NPL & DoWH sign MoU for emergency road works on Wabag-Porgera road

The Wabag to Porgera highway is a vital route, serving not only the Porgera mine but also the surrounding communities. 

The Department of Works and Highways (DoWH) is responsible for its maintenance but has encountered significant logistical challenges beyond its control in fulfilling this duty. 

Recognizing the highway’s importance to the State, New Porgera Limited (NPL) and DoWH have formalized their collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Under this agreement, NPL will provide accommodation for key DoWH personnel at the Porgera mine site and offer logistical support to assist the DoWH in fulfilling its maintenance responsibilities. This partnership is just the beginning of what New Porgera envisions as a long-term, mutually beneficial collaboration with the DoWH, as we continue to explore further opportunities to improve access for those who rely on this vital highway.

The agreement was signed today by NPL Country Manager Karo Maha-Lelai and Department of Works Secretary Gibson Holemba in Port Moresby at the DoWH headquarters. The signing was witnessed by NPL’s Head of Legal Ethel Heagi, Manager, Special Projects and Government Relations, Sioni Sioni, along with key members of the DoW leadership team: Brian Alois (Deputy Secretary – Field Operations), Steven Pup (Deputy Secretary – Highway Management), Israel Kumbu (FAS, ITCS Coordination Unit) and John Kaio.

In addition, NPL is pleased to announce that it is now registered for the Infrastructure Tax Credit Scheme (TCS) with the Department of National Planning & Monitoring (DoNPM). NPL is committed to participating in upcoming workshops with both DoWH and DoNPM to progress planning for long-term projects, while we await finalization of the Community Development Agreement (CDA).

 #Infrastructure #CommunityDevelopment #MoU #NPL #emergencyworks