Papua New Guinea’s acting ICT minister Peter Tsiamalili Jr. has ordered sweeping reforms at the National Information and Communications Technology Authority after audit findings revealed significant weaknesses in financial management and governance.
The minister said the Auditor-General issued a qualified opinion on NICTA’s 2019 financial statements, citing deficiencies in documentation, oversight and compliance with public finance standards.
Key issues identified include irregularities in land acquisitions, gaps in asset verification, weak receivables management, unresolved employee liabilities and ineffective internal controls.
KPMG review highlights systemic gaps
An independent review by KPMG pointed to broader structural weaknesses, including governance and policy gaps, limited regulatory transparency and financial sustainability risks.
The report also flagged shortcomings in oversight of the Universal Access and Service (UAS) Fund and capacity constraints within the organisation.
“These reports point to systemic issues that have constrained NICTA’s effectiveness as the national ICT regulator,” the minister said.
CEO tasked with driving institutional overhaul
Tsiamalili said the recently appointed chief executive officer will be responsible for implementing reforms, resolving outstanding audit issues and restoring financial discipline.
“The CEO will be held responsible for delivering measurable improvements in governance standards, regulatory performance and organisational integrity,” he said.
The ministry has also expanded oversight expectations across ICT agencies, including NBC and DICT, signalling a broader push for accountability across the sector.
Reform priorities set for 2026
The government outlined key priorities for NICTA, including:
- addressing all outstanding audit findings
- strengthening procurement and financial management systems
- improving transparency and stakeholder confidence
- ensuring effective management of the UAS Fund
- building institutional capacity to support digital transformation
The minister said the 2026 work programme will serve as the main vehicle for implementing reforms, with clear timelines and reporting requirements.
Governance push tied to digital agenda
Tsiamalili said strengthening NICTA is critical as Papua New Guinea advances its digital economy strategy, noting that the ICT sector is central to economic growth.
The government will continue to monitor progress closely and take further action if necessary to ensure the regulator meets its mandate.
