Port Moresby, Monday 7th July 2025
New Board Members of the National Information and Communications Technology Authority (NICTA) were sworn-in today at NICTA Headquarters before the Minster for ICT Hon. Timothy Masiu and ICT Sector leadership from the Department of ICT, NICTA and the National Broadcasting Corporation.
Minister Masiu emphasized the strategic importance of the ICT sector in Papua New Guinea’s national development and called on the new Board to lead with urgency and vision.
“This is more than a ceremonial occasion,” the Minister declared. “It is a moment of strategic renewal and reaffirmation of our commitment to our country’s digital transformation into the future.”
The Minister acknowledged outgoing Board members—Mr. Noel Mobiha, Ms. Caroline Greenway, and Mr. Kone Kula—for their service from 2020 to 2024.
“Your tireless efforts, innovative ideas, and unwavering dedication have propelled our NICTA and UAS forward,” he said. “The impact of your work will continue to benefit our people for many years to come.”
Minister Masiu presented sobering statistics that shows the challenges ahead. As of 2025, internet penetration in PNG stands at just 27.68%, with 4G coverage reaching only 68.32% of the population. Average broadband speeds remain low at 11.03 kbps.
“These figures reflect a sector that is growing, but still far from meeting the needs of our people—especially in rural and remote areas,” he noted.
Citing a GSMA Access Gap Study, the Minister revealed that PNG accounts for 75% of the Pacific’s 4G usage gap, representing a US$1.5 billion investment shortfall.
“This is not just a statistic—it is a call to action,” he urged. “The new Board must confront this challenge with urgency, vision, and resolve.”
Minister Masiu highlighted the Department of ICT’s progress on key policy fronts, including Digital Transformation, Cybersecurity, and Digital Identity. He called on NICTA to translate these policies into tangible outcomes.
“These are not just policy documents; they are strategic blueprints for PNG’s future,” he said. “NICTA must now take the lead in turning these goals into regulatory and operational realities.”
He also announced the submission of the National Digital ID Policy to the Ministerial Economic Committee, stressing the need for upgraded and consistent network infrastructure to support its implementation.
The Minister outlined a clear mandate for the new Board:
- Promote investment in ICT as a platform for economic growth
- Enforce licensing conditions to expand coverage
- Strengthen consumer protections amid rising cyber threats
- Modernize regulatory frameworks to stay ahead of emerging technologies
He also urged support for inclusive initiatives such as the Girls in ICT sponsorship and the Blue Ribbon program.
“We must continue to address the critical needs of our people—to connect those that are unconnected, always striving to create lasting, meaningful impact,” he said.
As Chair of the Pacific ICT Ministerial Dialogue, Minister Masiu invited the new Board to attend the upcoming Dialogue in Fiji and contribute to shaping the Pacific’s digital vision.
He also noted the “50 for 50” initiative—ICT’s contribution to PNG’s 50th Independence anniversary—and its alignment with the government’s flagship “Connect PNG” program.
The newly sworn-in Board members are:
- Mr. Brian Riches – Chairman of NICTA and UAS Board
- Mr. Charles Chew – Independent Expert to NICTA Board
- Mr. Jack Tomon – Private Sector Representative, UAS Board
“Let’s look to the future with hope and determination,” Minister Masiu concluded.
“With our new board at the helm, supported by our dedicated staff, industry partners, developers, and supporters, there’s no limit to what we can achieve. ICT is the global future—and we must not be left behind.”
