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PNG Prime Minister James Marape has confirmed that the government’s flagship infrastructure initiative, Connect PNG, will continue as planned despite ongoing investigations into its procurement processes.

In a statement delivered in Parliament today, Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed the government's commitment to the 20-year development program, describing it as crucial to enhancing national infrastructure and connectivity.

PNG Prime Minister James Marape 

The program, which has been labelled a “scam” by the Opposition, remains central to the government’s vision for national development. Marape assured Parliament that while inquiries into procurement will proceed, they will not disrupt the program’s implementation.

“Despite investigation into the program, Connect PNG program will not stop. The Government will continue to link up the country through this programme,” Marape stated.

He added that the inquiries would ensure transparency and accountability without halting progress, and emphasized that any issues identified during the investigation would be addressed accordingly.

The Connect PNG Program (2020–2040), led by the Department of Works and Highways, is regarded as Papua New Guinea’s most ambitious infrastructure plan to date. It aims to build over 16,000 kilometers of roads and develop strategic economic corridors throughout the country.

Launched in 2020 under the Connect PNG Economic Corridor Infrastructure Investment Act, the initiative seeks to connect isolated rural areas to urban and economic centers. It is seen as a transformative effort to close infrastructure gaps, improve access to services, and stimulate economic growth.

Marape highlighted the program’s long-term goal of fostering national unity and improving the quality of life for all Papua New Guineans through resilient, inclusive, and sustainable transport networks.

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