Prime Minister James Marape departed this morning for an official visit to New Zealand. The visit aims to strengthen Papua New Guinea’s relations with New Zealand on multiple fronts, including government-to-government and business-to-business partnerships. "We will revisit our strategic partnership in terms of our government-to-government relations as well as our business-to-business relations," PM Marape stated. Mr. Marape further revealed that his visit would include inspections of seasonal workplaces where Papua New Guineans are employed under work agreements. "We received requests that led to an agreement for Papua New Guineans to work in New Zealand. I will also be making some visits there. We will be back on Friday," he said. He also used the opportunity to encourage all Papua New Guineans to take personal responsibility for the nation's progress. "You cannot expect only the Prime Minister, ministers, or politicians to work. Each and every one of us must contribute to the development of our country. As we face our 50th Independence anniversary this year, let’s embrace a strong work ethic. Find a space in your country, your locality, your community, and show leadership,” he said. He emphasized the importance of collective effort towards national development, stating: "Let's all step up and take ownership of our nation's progress. As leaders, we are doing our part; the rest of us in the community must do the same." PM Marape reiterated that the journey towards the nation’s 50th anniversary is a call for all citizens to exhibit leadership and take proactive steps to build the country. "Leadership can begin in your society and your community by reaching out and embracing women in our midst. They are not to be hurt, harmed, but rather, they are to be loved, cherished, and protected," he said. Mr. Marape urged everyone to contribute to creating safer and more inclusive communities. "I just want to appeal to all the boys and men in our country. If you have any issue, please address it responsibly, but let’s keep our women out of it. Let's embrace and protect our women," he pleaded. He concluded by announcing that the Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso would act as Prime Minister during his absence, ensuring the country continues to function effectively.

The New Porgera Limited has refuted false claims posted online by ‘The Pacific Guardian’ which was published without any attempt to seek comment. Porgera (Jersey) Limited and Barrick (Niugini) Limited, who each jointly owns Barrick Gold Corporation, in a statement said they rejected the claims published. “Barrick has not sold any part of its interest in the Porgera Mine, whether to Zijin or anyone else and remains the operator of New Porgera Limited (NPL). Any suggestion to the contrary is entirely false. The post misrepresents the Independent Consumer and Competition Commission (ICCC)’s public notice about a proposed transaction. As the ICCC’s public notice makes clear, there has been no change whatsoever in the ultimate ownership of BNL. Barrick and Zijin, as 50/50 owners of both PJL and BNL, have merely undertaken an internal corporation restructuring for simplification purposes,” NPL said. NPL added that this restructuring does not alter ownership in any way. “Moreover, ownership of New Porgera  Limited , the entity that is a shareholder in the Porgera mine remains entirely unchanged. Both before and after the restructuring each of Barrick and Zijin will continue to hold 24.5% stake in the mine,” NPL said. NPL added that this post appears to be part of a broader disinformation campaign that serves no constructive purpose. “It also contains offensive remarks, which we will not dignify with a response. We strongly encourage The Pacific Guardian to conduct proper fact-checking before publishing such content and issue a full retraction immediately,” NPL said.

