Katrina ANGELI

On the 6th of September 2025 history was made in Western Province as the very first Miss Bird of Paradise Western Province, Naomi Koge was crowned. Miss Bird of Paradise, May T. Hasola stated that this was not only a special moment for the contestants and their families, but for the entire province, a milestone that shows Western Province is ready to take its place on the national stage. “To our inaugural Miss Bird of Paradise Western Province, Naomi Koge, congratulations once again.” “Your courage to put your hand up, your pride in culture, and your willingness to serve your people make you a true ambassador.” “This crown is more than a symbol of beauty, it represents leadership, empowerment, and the spirit of service.” “We know you will inspire countless young women across Western Province and beyond to believe in themselves, their voices, and their culture.” Hasola also thank all other contestants for being such brave stewards of the culture and stories of their province. “You should all be so proud of the journey you have embarked on. The hearts and minds that you have inspired will be a lasting legacy of change.” In addition, she also extended her gratitude to the Miss Bird of Paradise Western Province Committee, the leaders, business houses, artists, and communities who came together to make this possible. “Your dedication has created a platform that celebrates women, culture, and tourism, while also building pathways for future leaders.” Meanwhile, Western province has shown the nation its strength, diversity, and cultural pride. This is only the beginning, the start of a journey where women and girls from every district will have the opportunity to rise, represent, and shine on the national stage. “Congratulations once again to our inaugural Miss Bird of Paradise Western Province. The whole of Papua New Guinea celebrates you.”

The Papua New Guinea Red Cross Society (PNGRCS) and the Australian Red Cross (ARC) reaffirmed their longstanding partnership during a three-day Partnership Strategy Co-Design Workshop held from the 26th-28th of August 2025 in Port Moresby. The workshop marked a key step in aligning strategic priorities under ARC’s new eight-year International Program, launched in January 2025. The program is supported by the Australian Government through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and emphasizes long-term, flexible, and partner-driven approaches. Papua New Guinea (PNG) is one of nine National Societies currently part of the program, with Tuvalu set to join later this year. PNGRCS Secretary General, Ms. Gellie Akui, expressed gratitude to the Australian Red Cross for facilitating the workshop and ensuring PNGRCS’s priorities were central to the partnership strategy. “We are deeply thankful to the Australian Red Cross for creating this opportunity to capture our priorities in the partnership strategy.” “This workshop comes at the right time, as we prepare for the mid-term review of our strategic plan, and it will help us address key issues within our Society while strengthening our ability to serve communities across PNG.” PNGRCS and ARC share a deep history whereas the PNG Red Cross Society was first established in 1951 as a branch of the Queensland Chapter of the Australian Red Cross, before becoming a National Society following independence in 1976. Since then, ARC has remained a consistent partner, supporting PNGRC’s mission to serve communities across the country. Building on this legacy, the new International Program focuses on long-term, flexible support to strengthen sustainability, community trust, and locally led humanitarian action. Meanwhile, Portfolio Manager for Pacific Programs at the Australian Red Cross Claire Hallas, said that the overarching goal of Australia’s International Program from 2025 to 2032 is to ensure National Societies are more sustainable, effectively fulfil their auxiliary role, and strengthen community trust. Having a shared partnership strategy is the first step forward. Following the workshop, the Australian Red Cross and PNGRCS committed to documenting the discussions and developing a draft shared partnership strategy. This strategy will capture the agreed priorities and serve as a guide for implementing initiatives over the coming years. Both organizations will collaborate on refining the strategy, with a draft expected by November 2025. Moreover, PNGRCS National Council Chairman, Mr. Oscar Pidian, also stated that as a National Society in a rebuilding stage, they have begun implementing their National Society Development Roadmap. “With this long-term support, we are confident the PNG Red Cross will grow stronger, more sustainable, and better able to serve communities across our country.” “On behalf of the PNG Red Cross, I also want to sincerely thank the Australian Red Cross and the Australian Government for their long-standing support.” The workshop has set a clear direction for the next phase of the partnership, ensuring the Papua New Guinea Red Cross fulfils its mandate and auxiliary role to the Government of Papua New Guinea.

