The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) has formally presented its 2026 Budget Framework to the National Minister for Treasury, Ian Ling-Stuckey, recently in Port Moresby.
The budget totals K844.09 million and focuses on fiscal discipline and Bougainville’s readiness for independence.
ABG Minister for Treasury and Finance, Albert Punghau, presented the framework, outlining three key priorities: Protecting frontline services, supporting independence readiness, and Strengthening Bougainville’s own revenue base.
The budget was passed unanimously by the Bougainville House of Representatives in December 2025 under the theme “Advancing Fiscal Self-Reliance and Independence Readiness for Nationhood.”
The total appropriation includes K240.98 million (28.55%) for recurrent expenditure to support essential services, and K603.11 million (71.45%) for development projects, including infrastructure and economic investment.
Funding sources include National Government grants (K520.36 million), ABG internal revenue (K46.75 million), and re-appropriated funds (K276.98 million).
“This balanced appropriation reflects our commitment to disciplined financial management and transparent resource utilization,” Minister Punghau said.
A key feature of the 2026 budget is the Constituency Independence-Readiness Program (CIRP), which allocates K1 million per constituency to support local economic activities and community-driven projects. The CIRP operates under BEC-endorsed guidelines with verified outputs and transparent controls.
The K150 million Restoration and Development Grant prioritizes infrastructure rehabilitation, with 32% directed to infrastructure that improves access, connectivity, and service delivery.
More than 54 per cent of recurrent grants are allocated to health and education, strengthening ABG’s focus on human capital development.
Minister Punghau reaffirmed ABG’s commitment to accountability, confirming that outstanding audits from 2017 to 2023 will be addressed and that reporting standards will be maintained.
“The ABG will measure 2026 performance through tangible outputs, including completed and commissioned projects, improved service delivery, restored infrastructure functionality, and visible progress toward economic productivity and institutional readiness,” he said.
The ABG continues its practice of early budget submission and remains among the first regional governments to present its budget to National Treasury each year.
The Minister requested formal endorsement to allow early release of first-quarter grants, ensuring continuity of services and smooth implementation in 2026.