In addition to the successful 2024 financial results announced by the Nambawan Super Limited (NSL), the superfund also delivered other positive outcomes for its members in 2024. NSL incoming Board Chairman, Mr. Richard Sinamoi said the other positive outcomes includes, • State Share Benefit payments of K55 million paid out to 1,112 Members. • Housing Advance of K115 million paid out to support 5,029 Members either purchase, build or improve their homes. “While 2024 was a challenging year locally, I would like to reiterate that Nambawan Super will continue to deliver on our mandate of protecting our members superannuation savings, regardless the economic climate.” “We are extremely proud that amidst all the external challenges, we remain able to promptly process, and payout Members Benefit Payments,” Mr. Sinamoi said. He said members can rest assured with the knowledge that when the time comes for them to collect their superannuation savings, not only will it be readily available to them, but it would also have grown substantially. “I would also like take this opportunity to remind our members that superannuation is a long-term investment. From year-to-year results may go up or down, but it’s important to take a long-term view.” “This is why in today’s fast-paced and rapidly changing world; the Fund must remain agile and responsive to shifts in the marketplace,” he said. He added that the operating environment is now more interconnected and interdependent than ever before, and while this brings many opportunities, it also brings its fair share of challenges and risks. “As such, the Board has worked closely with the Management Team throughout 2024 to deliver a revised 3-Year Strategic Plan with Members interests at the forefront. The revised strategy is being executed commencing 2025 with a strong focus on leveraging technology to drive efficiency and improve customer experience.” “With the increasing cybersecurity threats experienced across a number of major organizations recently, cybersecurity is and will remain a critical focus area for Nambawan Super Limited. We take the protection of our members’ data and information very seriously, and we will continue to proactively apply the highest standards of cybersecurity in order to protect our members,” he said. Mr. Sinamoi said as the largest, longest serving, and most trusted superannuation fund in the country, their commitment to their members remains unwavering and Member’s will continue to remain at the heart of everything they do, and they will continue to prioritize members interests and financial security above all else.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape is meeting New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon on Tuesday (25.03.25) evening in Wellington to discuss trade, investment, agriculture, fisheries, education and security as well as other areas of mutual concern between the two countries. PM Marape is on his first ‘guest of government’ visit to New Zealand, accompanied by his spouse, and delegation including Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko; Minister for International Trade and Investment Richard Maru; Minister for Livestock, Sekie Agisa; and Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology Kinoka Feo. Meeting with Prime Minister Luxon reaffirms the bilateral partnership that has existed between the two Pacific nations since PNG gained Independence in 1975. New Zealand signed a Statement of Partnership with Papua New Guinea in 2021 under former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and PM Marape to have the two countries work more collaboratively in enhancing trade and investment, and areas of mutual concern between New Zealand and PNG. This is being refreshed this week when PM Luxon and PM Marape sign a new Statement of Partnership for 2025 – 2029 after their bilateral meeting on Tuesday. The events signal a growing relationship between the two countries, especially in trade and investment, cultural exchange, and the newly-added Recognized Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme – the Pacific labour mobility program that New Zealand has extended to Papua New Guineans to work in New Zealand. PM Marape said this visit reflects PNG and NZ's shared domestic priorities on economic growth, attracting foreign direct investment, strengthening engagement in the Indo-pacific, and improving the efficiency of the countries’ respective public services. “I am looking forward to meeting with Prime Minister Luxon to further entrench our relationship with New Zealand. We highly value New Zealand as a brother in the Pacific family of nations, the Pacific Islands Forum; and also, in the bigger Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation family; and for the contributions New Zealand has made in resolving the Bougainville crisis and continues to make in negotiating the settlement of Bougainville autonomy, as recently demonstrated in the appointment of special moderator, Sir Jerry Mateparae. “New Zealand has a thriving horticulture sector, which has opened up to Papua New Guineans under the RSE scheme. New Zealand has also opened up its scholarship to our students here in PNG who have been studying there for a while now. “I will be conveying our gratitude in person to PM Luxon when I sit with him; and also discuss ways on improving trade and investments, growth in agriculture, fisheries and security enhancement between our two countries. It will be a good meeting,” said PM Marape. Mr. Marape will entrench this bilateral meeting when he follows through with a further meeting with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Winstons Peters on Wednesday, 26 March 2025; and a courtesy call on Leader of the Opposition, Chris Hipkins later that day. Another meeting specifically on security will be held to tie off the meetings for that day.

