27/05/2026
FROM DETERMINATION TO DRIVE: HOW NDB HELPED JENNY KIMANA BUILD A GROWING HIRE CAR BUSINESS IN BOUGAINVILLE
In the Autonomous Region of Bougainville (AROB), local entrepreneur Mrs Jenny Kimana has demonstrated how determination, planning, and access to finance can transform a modest idea into a growing business. As the owner of JJBM Trans, she has steadily expanded her hire car operation from a single vehicle in 2022 to a fleet of three Toyota Land Cruisers by 2026, with support from the National Development Bank (NDB).
Mrs Kimana’s business journey began in 2020 when she observed increasing economic activity in Bougainville and identified a rising demand for reliable transport services. Together with her husband, Mr Brian Kimana, she began researching the hire car industry and exploring financing options. Determined to formalize the venture, she registered JJBM Trans with the Investment Promotion Authority in 2021, secured tax compliance through the Internal Revenue Commission, and opened a business account with BSP.
Despite careful planning, personal savings, and strong family support, accessing startup finance was a significant challenge. With no prior experience in the hire car industry, many financial institutions viewed the business as high risk. This changed in 2022 when Mrs Kimana successfully secured funding through NDB’s MSME Lending Product under the National Government’s SME support initiative. The loan enabled the purchase of her first vehicle through NDB’s Buka Branch, marking the official launch of JJBM Trans.
Through disciplined financial management and consistent operations, the business repaid its first loan by 2024. This achievement strengthened its credit standing and enabled further expansion. Later that year, JJBM Trans secured a second loan to acquire a second Toyota Land Cruiser, increasing its capacity to serve customers across Bougainville.
As demand continued to grow, the business repaid its second loan ahead of schedule in 2026 and applied for a third loan to improve service reliability and meet customer needs. The loan was approved in April, allowing the purchase of a third vehicle. This steady growth reflects the company’s strong financial discipline and ability to scale operations responsibly.
Speaking at the vehicle handover ceremony, Mr Brian Kimana acknowledged NDB’s critical role in their success, stating that access to finance remains a major barrier for many Papua New Guinean entrepreneurs. He emphasized the importance of commitment, understanding cash flow, building strong networks, and partnering with supportive financial institutions.
NDB Buka Branch Sales and Service Manager, Mr Mark Yanzinga, commended JJBM Trans for its growth, discipline, and effective use of financing. He highlighted that the bank remains committed to supporting SMEs that meet lending requirements and recognized the positive impact of government funding in enabling more Papua New Guineans to enter the SME sector.
Acting CEO of NDB, Mr David Munaga, also praised Mrs Kimana’s resilience and vision, noting that her success illustrates the broader purpose of NDB—to empower local entrepreneurs and drive economic growth. He further acknowledged the government’s continued support for MSME and SME development, which has expanded access to finance for small business owners.
Today, JJBM Trans operates successfully across Bougainville, providing reliable transport services while contributing to local economic activity. Mrs Kimana’s journey stands as a powerful example for aspiring entrepreneurs, showing that with discipline, proper planning, and the right financial partnership, small beginnings can grow into sustainable businesses that support Papua New Guinea’s development.
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