Papua New Guinea's Minister for Education, Lucas Dawa Dekena, has voiced his support for Western Highlands Governor Wai Rapa’s request to postpone the upcoming Local Level Government (LLG) elections. The move aims to prevent the elections from clashing with the Grade twelve national examinations. Minister Dekena acknowledged the importance of both events, noting that the LLG elections are a vital part of the nation's democratic process. However, he emphasized that the national examinations are equally, if not more, critical for the future of the nation's students. “The grade twelve national examinations are the culmination of twelve years of hard work and are the gateway to higher education and future career opportunities.” “It is imperative that our students have a conducive environment to perform their best without any external distractions or disruptions.” The proposed polling dates for the LLG elections, from September 27 to October 10, 2025, directly overlap with the exam period. Minister Dekena warned that this overlap could significantly impact students’ academic performance due to the presence of polling activities near schools, potential logistical issues, and added psychological pressure. While respecting the sentiment of Minister for Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs, Soroi Eoe that the elections are already underway, the Ministry of Education's top priority remains the future of its students. Moreover, the Ministry believes a slight delay in the polling dates would be a simple and effective way to ensure the exams are not disrupted. Minister Dekena thanked Governor Rapa for his foresight and for raising this important issue. The Ministry of Education will continue to work with the Department of Inter Government Relations and the Electoral Commission to find a solution that supports both the country's democratic values and its commitment to educational excellence.

The Papua New Guinea Red Cross Society (PNGRCS) has officially welcomed and inducted three distinguished professionals as members of its Finance and Audit Committee, reinforcing the Society’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and sound governance. The induction, held in Port Moresby, was attended by National Council Chairman Oscar Pidian, Secretary General Gellie Akui, the National Treasurer Merelyn Penning, who also serves as Chairperson of the Committee, IFRC Head of Delegation Maki Igarashi, Australian Red Cross Finance Development Advisor Patrea Ryan, and Claire Hallas, Portfolio Manager for Pacific Programs at Australian Red Cross. The induction highlighted the history of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, outlined the role of PNG Red Cross as an auxiliary to the government, and provided a detailed briefing on the roles and responsibilities of the Finance and Audit Committee. The new members inducted into the Committee are Martin Kokon, a Certified Practicing Accountant and Registered Company Auditor with more than thirteen years of experience in the audit and assurance sector; Bridget Laimo, a Certified Practising Accountant with over twenty years of financial management and governance expertise in both PNG and Australia; and Navin Singh, Executive Chef at Hilton Port Moresby, who brings more than two decades of international leadership experience in budget oversight, procurement, and governance within the hospitality industry. Chairman of the National Council, Oscar Pidian, welcomed the new members, stating that the Finance and Audit Committee plays a vital role in ensuring that our resources are managed with integrity and efficiency. “The caliber and diverse expertise of our new members will greatly strengthen the governance of the Society.” Meanwhile, Secretary General, Gellie Akui, added that as an auxiliary to government and a trusted humanitarian partner, PNG Red Cross must uphold the highest standards of financial stewardship. “We are grateful to welcome these experienced professionals who have volunteered their time and skills to help us maintain accountability to our communities, donors, and partners.” The Finance and Audit Committee will advise the National Council on financial matters, oversee internal audit processes, monitor resource use, and ensure compliance with financial policies. Their contributions will be crucial to support the Society’s efforts to achieve financial sustainability and resource mobilization, strengthening its capacity to respond to disasters, health crises, and the impacts of climate change in Papua New Guinea.