Following the recent announcement of its Energy Transition Policy, the Papua New Guinea Chamber of Resources and Energy (PNG CORE) provides further details on this initiative, which focuses on promoting sustainable energy practices and addressing climate change. According to PNG CORE, this policy underscores its commitment to facilitating a just and equitable transition towards a more sustainable and resilient energy future for Papua New Guinea (PNG). “Energy Transition is a strategic agenda for PNG CORE. PNG CORE envisions a Papua New Guinea where clean, renewable energy powers sustainable development, enhances energy security, and fosters prosperity for all,” PNG CORE stated. PNG CORE Sustainability and Climate Change Committee Chair Felix Kipalan said they are dedicated to promoting and facilitating the transition to a sustainable energy future in PNG by advocating for policies, fostering collaboration, and driving innovation within the energy and resources sector. “We aim to promote renewable energy by advocating for policies and incentives that encourage the development and deployment of renewable energy sources to diversify PNG's energy mix and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Additionally, support efforts to improve energy efficiency across all sectors through the adoption of energy-efficient technologies, practices, and standards.” “We also seek to foster innovation and research by promoting investment in research, development, and innovation to drive technological advancements in clean energy, energy storage, and energy management solutions tailored to PNG's unique context,” Mr. Kipalan said. He said PNG CORE also aims to strengthen the capacity and skills of Papua New Guineans to participate in and contribute to the energy transition, particularly in areas such as renewable energy development, energy management, and sustainable resource utilization. “PNG CORE advocates for the alignment of energy transition policies with broader national development goals, including poverty alleviation, rural development, and environmental conservation, to ensure a holistic and integrated approach to sustainable development.” Engaging stakeholders is also a key objective, with PNG CORE fostering a collaborative approach by engaging with all relevant stakeholders, including government bodies, local communities, industry partners, and civil society, to ensure inclusivity in decision-making processes,” Mr. Kipalan said. He said PNG CORE is committed to minimizing environmental and social impacts by advocating energy transition projects in an environmentally responsible and socially equitable manner, ensuring that initiatives minimize adverse environmental impacts and respect community rights. “We aim to adapt to climate change by aligning and incorporating climate adaptation strategies into energy transition efforts, recognizing PNG's vulnerability to the impacts of climate change and ensuring resilience in energy infrastructure. “We will collaborate closely with our members, government agencies, industry stakeholders, and other pertinent entities. This includes establishing baselines and benchmarks, conducting sector assessments, and transparently reporting on progress towards promoting sustainable energy transition strategies and initiatives,” he said. Mr. Kipalan said PNG CORE remains committed to leading the charge in energy transition within PNG's resources and energy sectors, ensuring a sustainable and resilient future for all.

Nambawan Super Limited (NSL) today has announced a record-high Net Profit After Tax of K1.1 billion as part of its financial results for the year 2024 and 10.5% interest credit rating for its 235,888 members. This follows the approval of the audited financial statements by the Board of Trustees last week Friday, 21 March 2025. NSL incoming Board Chairman, Mr. Richard Sinamoi stated that NSL recorded a 3.3% growth in Membership to 235,888 Members with a Net Asset Value (NAV) of K11.2 billion and a record NPAT K1.1 billion. Mr. Sinamoi said the Board declared an interest rate of 10.5 per cent for 2024 for its members. “Members will be pleased to know that their accounts have already been credited over the weekend, with the interest applied to their balances as of 31 December 2024. This strong performance has been delivered amidst unprecedented challenges faced by the Fund in 2024; from the Black Wednesday riots that shook the country on January 10, through to the enormous work undertaken to secure vacant possession of NSL’s 9-Mile land portions after more than 30 years,” Mr. Sinamoi said. He said that despite these and many other challenges, the Board, Management and Staff remained resolute in putting Members’ interests first and foremost, tirelessly working to deliver strong results in 2024. “With the ever-increasing law and order issues coupled with increasingly unreliable utilities, all of which significantly add to the challenges and costs of local business operations, NSL also continued to face the ongoing issue of securing adequate foreign currency. Locally, investment opportunities continued to lag while international markets appreciated, though still very volatile. “Throughout all of these challenges, the successful results of 2024 demonstrate the resilience of the Board, Management and Staff of NSL, who amidst these very unique and trying times, have continued to keep their focus on the Fund’s core purpose, our members. Through strong governance and prudent management, the Fund has delivered on its mandate to protect and grow our member’s