Port Moresby, December 14, 2023 – Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has lauded the Department of Works and Highways as a beacon of progress for Papua New Guinea over the past 48 years, particularly in the last four years as the key implementer of the Government’s flagship ‘Connect PNG’ programme.
The Prime Minister expressed his appreciation during the department’s Christmas party in Port Moresby today, stating, “In the midst of our many ups-and-downs, the Works Department has been one of our shining lights for the last 48 years.”
The gathering was attended by Works Minister Hon. Solan Mirisim, former minister Michael Nali, Secretary David Wereh, contractors, and staff.
The Prime Minister extended his gratitude to all past and present secretaries, employees, and ministers, acknowledging their dedication and contributions to the nation.
“I want to thank all of you for your support and the work you have been doing for our country. Infrastructure improves lives by connecting people to opportunities. Living a good life is not a privilege for a select few; a good life is an entitlement for every human being on the face of planet earth,” Prime Minister Marape said.
Recalling a visit to remote Kaintiba in Gulf in 2020, Prime Minister Marape shared, “Two years later, a road is approaching Kaintiba. Even if it is not a superhighway, at least it is a road that can uplift a coffee bag or a person from remoteness into connectivity. I’m here to compliment a department that is delivering.”
Highlighting the importance of infrastructure connectivity, the Prime Minister emphasised that one million people in Papua New Guinea are still not connected by road, and this challenge must be addressed to provide equal opportunities for all citizens.
“Opportunities are created by roads and enabling infrastructure connectivity. That is why we are reaching out through ‘Connect PNG.’ Enabling infrastructure carries a strong, diversified economy, simply put,” he said.
Prime Minister Marape pointed out that the return for every kina or dollar invested in a road is fourfold. He cited the example of the reduced travel time from Lae to Mt Hagen, emphasising the positive impact on the economy through savings on fuel, tires, and time.
“The 5.6 per cent of the annual budget contributed towards ‘Connect PNG,’ including from the record K27 billion 2024 Budget passed by Parliament earlier this month, will reap increased dividends for the country,” Prime Minister Marape said.
