THE GUARDIAN OF ENGA’S HEALTHCARE
THE GUARDIAN OF ENGA’S HEALTHCARE
Equipped to deliver high-quality healthcare throughout the Enga province of Papua New Guinea, the Enga Provincial Health Authority goes above and beyond to reach the area’s most hard-to-access regions. Vincent Pyakalyia, CEO, shares more
Writer: Lucy Pilgrim | Project Manager: Harry Thurlow
The healthcare industry in Papua New Guinea (PNG) is full of potential having addressed significant challenges, particularly in the Enga province.
Although several hurdles remain, including delayed or limited government funding and workforce shortages, promising developments are on the horizon to ensure critical healthcare reaches even the most remote districts.
Prepared to fulfil its founding mission, the Enga Provincial Health Authority (Enga PHA) is a decentralised government body responsible for managing and coordinating all public health services in the region.
PHAs were first enacted in PNG in 2007 under the PHA Act, a legislative framework established by the government to integrate and streamline local health
service delivery.
Enga PHA was established in June 2013 with a mission to bring healthcare decision-making closer to the rural communities it serves, ensuring care is responsive, accessible, and aligned with local needs and priorities.
“Prior to the introduction of PHAs, our healthcare system was quite rigid and centralised. All public health was primarily managed by the provincial governments, which meant funding across the country was limited as adjacent public services also needed to be managed,” introduces Vincent Pyakalyia, CEO of Enga PHA.
Consequently, healthcare lacked the necessary variability to effectively reach rural districts due to a disconnect between the primary curative health services and public health outreach.
Nowadays, following the implementation of PHAs, the authority provides both curative and public health services through government support. This streamlines health service delivery, ensures better coordination between national and provincial health efforts, and enhances access to quality healthcare for the people of the Enga province.
BALANCING THE NEEDS OF GOVERNMENT AND PEOPLE
Enga PHA has a primary obligation
to ensure that health services are delivered on behalf of the provincial government as it continues to work towards building a more resilient and responsive health system through improved infrastructure, staff training, and data-driven decision-making.
The authority’s key services encompass inpatient and outpatient care, maternal and child health, immunisation programmes, disease prevention, and emergency medical response.
OVERCOMING WORKFORCE OBSTACLES
Despite recent developments, the current PNG health system is hindered by a limited workforce, leading to insufficient staff numbers to provide services to their full potential.
Consequently, the authority is dedicated to retaining and developing health workers to the best of its ability.
“At Enga PHA, staff members are the backbone of service delivery, spanning from frontline clinicians to support personnel. Recognising their dedication is essential to maintaining a motivated and high-performing workforce,” Pyakalyia notes.
Employee empowerment begins with continuous learning and professional development, ensuring they possess the necessary skills and confidence to deliver highquality care.
Additionally, recognition is provided both formally and informally through regular staff awards, acknowledging exceptional performance, and celebrating milestones, all of which contribute to a culture of appreciation.
“Most importantly, actively listening to staff feedback and acting on their insights demonstrates that their voices matter and contributions are valued.”
Based in Wabag, the provincial capital, Enga PHA also functions across five additional local districts –specifically Wapenamanda, Lagaip, Porgera-Paiela, Kompiam-Ambum, and Kandep – serving a population of around 571,000.
“With a workforce of almost 1,340, the authority employs a diverse team of healthcare professionals and support staff to meet the province’s health needs,” Pyakalyia outlines.
Through direct government funding, the authority has been able to expand its services and partnerships with stakeholders, which has subsequently enabled Enga PHA to establish its own healthcare delivery programme.
“Working on behalf of the provincial government gives us the economy and autonomy to drive and manage our people as a technical advisory body to the Department of Health, granting us the power to manage health in the province according to the needs of our people,” he explains.
“AS A FLAGSHIP FACILITY, ENGA PROVINCIAL HOSPITAL SIGNIFICANTLY DIFFERENTIATES ENGA PHA FROM OTHERS BY POSITIONING IT AS A NATIONAL LEADER IN HEALTHCARE INNOVATION AND SERVICE DELIVERY”
– VINCENT PYAKALYIA, CEO, ENGA
PROVINCIAL HEALTH
AUTHORITY
Enga PHA also has the opportunity to connect with development partners and organisations such as the World Health Organisation (WHO), UNICEF, and other institutions in the health sector.
