New Ireland Development Corporation (NIDC) is now focus on formalizing agreements for Solar Power project and the province’s first proposed fish cannery, building on momentum from last week’s launch of the Women’s Micro Bank branded New Ireland Mama Bank in Kavieng.
The move follows a productive period since the appointment of the NIDC Board in May.
Chairman Christian Tarkap praised the board’s commitment to achieving the social and economic goals set by the New Ireland Provincial Government. Tarkap noted that NIPG’s recent K1.5 million investment through NIDC to establish the Mama Bank branch in Kavieng will empower women entrepreneurs, small and medium enterprises (SME’s) and informal traders by turning business ideas into sustainable income-generating ventures.
“The launch of New Ireland Mama Bank is a milestone for our province. This initiative reflects NIDC’s core mission to foster inclusive economic growth.
“With these new projects; the solar power and fish cannery will extend economic opportunity across New Ireland Province.
“Feasibility work are under way with potential partners and stakeholders to secure investment, technical expertise, and regulatory approvals after detailed visits by NFA’s Deputy Managing Director and Fish Cannery Project leader Mr. Chris John Dotson and Solar Power developer, AG Investor.
“Together with NIDC technical team the feasibility study Solar Power Grid focused on grid integration options and operational transition plans while Fish Cannery project feasibility works detailed assessment of site suitability, infrastructure needs, environmental impacts, workforce readiness and coordinate closely with provincial authorities, landowners and stakeholders to gather data and address concerns during the assessment phase.”
“Concurrently, the NIDC Technical team is conducting baseline surveys for copra farmers tasked by NIPG under its Agriculture Subsidy Scheme to support small scale copra buyers in all 10 LLG’s in the province.”
Mr. Tarkap said these initiatives arrive alongside other joint-venture infrastructure projects advanced by NIDC in 2024 under late Sir J’s Government and implemented under the Chan-Kolivoso Government.
He also confirmed the steady progress on the projects that aim to boost tourism, retail and transport services across New Ireland Province.
“Malagan five-star International Hotel and the Section 5 shopping mall, three-storey retail and supermarket complex remain on track and are expected to launch in early 2027.
“ Separately, NIDC has signed an agreement with Islands Petroleum Limited (IPL) to extend the Kavieng fuel station to improve fuel access and transport services for residents and visitors.
“These projects, built in partnership with dedicated developers, will create jobs, strengthen local supply chains and give Kavieng and New Ireland the infrastructure needed for sustainable growth. Our agreement with IPL addresses an immediate need for reliable fuel availability to support the new investments and everyday transport for our communities.”
Tarkap said the board remains focused on executing these projects under Governor Chan’s 100 days plan to foster economic growth through NIPG’s business arm New Ireland Development Corporation Ltd.