Katrina ANGELI

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.”

The Voice Inc. (TVI) celebrated the graduation of its third cohort of Developmental Leaders from the Problem Driven Iterative Adaptation (PDIA) course; a flagship initiative of their Local Leadership and Collective Action Program (LLCAP). The graduation ceremony not only honoured the dedication of 35 individuals who successfully completed the 12-week program, but also underscored TVI's unwavering commitment to fostering strong, effective local leadership. This course is offered by the Harvard Kennedy School of Government located in the United States of America and funded by the Australian government through LLCAP. The event which took place this morning at Stanley Hotel in Port Moresby, saw the graduation of participants from different sectors including, government, private, Non-Government Organizations and Community Based Organizations. Delivered through the Harvard Kennedy School's Building State Capability Program, the PDIA course equips leaders with vital skills to tackle complex national issues through locally led solutions. Speaking during this momentous occasion was Deputy Chair of the TVI board, Ms. Valentina Kaman who extended heartfelt congratulations to the graduating cohort, emphasizing the significant investment of time made by the graduates. “When you spend time, money can be retired, but time is an investment. And spending that time as well as the skills that you've acquired, the tools through the program and the learning, you now are better equipped to affect change, to see how you can resolve problems.” In addition, an important aspect also highlighted was the participation of senior government leaders in the program including the Secretary for the Department of Community Development and Religion, the Director-General of the National Youth Development Authority, and the Director of the National Gender-Based Violence Secretariat, who also engaged fully in the PDIA course. This course is already making a difference as leaders are now initiating, reviewing, endorsing, and influencing policy changes and legislative reforms. Moreover, Ms. Kaman underscored the ultimate outcome of PDIA as enabling civic leaders and government to work collaboratively to influence policy. “This collaboration has led to stronger partnerships and increased trust, particularly with key government bodies such as the Department of Community Development and the Youth Development Authority.” The LLCAP has been described as a growing network of developmental leaders spanning government, civil society, and the private sector. Meanwhile, with over 110 leaders now graduated from all the three cohorts, this movement is deeply embedded in communities, public services, and organizations on the ground, driving transformational change. “Leadership, this country rises and falls on the shoulders of leadership, and we need to equip our leaders.” She also stressed that the LLCAP ecosystem is envisioned as a diverse network across all 22 provinces, encompassing youth, women, reform champions, and community-based organizations, all working to advance a shared national vision. “Through LLCAP, we are not only building connections, we are also strengthening impact.” This course is actively creating pathways of leadership and change, empowering individuals with the tools, leadership training, coalition-building platforms, and supporting networks needed to be true agents of change. Furthermore, Ms. Kaman expressed her gratitude to Australia, emphasizing that their investment is supporting a movement which is locally led, nationally owned, and globally significant, with a promise towards a vibrant and empowered future for the nation. This event also warmly welcomed the incoming fourth cohort, who will now start their journey in this course program.

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Government of Japan have been collaborating in the Pacific Programme for the Elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis (PacELF) for decades, achieving significant milestones. The Provision of Special Medical Equipment for Infection Control (Lymphatic Filariasis) Project, 2000- 2016, provided fourteen Pacific countries with Diethylcarbamazine Citrate (DEC), one of the drugs used in mass medication for Lymphatic Filariasis control, and test kits. In 2018- 2023, the Project for Elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis in the Pacific Region (Phase One) implemented Mass Drug Administration (MDA) and Transmission Assessment Survey (TAS) in each country and strengthened their capacities for six Pacific countries. In April 2023, The Lymphatic Filariasis Elimination Project Phase Two commenced as a continuation of Phase One. The project is working to strengthen the implementation capacity of MDAs and TAS/IDA impact studies (IIS) in seven targeted provinces in Papua New Guinea (PNG). The representatives from the target provinces and stakeholders have been invited to attend the project’s second Joint Coordinating Committee (JCC) meeting, which is scheduled to take place on Thursday the 28th of August 2025 at the National Department of Health in Waigani, Port Moresby. The meeting will provide an overview and discuss progress, the status of Lymphatic Filariasis measures in each province, and future plans.

