NZ Halts $6.7M Power Project in PNG Amid Tribal Violence

New Zealand Halts $6.7M PNG Power Project

New Zealand has suspended a $6.7 million power project in Papua New Guinea's Enga Province due to security concerns linked to tribal violence. The Enga Electrification Project, aiming to connect over 4000 households, has been halted in the Wapanamanda District's Tsak Valley. Security issues arising from ongoing tribal conflicts have made the area unsafe for project workers.

Development researcher Terence Wood emphasized that the project was rushed despite knowing the region's volatile environment. Enga Province's governor, Sir Peter Ipatas, noted the province has experienced lawlessness with modern weapons exacerbating tribal disputes.