Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has expressed serious concern over lapses in provincial health supply management, warning that negligence leading to expired medical stock and disruptions in health service delivery will not be tolerated.
The Prime Minister made these remarks following reports from the Department of Health showing significant drug wastage at the Milne Bay Provincial Transit Store, where over K236,000 worth — or 63% — of medical supplies had expired due to a lack of oversight and stock control.
The issue was identified through the MSupply electronic monitoring system, which tracks pharmaceutical stock movements across the country. Data revealed that the Milne Bay Provincial Transit Store had recorded no stock audits or orders for over a month, resulting in critical inefficiencies and wastage.
“The data clearly shows a lack of responsibility and accountability by the store management,” said Prime Minister Marape. “When public officers fail to perform their duties diligently, they are directly compromising the health and lives of our people. This is unacceptable.”
Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed his government’s commitment to improving transparency, performance, and accountability in the delivery of essential health services, especially under the Provincial Health Authority (PHA) system.
“I commend the Health Minister and the Department for closely monitoring the system in real time,” he said. “This digital oversight allows us to act swiftly. Warning letters and disciplinary measures, including termination of underperforming officers, will be enforced where negligence is proven.”
He urged all PHA Chief Executive Officers and provincial store managers to ensure strict compliance with reporting protocols, stock audits, and timely ordering through the MSupply system.
“Our government continues to invest heavily in the health sector,” Prime Minister Marape said. “We expect those entrusted with managing these critical resources to do so with honesty, diligence, and accountability to the people of Papua New Guinea.”