The Department of Works and Highways has shaped PNG’s development from post-war reconstruction to today’s Connect PNG program. Guided by legislation, reform, and resilience, it builds roads, bridges, and standards while planning recovery of lost assets. Future priorities emphasize innovation, human capital, and succession planning for sustainable infrastructure.
Asian Development Bank President Masato Kanda visited Laloki Bridge with DoWH Secretary Gibson Holemba during PNG’s 50th Golden Jubilee. Since 1973, ADB has funded infrastructure including bridges, highways, airports, and seaports. The K9.3m Laloki Bridge, built under BRIRAP, symbolizes ADB’s long-term commitment to improving transport accessibility across PNG.
Prime Minister Hon. James Marape officially opened the Tabubil–Telefomin Highway on 12 September 2025, ending generations of isolation for Telefomin. Funded through the Ok Tedi Mining Ltd Tax Credit Scheme, the road links Telefomin with major highways and four provinces, bringing new opportunities for socio-economic growth and community development.
Prime Minister Hon. James Marape officially opened the historic Tabubil–Telefomin Highway on 12 September 2025, linking Telefomin to the rest of PNG for the first time. Funded through the OTML Tax Credit Scheme under Connect PNG, the road marks a Golden Jubilee milestone, fostering inclusion, development, and future economic opportunities.
The Telefomin–Tabubil Highway will be officially opened on 12th September 2025 at Telefomin District Station by Prime Minister Hon. James Marape, MP, and Minister for Works and Highways & Member for Telefomin, Hon. Solan Mirisim, MP. Jointly funded by OTML Tax Credit Scheme and Connect PNG.
On 31st August 2025, Prime Minister James Marape officially opened the Southern Corridor Missing Link at East Cape, Milne Bay. The road, part of Connect PNG, connects Central and Milne Bay Provinces, improving access to services, markets, and tourism. Locals celebrated this milestone ahead of PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary
At the Southern Corridor Missing Link launch, the Department of Works & Highways honoured three long-serving Alotau staff with over 30 years of service. Lydia Mark received the Gold Award, while Didi Gogo and Steven John earned Silver Awards. Their dedication reflects DoWH’s commitment during PNG’s 50th Anniversary celebrations
The Connect PNG Ceremonial Drive along the Southern Corridor – Magi Highway saw Prime Minister James Marape and dignitaries land at Iopara Primary School, delighting students with a surprise visit. The Prime Minister pledged to build a library named after him before leading the convoy to BAM Camp, Cloudy Bay.
The Magi Highway Missing Link, bridging Central and Milne Bay Provinces, was officially opened ahead of PNG’s 50th Independence Jubilee. Temporary bridges across Tavanei and Bonua Rivers now connect Amazon Bay communities to Port Moresby, reducing reliance on costly, risky sea travel and unlocking socio-economic opportunities through improved access.
Prime Minister James Marape officially opened the Trans-National Highway at Kotidanga, connecting Morobe and Gulf Provinces under Connect PNG. Celebrating PNG’s 50th Independence Jubilee, he praised excavator operators for conquering the toughest terrain, enabling travel from Lae to Port Moresby for the first time in five decades.
Minister Solan Mirisim and Secretary Gibson Holemba led a 50-member convoy from Port Moresby to Alotau via the new Maghi Highway, ahead of Prime Minister Marape’s visit. The 14-hour journey showcased Connect PNG’s progress, uniting provinces, boosting investment, and preparing Milne Bay for national connectivity.
The Department of Works & Highways refutes misleading media claims on the Lealea Footbridge, clarifying its actual 220m length, advanced FRP construction, and verified K15.41m cost. The project followed strict procurement standards, ensured community participation, and delivers long-term benefits. Allegations of fraud are baseless and technically uninformed.
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