The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) continues to make progress in its Law and Justice sector through targeted infrastructure upgrades.

This week, a ground-breaking ceremony was held to mark the beginning of a new facelift of the Bekut Correctional Facility in Peit Constituency, Buka.

The project, which will deliver upgraded male and female dormitories, secured fencing and associated works, reflects the ABG’s ongoing commitment to improving correctional services and preparing Bougainville’s institutions for greater responsibility in the justice sector.

The ceremony was attended by ABG Minister for Police and Member for Konnou Constituency Hon. Willie Masiu, ABG Secretary for Law and Justice Ms. Leontine Ivano, alongside key national and development partners including Resident Judge Justice Peter Toliken, Chief of Bougainville Police and Deputy Police Commissioner Francis Tokura, Assistant Commissioner Correctional Services (AROB) Vincent Kundi, and representatives from the Australian High Commission and Papua New Guinea Correctional Services.

Speaking at the event, ABG Secretary for Law and Justice Ms. Leontine Ivano described the upgrade as a critical step forward for Bougainville’s justice sector development.

“Strengthening correctional infrastructure is a key priority for the Autonomous Bougainville Government as we progress towards the transfer of functions,” she said, adding that such investments ensure systems are better equipped to manage facilities safely, effectively, and in line with future obligations of the justice sector.

Ms. Ivano emphasized that the upgrade would contribute to improved standards of detainee management, staff welfare, and overall facility operations, aligning with ABG’s broader vision of a fair, secure, and well-functioning justice system.

She acknowledged the PNG Correctional Services and the Government of Australia for their continued partnership and support in advancing Bougainville’s Justice Sector.

Assistant Commissioner for Correctional Services (AROB) Vincent Kundi welcomed the commencement of works, noting the direct impact the improvements will have on frontline officers and detainees.

“This project will make a real difference for our officers stationed here and the people in our care. Strong infrastructure helps us do our job properly by improving safety, supports better management of detainees and lifts the standard of Bekut,” he said.

The Bekut upgrade is being delivered in partnership with Papua New Guinea Correctional Services and the Australia–PNG Law and Justice Partnership (APLJ), as part of continued collaboration to support justice sector development in Bougainville.

Development partners acknowledged ABG’s leadership in advancing justice sector reforms and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Bougainville’s priorities through practical infrastructure and capacity-building initiatives.

The current works represent the first phase of a broader development plan for the facility, with future investments expected to include a new guard house, expanded male and female accommodation, and upgraded ablution facilities.