19/11/2025
Health Minister Addresses Concerns raised by Hon Mul Over Kudjip Nazarene Hospital Operations in Parliament
November 19, 2025
By jNk
During today's parliamentary question time, Hon Benjamin Mul, the member for North Waghi, raised critical concerns regarding the operational status of Kudjip Nazarene Hospital. Addressing Health Minister Hon Kivapore, Mul highlighted the hospital's urgent need for K5 million to continue providing essential medical services amid alarming shortfalls in medication supplies, which have led to a temporary closure of the facility.
Hon Mul emphasized the hospital's significance, stating that Kudjip Nazarene serves not only the people of Jiwaka Province but also communities from the Highlands Provinces, including Hela, Southern Highlands, Enga, Western Highlands, Chimbu, and other regions across the country. "This hospital plays a vital role in our healthcare system, and its closure will have dire consequences for thousands of patients relying on its services," he asserted.
In addition to the funding crisis, Hon Mul inquired about the proposed construction of a five-star hospital in the province, which was mentioned during the minister's previous visit. He urged Minister Kivapore to clarify the timeline for this project and address broader concerns regarding the overall performance of the Department of Health.
In response, Minister Kivapore acknowledged Kudjip Nazarene Hospital's importance and assured the parliament that his ministry would take immediate action to support the facility. "More than the K5 million requested will be allocated shortly," he stated. During his last visit to the hospital, Kivapore met with Dr. Ben and CEO Joseph Peter, reaffirming the hospital's critical role, particularly as it caters to approximately 55,000 patients annually.
Regarding the five-star hospital, Minister Kivapore stated that all processes are in place and that he would inform the Jiwaka Provincial Health Authority once the timelines for construction are finalized. He emphatically defended the health department, declaring, "The Department of Health is not failing. The government is delivering health facilities across the country, including numerous Level 4 hospitals, where our dedicated doctors are currently working."
Minister Kivapore also addressed concerns about medication shortages, stating, "We will not seek medications from overseas as we have done in the past. Instead, we will prioritize sourcing assistance within the country." He reaffirmed that K15 million is allocated annually to all Provincial Health Authorities, which must place orders as soon as medication supplies dwindle. Furthermore, he emphasized the need for accountability in medicine distribution and the importance of regular stock audits.
Concluding his remarks, the Health Minister called for collaboration among all provincial and local MPs to ensure the smooth operation of hospitals in their constituencies. "Together, we can enhance our healthcare services and support our medical institutions during these challenging times," he urged.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how quickly the government will respond to the urgent needs of Kudjip Nazarene Hospital and similar health facilities across the nation.
