Residents of the Moresby North-East District now have access to a clean, safe, and restored healthcare environment following the official handover of the refurbished 9-Mile Urban Clinic.

Staff from the BSP Finance & Planning and Treasury & Markets departments pooled their annual community project funds to deliver a K60,000 renovation. The project specifically targeted the structural decay of the facility, ensuring that both patients and staff have an environment conducive to recovery and professional care. The refurbishment has completely transformed the patient experience and significantly improved workplace safety for clinic staff.

Previously hindered by safety hazards and the wear and tear of broken fixtures, the facility now features well-ventilated areas secured by repaired windows and newly installed security mesh. Internally, the workbenches, consultation cubicles, and examination rooms have been fully restored. The floors have been enhanced with new vinyl tiles and the walls repainted, giving the clinic a fresh look.

“Recognising that quality healthcare begins with a functional workspace, the BSP team focused on the back-end infrastructure,” said Co-Project Coordinator, Daniel Tokai.

The Clinic Manager, Maria Runane, expressed her gratitude, noting that what began as a simple conversation with a BSP staff member seeking medical assistance evolved into an impactful community project. She highlighted that this initiative would benefit the many people who rely on the facility for their primary healthcare.

The 9-Mile Urban Clinic is a lifeline for communities stretching from Gordons and 9-Mile to 17-Mile, including the Laloki and Brown River settlements.

“We have recorded a rise in patient numbers, including those seeking sensitive care for Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and counseling services. Therefore, privacy, security, and patient confidentiality were key issues that this project addressed for us,” said Ms. Runane. “We are privileged to be a recipient of a BSP Community Project this year. We have a refurbished clinic and a better work environment; we are truly thankful for the recognition and assistance.”

The project was warmly received by the community. Representing the community, Pastor Ezekiel Awi reassured BSP and the NCD Provincial Health Authority that the facilities would be protected.

The clinic’s management, supported by local police and community-based security personnel, has maintained a record of zero break-ins for several years. This strong sense of community ownership ensures that BSP’s investment will continue to serve the people of 9-Mile for years to come.

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