PRIME MINISTER HIGHLIGHTS KEY ACHIEVEMENTS IN HIS CHRISTMAS MESSAGE

AS the year comes to a close, Prime Minister James Marape conveyed a special Christmas message to the people of Papua New Guinea.

The Prime Minister highlighted the key achievements of the government in 2024, acknowledging that 2024 started off of on a very bad note making reference to the January 10th as the country knew as “Black Wednesday”.

However, the Prime Ministers affirmed that the year 2024 ended successfully with major key achievements in health care, education, in the resource sector and economy, law and order, amongst others.

In law and order, the Prime Minister announced that the government is investing K703 million to strengthen the police force and increase the number of officers to 10,000 over the next decade. New laws and police units are being introduced to improve safety, especially in the Highlands.

On the cost of living, he revealed that from July 2025, the government will remove the 10% GST on 13 essential household items. They will also raise the tax-free income threshold to K20,000 and continue support for small businesses.

In education, the Tuition Fee Free policy will continue, benefiting students across the country. Scholarships will also be provided in science, technology, and vocational training. Over 50,000 students have already benefitted from the HELP loan program.

PM Marape also spoke about improvements in healthcare, with new specialist units for cancer, heart, and kidney treatments now operational, and more provincial hospitals under construction.

In infrastructure, PM Marape highlighted the progress of the “Connect PNG” program, which is linking rural areas to cities and improving transport.

On the economy front, PM Marape said that despite challenges, the economy is improving with major projects like the Porgera Mine and Pasca Gas Project expected to support future growth.

On the economy front, he said that despite challenges, the economy is improving. Major projects like the Porgera Mine and Pasca Gas Project are expected to support future growth.

During the festive season, PM Marape urged people to focus on agriculture and explore new markets, particularly in China.

He also called on the people, especially the youth, to celebrate Christmas peacefully and respect the law.