Ok Tedi Mining Limited (Ok Tedi) is joining hands with the community to fight against tuberculosis (TB) – one of the leading health challenges in Western Province.
This was followed by an awareness campaign carried out by Ok Tedi’s Health Services team at Wangbin Village, a mine village located on the outskirts of the township. The initiative focused on dispelling myths about TB, encouraging early diagnosis, and reinforcing the importance of completing treatment.
The awareness followed the 2026 World TB Day theme “Yes! We can End TB! Led by countries, Powered by people”, with the campaign aimed at driving early testing and treatment.
Speaking during the awareness program, Ok Tedi Health Services Manager Raymond Singamis highlighted the seriousness of the TB burden in the province.
“Western Province is a recognised ‘hotspot’ for TB and multi-drug-resistant TB (MDR-TB), frequently ranking within the top 2-3 provinces for total TB cases and the situation in North Fly is particularly concerning,” Mr Singamis said. “North Fly District alone has 1,018 confirmed TB patients, while the remaining districts each have more than 500 cases. These numbers are a clear warning, TB is here, and it affects our families.”
Mr Singamis emphasised that access to healthcare should not be a barrier, noting Ok Tedi’s ongoing support. “With Ok Tedi providing free medical checks, diagnosis, and medication, there is no excuse for delayed treatment. If you have been coughing for a long time, feeling weak, losing weight or experiencing night sweats, go to the hospital immediately. TB spreads silently within households if left untreated.”
The event also received strong backing from community groups. President of the Women and Children Association, Alice Mumuyong, shared a personal message on the impact of TB on families.
“As a mother with a child currently undergoing TB treatment, I have witnessed firsthand the critical role Ok Tedi Health Services plays in our lives,” Mrs Mumuyong said. “Their support gives families hope and a real chance at recovery. On behalf of the Women and Children Association, we sincerely acknowledge and appreciate this commitment.”
Mrs Mumuyong announced that the Women and Children Association has committed its own resources to support TB awareness at the community level. “We have set aside funds to partner with the Ok Tedi Health Services team to take TB awareness directly to our communities. TB is not something to hide or fear, it is something we must confront together.”
Mrs Mumuyong further urged community members to take responsibility for their health. “I strongly encourage everyone, men, women, and children to go and get checked. Early testing saves lives and protects your family.” Ok Tedi continues to work closely with stakeholders, community organisations, and health authorities to strengthen TB prevention, detection and treatment, in line with its commitment to improving health outcomes across Western Province.