A major road improvement program in Simbu Province has received a significant boost, with combined counter funding now totaling K4 million.

On Monday, 4th May 2026, Kerowagi MP Francis Kikin Siune committed K1 million to support the Asian Development Bank (ADB) road improvement program in his district. The funds will be channeled through the Department of Works.

The commitment came just three days after the Simbu Provincial Government pledged K3 million for road works in Chuave and Kerowagi districts. On Friday, 1st May 2026, Governor Noah Kool presented a K3 million cheque to Works Secretary Gibson Holemba at the department’s headquarters. That amount included K2 million for Chuave District and K1 million for Kerowagi District. MP Siune’s additional K1 million matches the provincial allocation for his district.

The ceremony formalizing the counter funding arrangement was hosted by Works Minister Peter Tsamalili Junior at the Works Department. It was attended by Kerowagi MP’s advisor, Gibson Siune, along with all department heads and managers.

“The Asian Development Bank has changed its approach and now requires a partnership model where government provides counter funds before the bank finances civil works,” Secretary Holemba explained. “This marks a major departure from previous arrangements where the bank funded most projects alone. The new policy ensures national and local governments take greater ownership of development projects.”

Minister Tsiamalili welcomed MP Siune’s commitment, noting that partnerships between national, provincial, and district governments-together with development partners-will ensure sustainable road infrastructure. Under the ADB’s new policy framework, counter funding is not optional but necessary. He praised Governor Kool and MP Siune for meeting the requirement.

“I am truly honored to have the Kerowagi MP here as part of this program,” Tsamalili said. “As a first‑time MP, he has been doing a lot in his district with limited funds. This program will greatly enhance his leadership in road infrastructure.”

Secretary Holemba confirmed that the ADB will handle civil works while the government provides counter funds, spreading responsibility and reducing the burden on any single party. The Department of Works will oversee the process to ensure transparency.

MP Siune thanked the ADB for taking the lead, the Works Secretary for clarifying requirements, and Minister Tsamalili for hosting the occasion. He promised to work with all partners until every road in Kerowagi is improved.

“I have always wished for all my feeder roads in Kerowagi to be properly upgraded and sealed,” Siune said. “This program is a good start, since the DSIP infrastructure component is not enough for my road improvements.”

The Department of Works has confirmed that all paperwork will be signed, and the counter funds will be transferred to a designated account within days. Once the ADB verifies the contribution, civil works are expected to begin by June 2026, with machinery arriving soon.

For the people of Simbu Province, hope is high that the machines will soon roll in-and the roads will rise.