retirement savings,” he said. Mr. Sinamoi added that in 2024, despite the tough economic conditions, their financial performance has shown very strong results due to the appreciation of the prices of overseas equities, and the price of BSP Financial Group, both on PNGX and ASX. Locally, the Fund’s assets did not perform well, with lower dividends realized from the Fund's unlisted equity holdings and reduced rental income. State securities, however, have seen significant investments yields, which prior to this year have been declining. Investment Properties increased due to the valuation of Portion 2158 of the 9-Mile Land Portions,” he said. Mr. Sinamoi said the Fund's listed equities performed well, driven largely by the strong performance of BSP Financial Group, Credit Corporation PNG and SP Brewery. “Additionally, foreign exchange gains, largely driven by the Bank of PNG’s currency devaluation program, have also contributed to the strong performance of the Fund’s offshore investments. Domestic listed equities have recorded unrealized capital gain with BSP Financial Group accounting for the majority of the gains. Credit Corporation PNG has also posted unrealized capital gains. This is essentially a pass on from its own shareholding in the BSP Financial Group. CPL shares fell slightly due to the impact of the Black Wednesday riots at the start of the year, recording an unrealized capital loss as a result. For the first time our cash holding is lower than in prior years as a result of investments into State Securities and offshore investments. Our strong growth has mainly been driven by the capital appreciation of the offshore and domestic equities, coupled with the impact of the depreciating Kina,” Mr. Sinamoi said. He added that this is why NSL employs an investment strategy that aims to reduce risks by running a balanced investment portfolio with about 20% of their investments offshore and about 80% locally invested. “This is done to de-risk the Fund and protect our members’ superannuation savings should one investment, not perform well. Despite the very tough local and volatile global economic conditions of 2024, I have no doubt that our members will be happy with the results of their Fund,” Mr. Sinamoi said.

Prime Minister James Marape has expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all Members of Parliament for their dedication and commitment during the last two weeks of Parliament sittings, describing their efforts as “monumental” and “historic.” Mr. Marape praised the bipartisan effort of Members from both the Government and Opposition who endured long hours of debate to pass crucial laws ahead of the 50th Anniversary, aimed at strengthening Papua New Guinea’s governance framework and enhancing social stability. “I wish to thank all Members of Parliament who, whether the public noticed or not, have been sitting through lengthy sessions over the last two weeks. We have been passing significant and essential laws that will guide and safeguard our nation as we approach 50 years of independence,” PM Marape said. Among the landmark bills passed were: 1. Constitutional Amendment to Define PNG as a Christian Country: This amendment provides absolute clarity in defining Papua New Guinea as a Christian nation within the framework of the Constitution. 2. Constitutional Amendment on Section 145: This amendment provides for an 18-month grace period before votes of no confidence can be moved, enhancing political stability and governance continuity, without removing VONC provisions. 3. Income Tax Reforms: Reforms aimed at providing greater economic relief and fairness to taxpayers, while ensuring revenue collection remains robust 4. Petroleum Resource Authority Act: A critical piece of legislation aimed at improving resource governance and ensuring Papua New Guinea benefits equitably from its natural resources. PM Marape commended the unity and dedication displayed by all Members of Parliament, both from the Government and Opposition benches, for debating and contributing to the passage of these important laws. “I have been in Parliament since 2007, and I have never seen such dedication and commitment from Members of Parliament. They have all, on both sides of the House, shown dedication by debating bills rigorously and working together to pass good laws. Some laws were opposed, which is part of our democratic process, but it is also a testament to the vitality of our democracy,” Mr. Marape said. He acknowledged that just as the founding fathers of Papua New Guinea sat down 50 years ago to lay the foundational framework for the nation, today’s Parliament is similarly laying down the legal framework necessary to guide PNG into its next 50 years. The PM also highlighted that the Government’s legislative agenda will continue, with the May sitting of Parliament expected to address issues around law and order. Planned amendments to the Criminal Code will impose heavier penalties on serious crimes, including domestic violence, abuse of women and girls, littering, and loitering. “These are part of the necessary adjustments we must make to secure our nation while empowering our police, courts, and government systems to function effectively. We are not only preparing for the next 50 years, but we are also reconstructing our systems to ensure a safer, stronger, and more prosperous Papua New Guinea,” PM Marape stated. The Prime Minister reiterated his appreciation for all Members of Parliament and encouraged them to continue their dedication towards building a safer and more robust nation.

