Western province leaders unite to back K394 million road projects

Western province political leaders at the Kwalimu Haus in Port Moresby during the signing of the road project agreement last week *(NBC News)*

Leaders from Western Province have pledged unified support to ensure the successful delivery of three major road projects recently announced by Ok Tedi Mining Limited [OTML], worth a total of K394 million.

Welcoming the development, Western Governor Taboi Awi Yoto said political unity was essential to seeing these vital infrastructure projects through to completion.

“Our leaders have always stood together and we hope to continue that leadership so developments are successfully completed,” Governor Yoto said.

“These major road projects will connect all our districts and attract further investment. We will continue to fight for more services to reach our province.”

The projects, to be constructed by China Railway Construction Engineering Group, include the construction of the Kiunga - Nomad Road [K294 million], Balimo - Kawiyapo/Wasua Road [K55.2m] and the upgrading of Balimo Town roads [K44 million].

North Fly MP Donald James said the announcement was a new chapter for the province.

“This is the beginning of strong political leadership aimed at delivering tangible development. We want to set a new tone, working together, hand-in-hand, to drive real change for our people,” he said.

James urged fellow MPs to work collaboratively and ensure resources are used transparently and effectively to improve service delivery.

“If we had properly managed even the little we had in the past, we would have transformed our province by now. Instead, we’ve been going around in circles.”

Middle Fly MP Maso Hewabi also welcomed the infrastructure works and said the projects would bring long-overdue change to communities.

“This is a blessing, especially for those who have missed out on development opportunities. With this road, people can transform their lives.”

He also praised the current political and administrative leadership for aligning in support of development.

“One of our greatest achievements so far is the unity among our leaders, both politically and administratively. That’s how we drive real change.”

The road projects are expected to significantly improve accessibility, reduce isolation in remote areas, and boost socio-economic activity across all four districts of Western Province.