PRIME Minister James Marape has moved to reassure Papua New Guineans that his Government remains firmly committed to supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and has directed an independent audit into the management and disbursement of SME funds following allegations circulating in the public domain.
Prime Minister Marape said the Government had taken note of concerns being raised by members of the public and various stakeholders regarding the administration of funds allocated to the SME sector.
Mr Marape said he has instructed the National Monitoring and Coordinating Authority (NMCA), together with the Department of the Prime Minister and National Executive Council through the Chief Secretary, to engage an independent external audit firm to undertake a full reconciliation of the SME funding programme.
The audit will determine the total amount of public funds allocated to the programme, how much has been released, where the funds have been disbursed, and whether those disbursements have been made in accordance with Government policy and approved processes.
“I want an independent, professional and transparent assessment so that the facts are established beyond doubt,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“The purpose of this audit is not only to establish the truth regarding the allegations but also to safeguard the integrity of one of the Government’s most important economic empowerment programmes.
Prime Minister Marape said the findings of the audit would guide any further action that may be necessary.
“If the audit confirms that everything has been managed properly, then that will provide assurance to the public. If shortcomings or irregularities are identified, appropriate corrective action will be taken in accordance with the law.
He emphasised that the claims currently in circulation remain allegations and should not be treated as established fact until an independent assessment has been completed.
“SME development remains one of the cornerstone policies of my Government because it is central to creating jobs, empowering Papua New Guineans, and building a stronger domestic economy,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“Since 2019, my Government and Pangu Pati have consistently identified the SME sector as a flagship policy priority. Our vision is to build an economy where more Papua New Guineans own businesses, create employment and participate meaningfully in national economic growth.”
“We have deliberately earmarked substantial funding to support Papua New Guinean entrepreneurs. It is therefore important that every kina allocated for this purpose reaches its intended beneficiaries.”
The Prime Minister appealed to the public to allow the audit process to proceed without speculation or premature conclusions.
“I acknowledge the concerns expressed by the public. Your concerns have been heard and are being taken seriously. These matters remain allegations, and we will establish the facts through an independent process.”
“I ask all public commentators to allow the audit to run its course. Once the independent auditors have completed their work, I will report back to the country on the findings and advise what actions, if any, will be taken.”
Prime Minister Marape reiterated that SME growth remains a national priority and a key pillar of the Government’s economic agenda to broaden participation by Papua New Guineans in business and reduce reliance on the public sector.
“Our commitment to SMEs remains unwavering. We are determined to build one million economically productive Papua New Guinean families through SME growth, agriculture and entrepreneurship. This audit is about protecting the integrity of that commitment and maintaining
public confidence in the programme.”
He said once the independent audit is completed, the Government will publicly release its findings and outline the way forward.