The National Information and Communications Technology Authority (NICTA) has formally established and sworn in its Special Procurement Committee (SPC), marking a major reform aimed at improving efficiency, accountability, and speed in the delivery of ICT and Universal Access Service projects across Papua New Guinea.
The swearing in ceremony was held on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at Level 7 of the Hela 1 Building in Port Moresby.
The committee was officially established under National Gazette No. G456 dated 19 May 2026, in accordance with the amended National Procurement Commission Act 2021. It will operate under the Authority to Pre-Commit Committee Secretariat and is appointed for a three-year term.
Previously, all procurement processes above K1 million required approval from the National Procurement Commission, a system that often caused delays in project implementation. In some cases, Universal Access Service projects were delayed between three months and two years.
With the new arrangement, NICTA can now manage procurement internally for projects valued between K1 million and K5 million, reducing reliance on external approvals and speeding up delivery timelines.
The SPC is mandated to manage and regulate procurement within the approved threshold, safeguard public funds, and ensure transparency, fairness, and competitiveness in supplier engagement.
The committee is chaired by NICTA Director of Universal Access and Service, Mr. Warren Suti.
Other members, include Mr. Flierl Shongol, Deputy Secretary for PET at the Department of Information and Communications Technology; Mr. Samson Metofa, First Assistant Secretary for FRCD at the Department of Finance and Mr. Agaru Agarobe, Executive Manager at the National Procurement Commission.
In his opening remarks, Chairman Mr. Suti said the establishment of the committee represents a significant milestone for both NICTA and the broader ICT sector.
He said the SPC will strengthen procurement governance and improve the efficiency of project delivery, particularly for programs aimed at expanding digital inclusion across the country.
“We extend our appreciation to the National Procurement Commission and the APCC Secretariat for their guidance and support in establishing this committee,” Mr. Suti said.
He congratulated the newly sworn in members and said their roles carry significant responsibility in ensuring integrity and accountability in procurement processes.
“The responsibility entrusted to you is significant, and I am confident each of you will discharge your duties with integrity and professionalism,” he said.
Mr. Suti also thanked the Government of Papua New Guinea for supporting the establishment of the committee, describing it as a major step forward in strengthening procurement systems within the ICT sector.
Closing remarks were delivered by Mr. Geoffrey Kinibo, Executive Manager of the National Procurement Commission.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of the Common Seal, followed by a photo session and refreshments, formally marking the end of the program.
