Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Lands and Physical Planning, Hon. John Rosso, has reaffirmed the National Government’s full support for the Central Provincial Government to establish its own provincial city, including markets, residential estates, office complexes, and supporting infrastructure—more than 50 years after Independence.

He said the people of Central Province have for decades endured harassment and hardship while travelling into Port Moresby City to sell produce, access services, and seek employment, stressing that the province must now develop its own economic and administrative center.

The remarks were made during the official launch of the Central Provincial Government’s Boom Gate, Residential Estate, and Central Provincial Market projects at Bautama in Central Province, outside Port Moresby. These projects form the foundation of the province’s long-term city development vision.

The Central Provincial Market, Residential Estate, and Boom Gate projects are all being developed at Bautama. The Central Provincial Market is being developed by China Guangdong Foreign Construction Company, the Central Provincial Residential Estate is being constructed by YFIG Builders, while the boom gate facility is being managed by a local partner.

Hon. Rosso said the overall Central Provincial City development plan, including initial earthworks and enabling infrastructure, is estimated at around K300 million. To date, approximately K27 million has already been expended on the three priority projects, as well as on earthworks and related infrastructure works.

“Governor Rufina Peter and I were schoolmates at Passam National High School. Central Province is a strategic province—it is the gateway to the National Capital District and Port Moresby,” Acting Prime Minister Rosso said.

He noted that rapid population growth has resulted in land boundary conflicts, disputes over traditional land markings, and increasing development pressure.

“We must be prepared, properly planned, and focused. Too often, development comes in an unplanned and disorganized manner, and that creates long-term problems.”

Drawing on experiences from other parts of the country, he stressed the importance of protecting customary landowners.

“I have a soft heart for landowners. In places like Lae, people gave up land without proper planning, and today they are struggling. That must not happen to the people of Central Province.”

He urged local leaders and community representatives to sit down with their people and think carefully about change so development truly benefits landowners.

“At Independence in 1975, Papua New Guinea had a population of 2.8 million. Today we are close to 10 million, yet we are still relying on much of the same infrastructure. That is why life has become harder for all of us.”

He said development must always match population growth and be guided by a clear vision. “Government systems worked better when there were fewer people to serve. Today, population growth demands better planning. At the very least, every district should have one properly functioning hospital.”

Hon. Rosso also pointed out that Port Moresby has not seen the development of major new suburbs or residential areas since 1975.

“For more than 25 years, Central Province did not build its own provincial capital and city. That must change.”

He commended Governor Rufina Peter for her leadership and her efforts to coordinate with the private sector to deliver key infrastructure projects.

“I offer my full support to the Central Provincial Government. Enough talk—let’s work together and get things done.”

He said while the National Government can provide funding and resources, these must be used wisely and strategically.

“The three projects are critical. The market will drive the local economy and stop our people from being harassed and no city can exist without accommodation and office space.”

He encouraged the allocation of commercial land for business and housing estates to stimulate development and generate sustainable tax revenue.

“Let’s build a replica of Tuhava on this side.”

Acting PM Rosso issued a strong warning to landowners not to sell their land cheaply to outsiders.

“Do not sell your land for K5,000 to outsiders. When their population grows, they will push you out of your own land.”

He called on clan leaders and members to act in unity with their local MPs, the Governor, and the provincial administration.

“Stop individual dealings. Work together, come to the Lands Department, and we will help you.”

Hon. Rosso congratulated Governor Rufina Peter for her visionary leadership and encouraged Central Province to take the lead in planned and sustainable development.

“The National Government supports you. We are behind you. We are here to work with you on transport and to sustain the local economy.”

He assured the people of Central Province that the government recognizes their struggles and is prepared to review and amend land laws where necessary.

“I want the people of Central Province to know—we are here to help you.”

He concluded by noting that the Department of Lands and Physical Planning has been working closely with the Central Provincial Government, the Provincial Lands Board, and Physical Planning authorities to strengthen provincial land administration and physical planning powers.