State broadcaster on track to achieve full coverage by 2030

The National Broadcasting Corporation is on track to meet the National Government's Medium Term Development Plan 4 (MTDP IV) target, aiming for full national coverage by 2030.

Minister for ICT Timothy Masiu confirmed that NBC’s migration from analog to digital broadcasting, along with the reintroduction of Medium Wave (MW) Radio transmission in all provincial stations, will pave the way to achieving 100% coverage by the target date.

But, Masiu said unreliable power supply continues to be a significant challenge, preventing NBC from offering consistent 24-hour broadcasting services to the public.

"This is the nightmare of our provincial stations," Masiu said.

"To address this national issue, we’ve reintroduced MW radio transmission, especially at our regional sites in Waigani [Southern], Kurakakaul [NGI], Goroka [Highlands], and Bubia in the Momase region."

Masiu also pointed out that the Bubia MW transmitter in Lae has the highest power output at 25 watts, while the other stations operate at 10 kilowatts.

The ICT minister when delivering a keynote address to NBC's 2025 Business Workshop Plan, said it was important to ensure provincial stations are fully equipped and prepared for the country’s upcoming 50th Independence Anniversary broadcast.