Sisimakam–P’nyang Road Project Launched to Boost Connectivity in North Fly

Prime Minister James Marape officiates ground-breaking ceremony for strategic Connect PNG infrastructure project in Western Province.

NORTH FLY, WESTERN PROVINCE: The Sisimakam–P’nyang Access Road has officially been launched under the Government’s Connect PNG Program, marking a major step toward improving transport access, service delivery and economic opportunity for remote communities in North Fly District.

Prime Minister James Marape officiated at the ground-breaking ceremony, witnessed by people from Sisimakam, P’nyang and surrounding communities who gathered in large numbers for what local leaders described as a historic milestone for the district.

The project is being delivered as part of the national effort to connect rural and isolated communities through strategic road infrastructure. It aligns with Papua New Guinea’s Medium-Term Development Plan IV and the Connect PNG Program, which place connectivity at the centre of inclusive and sustainable development.

Road to Open Access and Opportunity

The Sisimakam–P’nyang corridor will link communities across challenging terrain and provide improved access to markets, schools, health services and future economic activity. Project documents state that the road spans approximately 32.25 kilometres from Sisimakam Junction to Kiangabip Village.

The Minister for Works and Highways outlined a three-phase implementation approach. Phase 1 will upgrade and seal the first 11 kilometres, valued at K47 million. Phase 2 will develop the remaining missing link, while Phase 3 will complete final upgrading and sealing of the full corridor.

Detailed surveys, including LiDAR mapping and engineering design, have already been completed to guide implementation. The overall project is expected to require substantial investment, with earlier estimates indicating approximately K150 million may be needed to complete the full road development.

Partnerships Supporting Delivery

Member for North Fly, Hon. James Donald, welcomed the Prime Minister, the Minister for Works and Highways, representatives of ExxonMobil, Ok Tedi Mining Limited, government officials and other dignitaries to the launch. He acknowledged the role of all stakeholders in progressing the long-awaited project.

The project is supported through partnership arrangements, including the Tax Credit Scheme. ExxonMobil representatives reaffirmed their commitment to the road project, while Ok Tedi Mining Limited announced a K30 million contribution toward the initiative.

Speaking on behalf of the Secretary for the Department of Works and Highways, Mr Gibson Holemba, the Department emphasised that the project reflects the importance of strategic partnerships and private sector participation in delivering national infrastructure and economic growth.

Local Participation and Standards

The Department of Works and Highways said local content and community participation would be central to delivery. Priorities include engaging local landowner companies, transferring skills to local workers and creating business opportunities along the project corridor.

The Department also reaffirmed its statutory responsibility to ensure that the road is delivered in accordance with approved engineering standards and specifications. It said strict quality assurance, safety, durability and contractor performance monitoring would be applied throughout implementation.

Starwest, as the contractor for Phase 1, has been tasked with meeting these standards while working closely with local communities.

Long-Term Benefits for Communities

Leaders at the launch highlighted the long-term benefits of road infrastructure beyond the lifespan of major resource projects. Improved road access is expected to reduce transport costs and travel time, strengthen access to healthcare and education, support small businesses and create employment opportunities.

Prime Minister Marape paid tribute to traditional landowners and community leaders of Sisimakam and P’nyang, thanking them for their support and warm welcome. He said the Government was committed to delivering tangible development outcomes for the people.

“This road is not just about infrastructure; it is about creating opportunities for future generations through better education, healthcare, business development and connectivity,” Prime Minister Marape said.

The Department further emphasised that development must be environmentally responsible, with safeguards to protect rivers, ecosystems and biodiversity and to ensure construction activities are managed responsibly.

The launch of the Sisimakam–P’nyang Access Road represents another important milestone in the implementation of the Connect PNG Program and reinforces the Government’s commitment to connecting rural communities, unlocking economic potential and ensuring inclusive national development.