Local contractors take part in rehabilitation of sea ports

LOCAL contractors will participate in K1.5 billion maritime port infrastructure development projects over the next three to five years, according to the PNG Ports Corporation Ltd (PNG Ports).
PNG Ports, which owns and operates the 15 declared maritime ports in the country, was recently awarded a financial package of AU$580 million (about K1.5 billion) by the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP).
The funding will be used to rehabilitate six ports – Daru, Kavieng, Kimbe, Lae, Lorengau and Oro Bay – and a Highlands inland freight hub.
Chief executive officer Fego Kiniafa, said local companies would be awarded contracts – a minimum of 30 per cent of the funding – as part of a plan to invest in the local business community.
“Under the AIFFP contract, local PNG content is a critical aspect and we (PNG Ports) are looking at engaging local contractors to ensure that up to 30 per cent of the money stays in PNG,” Kiniafa said.
“At least 40 prequalified international contractors, from Australia and eight other countries, have shown interest.
“We will take on board local companies as well to ensure local involvement is achieved.
“Our port infrastructure has deteriorated over the decades. Immediate rehabilitation works will be done to build quality, sustainable infrastructure to serve PNG people for years to come.”
So far, the Oro Bay Port rehabilitation project has been launched.