Rabaul town's Queen Elizabeth Park in the East New Britain (ENB) province was the site of a special event on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, to mark the 18th National Covenant Day. Jointly funded by the Rabaul District Council of Churches and the ENB Provincial Council of Churches, the celebration centered on the theme “Ignite the faith of our forefathers- By upholding the sovereignty of our Nation.” ​The day began early with a trumpet blast at the Rabaul Page Market, followed by a "Jesus March" along Malaguna Road to the park. The main event brought together a diverse group of people, including church leaders, community members, and stakeholders, all reflecting on Papua New Guinea's founding principles and reaffirming their dedication to the nation's sovereignty. ​The gathering was a reminder of the covenant that the country's founding father, Sir Michael Somare, made with God. Participants engaged in prayer, worship, and reflection to rekindle the faith that has guided the nation from the start. ​Pastors Sailas Waisale of Rabaul Zion Church, a representative of the ENB Council of Churches, spoke about the significance of the day, noting that when God’s law is written on a person’s heart, they become a “living constitution.” Meanwhile, ENB Council of Churches representative, Pastor Tony Kyvung also reminded people to uphold the covenant and follow the divine principles that guide them. ​The event served as a powerful reminder of the key role faith and spirituality play in shaping the nation's identity and development. It concluded with a renewed call for churches, communities, and individuals to continue praying for and supporting Papua New Guinea's leaders and people.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) has marked a new chapter in national Basic Emergency Care (BEC) training, with the successful delivery of the region’s first BEC provider and training-of-trainers courses taught entirely by nurses, for nurses. The courses were hosted in Port Moresby from August 18th to the 22nd, led by local facilitators from Port Moresby General Hospital, National St John Ambulance PNG, and Angau Memorial Provincial Hospital. The BEC course was developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) in collaboration with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the International Federation for Emergency Medicine (IFEM). It is designed for first contact providers of emergency care in resource-constrained settings and provides a safe and structured approach to managing acutely ill and injured patients. For the first time, an all-nursing team of BEC trainers led the delivery of the courses, showcasing the capability and leadership of PNG’s nursing workforce and equipping nursing leaders from fourteen provinces with essential, life-saving skills in emergency assessment and management. The eighteen participants who took part included representatives from nursing schools across PNG as well as the National Department of Health (NDOH), ensuring broad national representation and alignment with health system priorities. As nursing leaders, participants are now positioned to cascade these skills to colleagues in their provinces and institutions, multiplying the impact nationwide. This training contributes further numbers to the existing 135 healthcare workers that have completed BEC training in PNG to-date. These courses are being delivered as a partnership between the Regional Emergency and Critical Care Systems Strengthening Initiative (RECSI), the World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Nursing, Midwifery and Health Development at the University of Technology Sydney (WHO CCNM UTS), and the NDOH. RECSI and WHO CCNM UTS are both supported by the Australian Government through the Partnerships for a Healthy Region initiative. Course delivery has been facilitated by RECSI’s implementing partner National St John Ambulance PNG. Quotes by RECSI were attributed to Sr Wilma Sebby, Nurse Unit Manager, Emergency Department, ANGAU Memorial Provincial Hospital, Morobe Provincial Health Authority, and PNG’s first nursing BEC Master Trainer. “For nurses to teach nurses, it is a good thing. We speak the same language, and we know that nurses are the frontliners for any healthcare system. When a nurse is teaching, they will better understand us. We are kind of using the same language.” Another quote was also attributed to Sr Marcia Willie, Nurse, Emergency Department, Port Moresby General Hospital, National Capital District Provincial Health Authority and BEC Course Coordinator. “Basic Emergency Care training is very important for PNG nurses because it improves our everyday practice as care givers whether in the pre-hospital setting or in the health facility to follow a systematic approach when dealing with life threatening conditions.” It also helps us to do proper handover and transfers between facilities or from pre-hospital care to the health facility so that the patient care is effectively carried out or continued.” “As a Master Trainer, having this opportunity to teach BEC to my fellow nursing colleagues from around the country enables us to speak the same language and gives us the confidence to continue to reach out to as many nurses as we can and to train them so that they can become BEC providers.”

On Thursday, 21st August, the Miss Bird of Paradise (MBOP) Pageant signed a partnership agreement officially recognizing Central Province as the newest member of the MBOP platform through the Miss Central Province Pageant. Miss Bird of Paradise Central operates as a program under the Central Province Council of Women and is chaired by Christopher Tamuno with members including Tracey Kila as the Treasurer, Konio Doko who is the Secretary, and Andrew Kuliniasi as the Training and Grooming Coordinator. Representing MBOP PNG at the signing were MBOP Chairlady Anna Bais, Secretary Annette Airi, and Operations Committee Member Patronella Gawi. MBOP PNG Chair Anna Bais commended Team Central for swiftly assembling a strong committee to support their provincial participation. Furthermore, the Miss Bird of Paradise Central Province will put an official callout in the coming weeks where applicants would then be screened through a nomination process before a representative is selected. The MBOP PNG Committee congratulates Team Central and looks forward to receiving their nominee at the National Pageant at the end of this year.

