The National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA), in partnership with the National Department of Health (NDoH), PNG Department of Education, UNICEF, WHO, GAVI, DFAT, and the Marape–Rosso Government, officially launched the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine Program today at New Erima Primary School.
This milestone marks a major advancement in safeguarding girls aged 9–15 years across schools and health facilities in the National Capital District from cervical cancer, one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women in Papua New Guinea
The Chief Executive Officer for the National Capital District Provincial Health Authority, Dr. Robin Oge, expressed gratitude for the strong national and international collaboration that made the HPV vaccine accessible to PNG’s female population. Dr. Oge said, “Today is a proud moment for NCDPHA and other PHAs’ in Papua New Guinea.” He said, “We acknowledge the Marape–Rosso Government, GAVI, WHO, UNICEF, and DFAT, the National Department of Health for their commitment to making this life‑saving vaccine available for the female population of our nation.”
On behalf of NCDPHA, Dr Oge acknowledged the strong support of the PNG Department of Education in supporting the rollout of vaccines across schools in the National Capital District and Motu Koitabu villages. “The HPV vaccine is a small vaccine with big protection, and it is free, safe, and effective,” he added. The HPV vaccination rollout in NCD and Motu Koitabu Villages will focus on: Girls aged 9–15 years; all schools and health facilities across the National Capital District and Motu Koitabu Villages; achieving a long-term goal of protecting 80–90% of PNG’s female population from cervical cancer within the next 5–10 years
This initiative is one of the most impactful public health interventions for women and girls in Papua New Guinea. Together, we are safeguarding the future of our girls.
Dr. Oge calls on parents, teachers, guardians, community leaders, and church leaders to advocate and support this campaign.
“Your involvement is crucial in ensuring girls receive this vital protection before they grow older and become at risk of cervical cancer,” said Dr. Oge.
NCDPHA remains committed to strengthening school-based and community-based immunization programs, ensuring every eligible girl in NCD and Motu Koitabu villages receives the HPV vaccine and is protected from cervical cancer.
Together, we can protect our daughters, empower our communities, and build a healthier future for Papua New Guinea.
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