Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape says he is banking on artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced technology to tackle persistent inefficiencies across government services. Marape announced that AI-driven systems will soon guide public sector appointments, procurement, policy submissions, and cybercrime reporting in a bid to bring merit-based decision-making to the forefront.
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| PNG PM James Marape Turns to AI and Robots to Sort Out his Government Inefficiency |
Speaking in Port Moresby, Marape said the reforms are intended to end long-standing practices of nepotism and political favouritism. “I don’t care where you come from, what religion you practise, or what orientation you hold. If you have the best qualifications and experience, you will get the job,” he said, describing AI as a platform to build a truly merit-based society.
The government is already collaborating with the Queensland University of Technology and Israeli technology experts to design an AI-powered information and communication technology (ICT) framework. This system, Marape explained, will help streamline hiring, monitor procurement, and strengthen cybercrime reporting by removing human bias from crucial decisions.
According to the Prime Minister, these changes are meant to counter the negative effects of the “wantok” system—a cultural practice of prioritising family or tribal ties—which he said has at times fuelled inefficiency and corruption in public service. “The wantok system has its good side, but in government it breeds inefficiency and corruption. We must tidy this space so our children inherit a system where merit and fairness prevail,” Marape said.
He added that the government aims to roll out these reforms over the next two years, targeting full integration by 2027. Marape described the initiative as part of a broader commitment to reset governance and mark the nation’s 50th independence anniversary with stronger, more transparent institutions.
“Technology is here to be used,” Marape said, emphasising that AI and ICT will be key drivers of efficiency, transparency, and accountability. “By 2027, we want a government where decisions are guided by merit and qualifications, not by tribe or favour.”
The Prime Minister expressed confidence that AI and automation will leave a lasting legacy, helping PNG overcome structural weaknesses and modernise public administration. “This will be our 50th anniversary legacy,” he said, underscoring his belief that advanced technology can succeed where human systems have often failed.
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