Simbu Provincial Health Authority

01/09/2026

Head of Surgical & Orthopedic Department 𝐒𝐒𝐌𝐎 𝗙𝗿/𝗗𝗿 𝗝𝗮𝗻 𝗝𝗼𝘄𝗮𝗿𝘀𝗸𝐢 at The 60𝘵𝘩 𝘔𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘭 𝘚𝘺𝘮𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘪𝘶𝘮, Lae, UNITEC

24/08/2026

𝗦𝗶𝗣𝗛𝗔 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝗕𝗘𝗺𝗢𝗡𝗖 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗥𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘂𝘁

SiPHA has taken a pioneering role in strengthening maternal and neonatal health services, successfully hosting the first two Basic Emergency Obstetric and Neonatal Care (𝐁𝐄𝐦𝐎𝐍𝐂) trainings under the IMPACT Health initiative supported by UNICEF.

The first training was conducted at the Mingende District Hospital Training Centre from June 8–12, 2026, bringing together 29 health care workers (HCWs) from Level 2 to Level 4 facilities across all seven districts of Simbu Province. This marked the first rollout of the updated 𝐁𝐄𝐦𝐎𝐍𝐂 curriculum in PNG, ahead of other impact provinces , East New Britain, East Sepik, and Central.

The training introduced new WHO signal functions targeting maternal and neonatal health, equipping frontline workers with lifesaving skills. National and provincial trainers included 𝐷𝑟. 𝐵𝑒𝑟𝑦𝑙 𝑉𝑒𝑡𝑢𝑛𝑎 (𝐷𝑒𝑝𝑢𝑡𝑦 𝐶ℎ𝑖𝑒𝑓 𝑃𝑎𝑒𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑡𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑎𝑛, 𝑁𝐺𝐼 𝑅𝑒𝑔𝑖𝑜𝑛), 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑈𝑁𝐼𝐶𝐸𝐹 𝑡𝑒𝑎𝑚 𝑙𝑒𝑑 𝑏𝑦 𝐷𝑟. 𝐺𝑎𝑟𝑏𝑎 𝑆𝑎𝑓𝑖𝑦𝑎𝑛𝑢,𝑁𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛𝑎𝑙 𝑇𝑟𝑎𝑖𝑛𝑒𝑟 𝑆𝑀𝑂 𝐷𝑟 𝑀𝑒𝑔𝑎𝑛 𝐾𝑜𝑛𝑎, 𝑃𝑎𝑢𝑙𝑎 𝐾𝑜𝑛𝑔𝑢𝑎, 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑅𝑎𝑦𝑚𝑜𝑛𝑑 𝑆𝑖𝑚𝑜𝑛, 𝑎𝑙𝑜𝑛𝑔𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑆𝑟. 𝑆𝑎𝑢𝑡𝑜 𝑆𝑖𝑡𝑎𝑘 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑆𝑟. 𝑀𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑙𝑑𝑎 𝐾𝑜𝑚𝑎𝑖𝑛𝑑𝑒, 𝑆𝑖𝑚𝑏𝑢’𝑠 𝑃𝑟𝑜𝑣𝑖𝑛𝑐𝑖𝑎𝑙 𝐶𝑜𝑜𝑟𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑜𝑟.

Building on this momentum, the second training was held from August 17–21, 2026 at the Kundiawa St Mary's Catholic Church Conference Centre. Despite challenges posed by El Niño and scaled-down operations, 19 participants attended, again representing all seven districts. This cohort included officers who had missed the first training, ensuring wider coverage.

Significantly, the program welcomed two participants from Level 1 facilities who are actively conducting deliveries. Both are Community Health Workers (CHWs) who had been upskilled locally, a move that impressed the UNICEF team and highlighted Simbu’s commitment to empowering grassroots health workers.

The second training was conducted by Simbu’s very own Specialist Medical Officer (SMO) and National Trainer, Dr. Megan Kona, demonstrating the province’s strength in delivering maternal and child health training.

Acknowledging Partners During the program, Sr. Paula Kongua representing UNICEF commended the Simbu Provincial Coordinator, Sr. Matilda Komainde, for maximizing participation to 48 health care workers, even though funding was initially budgeted for only 25 participants per province. She further acknowledged Simbu PHA’s contribution in being the first province to include Level 1 health care workers conducting deliveries, a milestone that demonstrates innovation and inclusivity in strengthening maternal and child health services.