City Pharmacy Limited (CPL), the largest retail pharmacy chain in Papua New Guinea, has entered a groundbreaking partnership with the United Church Urban Region Office (UCURO), Motu Koita Assembly (MKA), and the National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA) to establish a new City Pharmacy and Bon Café within the Metoreia Health Centre premises. The partnership is formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that outlines the construction of the new pharmacy. The Right Rev. Jacob Kila Harry, Bishop of the United Church Urban Region, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing that the new facility will significantly benefit the Metoreia community by providing essential healthcare services and a welcoming space for social interaction. Chairman of the Motu Koita Assembly Dadi Toka Jnr, in acknowledgment thanked CPL, the UCURO and NCDPHA and stated that the MKA, its administration and board are committed to deliver health services to the people of Motu Koita. Acting CEO of NCDPHA Dr. Robin Oge expressed gratitude to all stakeholders involved in the project and highlighted that CPL’s involvement helps bridge the gap in accessibility to medicinal drugs and accessories, which the NCDPHA system alone cannot fully address. Speaking on the partnership, Mr. Kee Lim, Executive Director of CPL, said, the pharmacy and café are aimed at enhancing healthcare access and convenience for the local community. “With CPL's commitment to quality healthcare services and the support of NCDPHA, the facility will not only provide pharmaceutical services but also offer a modern café space through Bon Café. This initiative reflects our ongoing commitment to making healthcare more accessible to everyone. It will make a significant impact on the health and well-being of individuals and communities in the surrounding area. When people are healthy, it positively affects families, education, and the future of children—everything comes together. We are grateful for the support and collaboration from our partners at UCURO, MKA, and NCDPHA in bringing this project to life,” Mr. Lim said.

The Local Level Government Administration (Amendment) Bill 2024 has been passed in Parliament. Minister for Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs Soroi Eoe who presented the Bill to Parliament stated that the Local Level Government Administration Act, 1997 is the legislation that governs the operations of Local Level Governments in the country. Minister Eoe said there are 331 Local Level Governments (LLGs) and 6, 375 wards operating in the country. “Section 42 to 51 of the Local-Level Administration Act also provides the legal basis for the establishment of the Local-Level Government Special Purpose Authorities (LLG SPAs) and govern their operations and management," said the minister. He said the amendments are made to sections 11, 14, 45 and 50 of the LLG Administration Act. "These amendments are critically necessary in the light of the many social issues and breakdown in community governance and leadership in many of our communities. The amendments will clearly demarcate and give added roles and responsibilities to Ward Members, set out minimum qualifications for LLG Leaders and give specific powers to the minister for Provincial and Local-Level Government Affairs to deal with LLG SPA Management Boards that do not comply with relevant sections of LLG Administration Act 1997, SPA Constitutions and other relevant legislations that govern the financial and general operations of LLG SPAs,” Minister Eoe stated. He said the overarching aim of these amendments is to strengthen and ensure quality and accountable leadership in the communities to address the increasing social and law and order issues and to ensure greater accountability in the management and operations of LLG SPAs as service delivery mechanism. “The amendments also support the National Government’s initiatives to shift power and the functions to the sub-national levels of government and to strengthen the services delivery mechanisms at the lower levels of government,” he said. The Bill was passed in Parliament last week with support from both the government and opposition side.