The authority works directly with these partners to seek support, whether that involves funding for training or donations of equipment, appliances, and medicines.
“The evolution of Enga PHA reflects a commitment to providing equitable, effective, and sustainable health services for all,” Pyakalyia states.
A LANDMARK HEALTH FACILITY
A notable development under the authority’s management is Enga Provincial Hospital – a modern, 300-bed facility featuring state-ofthe-art technology and sustainable infrastructure to enhance health delivery in the region and meet international standards.
The hospital, which opened in March 2025, marks a groundbreaking development in PNG’s healthcare landscape, particularly as it is the country’s first purposebuilt greenfield facility since gaining independence in 1975.
Introduction
BP Home Centre Ltd is a locally registered company operating in Papua New Guinea, specifically established to cater to the growing demands for building and hardware materials.
Founded in Wabag, Enga Province, the company focuses on supplying and delivering high-quality
BP Group of companies:
BP Building & Hardware
Suppliers Limited
BP Home Centre Limited
BP Freighters Limited
BP Restaurant Limited
construction supplies to contractors and builders across the Highlands region. Committed to integrity, transparency, and customer satisfaction, BP Home Centre and BP Building and Hardware Supplies Ltd is well-positioned to contribute significantly to the nation’s development efforts.
Current Market Position
BP Home Centre Ltd is strategically located in Wabag, allowing it to serve clients efficiently within the Enga Province and surrounding areas. The company operates in a market characterized by increasing demands for construction materials due to ongoing infrastructure development in Papua New Guinea. The experienced management team and dedicated staff provide a competitive advantage by delivering timely and reliable services
Financial Outlook
With a single director holding 100 percent shareholding, BP Home Centre Ltd is agile in decision-making and can swiftly adapt to market changes. The company’s partnership with Bank South Pacific ensures
robust financial management and operational efficiency. As construction activities in Papua New Guinea increase, the company anticipates steady revenue growth in the coming years.
Health and Safety Commitment
BP Home Centre and BP Building & Hardware Supplies Ltd prioritizes the health and safety of its employees. An Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) framework ensures a safe working environment, and personal protection equipment is provided to all staff. This commitment not only enhances employee satisfaction but also elevates the company’s reputation in the industry.
Strategic Goals
To solidify its market position, BP Home
Centre and BP Building & Hardware Supplies Ltd will focus on the following strategic goals:
Expand Product Range
Identify and introduce additional products that meet emerging market demands.
Enhance Supply Chain Efficiency
Streamline logistics and procurement processes to reduce costs and improve delivery times. Strengthen Customer Relationships
Develop personalized engagement strategies to understand client needs better and enhance service delivery.
Investment in Technology
Leverage technology for inventory management and sales tracking to optimize operations.
SERVICES OFFERED
• The core business of BP Groups of Companies encompasses:
• General Hardware Materials
• A diverse selection of tools and equipment essential for construction projects.
• Building Construction Materials
• Quality supply of materials required for residential and commercial construction.
• Plumbing Materials
• Comprehensive range of plumbing supplies tailored for all project sizes, from small repairs to large installations.
Home Good White goods and small appliance sole suppliers based in Wabag, Enga Province.
Restaurant
Provide a competitive restaurant in Wabag second to none. Freighters
We provide best and competitive freighters services to colleague business house and individuals business owners in the highlands of Papua New Guinea.
I)Challenges
Market Competition
There is a growing number of competitors in the hardware supply sector, necessitating continuous improvement in service and product offerings.
Supply Chain
Disruptions
Fluctuating availability of materials and shipping delays could impact operations.
ii) Opportunities
Infrastructure Development
The ongoing government push towards infrastructure development presents substantial opportunities forsupply contracts.
Partnerships with Contractors
Building strategic partnerships with contractors and project developers can enhance market presence and customer base.
