TRANSFORMING INFRASTRUCTURE: CONNECT PNG PROGRAM

Marape continues to visit Rural in his term, PNG rural at his heart

(The K1 spent on road has a return of K4 and recommend Government to assist people alongside roads to go into SME & Agriculture)

Many remote areas from Maramuni, Menyamia, Oksapmin, and Kikori are now more accessible than ever. The Kiunga-Telefomin road, once estimated at over K2 billion by foreign contractors, was completed for less than a billion kina by a capable PNG contractor, proving the strength of local expertise. Marape’s confidence in local SME is double edged sword action (deliver the road and build a local SMS-business-funds remain in PNG). Roads across the country are not only being built but also sealed, enhancing connectivity and economic opportunities and building local contractors-SMEs.

A standout project is the Lae-Finschhafen road, one of Prime Minister Marape’s first NEC decisions which is nearing completion. Its construction through challenging terrain will finally connect long-overlooked bigger parts and areas of Morobe Province, marking a significant milestone, a Marape-Rosso legacy. The highway should be named after Marape!

Meanwhile, the Highlands Highway is undergoing a comprehensive overhaul, replacing single-lane bridges and stabilizing landslide-prone areas in Simbu Province. Other breakthroughs include Gulf now accessible from the Highlands, Lae soon linking to Port Moresby, and Alotau connecting to the capital before the National General Elections in 2027.

The Economic Empowerment, Resource Ownership & Agriculture by the Marape-Rosso government is reshaping PNG’s resource sector, paving the way for 50% state ownership in up to 10 mines is only a dream and hope, with a long-term vision of 100% ownership. The Porgera mine, now under a 50/50 ownership model, sets a precedent for future mines, oil, and gas projects.

Beyond mining, agriculture is thriving with key policy changes supporting Agriculture sector and especially coffee and oil palm production. The establishment of the Oil-Palm Authority and Coffee Authority solidifies the government’s commitment to rural economic growth. Additionally, SME development is gaining momentum, with K200 million annually allocated to the National Development Bank, encouraging entrepreneurship and financial empowerment.

Mare maintains a Governance & Vision for PNG despite opposition criticism, the Marape-Rosso government is actively working to transform PNG. Legislative amendments, economic strategies, and infrastructure expansion reflect a leadership committed to national development.

Now is the time for PNGeans to stand together, recognize progress, and support the path toward a stronger future up to or until NGE 2027, when voters will make their next choice.