K7.2 Million Konebada Recreational Park
#pngsun #news The new and redeveloped Konebada Recreational Park, Cafe and Grill at Gabutu in Moresby South was officially opened last night.
The Recreational Park opening ceremony was attended by Prime Minister James Marape, Petroleum Minister Jimmy Maladina, NCD Governor Powes Parkop, the Minister for Foreign Affairs and local Member for Moresby South, Justin Tkatchenko, city manager Ravu Frank, other public servants, and community members.
The project forms part of the NCD Urban Development Plan 2020–2030, which aims to build a liveable, productive, and sustainable city while aligning with the national government’s Vision 2050.
Speaking during the program, local MP Minister TKatchenco credited the success of the project to the leadership and steadfastness of Governor Parkop.
“Day one. Thick and thin, without fear or favour. He’s stayed with me to ensure that these public projects, these projects for our people, are done without fear and without favour,” he said as he acknowledged governor Parkop’s role.
He stressed that the project demonstrated what Papua New Guinea could achieve to match international standards.
“This place will set the train for others to use as an example of what can be done for the benefit of our people, for recreation, for entertainment and also for our public,” he said.
Following his remarks, City Manager Mr Frank highlighted that the facility reflects the alignment between NCDC’s development plans and the national government’s broader vision.
“This facility here, is an example of our Governor and our Board’s vision to also pick up and capture the vision of the National Government to bring development to this city.”
He acknowledged the financial backing that made the project possible.
“Here with us is this recreational facility at the cost of K7.42 million, K 6.42 million funded by NCDC and K1 million from Moresby South DSIP.”
Mr Frank addressed the crowd, emphasising the importance of the project in NCD’s long-term city planning.
He added that the park would ease congestion and allow residents in the area to enjoy quality recreational space without having to travel into the city.
“In modernising this city, we'd like to have our citizens in this part of the city to enjoy this facility… they can stay here and enjoy this wonderful facility as well.”
Both speakers in their opening addresses noted that the launching marked a significant milestone for Moresby South and the city as a whole, particularly as NCDC continues to modernise and expand public spaces for residents.