PNG urged to embrace AI and digital technology

Prime Minister James Marape says Papua New Guinea and the Pacific must not be left behind as the world moves rapidly towards artificial intelligence [AI] and digital technology.

Speaking at the opening of the Digital Transformation Summit 2026 in Port Moresby today, the Prime Minister said information and communication technology [ICT] is now a key driver of economic growth, education, health and government services.

"AI has leapfrogged almost all other ICT conversations and AI is taking dominance. We must not be left behind," Mr Marape said.

Mr Marape said Papua New Guinea has made significant progress in expanding internet access, with broadband coverage increasing from 40 percent in 2020 to 80 percent this year.

"We have made some progress in this space. And we have also seen good and the bad side about this. Papua New Guinea, to give you all some context, is not a nation of one or two or three islands.

The Prime Minister said the government is working to elevate ICT as a central government function to strengthen digital services and support the country's development.

"ICT will be elevated to the central government agencies. We want to make sure it protects and develops our country," he said.

The Prime Minister also warned that greater digital connectivity has brought new security risks.

"Papua New Guinea is now witnessing almost an 80 percent increase in cyber threats," he said.

Mr Marape called on Pacific leaders who are also at this summit to work together on ICT policies that improve digital connectivity while protecting people, businesses and government systems from cybercrime.

He said the Pacific should develop a common approach to ICT that supports economic growth, improves services and strengthens regional cooperation.

The summit is hosted by the Department of Information and Communications Technology [DICT].