Australia Supports Efforts to Reduce Poverty in Papua

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Australia’s commitment to reducing poverty in Papua and West Papua provinces was further strengthened this week by visiting Australian Ambassador to Indonesia Greg Moriarty, the Australian Embassy here said in its official website on Wednesday.

Moriarty witnessed a signing, between Papua Governor Barnabas Suebu, and West Papua Governor Abraham O. Atururi, for a new Australian government-funded program to improve health, education and infrastructure in the two provinces.

"This new program shows Australia’s continued commitment to reducing poverty in two of Indonesia’s poorest provinces," said Moriarty. "We are working with the Indonesian Government, the provincial governments and local governments to achieve lasting development in both the Papua and West Papua provinces," he added.

The Ambassador visited Yowari hospital and a nearby health centre, where the Australian Government is working to improve care and treatment for people with HIV/AIDS.

"HIV prevention and adequate healthcare for those living with HIV/AIDS in Papua and West Papua provinces has become a key focus for Australia as reported cases in the region are above the national Indonesian average," said Moriarty.

The Ambassador also met teachers and students at Maripi Primary School, which is now providing a quality education as a result of Australia?s development assistance.

"There are many challenges to improving education quality in Papua and West Papua provinces, including diverse geography, low population density and the remoteness of villages," he said.

He said that Australia is pleased to be working with UNICEF to support education in Papua and West Papua provinces. This education program gives children in some of the poorest and most remote areas the opportunity to receive quality schooling.