Wednesday 14 January, 2026
Bougainville road works are set to improve following the signing of a construction contract today between the Department of Works & Highways, the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG), and Raibro Construction Limited for the upgrading and sealing of a 10‑kilometre section of the Bougainville Highway, from Chabbai Junction to Tonn.
The project, awarded under Tender No. BSTB CW-14-2025, is expected to improve connectivity, reduce travel time, and strengthen community access along the busy Buka Road.
Raibro Construction has operated in Bougainville since 2016, delivering major road and bridge projects including the 30 km upgrade of the Buka Ring Road, sealing of Buin Town roads, and the recent 2.5 km sealing from Tortei End of Seal to Chabbai, as well as other road infrastructure projects.
Raibro Construction CEO Ms. Jennifer Brown described the signing as a progress for Bougainville’s development.
“I am deeply grateful for the trust and confidence placed in Raibro Construction through the award of this important project. Today, we are not merely signing a contract — we are laying the foundation for progress, connectivity, and long-term development.”
She acknowledged the leadership of the Marape–Rosso Government and the Toroama–Masatt Government, as well as the support of Hon. Peter Tsiamalili Jr., Hon. Patrick Nisira, Mr. Gibson Holemba, Mr. Kearnneth Nanei, and Mr. Paul Pitaro with his engineering team.
CEO Ms Brown recognized challenges that may arise along the way, and expresses confidence in their experienced teams and the continued support of government and stakeholders.
“We are confident that these challenges will be managed effectively. This is not just a contractor’s project, and it is not just a government project — it is our project, belonging to every citizen who will benefit from it.”
DoWH Secretary Mr. Gibson Holemba on his address at the signing, acknowledged the leadership behind the project, and congratulated Raibro Construction on being awarded the K40 million road contract to upgrade and seal the 10km of road between Tonn and Chabbai along the Bougainville highway.
“I would like to acknowledge ABG President Hon. Ismael Toroama, and Regional Member for Bougainville, Hon. Peter Tsiamalili Jr., who has been instrumental in pushing for this road contract signing, with the support of the late Works & Highways Minister Hon. Solan Mirisim. Bougainville was always on the late Minister’s priority list.”
Holemba said DoWH will continue to push and support infrastructure development projects in Bougainville also acknowledging the good reputation and long‑standing work of Raibro Contruction in Bougainville.
“As a reputable contractor who has worked in Bougainville for over 10 years, you have done a lot of work on the island, and we know that you can deliver the job because the government has a lot of faith in you. DoWH looks forward to working with you, under the supervision of our provincial works manager, to ensure this road contract is delivered at the highest standard and value for money.”