Prime Minister Hon. James Marape today officiated at a landmark event in Tari, Hela Province, where four major signing and ribbon- cutting ceremonies took place — signalling a new chapter of partnership, progress, and prosperity for the province and its project-impacted communities.
The ceremonies brought together key development partners including ExxonMobil PNG, Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC), Petroleum Resources Kutubu (PRK), PNG Power Ltd, Dirio Power, the Hela Provincial Government, China Railway Company, Internal Revenue Commission (IRC), and local landowner companies and leaders.
Speaking at the event, Prime Minister Marape said the initiatives launched today reflect his government’s vision of ensuring that project areas such as Hela see tangible benefits from their resource contributions to the national economy.
“Today is a good day for Hela — a day when we are seeing the rewards of our patience and partnership. This province has carried the national economy for decades through its oil and gas projects, and it is only right that the people of Hela also enjoy the fruits of that contribution,” said PM Marape.
He commended the cooperation between the State, Provincial Government, landowners, and private sector partners, describing it as a practical demonstration of inclusive development under the Connect PNG and Take Back PNG policies.
The Prime Minister also highlighted that some landowner funds were released today, marking an important milestone for local communities who have long awaited the fulfilment of their benefits. “For too long, our landowners have waited for what is rightfully theirs. Today, as these funds reach your accounts, I encourage you to use them wisely to build your homes, educate your children, and invest in small businesses that will sustain your families and your future,” he said.
The four significant signings included:
Support for Rural Health Services
PRK signed an agreement with the Hela Provincial Health Authority (PHA) to provide incentives for doctors serving in remote areas — a major boost for rural healthcare delivery in Hela.
“This investment in health is an investment in life. Our doctors working in remote areas deserve recognition, and I commend PRK and the PHA for this partnership that will save lives,” said PM Marape.
Construction of Hela Hilton Heritage Hotel:
Landowners from Kutubu,Hides, Moran, Angore, and Juha through MRDC and Hela Investment Limited signed to develop the Hela Hilton Heritage Hotel — a project that will create jobs, promote tourism, and showcase Hela’s cultural identity.
“This hotel will be a symbol of Hela’s progress — a modern facility built by our own people to welcome theworld to our beautiful province,” said the Prime Minister.
Electrification by Landowner CompanyTranspower Ltd
A local landowner company, entered into an agreement o extend power reticulation across Hela, advancing the Government’s rural electrification goals under Connect PNG.
5MW Power Supply by ExxonMobil
ExxonMobil PNG signed a commitment to supply 5 megawatts of power to Hela, a major boost that will power local industries, schools, and hospitals.
PM Marape personally thanked ExxonMobil, PNG Power, and other stakeholders for their commitment:
“Hela has been in the dark since the beginning of the PNG LNG project. Today, Power is finally coming to our homes, schools, and hospitals. This is the light of development our people have been waiting for.”
The Prime Minister further paid tribute to past leaders who contributed to Hela’s growth and urged current and future leaders to work together in unity.“We must climb the remaining mountains together — Government, Investors, and Landowners side by side — to bring full prosperity to Hela and Papua New Guinea,” he said.
Prime Minister Marape concluded by reaffirming his government’s commitment to equitable development, ensuring that resource-rich provinces like Hela see meaningful returns from the nation’s wealth.
“Hela has carried the weight of the nation’s economy for decades. Now it is time for Hela to rise with tangible development, infrastructure, and opportunity for its people,” he said.