Milestone for Climate-Smart Social Services and Infrastructure in Rigo District

PORT MORESBY, 15 August 2025 – The rural community of Kemabolo in Rigo District has taken a major step towards a climate-resilient future this week with the launch of a KOICA-supported social services and infrastructure program that will deliver clean water, improve education and health, and strengthen protection services for children.

The program implemented by UNICEF in partnership with the Central Provincial Government, Rigo District Administration, Climate Change and Development Authority (CCDA), and the Department of National Planning and Monitoring — will directly reach 30,000 people, including 12,000 children and improve health and education outcomes for nearly 450,000 across the country.

At the heart of the launch, which took place on Wednesday, was the commissioning of a solar-powered water supply system, aiming to deliver safe, reliable water from boreholes to all 250 households in Kemabolo. The system will also supply schools and health facilities, reducing the community’s vulnerability to worsening droughts and floods. 

“The Government of Korea has donated money through UNICEF to upgrade the living condition of this village, and I know this project will be a success,” said H.E. Jong Ho Choi, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Papua New Guinea, as he turned on the tap to let water flow from the newly completed boreholes.

The initiative follows a Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessment (CRVA), which revealed that Kemabolo faces intensive droughts, poor water quality, inadequate sanitation, and limited livelihood opportunities. Women bear the greatest burden of managing scarce water during prolonged dry periods, while access to climate information and financial services remains minimal.

“For us, water is not simply a resource — it is a daily struggle,” said Joan Gwaibo, Head of the Women’s Committee. “It was something the women of Kemabolo carried on their backs and in their arms, walking long distances under the scorching sun, often before dawn or after dusk.”

Mackllah Gulu, the school head girl, added: “Water is not just a basic need for life — it is a right. When proper water is supplied to the school, it helps students stay in school, stay healthy, and achieve their dreams, especially girls.”

Despite these challenges, community engagement has been exemplary. Residents already formed a Water User Committee representing youth, women, education, health, and faith leaders. This committee will manage operations, maintenance, and sustainability through a monthly household contribution system.

“Rigo District and Kemabolo can be champions in showing how climate-smart social services and infrastructure can be established and sustained,” said Veera Mendonca, UNICEF Representative. “This is not just about infrastructure — it’s about local ownership, resilience, and protecting the most vulnerable.”

Deputy Secretary for the Department of National Planning and Monitoring, Michael Kumung, underscored the significance of the KOICA supported project:

“Creating a good environment for our children and their communities to enjoy their life is fundamental to our progress going forward in the next 50 years. If we are to reset our country, this is the basic reset we must do at the community level. Providing clean and safe drinking water is where it starts.”

This local initiative is part of the broader UNICEF–KOICA regional climate partnership, launched in May 2024 with a landmark close to US$25 million grant to strengthen climate-smart social services and infrastructure in Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Timor-Leste, and selected African countries.

For Kemabolo, the benefits will include:

• Solar-powered water supply for all households, schools, and health facilities.

• Solarization Solarisation of the school block as an information hub.

• Rehabilitation of the local aid post to restore essential health services.

With the combined efforts of government, partners, and the community, Kemabolo is all set to be an inspiring example of how rural communities can adapt to climate change while protecting children’s futures.

“This is not just a campaign — let it be a turning point for the children of Papua New Guinea.”