Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to upgrading the Enga Highway from Togoba in Western Highlands to Porgera in Enga, describing it as a vital economic road for the region.
Responding to concerns raised by Enga Governor Hon. Sir Peter Ipatas in Parliament today, Prime Minister Marape highlighted the Government’s ongoing efforts to secure funding through Infrastructure Tax Credit (ITC) arrangements under the recently passed Income Tax Act.
“We are currently working with New Porgera Ltd. to explore possibilities of utilising the ITC framework to fund infrastructure development, including road maintenance and upgrading,” said Prime Minister Marape.
He explained that the newly passed Income Tax Act now allows for 2% of every project’s revenue to be allocated for infrastructure development through tax credits. This framework will be leveraged to address critical infrastructure needs along the Enga Highway and other key routes within the province.
“The maintenance and upgrading of the Enga Highway are essential for business, law enforcement, and community use. We are also looking at improving access to other roads within Enga Province, including the Porgera-Kandep-Tari Road and the Mount Kare route,” Prime Minister Marape noted.
He further explained that the Government is working with New Porgera Ltd. to ensure that funds allocated through the ITC framework will address existing blockages and slippages caused by the Mulitaka landslide incident. The Department of Works has been advised to take immediate action where possible.
The Prime Minister also indicated that the development of the road network would enhance business opportunities, law enforcement, and general community use, providing a reliable and accessible route to Porgera and surrounding areas.
“I give my assurance that by the time we arrive in Wabag on 31st March for the hospital opening, the Community Development Agreement (CDA) team will have updates on road maintenance and plans to proceed. If not, we will ensure that a special occasion is arranged at Porgera to make formal announcements,” Prime Minister Marape said.
He concluded by expressing his appreciation for Governor Ipatas’s leadership and the continued collaboration between the national and provincial governments to bring about development for the people of Enga.