Minister for Labour and Employment, Kessy Sawang, announced that the independent Minimum Wages Board has made a determination on a new national minimum wage. The decision comes after an eleven-year gap since the last review. The Board's recommendation is an increase to better reflect the rising cost of living for working families. Sawang highlighted that she made the review a top priority upon her appointment. She stated the new wage is not only a policy milestone but also part of the Marape-Rosso Government’s gift to the people as they celebrate the country’s 50th Independence Anniversary. She called the review "a matter of social protection," noting that families have been struggling to afford basic necessities like food, housing, transport, and school fees due to sharp increases in the cost of living. “The minimum wage is a vital floor of protection. It safeguards the most vulnerable workers from exploitation, reduces working poverty, and helps ensure that no one is left behind in our nation’s development.” She emphasized that the process was transparent and inclusive, as the government cannot unilaterally set the minimum wage. This responsibility lies with the independent Minimum Wages Board. To begin the process, Sawang reconvened the National Tripartite Coordinating Council (NTCC), which includes unions, employers, and the government. After the NTCC unanimously endorsed the terms of reference, nominations for the Minimum Wages Board were called for from workers and employers. The Board was then appointed with a balanced representation of workers, employers, government, youth, and churches. Sawang also secured K5 million to support the Board's work. To ensure broad participation, the Board conducted public hearings across twenty locations nationwide. In 2024, initial hearings were held in Central Province and the National Capital District. In 2025, further hearings took place in locations including Kerema, Popondetta, Alotau, Daru, Lorengau, Kavieng, Namatanai, Kimbe, Kokopo, Duke of York, Madang, Vanimo, Wewak, Maprik, Mt. Hagen, Goroka, Lae, Buka, and Port Moresby. These hearings allowed various stakeholders to share their views and evidence. “After considering all submissions, evidence, and data, the Minimum Wages Board has now made its determination.” “Importantly, all Board members signed the determination, indicating agreement across all parties and, in particular, consensus between workers and employers.” Furthermore, she stated that she respects the Board's independence and looks forward to receiving the detailed decision and any broader recommendations. She also thanked the Board members, secretariat, and technical teams for their efforts. By law, the determination will now be lodged with the Industrial Registrar. Once the Registrar is satisfied, the determination will be gazetted and come into force. “As Minister, I remain committed to policies that combine decent work, fair wages, and effective social protection, so that the fruits of our nation’s economic growth are shared by all our citizens.”

With less than two weeks until Papua New Guinea (PNG) celebrates its 50th Independence anniversary, the official onboarding of the Bilum Digital Platform marks a historic step in taking the nation into the technological age. The platform empowers subnational governments, strengthens accountability, and modernizes service delivery, aligning PNG with global standards in digital governance. Milne Bay Province, together with East New Britain Province, has been selected as one of the first provinces to officially pilot the Bilum program. This early adoption demonstrates the provinces’ leadership in embracing digital solutions and sets a benchmark for other provinces to follow. By participating in the initial rollout, Milne Bay is helping shape how the platform will be used nationwide, ensuring that the system is practical, effective, and responsive to local governance needs. Officially opening the On-Boarding workshop, Member for Alotau Ricky Morris, described Bilum as a “game changer” that will transform decision making by providing real-time, data-driven insights, enabling leaders to make informed decisions rather than relying on guesswork. “This platform will change the way we traditionally do things, especially in accountability and reporting. It ensures our leaders make decisions based on real data, not political pressures.” Meanwhile, Deputy Provincial Administrator for Milne Bay, Michael Viula, welcomed participants on behalf of the province, emphasizing how the platform will improve coordination and transparency across Milne Bay’s maritime districts. “The Bilum Platform is an opportunity to strengthen governance and ensure our people receive the services they deserve.” Also speaking during the workshop was Deputy Secretary for Program and Implementation, Mr. Gordon Wafimbi, who explained that Subnational Investment Program (SIP) funds which account for nearly K2 billion annually, can now be tracked and reported accurately. Bilum reduces administrative burdens, improves monitoring, and allows leaders to focus on delivering services rather than managing paperwork. The rollout of Bilum supports the national theme of “Empowering Subnational Governance through Digital Transformation and Collaboration” and is expected to deliver six key outcomes: 1.    Operational readiness- all provinces and districts will have trained personnel actively using the platform. 2.    Capacity building- staff will gain skills to use the system effectively and sustainably. 3.    Enhanced data management and reporting- accurate, timely information will strengthen accountability. 4.    Strengthened government-to-government coordination- improved collaboration between national and subnational agencies. 5.    Real-time monitoring and evaluation- projects and funding will be tracked for better outcomes. 6.    Sustainability- ongoing support, updates, and training will ensure long-term benefits. Wafimbi said that with Bilum, PNG is joining the global shift toward technology driven governance. “This platform positions our country to manage resources efficiently, improve public accountability, and participate in the digital economy.” Member for Alotau, Ricky Morris, highlighted that the platform’s implementation ahead of PNG’s 50th Independence symbolizes a commitment to innovation, modernization, and progress, preparing the nation to enter its next fifty years with smarter, transparent, and data-driven governance. “This workshop is not just a technical gathering.” “Technology is not an option, it is a step forward for PNG to embrace technology, improve governance, and join other parts of the world in the digital era.”

The Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) ‘Exercise Antap Long Ol 2025’ Unity Walk which commenced back in July at Moem Barracks, Wewak in East Sepik province, finally come to an end as the troops concluded their march today at Murray Barracks in Port Moresby city. The final march into Port Moresby began early as 4AM starting from the Laloki bridge to Unagi Oval where they gathered before proceeding to the Parliament House where the Baton was formally presented to the Minister for Defence, Dr. Billy Joseph, and finally to Murray Barracks where the Chief of PNGDF, Rear Admiral Philip Polewara officially ended the exercise. The scope was deeply symbolic. It was designed to commemorate Papua New Guinea's 50th anniversary of independence; a milestone that reminds the people of the journey as a nation and the enduring role of the Defence Force in PNG. This year, the troops walked over 1, 245 kilometers on foot across rugged mountains, rivers, and jungles. This year was a more symbolic occasion as the troops completed an exercise of a reenactment of a journey that began nearly fifty years ago. Speaking at the Parliament House, Minister for Defence, Dr. Billy Joseph extended his deepest congratulations to the soldiers who have just completed the historic exercise, a powerful and moving reenactment. “It is a profound and enduring symbol of our military's original promise to this nation. In 1975, when a team of soldiers walked from Wewak to Port Moresby, they presented a message of loyalty to our founding father, the Grand Chief Michael Somare.” “They affirmed that the new nation of PNG would have its own Defence Force; a key state institution ready to defend its sovereignty and serve its key state institution and its people.” He further stated that this enactment reinforces that sacred commitment. “You have shown the entire country that the spirit of that initial pledge remains as strong and vibrant today as it was then.” “For five decades, the PNGDF has been the steadfast guardian of our sovereignty and a pillar of our national identity.” The exercise unfolded in four phases. In the first phase, the Second Battalion, Royal Pacific Islands Regiment (2RPIR) marched from Wewak to Madang province, 388 kilometers in eleven days which showed a display of strength and determination. The second phase, led by the Engineer Battalion, covered 329 kilometers from Madang to Lae in fifteen days. Followed by this was the third phase, undertaken by the Long-Range Reconnaissance Unit, 275 kilometers from Lae to Wau in Morobe province and across the historic Bulldog Track to Malalaua Station in Gulf province completed in nineteen days. This leg paid tribute not only to the soldiers' endurance, but also to the historic sacrifices along the Bulldog track during World War II, where courage and hardship shaped our nation's history. The final phase, conducted by the 1st Battalion, marched from Malalaua Station to Port Mosby, 220 kilometers in eleven days, proudly concluding this epic journey the Port Moresby. Together, these four phases place a reminder that PNGDF embodies the strength, resilience, and the unity of the people. Furthermore, with fifty years on, the PNGDF remains an enduring state institution, committed to the security of a sovereign Papua New Guinea against all forms of threat. This exercise has strengthened their operational capability, tested their endurance, and sharpened their readiness.

