Steamships and Tininga Ltd have broke ground on joint venture project, Dobel Central, a mixed-use mega mall which will change the economic landscape of Mt Hagen and Western Highlands. The new, state-of the-art 10,000m2 development will play a critical role in driving progress across agriculture, MSMEs, tourism, and other key sectors in the Highlands region
Dobel Central is a collaborative initiative aimed at creating an inclusive, thriving commercial hub that not only facilitates business growth but also directly empowers local communities through job creation and entrepreneurial opportunities.
“We see this not only as an investment in infrastructure but as an investment in people. Our goal is to create a premium retail and commercial development in the Highlands. One that provides a safe and secure trading environment,” said Steamships Managing Director Chris Daniells in his address on Friday, “it will be an inclusive space that nurtures opportunity—where entrepreneurs can flourish, youth can find employment, and families can benefit from improved access to services and amenities.”
Steamships highlighted the essential role of partnerships in this achievement, particularly with the Western Highlands Provincial Government, whose support has been instrumental in aligning the development with the region’s strategic goals.
Tininga Managing Director Pat Duckworth comments, “Changes in government have brought about a positive shift in law and order, fostering a safer, more positive community. Tininga has its roots firmly implanted in Mt Hagen and together with Steamships, we believed in the potential of the Western Highlands. That belief started with the Hagen Central development in town and today we are proud to take the next step with Dobel Central.”
The capital investment of Dobel Central is worth an approximate K200 million and is expected to deliver expanded retail and commercial spaces, supporting a wide range of local and national businesses while reinforcing Mt. Hagen’s role as the premier service centre for the Highlands Region. The first phase of the mall is on track to open in Q1 2026, and will feature Tininga’s new supermarket alongside stage one of the retail space rollout.
