New Ministry of Infrastructure in Peru aims to improve projects and public management.

In the recent message to the Nation on the occasion of the National Holidays, one of the most significant announcements was the creation of the new Ministry of Infrastructure, a measure that has sparked a variety of reactions and expectations in the political and social spheres. The Minister of Housing, Construction, and Sanitation, Hania Pérez de Cuéllar, has provided more details about how this new portfolio will integrate into the Government's structure and its role in executing public investment projects. During an interview on RPP, the minister described the new ministry as an expanded version of the National Infrastructure Authority (ANIN). This suggests that the focus of the Ministry of Infrastructure will not only encompass the construction of projects but also their oversight processes, which could result in greater efficiency in the management of public works. The idea is for this new entity to assume a centralized role that allows for improved infrastructure execution in the country. A key aspect highlighted by Pérez de Cuéllar is that each ministry currently executing programs related to infrastructure will be able to delegate its responsibilities to the new ministry. This will free up resources and allow sectors to concentrate on formulating public policies rather than executing works. This change aims to establish a system where the planning and prioritization of projects can be carried out more effectively, aligning with the country's needs. The minister also emphasized that the proposal arises from a diagnosis of each sector's capacities to carry out works. In this regard, the Ministry of Infrastructure would focus efforts on improving existing processes, thus addressing the deficiencies that have led to the stagnation of numerous projects. "It is an urgent need," she stated, referring to the more than 2,000 projects currently halted, many of which are linked to corruption issues. However, despite the optimism of the Executive, Pérez de Cuéllar acknowledged that the creation of this new ministry is not without obstacles. The initiative will need to be discussed and approved in Congress, a process that may face delays or even rejections. "In a negative scenario, it might not come to fruition," she warned, reflecting the inherent uncertainty of the legislative process. Despite this potential resistance, the head of the MVCS stressed the importance of opening a public debate on the state of infrastructure in Peru. "What is essential is to put on the national agenda what to do with the stalled works," she stated, urging collaboration between sectors to find effective solutions. This proactive approach could be key to addressing the challenges the country faces in terms of infrastructure. The announcement of the new ministry has also raised criticisms and doubts among some opposition sectors. There are concerns about the effectiveness of creating a new entity in a context where numerous reforms and adjustments have already been implemented within the state apparatus. For many, the question lies in whether a new ministry can truly resolve deep-rooted problems or if it will merely be a superficial change that does not address the underlying causes of inefficiency in project execution. As the discussion about the creation of the Ministry of Infrastructure progresses, it will be crucial to establish mechanisms for accountability and transparency. Public trust is a crucial element in any effort to revive stalled works and combat corruption. Without a real commitment to transparency, any attempt at renewal could remain just on paper. In conclusion, the creation of the Ministry of Infrastructure represents an opportunity to restructure how Peru addresses its infrastructure needs. With a renewed focus on planning and execution, this new ministry could be a step toward solving issues that have hindered the country’s development. However, the path to its effective implementation will largely depend on the political will and the Government's ability to overcome the challenges that arise along the way.