PNG DataCo signs landmark agreements with Morobe Provincial Government to accelerate digital transformation

PNG Dataco and the Morobe Provincial Government sign landmark agreements. Credit: PNG DataCo

The agreements, signed at Parliament House as part of a broader multi-agency program, include:

• A Neutral Host Towers Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) to expand telecommunications access across Morobe Province; and
• A Morobe Digital Government Services Platform agreement, including the rollout of an integrated Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system to modernise government operations.

These initiatives together form the backbone of the Morobe Digital Government Project, a transformative program designed to improve efficiency, transparency, and service delivery for citizens.

Speaking at the signing, Paul Komboi said:

“Today’s signing represents a significant step forward in our shared vision with the Morobe Provincial Government to deliver inclusive, modern, and transparent public services. Through these agreements, DataCo will provide the digital infrastructure and platforms required to support Morobe’s transformation into a leading digital province in Papua New Guinea.”

The Digital Government Platform will integrate key government functions—including financial management, procurement, human resource systems, and citizen services—into a unified, cloud-enabled ecosystem.

In parallel, the Neutral Host Towers initiative will support the rollout of telecommunications infrastructure into underserved and remote areas. By enabling shared access to towers, the model aims to lower infrastructure costs and accelerate network expansion into regions that are traditionally uneconomic to serve.

Paul Komboi further emphasised the importance of connectivity in enabling digital transformation across the province:

“Connectivity is the foundation of digital government. Through our Neutral Host Tower model, combined with innovative satellite solutions such as Starlink, we will extend reliable internet connectivity to remote districts, schools, health facilities, and government offices—ensuring that no community in Morobe is left behind.”

The inclusion of low-earth orbit satellite connectivity solutions, such as Starlink, will complement terrestrial networks and provide immediate coverage for remote communities outside of the DataCo National Transmission Network fibre grid, supporting the full rollout of the Digital Government Platform across the province.

DataCo has been working closely with MPG leadership and technology partners to validate project scope, initiate ICT discovery, and align implementation planning, with strong support expressed by provincial leadership for the initiative.

Paul Komboi concluded:

“We commend the Morobe Provincial Government and the Governor for their bold leadership and commitment to digital transformation. DataCo is proud to partner in delivering a future-ready platform that will empower communities, strengthen governance, and drive sustainable economic development across Morobe Province.”

The signing forms part of a broader collaboration between MPG and key national institutions, reinforcing a whole-of-government approach to development and innovation.