Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has pledged a renewed national focus on Daru town, promising infrastructure upgrades, improved essential services and long-term economic opportunities as part of a broader strategy to restore Daru’s historic role as a leading centre in the country.
Addressing community leaders, provincial officials and residents during his visit to Daru, the Prime Minister described the town as strategically vital to both Western Province and the nation, citing its history, geography and international importance.
“Daru must return to the space it once occupied — as one of the leading towns in our country,” Prime Minister Marape said in a statement.
He noted that Daru sits at the heart of Western Province, a region with the largest landmass in Papua New Guinea, rich natural resources, major river systems, and direct borders with both Australia and Indonesia.
“No other province carries this level of strategic importance,” he said. “What happens in Daru matters not only to Western Province, but to Papua New Guinea as a whole.”
Prime Minister Marape acknowledged longstanding challenges facing Daru town, particularly in water supply, electricity and road conditions, and said these issues were now firmly on the national agenda.
He confirmed that discussions with provincial leaders had prioritized restoring reliable water and power services, alongside continued road sealing and town improvements already underway.
“I take your concerns with me,” he said. “Before September 16 this year, I intend to return and account to the people of Daru on what the national government is doing on water, power and essential services.”
The Prime Minister also announced a major economic milestone for Western Province, confirming that the National Government has approved 40 per cent equity ownership in the Ok Tedi mine for the province.
He said the decision followed sustained advocacy from provincial leaders and reflects the Government’s commitment to ensuring that resource-producing provinces directly benefit from national wealth.
“This is about securing prosperity for your children and grandchildren,” he said, adding that Ok Tedi is now expected to operate until 2084–2085, with structured reviews to ensure benefits remain fair and sustainable.
Prime Minister Marape said Daru’s future development must align with its role as a gateway town-linking inland communities, coastal regions and international neighbors.
He pointed to opportunities for expanded trade, port development, aviation infrastructure and regional services, noting that Daru’s location gives it unmatched potential for growth if properly supported.
“With the right infrastructure and governance, Daru can once again become a hub — not only for Western Province, but for cross-border cooperation and economic activity,” he said.
The Prime Minister praised Daru residents for maintaining peace and order during the recent festive period, describing the town’s calm transition into 2026 as one of the most orderly reported nationwide.
“You showed discipline, responsibility and pride in your town,” he said. “That tells me Daru is ready to move forward.”
He also commended provincial and local leaders for working constructively with the National Government and assured the community that their voices are being heard at the highest levels.
Prime Minister Marape concluded by calling on Daru residents, leaders and investors to work together with government to rebuild the town.
“Government will do its part,” he said. “But development also requires ownership, responsibility and pride from the people.”
He reaffirmed his commitment to Western Province and said Daru’s progress would remain a national priority as Papua New Guinea advances beyond its 50th anniversary.
“Daru’s best days are not behind it,” he said. “They are ahead.”