By DALCY LULUA
Minister for Works and Highways, Solan Mirisim, has called on all provincial governors across Papua New Guinea to emulate the leadership and foresight of Gulf Governor, Sir Chris Haiveta, by investing in road construction machinery to fast-track infrastructure delivery in their respective provinces.
Speaking during the official handover of heavy machinery procured by the Gulf Provincial Government this week, Minister Mirisim described the initiative as a model for all provinces under the government’s ambitious Connect PNG program.
“I want to put on record, this is the way forward for all our governors,” Mr Mirisim said. “If governors can take ownership by purchasing their own machinery, roads can be built faster, costs can be reduced, and money stays within the provinces. This is how we can deliver timely and quality roads.”
Gulf Province recently acquired a fleet of 11 road construction machines, three of which are already operational in the province, with the rest now being deployed.
Sir Chris used provincial government funds to secure the equipment from trusted supplier Carrie Dale, marking a rare example of direct provincial investment into road development infrastructure.
Mirisim commended Sir Chris, saying the approach reflects strategic leadership and is aligned with the goals of the national Connect PNG infrastructure program.
“The road output delivered to provinces through external contractors has not been satisfying. By using local government funds to buy equipment, Governor Haiveta has demonstrated a strong commitment to serving his people and solving real infrastructure challenges.”
The Minister said the National Government would fully support provinces that invest in their own machinery by backing them with funding, technical expertise, and proper road designs to ensure national construction standards are met.
“If governors and DDAs buy their own machines, we can decentralize construction. When we give money to districts, they can build from their end, and the national contractors can build from the other. That’s how we will connect PNG in 10 years.”
He concluded by assuring continued support, including road safety standards and quality assurance, for any province that chooses to follow Gulf Province’s lead.
“This is the best initiative I’ve seen. It’s leadership that delivers. We will work with any governor who steps up like Sir Chris Haiveta. Together, we can build a better, connected Papua New Guinea.”
Yeah, you and your Con Act PNG Cohorts have milked Billions from the Public purse. There’s NO MONEY to purchase equipment let alone funds for the operation.
Who are you trying to kid Con Act Minister.
Will you and your boss fund ALL DDAs or be SELEECTIVE??
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