Sunday 31th August, 2025
Prime Minister Hon. James Marape today officially opened the Southern Corridor Missing Link between Central and Milne Bay Province under the Connect PNG program, calling it a “historic moment” that will transform the lives of people along the Magi Highway and beyond.
The missing link connects Six-Mile outside Port Moresby all the way to East Cape in Alotau, providing direct road access between the nation’s capital and Milne Bay.
“This road is more than just a highway. It will allow other important services to come in – ICT infrastructure, health, and education. It will cut the cost of shipping and open opportunities in agriculture, SMEs, and especially tourism,” Prime Minister Marape said.
The PM said the project is a journey that started in Port Moresby and has now reached East Cape.
“Yesterday I saw mothers cry tears of joy. For the first time since creation, places like Kupiano to Gaidasu are now connected by road. This gives hope to our children as we approach our 50th Independence Anniversary. Fly your flag with pride,” he said.
Milne Bay Governor Gordon Wesley admitted he was initially against Connect PNG, believing it would not benefit the islands.
“But I thank the Prime Minister for also planning to connect our islands through shipping services, which he will soon launch,” Governor Wesley said.
Minister for Works and Highways Hon. Solan Mirisim confirmed that the road from Six-Mile to East Cape has now been gazetted as a national highway, calling it an “economic road” that will support growth in trade and development.
Local leaders expressed their gratitude. Member for Alotau Open Hon. Ricky Morris said, “This is historical. It’s the first time a sitting Prime Minister has come to East Cape. This road is not just about transport; it connects us as a people and opens up opportunities for Milne Bay to contribute to nation building. It will unlock our tourism potential, and we fully support this initiative.”
Esa’ala MP and Minister for Petroleum Hon. Jimmy Maladina acknowledged that while every big project comes with some risks, “the benefits of this road far outweigh them.”
Prime Minister Marape also announced that by 2027, Alotau District will be split into two electorates to improve representation.
Today’s opening was attended by Ministers Solan Mirisim, Jimmy Maladina, Salio Waipo, and Ricky Morris, along with Milne Bay Governor Gordon Wesley, the Secretary for Works, and other dignitaries.