Conclusion
BP Group of Companies are poised for growth and success in Papua New Guinea’s construction sector. With a strong commitment to customer satisfaction, operational efficiency, and employee safety, the companies are well-prepared to meet the diverse needs of its clients while contributing to the nation’s development ambitions. By continuously aligning its objectives with market demands and leveraging its competitive advantages, BP Home Centre and BP Building and Hardware Supplies
Ltd aims to establish itself as a leading supplier of building and hardware materials within the region, going forward. This company outlook aims to inform stakeholders about BP Building & Hardware Supplies Ltd.’s vision, operational strengths, and growth potential. All interested parties are encouraged to explore partnership opportunities and engage with the company as it takes steps toward fulfilling its strategic goals.
bpgroup04@gmail.com
www.bpgroupcompanies.com
“As a flagship facility, Enga Provincial Hospital significantly differentiates Enga PHA from others by positioning it as a national leader in healthcare innovation and service delivery,” Pyakalyia highlights.
With advanced diagnostic and surgical units, along with specialised services such as maternal and neonatal care, the hospital not only enhances clinical capabilities but also reinforces the authority’s commitment to delivering healthcare in rural settings.
In addition,, Enga PHA is fortunate to have strong political support, as the province’s Governor, Sir Peter Ipatas, GCL, KBE, MP, is wellrespected and one of the longestserving members of parliament in PNG.
“He’s a very practical person, and
this hospital is the culmination of one of his visions. It’s not going to be an easy project, but we’re all committed to getting it done.”
Enga Provincial Hospital showcases the authority’s strategic vision, robust governance, and capacity to attract top-tier partnerships and investments – elements that distinguish it from other PHAs in the country.
“It serves as a benchmark for future healthcare infrastructure projects in PNG,” Pyakalyia boasts.
FACILITATING VITAL HEALTHCARE PROCEDURES
One area of care Enga PHA aims to advance at Enga Provincial Hospital is endoscopic surgery, following the department’s earlier closure due to insufficient technology and equipment.
“Given many people come from quite remote areas for surgeries, patients often remain in the hospital for extended periods. Sometimes that’s not economical, so we aim to shorten their stay, and the new endoscopic approach will provide us that opportunity,” Pyakalyia explains.
Enga PHA also aims to introduce robotic surgery at the hospital and across the province, helping to enhance the hospital’s visibility and promote it as a distinctive facility.
The authority aims to meet the needs of the local community by ensuring adequate outreach and proactive healthcare.
“Endoscopic surgery has come a long way since it was first rolled out here, so I think PNG is in a better position to implement something
ENGA PHA’S ESG PRACTICES
The authority actively engages in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices that align with its mission of sustainably delivering quality healthcare. These include:
ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVES
Enga PHA is involved in the Strengthening Integrated Sustainable Landscape Management (SISLaM) project in the province, established by the UNDP. This initiative tackles environmental challenges such as land degradation, deforestation, biodiversity loss, and climate change.
Through SISLaM, over 10,000 farmers have been trained in eco-friendly agricultural practices, whilst sustainable management procedures have been introduced across 20,000 hectares of agricultural, forest, and pastoral ecosystems.
SOCIAL PROGRAMMES
In collaboration with significant development institutions, Enga PHA has conducted province-wide immunisation campaigns to protect children from preventable diseases and organised mental health awareness weeks that include workshops and seminars aimed at promoting better mental health and well-being.
GOVERNANCE PRACTICES
Operating within a structured governance framework, Enga PHA has a Board of Governance that ensures effective oversight and strategic direction for the authority.
like this compared to previous years, so that’s where we’ll start,” he states.
Elsewhere, Enga PHA will dedicate considerable time to refurbishing all six district hospitals to support the outreach of Enga Provincial Hospital, deploying skilled staff throughout the province.
This will be further compounded by the introduction of aid posts –smaller health centres that provide specialist care to more rural areas –and partnerships with church health providers, ensuring individuals in harder-to-reach areas can still receive care.
LEVERAGING INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY
In line with the upward technological trajectory of PNG’s healthcare sector, Enga PHA is investing in innovative
solutions, such as delivering medical supplies by drone to remote areas.
