A delegation from Vanuatu has visited the Department of Personnel Management (DPM) to see firsthand how Papua New Guinea manages its public service “engine room,” with a specific focus on new housing projects.
The team from Vanuatu was in Port Moresby for the 7th Pacific Urban Forum. They used the visit to talk about the housing challenges facing the region and to look for new ways to provide homes for their own government workers back home.
The main goal for the Vanuatu group was to find practical ways to improve living conditions. DPM Secretary, Taies Sansan welcomed the visitors, highlighting that working together is the only way for Pacific nations to grow.
“Together, we can explore practical strategies to improve public service housing and ensure public servants have access to quality and sustainable living conditions,” Sansan said.
During the meeting, DPM Executive Manager, Nancy Levi explained the current plans for modern and affordable homes. She made it clear that giving staff a decent place to live is about more than just buildings, it’s about making sure the workforce is happy and productive.
To get a better idea of the work being done, the delegation visited the proposed housing site at Bomana in the National Capital District. The visit showed off plans that mix modern design with environmental care, highlighting PNG’s role in leading these kinds of developments.
The site visit offered the Vanuatu team a look at:
- Modern and affordable housing for government workers.
- New designs that focus on the needs of families.
- Long-term planning for public service growth.
The Vanuatu delegation said the experience was an “eye-opening learning opportunity.” They expressed their thanks to the DPM for the presentations, saying that the visit has opened doors for PNG and Vanuatu to work together more closely in the future.
Sansan added that the initiative is an investment in people. The DPM remains focused on finding housing solutions that actually meet the needs of the people serving the country.