The inaugural Wansol Prime Ministers Charity Golf Challenge 2025, held last Friday, August 22, brought together leaders from Papua New Guinea (PNG) and the Solomon Islands to celebrate sportsmanship, regional unity, and charitable giving. This biennial event aims to strengthen commercial and bilateral ties while raising funds for important causes, including the Honiara Golf Club and the PNG Golfing Association Local Juniors Program. ​The event attracted a mix of political leaders, former dignitaries, and private sector representatives. Prime Minister James Marape of PNG highlighted the deep-rooted historical and cultural ties between the two nations, noting their shared heritage. He explained that "Wansol" signifies that both nations are from the "same space" and have co-existed since their ancestors first roamed the region. ​Prime Minister Marape also expressed his gratitude to Solomon Island Prime Minister, Jeremiah Manele for participating, calling it a demonstration that the bond between the two countries is deeper than what we have today. He also used the opportunity to announce that PNG businesses are the largest conglomerate of businesses in the Solomon Islands, surpassing all other nations. “I encourage PNG investors to continue this trend and to form partnerships with local Solomon Island businesses to ensure mutual growth.” ​Meanwhile, Prime Minister Manele echoed these sentiments, stating that the event was a follow-up to a productive bilateral meeting, reinforcing their commitment to enhanced collaboration. ​“Sports creates friendship, unity, and collaboration, and that's the importance of this inaugural competition.” He emphasized that ‘sports create friendship, unity, and collaboration,’ and thanked his hosts for their warm hospitality. He also announced a generous pledge of K30,000 from his government to support the next challenge, which will be held in Honiara. ​Significant support from both the public and private sectors made the event a success. A special thanks was extended to key sponsors, including South Pacific Brewery, Kumul Minerals Holdings, and New Britain Palm Oil. ​The spirit of "Wansol" remains a powerful symbol of the lasting friendship and collaboration between the two nations as the Solomon Islands prepares to host the next challenge. Furthermore, a total of thirty teams from different private organizations and sectors, also took part in the event with a total of K5, 000 per team who registe

The Papua New Guinea Red Cross Society (PNGRCS), through its volunteers in Morobe Province, has partnered with the Morobe Provincial Health Authority (MPHA) to support the ongoing Polio Immunization Campaign in Lae city. The campaign was officially launched last Wednesday, followed by the vaccination rollout on Thursday. Health workers, with the support of Red Cross volunteers and other partner organizations, have since been administering polio vaccines to children across Lae. The program will continue throughout this week to ensure as many children as possible are protected. Sr. Chirs, a health worker from the Butibam clinic, thanked PNG Red Cross for mobilizing volunteers to support the effort. “The Red Cross volunteers made our job much easier. They were very helpful in explaining to the public why polio vaccination is important and convinced many parents to bring their children.” PNGRCS Morobe Branch volunteers have been playing a vital role in mobilizing communities, conducting awareness, and assisting health teams on the ground. Their support has been essential in reaching more families and addressing concerns from parents and caregivers. The National Society also partnered with the National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA) in Port Moresby, where volunteers supported health workers to mobilize communities and ensure children were immunized against polio. PNG Red Cross Secretary General, Gellie Akui, emphasized the importance of this collaboration as part of the Society’s mandate. “As an auxiliary to the government, PNG Red Cross Society is mandated to provide support to government departments during emergencies.” “This is a step in the right direction to work closely with provincial health authorities.” “We thank the National Department of Health (NDoH) and the Morobe PHA for this partnership, and we would like to see it continue.” “I would also appeal to other Provincial Health Authorities across the country to reach out and use the support of our volunteers in the branches.” “They are well trained and willing to provide support to make sure all children are safe and receive the polio vaccination.” PNG is currently experiencing a polio outbreak linked to low routine immunization coverage among children. In response, this campaign is targeting all children under the age of ten. PNG Red Cross is calling on all parents, guardians, and caregivers to take their children under ten years old to the nearest health facility or mobile outreach site this week to receive the free polio drops. Together, with the support of health authorities, partners, and communities, we can protect our children and keep polio out of PNG.

