Prime Minister James Marape officially opened the Trans-National Highway at Kotidanga, connecting Morobe and Gulf Provinces under Connect PNG. Celebrating PNG’s 50th Independence Jubilee, he praised excavator operators for conquering the toughest terrain, enabling travel from Lae to Port Moresby for the first time in five decades.
Minister Solan Mirisim and Secretary Gibson Holemba led a 50-member convoy from Port Moresby to Alotau via the new Maghi Highway, ahead of Prime Minister Marape’s visit. The 14-hour journey showcased Connect PNG’s progress, uniting provinces, boosting investment, and preparing Milne Bay for national connectivity.
The Department of Works & Highways refutes misleading media claims on the Lealea Footbridge, clarifying its actual 220m length, advanced FRP construction, and verified K15.41m cost. The project followed strict procurement standards, ensured community participation, and delivers long-term benefits. Allegations of fraud are baseless and technically uninformed.
DoWH Secretary Gibson Holemba opened PNG’s longest footbridge (220m) at Papa-Lealea, Central Province. Funded under the K15.41m ITCS scheme, the project connects 11,000 residents, boosting access, trade, health, and jobs. Challenges include vandalism and safety, requiring community awareness. The bridge enhances year-round connectivity and local socio-economic development.
On 15 July 2025, Works Minister Solan Mirisim witnessed the signing of a K394 million road project under the OK Tedi Infrastructure Tax Credit Scheme (ITCS) for Western Province. Three major roads will be constructed by China Railway Engineering, enhancing connectivity in Delta, Middle, and North Fly Districts of Papua New Guinea.
The Department of Works and Highways and SILAG signed an MoU to enhance leadership and technical training for public servants. The initiative addresses workforce gaps and supports public sector reform. DoWH provided K100,100 to SILAG, aiming to develop a capable, service-driven public workforce through structured training programs.
The Madang–Baiyer Highway, a key Connect PNG project, is nearing completion with Api Construction crossing the Jimi River into Middle Ramu, Madang Province. This vital route will link the Upper Highlands to Madang, unlocking opportunities for unity, development, and accessibility across Papua New Guinea.
The West Coast Central Highway project in New Ireland is on track, with 8km set for completion by September 16, 2025. Jointly funded and supported by local leaders and the National Government under the Connect PNG Program, the road promises to unlock economic potential, boost tourism, and transform regional connectivity.
On 20 June 2025, Papua New Guinea marked history as four vehicles completed the first overland journey from Alotau to Port Moresby via the newly connected Magi Highway. This milestone under the Connect PNG Program closes a critical infrastructure gap, unlocking vast economic, social, and strategic potential for national growth.
The Department of Works & Highways and Department of Transport signed a Partnership Agreement to launch Phase III of the Australian-funded Transport Sector Support Program. This phase focuses on road maintenance, capacity building, and engineer training, aiming to strengthen institutional capabilities and revive service-oriented culture within the department.
Prime Minister James Marape reaffirmed commitment to the ‘Connect PNG’ initiative, highlighting infrastructure as key to economic growth, inclusion, and national unity. Over 2,000 km of roads have been built, improving access to services. The government assures transparency and security as it drives rural productivity and GDP growth forward.
On 16 May 2025, PNG’s NEC approved the declaration and classification of 6,300 km of roads under the Road (Management and Fund) Act 2020. This boosts the National Road Network to 11,535 km, aligning with the Connect PNG Programme to improve infrastructure, economic growth, and regional connectivity nationwide.
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