Prime Minister James Marape has welcomed the passage of the Fire and Rescue Service Bill 2025, describing it as a major milestone in strengthening Papua New Guinea’s fire and emergency response capabilities. The Bill, introduced by Defence Minister Billy Joseph, was successfully passed in Parliament, repealing the outdated Fire Service Act (Chapter 64) and replacing it with a modern legislative framework to address the country’s growing urban landscape and evolving emergency response needs. PM Marape commended Minister Joseph for championing this crucial legislation, stating that the reforms would significantly enhance the National Fire Service’s capacity to protect lives and properties across the country. “For decades, our fire service has operated under an outdated legal framework that has hindered its ability to expand, modernize, and meet the increasing demands of our communities. The passage of the Fire and Rescue Service Bill 2025 ensures that we now have a stronger, more responsive fire service capable of handling emergencies more effectively,” said PM Marape. He said the new law introduces regulatory functions for fire safety, expands firefighter responsibilities to include rescue operations and emergency response, and strengthens coordination between the National Fire Service and other government agencies. It also establishes a clear funding structure in line with the Public Finance (Management) Act 1995, ensuring greater accountability and resource allocation for fire services nationwide. Prime Minister Marape highlighted the government’s ongoing commitment to investing in firefighting infrastructure, equipment, and training to improve emergency response times and preparedness. “Our government is committed to building a resilient and well-equipped fire service that can effectively protect our people and businesses from disasters. This legislation provides the foundation for greater investment in fire stations, manpower, and technology, ensuring that every province—including the Autonomous Region of Bougainville—has access to professional fire and rescue services,” he said. PM Marape also urged all stakeholders, including local authorities, businesses, and the general public, to support the government’s efforts in strengthening fire safety awareness and emergency preparedness. “I encourage all Papua New Guineans to work together with our fire service to ensure a safer and more disaster-resilient country,” he stated. The passage of the Fire and Rescue Service Bill 2025 marks a new era for Papua New Guinea’s fire services, reinforcing the government’s commitment to modernizing essential institutions and ensuring public safety.

The Government of Papua New Guinea (PNG), through the National Executive Council (NEC), has awarded a landmark contract for the implementation of a Goods and Services Tax (GST) fiscal monitoring system to Virtual Flex Limited, in collaboration with the international firm, Data Tech International (DTI). The Internal Revenue Commission (IRC) stated that the contract, officially signed by the Governor General yesterday at the Government House, marks the beginning of this transformative initiative designed to modernize tax administration and enhance GST compliance nationwide. "The system known, as TaxCore produced by DTI, will be called Goods and Services Monitoring System (GMS) in PNG. The GMS is an advanced digital solution designed to capture and monitor GST transactions in real-time, ensuring accurate tax reporting and reducing revenue losses due to tax evasion. This initiative aligns with global best practices in fiscalization, leveraging advanced technology to close tax gaps and promote fairness in the tax system through e-receipting by electronically generating, transmitting, and storing of sales receipts to the Tax office, from the point of Transaction," IRC said. IRC said in simple terms, this is a system that will be embedded at the Point of Sales systems such as checkout cashiers as shops, etc. "The introduction of the GMS represents a critical step in addressing GST evasion and curbing fraudulent activities such as under-reporting, false invoicing, and the use of illegal sales suppression software. By implementing this system, PNG Internal Revenue Commission (IRC) aims to create a level playing field for businesses, ensuring that all businesses comply with their tax obligations. This project will significantly enhance the integrity of PNG’s tax system by improving revenue collection from GST. By leveraging technology, the IRC can ensure that every kina of GST collected is properly accounted for and contributes towards national development. The TaxCore system has been successfully deployed in numerous countries, including within the Pacific Island region, such as Fiji, Samoa, and most recently, Vanuatu," IRC stated. IRC said the implementation of the GMS is a pivotal component of the IRC’s broader digital transformation strategy, aimed at building a modern, efficient, and robust tax administration. The system will deliver several key benefits: ► Real-time Transaction Monitoring: Ensuring that all sales transactions are recorded and reported accurately to the tax authorities. ► Enhanced Fraud Detection: Identifying discrepancies in GST reporting to minimize tax leakage. ► Increased Voluntary Compliance: Encouraging businesses to comply with tax regulations through transparent monitoring. ► Economic Fairness: Levelling the playing field for businesses that operate ethically. ► Reduces the Cost of Compliance: Streamlines tax process, making it easier for businesses to comply with their tax obligations. ► Improves Tax Administration (IRC) Efficiency: For instance, it simplifies the verification of invoices/receipts when claiming input tax during the GST refund process IRC Commissioner General Sam Koim expressed his sincere gratitude to all competitive bidders who participated in the open and transparent tender process, commending their dedication and professionalism throughout. He also acknowledged the Marape Government for its commitment to modernizing tax administration by approving and funding this critical tax technology. IRC stated that In addition to the GMS contract signing, the contract for the Integrated Tax Administration System (ITAS) was also signed yesterday. "As the core tax technology, ITAS is poised to revolutionize tax administration and significantly enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the Internal Revenue Commission in administering tax," IRC said.

