Marape backs Nadzab

By GLORIA BAUAI
PRIME Minister James Marape says the redeveloped Nadzab Tomodachi International Airport in Morobe is strategically positioned to boost the country’s economy.
“Morobe and the Highlands region combined contribute 70 per cent of the country’s GDP (gross domestic product), so this infrastructure is befitting this region,” he said.
Marape said the Government had taken a K692 million concessional loan, with a repayment interest of 0.01per cent over 40 years.
“We have already paid K29 million, with K84million yet to go. Starting in 2025, we will be paying K45 million every year,” he said.
“This asset will be generating its own revenue.
“Port Moresby’s Jackson International Airport generates K150 million annually for the National Airports Corporation (NAC).
“Your government borrows to invest in infrastructure that will grow the economy and this airport here will do just that.”
Marape said NAC had been directed to open destinations that would have the required volume of passengers from this region.
“Let’s have the first international flights north to Japan and south to Australia,” he said.
“This airport must open up increased travel between us and have trade flourish.”
Marape noted that complementary infrastructure investments in the region, included the K100 million to upgrade the Highlands Highway, K400 million for the four-lane Nadzab to Lae H0ighway and the port expansion.
NAC acting managing director and chief executive officer Joseph Kintau said the operation would directly service the agro-industry, mineral and petroleum sectors, logistics as well as industrial and commercial industries.
“It embodies the gateway to opportunity, not only for the people of Morobe but also for the entire nation, given that Lae is the industrial, commercial and logistics hub,” he said.
“The Government, through NAC, is committed to investing in essential airport infrastructure with modern technology advancements to align with major commercial and infrastructure projects in Morobe, such as the Lae-Nadzab economic corridor, the Lae-Nadzab highway, and the Lae wharf. The inauguration of this international airport represents a significant step forward in the government’s mission to improve air travel infrastructure and enhance connectivity as enablers for economic growth.” The airport terminal has been temporarily closed to allow the airlines to set up for its use later this year.