Biography

William Powi is the Governor of Southern Highlands Province (SHP) in Papua New Guinea. He was born in Semin village, Nipa, Southern Highlands Province.

Powi went to school at Nipa High School and St. Fidelis College. Later, he studied at the University of Papua New Guinea and got a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1994. He also earned a Master’s degree in Public Policy from Waikato University in New Zealand between 1995 and 1997. Before becoming a politician, he worked as a public servant, learning how to manage things.

Powi entered politics in 2012 when he won the election to represent Southern Highlands in the National Parliament. He joined the People’s National Congress Party and became the Governor of SHP. He won again in 2017 and 2022, even though both elections had problems like court fights and destroyed ballot papers. Each time, he was declared the winner under “special circumstances” by the Electoral Commission.

As Governor, Powi works to improve life in SHP. He focuses on farming (like coffee and vegetables), education, and fixing roads like the Highlands Highway. He wants better schools and training centers, such as a police or youth college in Poroma. He also talks about big projects, like the P’nyang Gas Project, to bring money and jobs to the province.

Powi has faced challenges, like tribal fighting and bad roads, but he keeps pushing forward. In 2024, he spoke out against politicians and officials who give weapons to troublemakers, saying it makes SHP’s safety worse. He asks leaders to work together to fix the province.

As of March 13, 2025, William Powi is still the Governor of SHP. He’s a strong leader who wants to make his province better, even with all its difficulties.