Marape to launch Poroma-Kutubu road project this week

Prime Minister James Marape is scheduled to launch the road project of the Poroma-Kutubu Road that runs to the Kutubu and Moran oil and gas fields this Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at Pimaga Station in the Kutubu Local Level Government [LLG].

After more than three decades of waiting, the people of Nipa Kutubu District in the Southern Highlands Province are set to witness the launching of the project that falls under the Government’s Connect PNG Economic Road Infrastructure Development Program.

Minister for Defence and local MP Dr. Billy Joseph described the development as a “dream come true” for the district that has long felt neglected despite its massive contributions to the national purse.

“This is the best New Year present for my people of Nipa Kutubu after 34 years of pumping oil and gas out of Kutubu and Moran oil and gas fields,” MP Joseph said.

MP Joseph said 2026 will be a year to be remembered especially by the people of Poroma, Kutubu and Mt. Bosavi LLGs as their patience and consistence dedication to seeing this project succeed has paid off.

He further elaborated that by improving this road, the Government aims to finally provide the connectivity to remote areas that have historically been isolated by rugged terrain and lack of political will.

"This isn’t just a road; it is a vital link to markets, healthcare, education, and economic opportunity that has been missing for far too long and I thank the Marape-Rosso government for this development taking place," local MP said.