Prime Minister James Marape has hailed Papua New Guinean amateur golfer Morgan Annato’s historic performance at the PNG Open, describing it as the best-ever result by a Papua New Guinean amateur in a professional golf tournament. Annato, playing in only his seventh national Open, completed the three-day competition at one-under par, the first time in Papua New Guinea’s 50th year golfing history that an amateur has finished a professional event under par. His final standing placed him among the top fifteen to twenty players in a field of 120 international professionals, underlining the significance of his achievement. “This is a milestone moment for sports in Papua New Guinea. Morgan has set a new benchmark for our country and shown that Papua New Guineans can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with international professionals.” “His achievement is not just a personal triumph but an inspiration for every young golfer across our nation.” Meanwhile, the Prime Minister also congratulated rugby league team, SP PNG Hunters, who ended their season on a high note with a strong victory in their final match. The team secured fifth place in the Hostplus Cup regular season and fourth overall after the playoffs, proving once again their ability to compete with distinction on the regional stage. “On behalf of our government and people, I commend the Hunters for their spirit and determination.” “They are role models for our youth and continue to be an integral part of Papua New Guinea’s sporting identity.” In addition, Prime Minister Marape stressed that these achievements highlight not only sporting excellence but also the wider economic impact of sports tourism. He noted that the PNG Open attracted over 130 international golfers and caddies, all of whom funded their own travel and accommodation, injecting much-needed revenue into local hotels, airlines, and businesses. “Sport is an economic driver. From golf to rugby league, these events generate real benefits for our economy.” “They bring in visitors, create business for our service industries, and promote Papua New Guinea on the global stage.” Looking ahead, he reaffirmed PNG’s ambition to secure a national NRL franchise by 2028, saying the opportunities for tourism and business would multiply once regular international matches are staged on home soil. “Our vision is not only to have a team in the NRL but to turn every home game into a showcase of Papua New Guinea.” “Supporters will come not just to watch a match but to experience our country, travel to our provinces, and contribute to tourism growth. Sporting investments are nation-building investments.” Furthermore, Prime Minister Marape concluded by congratulating all athletes who carried the nation’s pride this weekend and said his government would continue to support the growth of sports as both a unifying force and an economic opportunity.

When Miss American Samoa 2024–2025, Pauliana Angelfromheaven Felise Vitale, steps onto the stage in Port Moresby, she'll be walking more than a runway, she will be walking a bridge. Vitale is set to participate in the prestigious Pacific Fashion Summit and Genesis Showcase hosted by PNG Fashion Week. Two landmark events celebrating the rich cultural heritage and creativity of the Pacific Islands. For Vitale, a vibrant leader and accomplished scholar, this opportunity is a chance to elevate the Pacific voice on a global stage. “Pacific fashion is storytelling. It is how we wear our history, our pride, and our vision for the future.” “The Pacific Fashion Summit and Genesis are proof that our traditions can inspire the world, and that the Pacific voice belongs at the global table.” Born and raised in American Samoa, Vitale's life is a testament to the values of family and community. “I was raised by two sets of parents who have passed on. My family is my foundation. Everything I do, I carry them with me.” This deep-rooted connection to her heritage has fueled her academic and leadership pursuits. Vitale holds a Bachelor of Arts in Historical and Political Studies with a minor in English from Chaminade University of Honolulu. During her time there, she was a fierce advocate for her culture, serving as President of the Lumana'i O Samoa Cultural Club, Vice President of the English Honor Society, and Head of Internal Affairs for the Student Government. Her commitment to service extends beyond the university campus. As a volunteer program facilitator for a literacy initiative in Hawaii, she shared the stories and folklore of Samoa and the Pacific with inner-city children. “Our stories are more than history; they are our heartbeat.” Vitale's compassion for her community is also at the heart of her official platform as Miss American Samoa. She founded Faasoa Mai, an initiative dedicated to creating safe spaces for young people to discuss mental wellness. “Our young people need to know it’s okay to talk, to feel, and to ask for help. Conversations are the first step toward resilience.” Her poise and authenticity have already garnered regional acclaim. At the 2025 Miss Pacific Islands Pageant, she was named second runner-up and received the Best Talent and Personality in Tourism awards. She cherishes the experience not just for the accolades, but for the chance to connect with fellow titleholders and celebrate the diversity of the Pacific. Meanwhile, the Pacific Fashion Summit and Genesis Showcase, made possible by official air carrier Air Niugini, will bring together cultural creatives from across the region. The events are designed to be a living declaration of Pacific identity, creativity, and unity. For Vitale, being a part of this event is more than a professional milestone; it is a powerful statement about the future. As she represents American Samoa on this international stage, she is connecting the rich heritage of the past with the limitless possibilities of the future. She embodies the vibrant spirit of the Pacific, proving that its traditions can indeed inspire the world.

