PNG Government unveils major Connect PNG roads for West Sepik

Residents of West Sepik are expected to benefit from improved transport links after the National Government launched two major road developments worth K1.1 billion under the Connect PNG Program.

The projects were officially announced in Vanimo by Prime Minister James Marape and Works and Highways Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jr, with the province's four district MPs and members of the public attending the launch ceremony.

 PNG Government unveils major Connect PNG roads for West Sepik

The investment covers the K726 million sealing of the Vanimo-Green River Road and the K374 million Sepik Highway project between Warasikau and Lumi-Karaitem.

Prime Minister Marape said connecting rural communities remained one of his Government's priorities, noting that better roads would help people gain easier access to schools, health facilities and markets.

He said the focus was on improving the lives of the majority of Papua New Guineans who live in rural parts of the country.

The Prime Minister also took time to officially open newly completed classrooms at Vanimo Primary School after the road launch.

The new facilities include a four-in-one double classroom and a single classroom built with support from the Department of Works and Highways and funding through the Ok Tedi Tax Credit Scheme.

"This government focused on empowering rural Papua New Guinea. This is where 85 per cent of Papua New Guineans are," Prime Minister Marape said.

"The construction for the Sepik Highway between Warasikau and Lumi is a major step forward for inland community. This road is not just a district road, it is a development corridor," Mr Tsiamalili Jr said.