PNG Ports to deliver K340 million climate-resilient port in Kimbe

PNG Ports Corporation Ltd [PNG Ports] will be delivering a ‘climate change resilient’ K340 million port to the people of West New Britain Province.

This will also bring more than 300 immediate jobs, spin off benefits for the locals and multiple future business opportunities.

During the groundbreaking ceremony last Friday, Chairman of PNG Ports, Harvey Nii, said this significant investment was for the people of West New Britain who housed Kimbe Port - PNG Ports’ third busiest port.

Mr Nii explained that the 16 month project would see the existing port undergo “major marine and land rehabilitation works” to increase cargo volumes and vessel traffic by 2027.

He said that upon completion, the upgraded port infrastructure will be climate resilient, with the incorporation of climate change, disaster resilience and social inclusion in the project design.

The Kimbe Port is critical to the growth of the New Guinea Islands.

Last year, 252 vessels were received at the port, with a throughput of over 450,000 revenue tonnages, much of this is attributed to the trade of crude oil palm, cocoa, vanilla, copra, fish and logging.

Minister for State Enterprise, William Duma, said this crucial project marked a “transformative chapter” for the province.

“We must remind ourselves that we are not merely launching a construction project, we are laying the foundation for enhanced connectivity, stronger national unity, and sustainable prosperity for generations to come,” Minister Duma said.

“As our country marks 50 years of Independence, it is a moment for all of us to reflect on our achievements, acknowledge all the obstacles we had to overcome over the years and renew our commitment to building a new future for our children and our grandchildren.”

“The Kimbe rehabilitation perfectly reflects the vision of our founding fathers, one with opportunity and development for every district, coastline and province in our country,” he said.

Minister Duma elaborated that the Kimbe Port Rehabilitation Project also complements the Government's Connect PNG and Medium-Term Development strategy where investing in infrastructure remains a top priority.

The project is being funded by the Australian Government through the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific [AIFFP].

Australian High Commissioner to PNG, HE Ewen McDonald, was also in the province to co-officiate during the event with Minister Duma, witnessed by provincial parliamentary leaders, Head of AIFFP Jonathan Kenna, government departmental heads, and leaders of traditional landowner groups.

The project has been divided into the land and marine component with Global Constructions Limited and Pacific Marine Group to carry these out respectively.