Yahukimo Regency, Administrative regency in Highland Papua, Indonesia
Yahukimo Regency is an administrative area in the mountains of Highland Papua covering 17,152 square kilometers, shaped by dense forests, rivers, and varying elevations. The terrain ranges from lowland areas to higher regions and is centered around the city of Dekai as the main administrative hub.
The regency separated from Jayawijaya Regency in December 2002, taking its name from four indigenous peoples: Yali, Hubla, Kimyal, and Momuna. This establishment marked an administrative reorganization of the Papua highland region.
The region is home to several indigenous Papuan groups who speak their own languages and maintain traditional ways of life through farming, hunting, and forest use. Visitors can observe these practices in villages and at local markets, where traditional goods and crafts are sold.
Dekai serves as the main trade center and is home to Nop Goliat Airport, the primary transportation hub for the region. While Sumohai is technically the official capital, Dekai remains the practical center for visitors and administration.
The population grew from roughly 164,000 to 350,000 between 2010 and 2020, indicating major demographic shifts in this remote highland area. This rapid growth has reshaped how the region is settled and developed.
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