By Mickey Kavera – EM TV, Port Moresby
Daroakomana Village in Rigo district, Central province, recently switched on its own solar farm project.
The project was an initiative of the Office of Climate Change and Development (OCCD) to provide clean, renewable power supply to rural communities in the country.
The village has a population of over 200 people who have never had power supply. The initiative marks the first time they have received light. Ward Councillor Roger Kie was ecstatic about the much-needed service, saying his people have never seen light before.
“Since the time of our ancient, we have never seen light and other government services. Our village is the last village in Rigo district and is often neglected.
“I am happy that the Office of Climate Change and Development has chosen our village to pilot this project,” he said.
OCCD Executive Director Varigini Badira says OCCD will partner with the provincial government to extend the service to other centres. He said the impact of climate change is real and can’t be ignored, as such efforts must be taken at all levels to work towards a greener society.
The villagers will be trained to maintain the solar farm, with help from the OCCD.
