Residents of Erima in Port Moresby are set to benefit from further infrastructure upgrades after NCD Governor Powes Parkop officially opened the newly resealed Erima Mambu street and committed to completing remaining development works.
The opening ceremony was attended by Moresby North-East MP John Kaupa, Port Moresby City Manager Ravu Frank, NCDC board members, contractor representatives, community leaders and residents.
Governor Parkop said the completed road project marks the first stage of a broader plan to transform Erima into a planned urban suburb through improved infrastructure and public services.
The road project measured 1.58 kilometers cost approximately K2.3 million. The road sealing has covered Erima Mambu to the roundabout at Portions 3602/3603 and Sections 498/499.
Addressing residents during the opening, Governor Parkop said the development represented more than a road project and formed part of a longer-term vision for the community.
“This is the beginning of changing this community into a proper suburb,” he said.
Governor Parkop acknowledged the contributions of Mr. Kaupa, NCDC management, community leaders, village court officials, women’s representatives, contractors and residents in delivering the project.
He also commended the contractor for completing the work to a high standard and thanked the Erima community for their patience during the construction.
Governor Parkop assured residents that work would continue beyond the completed section.
“We have completed about 1.58 kilometers of road, and this is only the beginning. We are committed to completing the remaining one kilometer, so the entire road corridor is finished,” he said.
He said NCDC would continue working with the local MP to secure funding and deliver the remaining section.
Governor Parkop also announced plans to upgrade the Erima community sporting field to support sporting competitions, church gatherings, youth activities, women’s programs and national celebrations.
“This public land belongs to the people. We want to improve it so the community can benefit from sports, church activities, youth programs and other community events,” he said.
Mr. Parkop said NCDC remains focused on delivering roads and public infrastructure despite increasing pressure on resources.
He explained that while NCDC is responsible for urban planning and infrastructure delivery, services such as electricity, lands, water and policing remain under national government agencies.
“We all have different responsibilities. NCDC will continue delivering roads and infrastructure while working with agencies responsible for water, electricity and law and order,” he said.
Governor Parkop urged residents to take ownership of the new road and continue supporting future development initiatives.
He said the Erima Mambu Road forms part of a wider development strategy involving drainage improvements, land subdivision, public facilities and infrastructure upgrades aimed at improving living conditions across Port Moresby.
Mr. Parkop added that Erima remains a priority area under NCDC’s Physical Planning budget because of its strategic location of being the gateway into the city.
Local MP Kaupa welcomed completion of the project and reaffirmed his commitment to continue working with NCDC to bring more infrastructure and community development to Erima.
The opening of the Erima Mambu Road marks another investment by NCDC in improving transport access and supporting long-term urban development across Port Moresby.