A quick response from Simbu Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Superintendent, Mazuc Rubiang and his team resulted in the successful recovery of three police guns, a police vehicle, and three policemen at Druamugl village in Kerowagi District, Simbu Province. According to PPC Rubiang, the policemen were responding to a dispute that arose between two groups of people regarding where to set up the independence celebration. He stated that the Kerowagi community had agreed on a location, and the District Administrator (DA) was on the ground to discuss how they would set up the stage for the celebration when he was attacked. He mentioned that his police officers were attacked while they were trying to assist the DA and his team. The police car was damaged, and three police-issued firearms were also stolen during the attack. “I was advised late yesterday (Sunday, August 31) evening about the incident where myself and a team of police officers quickly went to the scene and removed the damaged vehicle.” “The three police officers were issued police firearms. We are investigating the matter. Some suspects have been identified, and they will be arrested soon.” He further added that what the people did to the police officers, the guns, and the vehicle is uncalled for. “We will investigate the incident, and if it means we need to use excessive force, we will do that to teach those who do not respect the rule of law.” He further added that a police team will be deployed to investigate the matter, and if it means to call for additional units, the command will advise accordingly if the suspects who were involved are not brought in for questioning. Furthermore, PPC Rubiang further added that the investigators will be neutral people, so all parties must help them in the investigation to find out who is wrong. He said the vehicle and the guns have now been taken back to the police station.

Prime Minister James Marape has issued a public apology to the people of Karamui in Simbu province, acknowledging significant delays and missteps in a long-promised road development project. The Prime Minister's apology comes in response to recent public concerns over the lack of progress on the road, despite funds being allocated in 2020, 2021, and 2022. “I want to sincerely apologize to the people of Karamui.” “We did allocate funds for your road in past years, and I have now directed the Works Department to investigate what has happened to those allocations.” Marape admitted the project has “misfired” due to disagreements over the route and competing priorities at provincial and district levels. He stressed that while other major road projects, like the connections from Kikori to Mt Hagen and Port Moresby to Alotau, have progressed steadily, the Karamui project has been hampered by internal conflicts. To resolve this, he has instructed the Works Department to choose the most direct route and proceed without further interference. The Prime Minister emphasized his personal connection to the struggles of remote communities, recalling his own difficult childhood experiences. He shared a poignant story about his mother losing children in a remote village due to a lack of access to health services and roads. “As a child who grew up in remote Papua New Guinea, I understand the pain of isolation.” “These experiences shaped me, and they remain with me to this day.” He assured the people of Karamui that his government is committed to ensuring they are not left behind. This commitment is central to the national Connect PNG programme, a 20-year initiative designed to link all parts of the country through a network of roads, jetties, ports, and airstrips. Meanwhile, Marape highlighted the success of similar projects in other remote areas, noting that heavy machinery is already building a road in Kaintiba, a community he visited in 2020. “Just as Kaintiba has now been reached, so too will Karamui be reached.” In a final appeal, Marape urged all leaders in Simbu Province to support the national government's plan to build the main road corridor, while they focus on smaller feeder roads. “Enough is enough. Let us work together for the people. Karamui must be unlocked, and my government will not rest until that is achieved.”

Bank South Pacific (BSP) Financial Group Limited has proudly backed the future of finance by contributing K10, 000 as Platinum Sponsors of the 7th Finance Network Event Program, hosted by the University of Papua New Guinea’s (UPNG) Banking & Finance Student Association. BSP’s strong show of support highlights its dedication to promoting financial literacy and empowering emerging professionals throughout Papua New Guinea (PNG) and the South Pacific. The UPNG Banking and Finance Student Association, which is a student-led initiative at UPNG, plays a vital role in linking students with prospective employers, creating career pathways, and narrowing the gap between academic learning and the financial sector. This year’s event theme is “Augmenting Financial Integrity: Aligning with the financial action task force (FATF) standards to safeguard PNG’s Financial Market and Economic future.” BSP Head of Community Development and Sponsorship Tina Pomat, said that this year’s theme carries significant relevance and at BSP, we believe that strengthening financial integrity is not just a need. “We are proud to support initiatives like this that highlights the challenges facing PNG’s financial sector.” “By aligning with FATF standards, we can help protect PNG’s financial system from crime and strengthen trust with international partners.” “This facilitates easier trade and investment for businesses and demonstrates PNG’s commitment to combating money laundering, scams and fraudulent activities.” Meanwhile, UPNG Banking and Finance Student Association President Shannamitte Soro, expressed genuine appreciation for BSP’s ongoing support. “We deeply appreciate BSP’s backing, BSP has been supporting and driving student-led efforts to raise financial honesty and spark meaningful change across PNG’s financial landscape.” The 7th annual networking event is currently on at the APEC Haus in Port Moresby.

