Selection 163365: LOAN-6032 PNG: Transport Sector Preparatory Project - TSPPCS-06 Project Implementation Unit Staffing: Social Safeguards and Gender Specialist (53325-001)

ADB is assisting the government of Papua New Guinea (GoPNG) under a project readiness financing (PRF) loan to support the preparation of three proposed transport projects to be financed by ADB, including: (i) Northern region road corridor (Momase international highway) from Wutung to Wewak, (ii) Northern region road corridor from Lae to Epo via Bulolo (Trans-Island highway), and (iii) Highlands Region Road Improvement Investment Program, Phase 2 (HRRIIP 2). The PRF will finance the preparation of the feasibility study and the detailed engineering designs, including bidding documents and procurement support for these ensuing projects. This is to achieve high-level readiness and to ensure timely and cost-effective achievement of the outcomes of such projects.

In parallel a separate technical assistance (TA) is being undertaken. ADB has engaged consultants through the TA and other ADB resources to (i) undertake other due diligence required; (ii) review of studies and designs to be prepared through the PRF; and (iii) design the social development program to be implemented during the ensuing program implementation.

The Executing Agency (EA) of the assignment is the Department of Works and Implementation (DOW) of the GoPNG. Department of Transport is another EA for the Momase international highway for the port component, since the project will finance improvement of Vanimo and Wewak ports. The Project Implementation Unit (PIU), which is being established under the DOW, will be the implementing unit of all preparatory activities for the ensuing projects. PIU will manage the day-to-day project implementation activities, prepare progress reports, administer and oversee implementation of all consulting services contracts under the PRF, verify all invoices for payment, prepare withdrawal applications and submit them to ADB after DOW endorsement, facilitate all monitoring requirements and reporting, ensure financial and safeguards compliance and reporting in line with loan covenants, and support preparation of other due diligence activities funded by a TA. The PIU will be formed by Project Manager, Deputy Project Manager, Social Development and Gender Specialist, Environmental Specialist, Financial Management Specialist, Project Accountant and Highway/Design Engineer. The PIU is expected to be established by 30 November 2020. The schedule is subject to revisions depending on the travel restrictions caused by COVID-19 outbreak.

The Social Safeguards and Gender Specialist shall work closely with the EAs, PRF and TA consultants, ADB, and other stakeholders. The Social Safeguards and Gender Specialist will be stationed in one of the three PIU offices to be established within the DOW office premises in West Sepik, Morobe, and Western Highlands provinces. The PIU will be supported and coordinated by the existing project management unit (PMU), which is based in Port Moresby.

For detailed Terms of Reference, please access the ADB CMS link provided.