For the first time in history, the people of Middle Ramu District in Madang Province are finally connected by road to the Western Highlands Province, thanks to the efforts of API Builders & Construction Ltd and Connect PNG program. This milestone achievement marks the end of decades of isolation for communities who, since Papua New Guinea’s independence, had never accessed proper road infrastructure.
Local leaders and residents have expressed deep gratitude and pride, hailing this development as a long-awaited dream come true. Elizah Philip praised API Builders & Construction Ltd. for their sound, visionary, and competent leadership, describing the successful crossing of the mighty Jimi River as “incredible and hard to believe.”
According to community member Petrus Wani, machinery has now successfully begun work in Kovon and Simbia in the Middle Ramu District, signaling the start of construction for the Baiyer-Madang Highway. Wani stated that the people of Middle Ramu no longer live in darkness, adding, “Thank God for making this possible to my lovely people.”
Michael Michael also acknowledged the support of various leaders, including Hon. Kansol Harwaii Kamdaru, the Middle Ramu District Administration, Western Highlands Governor Hon. Wai Rapa, and Hon. Jacob Maki. He further expressed appreciation for the Marape-Rosso Government’s contribution. “Tears fall,” he said, “for the first time since the world was created, no one entered this mighty Jimi River. God, we praise you.”
Steven Goraiye described the achievement as both a breakthrough and a challenge to other Members of Parliament. He urged national leaders to emulate this example of leadership, commitment, and service delivery. “This is a wake-up call for some MPs who are still in slumber,” Goraiye said, calling on elected officials to rise to the occasion for the betterment of the country.
Dee Emm echoed this sentiment, noting that API Builders’ commitment, honesty, and perseverance have opened a new chapter for the previously untouched regions.
Paul Wai has praised the road construction linking Middle Ramu District in Madang Province to the Western Highlands as a true representation of the CONNECT PNG initiative. He emphasized that this was not merely an upgrade of old roads, but the opening of a brand-new route where none had existed before.
“This is real CONNECT PNG,” Wai stated, applauding the Marape-Rosso Government for backing such a transformational project. He added that credit must be given where it is due, highlighting the government’s role in making this historic connection possible for the remote communities of Middle Ramu.
This development is not just an engineering success but a symbol of hope, inclusion, and progress for the people of Middle Ramu. It underscores the impact of choosing competent and people-focused contractors and leaders who deliver services to the nation’s most remote and underserved areas.
