Enga and surrounding regions.

Enga Provincial Hospital: A New Milestone for Healthcare in PNG

The opening of the Enga Provincial Hospital is a crucial step in addressing the long-standing healthcare challenges faced by residents of Enga Province, one of the most remote areas of Papua New Guinea. With limited access to healthcare in the past, many people had to travel long distances to receive medical treatment, often facing hardships in doing so.

The new hospital will provide essential health services including emergency care, maternal and child health services, surgical procedures, and specialized treatment. The facility is designed to serve not just the people of Enga Province, but also those from surrounding provinces in need of medical attention.

Prime Minister James Marape to Lead the Hospital Opening

The opening ceremony of the Enga Provincial Hospital will be officiated by Prime Minister James Marape, who has been a strong advocate for healthcare reforms and infrastructure development in Papua New Guinea. As part of his government's efforts to improve healthcare access for all Papua New Guineans, the hospital symbolizes a step forward in the nation’s healthcare development.

Prime Minister Marape will underscore the importance of improving healthcare infrastructure in rural areas and highlight the government's commitment to providing affordable healthcare services for all citizens. His address will focus on the hospital’s impact on the people of Enga Province, as well as the potential benefits for neighboring communities.

High-Level Delegation at the Enga Provincial Hospital Opening

A distinguished group of government officials and healthcare leaders will join Prime Minister Marape at the ceremony. Key members from the National Department of Health, the Ministry of Health, and other government representatives will be in attendance to celebrate the opening of this important healthcare facility.

This event highlights the collaborative efforts of national and provincial governments to enhance healthcare services in Papua New Guinea, particularly in rural and underserved areas like Enga.

Enga Provincial Hospital: Boosting Local Healthcare and Economy

The opening of the Enga Provincial Hospital represents a new chapter in the region's healthcare journey. The hospital will not only provide medical treatment but also offer job opportunities for local residents, including positions in healthcare, administration, and support roles. This project will contribute to the local economy, creating sustainable livelihoods and fostering economic growth in the region.

Additionally, the hospital’s world-class medical facilities will set a new standard for healthcare in the Highlands, offering hope for better health outcomes in the years to come.

Looking Forward: Future Healthcare Developments in Papua New Guinea

As the Enga Provincial Hospital opens its doors, it is expected to pave the way for similar healthcare projects in other regions of Papua New Guinea. The hospital is part of a larger healthcare development plan aimed at improving healthcare access across the country, with a focus on rural areas.

The government’s commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure is clear, and with the successful opening of this hospital, the people of Enga Province will have better access to essential health services, reducing the burden of healthcare inequality in the Highlands region.

Conclusion: 

Enga Provincial Hospital and the Future of Healthcare in PNG

The grand opening of the Enga Provincial Hospital on March 31, 2025, will be a transformative moment for healthcare in Papua New Guinea. Led by Prime Minister James Marape, this significant event represents the government's commitment to improving the health and well-being of Papua New Guineans, especially those in remote and underserved regions.

With modern healthcare facilities, improved medical access, and opportunities for local economic growth, the Enga Provincial Hospital is set to become a cornerstone of healthcare development in the Highlands region and beyond.