More than 600 cocoa seedlings have been delivered to three schools in Madang Province as part of the PNG Agriculture Commercialization and Diversification Program (PACD), a National Government initiative supported by the World Bank. Karkar Secondary School, Anul Lutheran High School, and Kabilmas Primary School in Sumkar District are now joining over 500 individual cocoa farmers under the Biabi Enterprise Limited PACD Cocoa Productive Partnership. Biabi Enterprise, based on Karkar Island, acts as a lead partner and intermediary, supporting farmers to implement a K1 million cocoa rehabilitation project. PACD Project Management Unit Productive Partnership Officer for the Momase region, Francis Ulangian, commended the schools for showing initiative in integrating cocoa farming into school activities. “The resilience and determination of these schools is inspiring. They are teaching students that agriculture can be a viable and rewarding path, even while in school,” Alongside the seedlings, schools also received cocoa toolkits, including spades, bush knives, knapsack sprayers, and pole pruners, to equip them for hands-on learning and productivity. Other PACD partnerships in Madang include Kulili Estate on Karkar Island and NGO Promotional Incorporation, each supporting 500 farmers. All received cocoa seedlings and essential farming tools. “This is a milestone occasion. The tools and seedlings are not just resources. They are a boost of hope and confidence that will help farmers increase productivity and strengthen market stability.” Meanwhile, Peter Sumaiang, of Biabi Assistance Project, acknowledged that while some had doubts at the start, those who believed in the project are now seeing results. “In the next three to four years, cocoa production in Karkar Island and Madang will increase significantly as more people join the industry.” The partnerships will also benefit from cocoa combination solar dryers, resource centers, and chemical storage sheds. Construction of fermentaries is already underway, with Madang Technical College’s Welding and Drafting Department engaged for the work.

Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) has launched its 50th Independence Anniversary celebration to mark the country’s Golden Jubilee. The Hamamas Week will feature a week-long cultural celebration from September 10th -16th 2025 in Tabubil. The celebration is hosted annually by Ok Tedi to celebrate the country’s independence and recognize its contribution to Papua New Guinea. This year’s Hamamas Week, which marks the country’s 50th Anniversary celebrations, is a reflection of the pride and joy Ok Tedi as a nationally owned company feels towards PNG’s journey. It’s a week-long celebration of progress, culture, and unity, bringing together the workforce, business partners, and the community to recognize the achievements of the past and look forward to the promise of the future. Ok Tedi Acting Managing Director and General Manager Strategy Business Development and Optimization, Alan Bong, officially launched the Hamamas Week, acknowledging contributions from the Executive Leadership Team, the Events Committee, business partners, the workforce and the community. “What you saw is just a glimpse of what will take place from the 10th to the 16th of September.” “Through our forefathers we achieved our independence 50 years ago, it is the start of self-governance and nation building.” “We as Papua New Guineans must be happy to see how far our nation has come. We are not the same, fifty years ago. There has been progress.” “I encourage you to participate as a proud Papua New Guinean. With Ok Tedi’s pathway, under the leadership of our Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Kedi Ilimbit, the Executive Leadership Team will fully support this week-long celebration of our country’s independence anniversary.” Meanwhile, Ok Tedi Events Committee Chairman, Akolo Kotange, also thanked the workforce and the community for making time available to celebrate the launching. “This Hamamas Week celebration is to showcase and celebrate the progress made as a developing nation for the past fifty years.” Kotange appealed to the workforce and the community to celebrate with mindfulness and make this week-long celebration a safe and successful one. The launching began with a float parade from the business partners, school marching and dances from the Momase Region, Southern Region and the Faiwol Min group. Guest performance from Papua New Guinean music legends Basil Greg MBE and Robert Oeka were the highlights of the official launching of the Hamamas Week. “Ok Tedi is not just a company; it is a cornerstone of Papua New Guinea’s development, a proud partner in building a brighter future for generations to come.” “As we celebrate fifty years, we look forward to continuing to contribute to PNG’s growth, prosperity, and legacy for the next 50 years and beyond," said Kotange.