Hela provincial government invests over K20 million on Hawa CS infrastructures

Work progressing on the construction of juvenile, female and high-risk offenders' facilities at Hawa Correctional Service in Hela Province. (Image: NBC News/Peter Wari)

Over the past three years, Hela Provincial Government, in partnership with the National Government, has invested more than K20 million in Hawa Correctional Service [CS] with further investments continuing through ongoing activities.

Hela Governor Philip Undialu says the Hawa CS 99-hectare land acquisition, perimeter fencing, and access road cost K10 million.

He said the construction of three new prison blocks; for female prisoners, juveniles, and high-risk offenders are currently underway at an estimated cost of K10 million.

During a recent visit, Governor Undialu announced that the Hela Provincial Government will contribute K2 million towards the K14 million outstanding land claims that landowners have been pressing.

“This commitment reflects the government’s resolve to address legitimate landowner concerns while ensuring critical state infrastructure is delivered without delay,” he said.

The Governor also committed to the construction of 20 new staff houses at Hawa CIS, drawn from this year’s program of 100 new houses planned for the police.

Minister for CS Joe Kuli (left with tie), Hela Governor Philip Undialu and CS officers visiting Hawa CS facilities last week (Image: NBC News/Peter Wari)

“Significant progress has already been achieved across the Law and Justice Sector. Housing for the Hela National Court Judge, the three magistrates, and their senior staff have now been resolved, while the police will soon receive their first 100 new houses under the current housing program.

“Hawa CS has not been forgotten and remains a key priority within the province’s long-term justice infrastructure plan.

"First 16-men single quarter barracks was handed over,” he explained.

Governor Undialu further elaborated that the next phase of development will focus on rehabilitation and reintegration.

"Plans are in place to construct a Technical Vocational Education Training [TVET] and Flexible Open Distance Education [FODE] centers at Hawa CS, ensuring that prisoners are not merely incarcerated, but are rehabilitated, trained, and equipped with practical skills to return to their communities as productive and responsible citizens.

“A proper church facility will also be constructed within the institution to support moral guidance, counseling, and spiritual rehabilitation, reinforcing a holistic correctional and rehabilitation system for Hela Province,” Governor said.