New Office Building ‘Mukapena Haus’ in Mt. Hagen Reflects DoWH’s Investment in Infrastructure and Capacity

After months of construction and anticipation, the new building officially opened its doors, marking a major milestone for the department and Mt. Hagen City. The opening represents not only the completion of a significant infrastructure project, but also a step forward in improving services, strengthening operations, and creating a modern space designed to meet future demands.

Government officials, stakeholders, staff, and invited guests gathered to witness the occasion, celebrating a development that is expected to bring long-term benefits to both the department and the people of Western Highlands province where it serves. The atmosphere was filled with excitement and pride as the facility was officially unveiled, symbolising growth, progress, and a shared vision for the future.”

The newly constructed Office building Mukapena Haus costs K7.3 million. The building carries a name rooted in meaning and purpose. In the Melpa language, “Mukapena Haus” translates to “haus bung/ples singsing,” signifying a place where people come together.

The name reflects the department’s plan to accommodate several key road sector agencies under one roof, including the Institute of Engineers Papua New Guinea (IEPNG), Road Traffic Authority (RTA), and Road Fund. The co-location is intended to strengthen collaboration and coordination across the sector. Secretary for Works and Highways, Gibson Holemba, said the concept aligns with the broader goal of improving efficiency in delivering road infrastructure and services under the Connect PNG Program.

The building was constructed and completed just over a year under the Sustainable Highlands Highways Investment (SHHIP) Tranche 2 (71 Bridges) by the contractor, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) and supervised by Bonifica S.p.A and Renardet S.A Joint Venture. The project was financed by the Government of Papua New Guinea, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the OPEC Fund for International Development. The building is part of the bridge component that came as a package under SHHIP ADB Tranche 2 Bridge Construction Works Section 3 (BCW 3).

In his opening remarks, Secretary, expressed his appreciation to ADB and CCECC Project Manager, Mr. John Wang and his team for delivering the project on time and within budget and to the required quality standard enabling works officers to effectively serve the public. He acknowledged the efforts of the project management team as well for their contribution to the successful completion of the office building.

Secretary further extended his gratitude to students of Mt Hagen Primary School for performing the National Anthem and reciting the National Pledge during the event. “We want to build infrastructure that serves the future generations, and this is the reason why this office was built,” he said.

In his address, Secretary encouraged staff in Mt. Hagen to change their mindset and take pride in the new office building. He asked everyone to help keep the building clean and professional, and to avoid smoking and chewing of betel-nut in and around the premises. He said the building is a major government investment and should be respected and looked after. He added, proper care of such assets, contributes to a better working environment that strengthens the capacity of officers to perform their duties effectively.

Secretary also appealed to the general public to take responsibility for maintaining key infrastructure, including the four-lane road stretching from Kagamuga Airport Junction to Keltiga Junction which is a major investment worth millions of kina. He emphasized that such developments are long-term investments and called on the people of Western Highlands to protect and value the services being delivered.

“Together, we are building the systems, the institutions and the infrastructure that will serve our people for generations to come,” he said. “We want to leave a legacy, and moving forward, we must embrace a change in mindset, improve our work culture, and remain committed to our responsibilities” he said.

Governor for Western Highlands Province, Honorable Wai Rapa, expressed his appreciation to the Secretary for Works and Highways for his responsiveness, noting that consistently answering his phone calls on road issues in Mt. Hagen demonstrates respect and commitment to service.

He described Mt. Hagen as a key hub in the country, where all Highlands provinces pass through, and one of the busiest cities alongside Lae and Port Moresby. He urged the Secretary to consider Mt. Hagen a priority city for infrastructure development. He also thanked the Department of Works and Highways for delivering the new office building, saying it will enhance the city’s appearance.

Following his address, Governor Rapa as the guest of honor officially opened the new office building on the April 22 2026.