During Question without Notice in Parliament, Member for Hiri-Koiari Keith Iduhu raised a series of questions in regard to the Connect PNG Program and directed it to the Prime Minister James Marape. Mr. Iduhu stated that the Government’s CONNECT PNG program, established under the Connect PNG (Implementation and Funding Arrangements) Act 2021, commits 5.6% of the annual national budget to infrastructure development, equating to over K1.1 billion annually from 2022 to 2027. He said in 2024 alone, the transport sector, including CONNECT PNG, received K2.059 billion, representing 21% of the total Capital Investment Budget. "Meanwhile, the health sector was allocated K1.7 billion for recurrent expenditure and an additional K661.7 million for capital investment, totaling approximately K2.36 billion. Despite this, the reality on the ground is alarming. Our health system remains critically underfunded, with patients turned away due to medicine shortages, lack of hospital beds, and inadequate medical equipment. It is widely known that health services in rural areas are collapsing, yet the Government has committed billions to building roads that many of our people may never use," he said. Mr. Iduhu added that last year, the National Department of Health faced enormous challenges. "In the 2023 budget, the Department requested K386 million but received only K236 million, leaving a K150 million shortfall over 12 months. By October, the situation had become critical. Funding shortages coupled with central bank delays in the approval of foreign exchange contributed to a visible shortage of medicines in nearly all health facilities. The country’s vaccine budget had also been cut by K20 million, forcing the Department to seek urgent funding support from its international partners," he said. Mr. Iduhu said the last publicly tendered contract for medical supplies was in 2019, raising concerns that procurement is now being handled in an ad hoc and non-transparent manner. " In 2022, the Prime Minister directed the Health Department to shift to direct procurement from WHO-sanctioned manufacturers, yet medicine shortages persist, and hospitals continue to struggle. My questions to the Prime Minister are: 1. How does the Government justify spending billions on roads under CONNECT PNG when hospitals lack basic medicines and rural clinics are closing due to lack of supplies and staff? 2. Is it true that the last publicly tendered medical supply contract was in 2019? If so, can the Prime Minister confirm whether we are operating on an ad hoc basis, and if so, what measures will be taken to immediately restore transparency and regular procurement processes? 3. The 2022 directive to procure medicines directly from WHO-approved manufacturers was meant to improve availability and quality. Given the ongoing shortages, does the Prime Minister concede that this approach has failed? If so, what alternative measures will the Government take to ensure essential medicines reach our hospitals and clinics? 4. Why is CONNECT PNG receiving guaranteed funding while the health sector is constantly in crisis mode, scraping for resources to keep hospitals running? 5. Finally, on the eve of the 2022 National General Elections, the good prime minister with the former governor for Central Province launched a billboard project at Bautauma for the Central Province Hospital. Can the good Prime Minister also confirm or advise the people of Central Province when this project will commence and if funding will be allocated at all in this term of parliament? And how much will be allocated. In the 2022-23 budgets, there was K50 million - none of it was released," he said. Mr. Iduhu said the only occasion he heard of Connect PNG funding being used for healthcare was the admission by the Works Minister that Connect PNG money was used for his urgent medical treatment.