Parkop calls for KTA revamp, commits funding for school

NCD governor Powes Parkop with students from Kokoda Primary School following the walkathon *(Image: NCD Media)*

National Capital District [NCD] Governor Powes Parkop has renewed calls for the revitalization of the Kokoda Track Authority [KTA] to ensure the historic trail delivers direct economic benefits to local landowners.

He made the remarks during a reception at the Port Moresby Nature Park to welcome participants of the Kokoda Primary School’s K2 million fundraising walkathon.

The week-long walkathon, held under the theme "Walking for a Better Future", saw teachers, students, parents, and alumni trek from Kokoda Station to Owers' Corner to raise school funds.

Parkop emphasized the urgent need to permanently reposition the KTA under the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority [PNGTPA] to unlock the track's true commercial potential.

"It is not benefiting the people along the track," Parkop said. "We have got to change that, and I have been pushing the Government to shift the Kokoda Track Authority back to PNGTPA.

"Now that it has been done, PNGTPA must step up in a big way to promote and lift Kokoda Track as the premier tourist product of the country."

Parkop said while the country boasts an authentic, pristine heritage including rich biodiversity, history, and culture, it has failed to properly harness these assets for the rural communities.

He committed K200,000 towards infrastructure developments at Kokoda Primary School, alongside an immediate K10,000 cash support for the visiting trek team.

Sohe MP Henry Amuli (second left) presenting the cheque to Kokoda Primary School students and staff *(Image: NBC News)*

Sohe MP Henry Amuli, who accompanied the NCD governor alongside local dignitaries Dame Jean Kekedo and Dulcie Kekedo, presented a K100,000 check to the school's fundraising drive.

Northern Governor Gary Juffa also backed the initiative with a K50,000 funding pledge.

Amuli commended Parkop’s cross-provincial leadership for supporting community development outside his immediate jurisdiction.

Parkop added that PNG must also proactively engage with the Australian corporate community to strengthen bilateral tourism opportunities.

"Well-known corporate personalities in Australia are ready to do their part, and we must tap into that partnership to strengthen Kokoda and tourism in PNG," he said.

He said proper management of the track would position the historic corridor as a driver of sustainable development, using Port Moresby as the premier tourism gateway to the nation.