About Our Province

Welcome to Western Highlands Provincial Government Website. Western Highlands Province in Papua New Guinea covers an area of 4,299 square kilometers and had a population of 362,850 according to the 2011 Census, making it the ninth most populous province in the country. It shares administrative boundaries with Jiwaka, Enga, SHP, and Madang provinces. The province is land-locked and relies on air and road transportation, with Mt. Hagen serving as the urbanized capital and transportation hub of the Highlands region. WHP has a reliable road network and access to the Highlands Highway, as well as the Kagamuga regional airport, connecting it to other parts of the country. However, the province faces challenges related to low land mobilization, high transport costs, and law and order issues, which hinder its economic development and pose safety concerns for its residents.

Despite its challenges, the Western Highlands Province benefits from its central location and transportation infrastructure. Efforts to address issues such as limited land utilization, expensive transport costs, and law and order problems can contribute to the province’s overall development and well-being. By improving land mobilization, reducing transportation expenses, and ensuring safety and security, WHP can further enhance its potential for economic growth and create a better living environment for its population.