On Wednesday, August 19, a UNICEF delegation visited Simbu as part of the training program. The team included Dr. Gagan Gupta from UNICEF Headquarters in Kenya, Bethany Stirling from UNICEF Australia, Dr. Garba Safiyanu from UNICEF PNG, and Lina and Margaret from the UNICEF field office in Mt Hagen. The delegation visited Maki, Kerowaghi, Mingende, and Kundiawa General Hospital (KUGH), engaging with health staff and communities to observe progress and provide support.

Closing Ceremony On Friday, 21 August 2026, the training concluded with a certificate presentation ceremony attended by SiPHA CEO Dr. Ken Kassi, the Executive Management Team, and Head of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Dr. Nassar.

In his remarks, Dr. Kassi congratulated the 19 participants of the second batch, emphasizing that “wherever or whenever there are challenges, you are now trained to intervene.” He reiterated that “every village mother has the right to healthcare so that none lose their life.”

Dr. Kassi highlighted that SiPHA oversees 130 Level 1 facilities, stressing the need for capable health workers to provide BEmONC services at the community level. He also acknowledged the invaluable support of UNICEF, the National Department of Health, and provincial partners, noting that such collaborations are essential to sustaining maternal and child health improvements.

Essential Equipment Support To strengthen service delivery, basic equipment such as weighing scales, IV stands, and other essential supplies were presented to each facility represented at the training. This practical support ensures that trained HCWs are both skilled and equipped to provide quality care in their respective health facilities.

Looking Ahead As per the IMPACT Health/UNICEF schedule, further training programs will continue from next month onwards, focusing on:

1. 𝑉𝑖𝑙𝑙𝑎𝑔𝑒 𝐻𝑒𝑎𝑙𝑡ℎ 𝐴𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡𝑠
2. 𝑃𝑟𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑜𝑓 𝑃𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑡-𝑡𝑜-𝐶ℎ𝑖𝑙𝑑 𝑇𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠𝑚𝑖𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑜𝑛 (𝑃𝑃𝑇𝐶𝑇) 𝑜𝑓 𝐻𝐼𝑉
3. 𝐹𝑜𝑐𝑢𝑠𝑒𝑑 𝐴𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝐶𝑎𝑟𝑒 (𝐹𝐴𝑁𝐶)

Together, these initiatives provide a strong approach to maternal and child health, making Simbu Province a leader in introducing WHO aligned practices that improve health services and help prevent deaths.

21/08/2026

𝐂𝐍𝐒𝐏 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐃𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐃𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐟𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

The National Department of Health (NDOH)'s Child Nutrition and Social Protection (CNSP) Project funded by World Bank had a Deep Dive Implementation Review and Reflection from 12-14 August 2026 in Port Moresby. The Review comprised representatives from World Bank, NDOH (C1), Department of Community Development (ComDev, C2), Department of Justice and Attorney General (DJAG, C3), Department of Agriculture and Livestock (DAL), all integral subrecipients (Save the Children Foundation, Catholic Church Health Services, World Vision, CHAI, UNICEF) and implementing Provincial Health Authorities (PHAs) of Simbu PHA, Madang PHA, Western PHA, and East New Britain PHA and their respective Provincial Administrations.

The CNSP Project was designed to address stunting in PNG piloted in East New Britian (Gazelle), Western, Madang and Simbu (Kundiawa-Gembogl). Stunting in PNG was identified internationally to be around 46%. Surveys from East Sepik (2024) and Morobe (2024) and recent household survey in Kundiawa-Gembogl in Simbu (April-May, 2026) revealed Stunting to be around 26%. That is a significant drop from 46%. However, broader surveys must be carried out and simultaneously interventional strategies to address nutritional deficiencies in reproductive mothers and children aged 0-5 years must continue in the CNSP Project.

Simbu PHA CEO Dr Ken Kassi contributed that other children in Gumine, Salt-Nomane-Karimui, Chuave, Sinasina-Yongomugl and Kerowagi aged 0-5 years must be included to really establish Stunting in Simbu Province, and likewise from other provinces. The CNSP Project has improved all nutritional indicators (low birth weight, under 5 years malnutrition, under 5 Mortality, etc) in 2025 making Kundiawa-Gembogl District the Number 1 Best Health Performing District in Papua New Guinea in 2025.

