West Sepik formalise health partnership

BOPPL ED Es Goh, West Sepik Provincial Administrator Jacob Areman, WSPHA CEO Stanley And WSPHA Board Rep Patrick Muliale standing with the signed health Partnership agreement *(Image: NBC Owned)*

A new partnership aimed at improving healthcare delivery in rural West Sepik has been formalized following the signing of a Health Partnership Agreement between the West Sepik Provincial Health Authority (WSPHA) and Bewani Oil Palm Plantation Limited (BOPPL).

The signing, witnessed by the Sandaun Provincial Administration at the WSPHA Administration Building conference room, is expected to enhance health service delivery across the Vanimo Green District and surrounding rural communities.

Speaking on behalf of the WSPHA Board, Patrick Muliale confirmed that the board had approved the partnership, describing it as a step in the right direction.

He emphasized that the focus is now shifting towards rural communities, stressing that improving access to healthcare in these areas is critical.

BOPPL Executive Director Es Goh welcomed the partnership, expressing gratitude to WSPHA, the provincial administration, and the people of West Sepik for allowing the company to contribute to the province’s development.

BOPPL Executive Director Es Goh, WSPHA CEO Stanley Masi signed the Health Partnership Agreement and was witnessed by Provincial Administrator Jacob Areman (from left) *(Image: NBC owned)*

Goh revealed that the partnership includes the construction of a community health post, the first of its kind under this collaboration and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting health services and broader development initiatives in the province.

Sandaun Provincial Administrator Jacob Areman highlighted the importance of private sector involvement, noting that BOPPL is one of the few major development partners in the province.

He said the company not only provides employment opportunities but also plays a key role in driving economic growth, with future plans expected to engage more young people.

Areman expressed his full support for the partnership, stating that it aligns with the government’s vision of taking essential services to rural areas.

He added that meaningful development can only be achieved when people are both healthy and economically empowered.

Meanwhile, WSPHA Chief Executive Officer Stanly Masi described the agreement as a “service to the people,” particularly those in Vanimo Green and across the province.

Masi commended BOPPL for its continued contribution to development, both through job creation and now through direct support to the health sector.

He reaffirmed WSPHA’s commitment to working closely with partners to ensure that health services reach those who need them most.

The signing marks a significant milestone in strengthening collaboration between government and private sector partners, with stakeholders hopeful that it will translate into improved healthcare access and outcomes for rural communities.