It’s a wrap: Key insights from PRIF Week 2022

PRIF is a multi-partner coordination and technical assistance facility bringing together the major development partners in Pacific infrastructure development and the virtual conference was the second iteration of a highly successful event launched in 2021. 

PRIF Week 2022 attracted over 600 participants across 27 countries, including attendees, speakers, exhibitors and in country guests. It provided a platform for Pacific and international companies, governments, development partners and other stakeholders to discuss the opportunities for improving local participation in infrastructure development in the post COVID-19 economic recovery. Presentations and discussions covered a vast range of topics: infrastructure trends, project pipelines and investment priorities in the region, the importance of the enabling environment and the role of Pacific governments and development partners in setting the right policy framework and requirements up front, the critical relationship between demands, skills development and training and accreditation for local workers and contractors, and shining a light on local private sector contracting challenges. Inclusion and the important role of women and people with disability in the design, planning and delivery of infrastructure, were also highlighted.  

A virtual exhibition of private sector contractors and businesses, operating across the Pacific, aimed to provide visibility and open up networking opportunities for local private contractors and firms. 30 private sector exhibitors took part in the showcase. 

In addition to the virtual conference, PRIF hosted four physical hubs in Sydney, Suva, Apia and Nuku’alofa. After two years of COVID restrictions and border closures, the hubs allowed the rekindling of local networks and relationships and the fostering of a new community of infrastructure focused practitioners. According to Mr. Sam Vea, President of the Tonga Chamber of Commerce and Industries and PRIF Hub Host, the Chamber believes that “PRIF Week is a unique opportunity because it allows the infrastructure players in the private sector to come together and share experiences and challenges, find solutions, and access donor-financed infrastructure projects”.  

PRIF Week 2022 has shown there are significant opportunities for local private sector providers in infrastructure development that builds economic resilience, addresses the impact of climate change and benefits all members of society. Strong collaboration and partnerships are needed between Pacific governments, development partners, regional organizations, private sector, academia and other stakeholders in order to maximize these opportunities.  

PRIF Week 2022 conference videos, exhibitors and content will be available on our website soon. Please visit the PRIF Week 2022 website here for updates and further information. 

Sincere thanks from the PRIF Coordination Office to all the participants for making PRIF Week 2022 a success.