The official ground-breaking ceremony for the Kimbe Port Redevelopment Project which took place on the 28th of August 2025, marked a significant milestone in Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) efforts to improve essential infrastructure and enhance regional trade. Minister for State Enterprises, William Duma has turned the first sod with the Minister for Oil Palm, the Francis Galia Maneke, Governor of West New Britain the Sasindran Muthuvel, and Australia’s High Commissioner H.E. Mr. Ewen McDonald. The project is being delivered through a concessional loan from the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP) in close partnership with the Government of PNG through PNG Ports Corporation Ltd (PNG Ports). The redeveloped Port is expected to see more than 600 thousand tonnes of cargo annually by 2050. This significantly enhances PNG’s export capacity, especially for palm oil, one of the country’s key agricultural exports. PNG Ports owns and operates fifteen ports which provide critical links to the world markets and contribute 22 per cent of PNG’s total economic activity as measured by Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Construction of the marine works was awarded to Pacific Marine Group Limited, while local-firm Global Constructions Limited will lead the K79 million shore-based works. Across both the marine and land works, the project is expected to create up to 300 local direct and indirect jobs, providing meaningful opportunities for PNG firms and workers. The Kimbe Port project (PGK260 million) is the first of five major port redevelopment projects to be delivered under the AIFFP-financed Ports Infrastructure Investment Program, which aims to support resilient, high-quality infrastructure across PNG. Minister for State Owned Enterprises, William Duma expressed how privilege he was to witness the beginning of what they will regard as a definitive event for Kimbe, and for the country. “As we break ground, we must remind ourselves we’re not merely launching a construction project, we are laying the foundations for enhanced connectivity and prosperity for generations to come in our country.” Meanwhile, Australia’s High Commissioner to PNG, H.E. Ewen McDonald, said that the PNG Australia relationship is a relationship between family. “Our modern-day relationship is about supporting conditions for economic prosperity. We are investing in high quality, sustainable infrastructure.” “Investments in roads, ports, power and telecommunications are all fundamental for creating an environment where businesses can thrive, and communities can prosper.” “With more than 90 per cent of internationally traded goods in Papua New Guinea transported by sea, maritime infrastructure is incredibly important.” First built in 1969, Kimbe Port is PNG’s third-largest port and handles around 75 per cent of the country’s annual palm oil exports, valued at approximately K1 billion per year. Furthermore, redevelopment initiatives for Oro Bay, Daru, Kavieng and Lae ports are in the pipeline, delivering on Australia’s support for PNG to build high quality, resilient and accessible infrastructure that drives economic growth, prosperity and enables Papua New Guineans to access greater opportunities.

Paradise Private Hospital (PPH) proudly launched its Medi-Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination initiative recently at Port Moresby International School (POMIS), reaffirming its commitment to protecting the health and future of young people in Papua New Guinea. With an alarming rise in cervical cancer cases which is a preventable yet deadly disease, the hospital is leading the way by ensuring that girls, women, and boys are not only given access to lifesaving vaccines but are also educated about the importance of preventative health care. The event brought together grade ten students and teachers, and featured addresses from PPH Medical Professionals including Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Doctor Grace Raire, Labour Ward- Nurse Unit Manager, Sister Fabiana Menem and PPH Director Finance, Mrs. Janet Sios. Dr. Raire said that HPV vaccination helps people develop 97% immunity, protecting all girls from cervical cancer for her lifetime. “The most effective way of preventing cervical cancer is through HPV vaccination.” The Medi-HPV vaccine is a safe and effective tool that protects against: • Cervical cancer • Genital warts • Other HPV-related diseases In addition, it is most effective when given before exposure, between the ages of nine to fourteen, but is available for all young people aged nine to 25, with special consideration for women over 25. Furthermore, PPH recognizes that access to vaccines must go hand-in-hand with education. That is why this initiative goes beyond clinical care, it is about raising awareness and equipping young people with knowledge that can save lives. “Giving your child the gift of a healthy future starts with prevention. The earlier we start the conversation, the better the protection.”