PNG Ports Corporation Limited (PNG Ports), which oversees 15 ports across Papua New Guinea, including the international terminals in Port Moresby and Lae, is pleased to announce the appointment of Deborah Onga as Chief Commercial Officer, which will come into effect on April 1, 2025.
In her new role, Onga will lead the Commercial Division, with key responsibilities including the commercialization of port assets, the development of the Lae Industrial Park, and stakeholder management.
Bringing extensive experience across the maritime, logistics, and property development sectors, Onga is well-positioned to drive PNG Ports’ commercial strategy.
PNG Ports CEO Neil Papenfus welcomed her appointment, stating, “We are thrilled to have Ms. Onga joining us as Chief Commercial Officer. Not only is she an outstanding corporate commercial lawyer, but she also brings significant expertise in areas that align with our key objectives—particularly large-scale land development projects and our multi-million Kina port refurbishment program.”
Papenfus also highlighted that Onga’s appointment aligns with PNG Ports’ gender equality initiatives and reflects the Government’s commitment to gender inclusivity in leadership roles.
Expressing her enthusiasm for the role, Onga said, “I am honored to join one of our nation’s State-Owned Enterprises and look forward to contributing to PNG Ports’ legacy of driving national development and economic growth. I am especially excited about the opportunity to help shape a new era of innovation and commercial excellence for PNG Ports.”