Arawa District Hospital, a vital healthcare facility serving communities in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, has taken a significant step toward enhancing its services with improved clean water access.

As part of its commitment to community well-being, the hospital has benefited from BSP Arawa’s 2024 Community Project, ensuring that patients, visitors and staff now have reliable access to clean and safe water.

Additional improvements-including backfilling the surrounding area with gravel to help maintain a dry, hygienic environment. This essential upgrade strengthens healthcare standards, supporting both medical staff and the wellbeing of up to nearly 30 mothers and newborns each month.

Established in the 1970s and expanded in the 1990s following the Bougainville conflict, Arawa District Hospital has long served as a vital healthcare provider for the Arawa community and its surrounding areas. However, the maternity ward faced significant challenges due to aging water tanks, restricting access to clean water and impacting the quality of care available to mothers and newborns.

During the handover ceremony, BSP Arawa Branch Manager, Rosemary Seeto, emphasized the bank’s commitment to supporting health and wellbeing in rural communities.

“Access to clean water is fundamental to providing safe healthcare. Through this project, we aim to support better maternity services and long-term community health outcomes for the people of Arawa,” said Ms Seeto.

Arawa District Hospital’s Acting CEO Mr Ignatius Girana was grateful for the support, stating,

“This project is a blessing for our maternity ward. The restoration of clean water access will greatly improve the quality of care for mothers and babies. We thank BSP for their invaluable support to our community, “he said.

BSP continues to implement projects that have a lasting positive impact on communities across Papua New Guinea through its Community Project Program.

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