The political support and leadership from all Simbu national leaders have been overwhelming, from the Simbu Governor Hon Noah Kool MP, Hon Muguwa Dilu MP (Kundiawa-Gembogl), Hon Kerenga Kua MP (SSY), Hon James Nomane MP (Chuave), Hon Francis Kikin Siune MP (Kerowagi), Hon Lucas Dawa MP (Gumine), and Hon Francis Alua Yori MP (SNK). And the Simbu Provincial Administration through governing leadership from Administrator Mr John Punde as the chairman of the governing Provincial Coordination Committee and Simbu PHA CEO Dr Ken as the chairman of the Provincial Field Coordination Committee of CNSP Project Simbu Chapter have been commended for the success of CNSP Project in Simbu Province so far.

14/08/2026

🎉 FAREWELL TO SIPHA BOARD AFTER THREE YEARS OF SERVICE

✨ Last night 13/08/2026, the Simbu Provincial Health Authority (SiPHA) hosted a memorable farewell event to honor its outgoing Board, whose three-year term officially concluded today, 14 August 2026.

🤝 The evening was filled with warmth, gratitude, and reflection as staff, partners, and stakeholders gathered to acknowledge the Board’s invaluable contributions. Over the past three years, the Board provided strong leadership and guidance, steering SiPHA through critical health initiatives, strengthening governance, and driving health standards .

🎤 Speeches highlighted the Board’s role in advancing health programs, supporting infrastructure development, fostering partnerships, and improving health standards. 🎁 Tokens of appreciation were presented, and heartfelt tributes highlighted the dedication and commitment shown by each member throughout their tenure.

👨‍⚕️ In his remarks, the SiPHA CEO Dr Ken Kassi acknowledged the Board’s vital role, noting that SiPHA’s ranking as 2nd in 2025 was the result of strong leadership and a positive relationship between the Board and management.

🌟 The farewell marked both a celebration of achievements and a time of change, as SiPHA prepares to welcome new leaders and continue building on the strong foundation left by the outgoing Board.

💡 The event closed with a spirit of unity and optimism, reminding everyone that while leadership changes, the mission of improving health outcomes for the people of Simbu remains steadfast.

07/08/2026

NATIONAL CANCER CONTROL PROGRAM TEAM VISITS SIMBU FOR REGIONAL OUTREACH

Simbu Provincial Health Authority (SiPHA) hosted the National Cancer Control Program Team from Monday, August 3 to Thursday, August 6, 2026, as part of the Highlands Regional Cancer Outreach initiative.

The outreach aimed to assess SiPHA’s capacity to diagnose and manage cancer cases, while also advocating for the newly launched National Cancer Prevention and Control Strategic Plan 2025–2030.
The visiting team included:

• Mr. George Otto – Manager, National Cancer Program
• Dr. Manna Ario – Chief Oncologist
• Dr. Gwenda Anga – Pediatrician, Pediatric Oncology
• Dr. Aina Anota – Physician, Adult Oncology
• Ms. Anita Metofa – Administrative Assistant

SiPHA’s leadership, led by Dr. Joseph Ande (Director Curative) and Mr. Henry Kua (Director Corporate Services), together with senior and specialist medical officers, guided the team through key facilities. The tour covered diagnostic services such as the Histopathology Laboratory, General Laboratory, Mammogram, and CT/MRI units, as well as treatment services including Chemotherapy and Surgery. Radiation therapy, however, remains centralized at Angau Provincial Hospital in Lae under Morobe PHA.

SiPHA’s cancer response strategy aligns with KRA 4 of the National Health Plan 2021–2030, SPA 3 of the Medium-Term Development Plan IV 2023–2027, and KPA 3 of SiPHA’s Corporate Plan 2025–2027. The authority’s focus is on early detection, timely treatment, and strengthening preventive awareness to reduce the cancer burden in the province.

This vision was reinforced by the Marape-Rosso Government, which in 2020 allocated K5 million to support cancer prevention and treatment efforts nationwide.

06/08/2026

SiPHA ranks 2nd after Hela PHA🙏🫡

CONGRATULATIONS TO SIMBU PROVINCIAL HEALTH AUTHORITY ON ACHIEVING 2ND PLACE NATIONWIDE

Congratulations to the Simbu Provincial Health Authority (SiPHA) under the outstanding leadership of Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Ken Kassi, for achieving 2nd place in the 2025 Provincial Health Authority Rankings, as published in the National Department of Health (NDoH) 2025 Sector Performance Annual Report (SPAR).

This remarkable achievement is a testament to the commitment, dedication, and tireless efforts of Dr. Ken Kassi, the SiPHA Board, management team, doctors, nurses, community health workers, administrative staff, and every health professional serving across Simbu Province. Their collective efforts have strengthened healthcare delivery and improved health services for our people despite the many challenges faced in providing healthcare to remote and rural communities.

