05/08/2026
ORO PROVINCE MARKS MAJOR MILESTONE TOWARDS SEALING OF KOKODA ROAD
Kokoda, Oro Province | 5 August 2026
The Oro Provincial Government has announced a significant milestone in the long-awaited Kokoda Road Sealing Project, with the signing of the contract for the scoping studies covering the 42-kilometre section from Embara Bridge to Kokoda Station (Fala Bridge).
Governor Hon. Gary Juffa said the contract was formally signed on 29 July 2026 at the Department of Works and Highways National Headquarters, with representatives from the Oro Provincial Government in attendance to witness the occasion.
Governor Juffa described the signing as the first and most important step towards delivering a sealed road that will provide lasting economic and social benefits for the people of Oro Province.
"The scoping studies are essentially the foundation of the project. Engineers will now undertake the Scoping Studies (detailed design) work required to determine the full cost of sealing the entire 42-kilometre section of road," Governor Juffa said.
Following completion of the studies, the Papua New Guinea Government and the Australian Government have committed to sharing the construction costs on a 50-50 basis once the project's total cost is confirmed.
The Governor explained that after funding arrangements are finalised, a new public tender will be advertised for the construction phase. The procurement process will be conducted in accordance with the National Procurement Act 2018 and overseen by the National Procurement Commission to ensure transparency, accountability and value for money.
Once the procurement process is completed, the successful contractor will be awarded the project before construction of the road sealing begins.
Governor Juffa acknowledged that while the process requires patience, every stage is necessary to ensure the road is properly designed, funded and constructed to a high standard.
"Good infrastructure takes careful planning. We are not just building a road for today—we are building a road that will serve future generations. Every step brings us closer to making this vision a reality," he said.
Governor Juffa also expressed his appreciation to the Australian High Commission through the Transport Sector Support Program Phase 3 (TSSP3) for its timely funding support, and thanked the Department of Works and Highways for its continued leadership and commitment to advancing the project.
The Oro Provincial Government reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with national and development partners to deliver quality infrastructure that improves connectivity, supports economic growth and enhances the lives of the people of Oro Province.
"We are getting there, step by step. Thank you to everyone for your continued patience and support. God bless Oro," Governor Juffa said.