“Drones can easily pick up and drop off supplies in certain locations, so this is probably our biggest innovation that will change how we provide our services to remote areas,” Pyakalyia comments.
Through its partnership with the UN Development Programme (UNDP), the authority also has the opportunity to deploy Starlink across the province to address logistical barriers.
Indeed, the satellite constellation provides better access to information for remote health centres and assists hospitals in engaging in virtual teaching, ultimately having farreaching impacts.
Elsewhere, Enga PHA has recently set up a fuel depot and vehicle maintenance workshop to tackle some of its major expenses and geographical challenges.
For instance, the authority relies heavily on the regular supply of fuel to operate in areas with limited power availability, which consumes a significant portion of its operational budget.
QUALITY Matters
Our mission is to develop and set the benchmark for doing business in Papua New Guinea and abroad, guided by Christian values and principles.
The Mobo Group of Company Limited (MGCL) was incorporated by its directors, and registered with the PNG Investment Promotion Authority (PNGIPA) in 2006. The initial original core business of the company was the provision of medical health care services to the remote rural masse populace and the urban disadvantage; however since then, the
company had business expansion and subsequently established its subsidiaries. Our goal is to provide outstanding service delivery to our customers. MGCL is backed by our multifunctional team of highly qualified personnel both at Strategic Management and Operational levels. MGCL believes in its capabilities to deliver services beyond clients’ expectations.
Mobo is a leading PRIMARY HEALTH CARE SERVICE PROVIDER, together with its complimentary Pharmaceutical services providing basic primary health care to the rural populace and the urban disadvantaged. We are based in Gerehu Stage three (3), serving the urban disadvantaged; having served in the remotest places in KIKORI DISTRICT hospital, KAPUNA rural hospital, TINSLEY Baptist rural hospital, in MUL BAIYER electorate, LUMUSA health center, UGINI aid posts, etc.…Our Vision is to be the Primary Health Care Service Provider of Choice for Private Public Partnership (PPP) with the National Government, Provincial Governments, Faith Based Organizations, and Non-Government Organizations, in the delivery of basic primary health care service to the people.
Our Mission
Develop and set the benchmark for doing business in Papua New Guinea and abroad guided by Christian values and principles.
Our Vision
To do quality business using biblical principles: “be fruitful, multiply, replenish, subdue, and have dominion”: genesis 1: 28
Phone: +675 3401238 | mpl@mobogroup.com.pg | https://mobopng.com
However, due to Pyakalyia’s previous experience, he can access a main supplier, thereby sufficiently supplying a comprehensive fuel depot.
Furthermore, the establishment of a vehicle maintenance workshop enables Enga PHA to avoid outsourcing fleet maintenance services, utilising its team of mechanics and ultimately reducing costs.
STREAMLINING THE SUPPLY CHAIN
Most of Enga PHA’s medical and pharmaceutical supplies provided by the government are transported from Mount Hagen, the capital of the neighbouring Western Highlands province, and travel by truck.
“As a result, partner and supplier relationships are paramount for timely and quality distribution,” Pyakalyia attests.
Enga PHA has also engaged with Australian healthcare expert Dr. Grant Muddle, ML, to assist in
459 K
799 K 1,658 K
2,592 K 6,006 K
sourcing high-quality, fit-for-purpose equipment for Enga Provincial Hospital.
“Employed by the Enga Provincial Government, Muddle brings decades of international experience and deep knowledge of the latest healthcare technologies and medical equipment. His global network of trusted
suppliers has enabled us to source equipment at highly competitive prices,” he explains.
In a resource-constrained environment, this procurement model ensures the authority receives the best value for money.
Beyond cost and quality, Muddle’s expertise and experience have helped
to streamline and standardise the equipment used across Enga PHA.
This has led to simpler training for clinical and biomedical teams, easier access to spare parts, and improved efficiency in equipment maintenance and repairs.
“Ultimately, this has enabled us to build a more innovative, sustainable procurement model, supporting better patient care and more efficient resource management across the entire health network,” Pyakalyia concludes.
Tel: +675 7386 3177
www.linkedin.com/company/engaprovincial-health-authority/
