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March 26, 2026
Access to the mining and logging village of Kwakwani in Region Ten will significantly improve with the construction of a new $248 million airstrip.
The contract for the project has been awarded to Associated Construction Services for the building and asphaltic paving of the facility.
Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, stated last Saturday that once completed, the airstrip will address existing concerns that deter or restrict some airlines from operating in the area.
He told the Department of Public Information (DPI) that, similar to road construction, a base will be laid before the asphaltic paving to enhance the durability and longevity of the airstrip’s surface.
The airstrip, measuring 2,500 feet in length and 50 feet in width, is expected to be completed within five months.
Additionally, the minister announced that all community landings and revetments from De Velde to Hururu will be rehabilitated.
This expansive project is being executed through the Ministry of Public Works.
“Contracts will be executed in every riverine area to address the landings,” he disclosed.
Concrete footpaths will also be constructed from the boat landings to key community facilities, including schools and health centers. These footpaths will be built by residents of the respective communities.
“When we say we are providing improved livelihoods, we are not just making empty promises like those who told you, ‘you are going to have a better life,’ and you never saw it. I’ve been hearing people say ‘better must come’—so when they come around, tell them better has already come,” he stated.
Alongside these initiatives, all roads within Kwakwani are currently being upgraded by small contractors from the area. These projects are expected to be completed by April. (DPI)