Being ranked second among all Provincial Health Authorities in Papua New Guinea is not only a proud milestone for SiPHA but also a significant achievement for the people of Simbu Province. It reflects strong leadership, effective management, accountability, innovation, and a shared commitment to delivering quality healthcare services to every citizen.

This recognition should inspire all stakeholders to continue working together to further improve health outcomes, strengthen health infrastructure, and ensure that quality healthcare remains accessible to every family throughout the province.

To Dr. Ken Kassi, your visionary leadership and unwavering commitment have positioned Simbu as one of the country's leading Provincial Health Authorities. Your efforts, together with those of your dedicated team, deserve sincere recognition and appreciation.

Congratulations also to every frontline health worker, support staff, development partner, and community volunteer who has contributed to this outstanding achievement. Your service and sacrifice continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our people.

Congratulations, Simbu Provincial Health Authority!

Ranked #2 in Papua New Guinea – 2025 NDoH Sector Performance Annual Report (SPAR).

Together, let us continue striving for excellence and work towards becoming the number one Provincial Health Authority in Papua New Guinea.

Ends//

03/08/2026

📢 IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT!!

The Simbu Provincial Health Authority (SiPHA) and Simbu Catholic Health Services inform the public that health services will be scaled down due to the effects of El Niño 🌍🔥, which has disrupted water supply 💧, food security 🌾, and essential resources needed for full operations. During this period, only critical services 🚑👩‍👩‍👧‍👦 such as emergency care, maternal and child health, and urgent outpatient treatment will continue, while routine clinics, outreach programs, and non-essential services will be temporarily reduced. Both organizations regret the inconvenience 🙏 and remain committed to serving the people of Simbu, encouraging communities to cooperate 🤝 with health workers and use available services responsibly until conditions improve.

29/07/2026

We are pleased to announce the release of our Second Quarter Newsletter, highlighting key achievements, updates, and ongoing initiatives across the health sector. This edition covers important community health programs, GBV response efforts, and stories of impact from our dedicated teams working tirelessly to improve health services in Simbu.

Stay informed, stay connected, and join us in celebrating the progress we are making together. 💙

👉 Click the Link below to read the full newsletter now and be part of SiPHA’s journey toward healthier communities!

https://www.sipha.gov.pg/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/SiPHA-Newsletter-Q2-2026.pdf

28/07/2026

*SiPHA Presents 2026 Budget Review and 2027 Formulation at Treasury*

The Simbu Provincial Health Authority (SiPHA) today presented its 2026 Budget Review and 2027 Budget Formulation to a panel of central agency representatives at the Treasury Department. The panel included officials from the Departments of Treasury, Finance, Health, Personnel Management, Planning and Monitoring, and the National Economic Fiscal Commission (NEFC).

SiPHA reported strong outcomes from the 2026 budget, achieving 86 percent implementation across its key directorates: Curative Health, Public Health, Corporate Services, Executive Management, and the Health Functional Grant under the Annual Implementation Plan (AIP).

Looking ahead, SiPHA has submitted bids for measured increases in funding for 2027, prioritizing manpower restructuring, operational expansion for Kundiawa General Hospital (Level 5), and infrastructural development of medical facilities.

The Authority also highlighted a significant growth in partnerships, now numbering 40, which has strengthened its ability to deliver on core responsibilities outlined in Section 12 and Schedule 5 of the Provincial Health Authority Act 2007.

21/07/2026

MEDIA STATEMENT: SiPHA Confirms Compliance with 2025 Annual Reporting Mandates

Simbu Provincial Health Authority (SiPHA) has confirmed its full compliance with the government’s 2025 annual reporting requirements, following Prime Minister Hon. James Marape’s recent call for accountability across public sector agencies.

Responding to the Prime Minister’s ultimatum issued on July 14 and 15 regarding the submission of annual performance reports, SiPHA clarified that it is not among the agencies flagged for non-compliance.

Chief Executive Officer Dr. Kassi Ken presented the 2025 Annual Management Report on March 27, 2026, well ahead of the government deadline. The report was compiled in strict accordance with the Provincial Health Authorities Act 2007.

SiPHA has since received formal acknowledgements and commendations from both the National Department of Health and the Department of Personnel Management, confirming its compliance.

The Board and Management of SiPHA have welcomed the Prime Minister’s push for transparent governance, reaffirming their commitment to financial, administrative, and clinical accountability while continuing to deliver vital healthcare services to the people of Simbu Province.