by Jack Lapauve Jr – EM TV, Port Moresby
The call by communities along the historic Kokoda Track for developments has sparked government’s attention.
Yesterday morning a government delegation led by Environment and Conservation Minister, John Pundari, flew into Kokoda for a community consultation meet.
Government response comes as village elders threaten to close the track.
The delegation included Northern Governor, Garry Juffa, Sohe MP and Community Development Minister, Delilah Gore, representatives from Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Central Provincial Government and other key stakeholders.
Upon their arrival, the different stakeholders were presented a copy of the petition each, outlining demands and landowner involvement in the Kokoda Initiative Ministerial Committee.
When addressing the locals, Environment Minister, John Pundari, said the big challenge now is for the people to sort out differences and work closely with the Kokoda Initiative Ministerial Committee (KIMC).
Pundari said, landowner demands will be discussed during KIMC and aligned with KIMC’s Master Plan in rolling out services.
The delegation travelled inland to attend to similar concerns by villages along the track.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=j_GTtCAajEo%3Ffeature%3Doembed%26wmode%3Dopaque%26showinfo%3D0%26showsearch%3D0%26rel%3D0
