The Central Provincial Government has presented its 2026 Budget of K345 million to Treasurer Ian Ling-Stuckey, outlining plans to strengthen governance, expand rural development and boost financial independence.
The budget was presented by Governor Rufina Peter accompanied by Acting Provincial Administrator Bala Kapa, Finance and Administration Advisor Tony Gamata and Provincial Finance Manager Walis Imbal.
The team highlighted priorities focused on improving service delivery while reducing reliance on national government funding.
Governor Peter said the 2026 theme, “Going Rural Remote for Security and Growth,” reflects the province’s commitment to extending development into rural and remote communities.
“This budget underscores our priority to connect remote communities, create sustainable jobs and build financial resilience for our people,” she said.
The budget allocates K21.5 million for education, skills training and vocational programs across the province, including Rigo District.
A further K20.4 million is set aside for infrastructure development in growth centres across Koiari, Rigo North, Kuni, Amazon Bay, and the Goilala District Local Level Governments (LLGs) of Woitape, Guari, and Tapini.
Another K12 million will support economic initiatives such as markets and church infrastructure, while K24 million has been earmarked for security, policing, and community safety.
Governor Peter also acknowledged the government’s K25 million Public Investment Program (PIP) funding for Central Provincial Hospital and called for its full release, assuring that the Provincial Executive Council will oversee its use.
Key projects highlighted include the planned Central Province Police Headquarters and Barracks at Bautama, with eight hectares of land already allocated, and the proposed Seat of Government at Sabusa.
Treasurer Ling-Stuckey commended the provincial leadership for delivering a budget focused on governance and service delivery.
During the presentation, Governor Peter raised concerns over outstanding national government commitments, including funding for the Edevu Road project promised by Prime Minister James Marape. Of the K10 million pledged, only K5 million was released in 2025, leaving the remaining balance pending.
“This concern is noted and I have asked my office to take note of your concern and to commit to the outstanding,” Treasurer Ling-Stuckey said.
She also raised the outstanding K27 million for the 36-kilometre Rigo ring road, with the Treasurer advising that a formal submission be made to his office.
The 2026 budget signals Central Province’s intent to drive development deeper into rural areas while strengthening governance and economic capacity with leaders aiming to build a foundation for long-term growth and improved service delivery.
