The redevelopment of Kimbe Port has moved beyond the halfway stage, with a new shipment of heavy construction equipment and materials arriving in early May this year to accelerate one of Papua New Guinea’s key maritime infrastructure projects.
The latest barge shipment from Townsville delivered critical equipment for the next phase of works, including a 180-tonne crawler crane, a 180-foot barge for ground stabilisation activities, and more than 500 tonnes of precast concrete components for the wharf extension.
The PGK340 million redevelopment project is being delivered under the Ports Infrastructure Investment Program, funded by the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP) in partnership with the Government of PNG and PNG Ports Corporation Ltd (PNG PCL).
The upgrade is expected to significantly strengthen Kimbe’s role as a major commercial and maritime gateway for West New Britain, improving cargo-handling capacity, operational efficiency, and access for larger vessels servicing the province’s agriculture, fisheries, and business sectors.
Construction works involve the demolition and reconstruction of sections of the existing wharf, including the installation of new piles and the extension of the wharf to 120 metres in length.
Australian High Commission Minister Counsellor for Economics and Infrastructure, Cate Rogers, said the investment reflected Australia’s continued support for PNG’s economic infrastructure development.
“This investment reflects Australia’s long-term commitment to working with Papua New Guinea to strengthen essential infrastructure,” Rogers said.
“Progress at the port in Kimbe is creating local jobs and helping improve the flow of goods and services, supporting the business and commercial needs of local communities.”
PNG Ports Corporation Ltd Senior Civil Engineer for Major Projects and Joint Implementation Unit Lead, Denmark Gimiseve, said the project had reached an important milestone as marine construction activities intensified.
“PNG Ports is pleased with the progress as works move beyond the halfway point,” Gimiseve said.
“The arrival of this equipment supports the next phase of construction, with local contractors and workers continuing to play an important role in delivery.”
The project is also generating employment opportunities for local engineers, equipment operators, marine specialists, and tradespeople, while contributing to skills development within PNG’s construction and maritime industries.
Over the next six months, work will focus on completing the eastern wharf extension, advancing demolition on the western side of the existing wharf, and commencing ground stabilisation works using marine stone columns.
Once completed, the upgraded facility is expected to improve supply chain reliability, strengthen regional trade connections, and support long-term economic growth throughout West New Britain and surrounding provinces.
