Central Governor Rufina Peter has proposed expanded rural economic programs as a pathway for displaced Goilala families to return home, arguing that sustainable development in their districts must come before any lasting relocation solution in the city.
Her remarks follow the recent eviction of Goilala settlers from the 2 Mile area in Port Moresby. The affected families are currently staying in parts of the capital while awaiting further clarity on relocation arrangements.
Speaking at Kassman, Governor Peter acknowledged that eviction decisions within the National Capital District fall outside her jurisdiction. However, she said the Central Provincial Government has a responsibility to strengthen economic opportunities in rural areas under its mandate.
“I would like to say, there is hope. There are opportunities back home,” she said.
The Governor pointed to existing partnerships between the provincial government, private sector operators, and air transport service providers aimed at supporting agricultural trade in remote parts of Central Province.
She cited a recent freight subsidy initiative in Ononge, Goilala District, where local farmers were supported to transport fresh produce to market, generating significant cash flow within a short period.
“That’s the possibility that’s out there,” she said, referring to the economic potential of structured rural support programs.
Governor Peter said discussions are underway to scale up similar initiatives, linking road rehabilitation, freight access, and private sector investment to stimulate agriculture and small-scale trade.
“We were discussing implementation, and within March we should be starting. That’s how serious we are,” she said.
She emphasized that while she cannot intervene in city-level decisions affecting settlers in NCD, her focus remains on creating viable conditions in Central Province, so families have the option of returning to their villages with sustainable livelihoods.
“For you now, there is hope in the village. I am speaking especially to the youths. If you want to go back, there is opportunity,” she said.
The Governor also highlighted the importance of maintaining the Mona corridor and provincial road networks, stressing that infrastructure reliability is central to rural development.
In Parliament, she said she supports the national Connect PNG initiative but has consistently called for stronger support toward maintaining existing provincial infrastructure before expanding connectivity.
“If we maintain our provincial roads, we reduce the pressures that push our people into the city,” she said.
While no formal relocation framework has been announced, the Governor’s proposal shifts the focus toward long-term rural investment as a development-based response to urban displacement.
