Secretary

Mr. Gibson Holemba

Role and Responsibilities

As the Secretary of the Department of Works and Highways (DoWH), Mr. Gibson Ali Holemba plays a pivotal role in transforming Papua New Guinea’s infrastructure landscape. With over 15 years of experience in civil engineering and public administration, Mr. Holemba leads the nation’s most ambitious infrastructure programs, focusing on sustainable development, innovation, and social inclusivity.

His key responsibilities include

• Strategic Oversight: Directing the planning, execution, and supervision of infrastructure projects under the Connect PNG Development Plan (2020–2040) and National Road Network Strategy (NRNS), ensuring alignment with national development goals.
• Policy Formulation and Governance: Driving the development and implementation of innovative policies, technical standards, and guidelines to elevate infrastructure planning and execution across Papua New Guinea.
• Operational Excellence: Managing the department’s operations across all 22 provinces, ensuring the timely and efficient delivery of roads, bridges, and other critical infrastructure projects.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborating with government agencies, international donors, contractors, and local communities to achieve infrastructure goals and long-term impact.
• Capacity Building: Promoting the professional growth of engineers and technical officers, fostering a culture of excellence, and ensuring the adoption of best practices in engineering and project management.

Through his leadership, Mr. Holemba ensures that DoWH delivers resilient infrastructure solutions that drive connectivity, economic growth, and improved quality of life for all Papua New Guineans.

Key Contributions

Transformative Infrastructure Development

• Played a key role in delivering the Connect PNG Economic Road Development Program, valued at PGK 20 billion, which enhances national connectivity and fosters economic growth.
• Successfully managed landmark projects such as the Jiwaka Provincial Headquarters Development, the Finschafen Highway Project, and the Kumbal River Bridge Construction, significantly improving accessibility and regional development.
• Contributed to the sealing of the Boluminski Highway, boosting trade and mobility between Kavieng and Namatanai districts.

Advancing Policy and Standards

• Developed and revised critical technical standards and policies, including the Road Safety Audit Policy, Flood-Resistant Bridge Design Guide, and National Bridge Maintenance Program, ensuring adherence to global best practices.
• Championed the integration of climate-resilient and sustainable design principles in all infrastructure projects.

Professional Leadership

• Served as the Deputy Secretary for Road Network Planning, Design, and Standards, where he drove innovation and compliance in national infrastructure planning and delivery.
• Played a vital role as Deputy President of the Institute of Engineers Papua New Guinea (IEPNG), advocating for the advancement of the engineering profession and capacity building in the sector.

Community and Social Impact

• Improving Accessibility: Delivered infrastructure that connects rural communities to essential services, including healthcare, education, and markets, empowering isolated regions and fostering inclusivity.
• Supporting Local Economies: Advocated for the engagement of local contractors in construction and maintenance projects, creating economic opportunities and strengthening community resilience.
• Promoting Climate Resilience: Integrated disaster-resilient designs in road and bridge projects to protect communities from environmental challenges and safeguard public investments.

Vision and Future Aspirations

Mr. Gibson Ali Holemba envisions a Papua New Guinea where infrastructure serves as a catalyst for inclusive and sustainable development. His aspirations include:

• Achieving full connectivity under the Connect PNG Development Plan by delivering missing-link road projects and bridges.
• Expanding the adoption of eco-friendly and climate-resilient designs to ensure the longevity of infrastructure investments.
• Strengthening partnerships with international donors and development agencies to accelerate project delivery and improve cost-efficiency.
• Empowering the next generation of engineers through training programs and mentorship initiatives to lead the future of infrastructure development.

Bio

Gibson Ali Holemba is a Registered Civil Engineer and an esteemed leader in Papua New Guinea’s infrastructure sector. A graduate of the Papua New Guinea University of Technology, he holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering and a Master’s Degree in Civil and Structural Engineering from Hokkaido University, Japan. He also completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Road Administration from the Japan Infrastructure Development Institute.

Throughout his career, Mr. Holemba has built a reputation for excellence in road and bridge design, policy development, and strategic project execution. His hands-on approach and technical expertise have been instrumental in delivering transformative infrastructure projects that contribute to Papua New Guinea’s socio-economic growth.

As Secretary of DoWH, Mr. Holemba continues to lead with vision, innovation, and dedication, ensuring that Papua New Guinea’s transport and infrastructure systems meet the demands of a growing and dynamic nation.