The participants at Day Two of the 2026 PNG Resource Week in Port Moresby city, were given clarification on the difference of land disputes and mineral owners and how this matter is dealt with in the Mining Act.Mr. Philip Samar, the Senior Advisor to K92 Mining Inc., who has a vast experience in the country’ mining sector, explained the matter to the guests during the morning session on the Lessons from Landowner Identification & Benefit Sharing.Speaking at the panel, he began by plainly stating that the State owns all minerals as per the Mining Act.“First and foremost, under the mining act section (5), minerals are the property of the state,” he said.“So, all minerals existing on, in or below the surface of any land in Papua New Guinea including any minerals contained in any water laying in any land in Papua New Guinea, are the property of the State. State owns the minerals; on, in and below.”So, when it comes to Social Mapping and Landowner Identification exercises in the mining sector, any disputes between landholders do not come under the mining act. Mr. Samar said any issues with land disputes will be taken outside the mining act as it does not concern it.“Section (4) says where a dispute arises as to the interest of customary land or the position of boundaries, such disputes shall not affect the process in the mining act.”This can be settled under the Land Disputed Settlement Act, but not under the mining legislation.So as far as the social mapping goes, this is as far as it can get when there is a dispute. It will be registered but the matter is dealt outside the mining act, allowing the process to continue in the mineral exploration of the land.This matter continues to be experienced in many parts of the country and the explanation hopes to drive a better understanding of this issue and what’s involved in addressing it.

The National Airports Corporation (NAC) has farewelled Civil Aviation Development Investment Program (CADIP) Project Director Mr. Welington Timothy Warren following eight years of dedicated service leading one of Papua New Guinea’s major aviation infrastructure programs.At a farewell luncheon held in June 2026, Acting Managing Director and CEO of NAC, Mr. Dominic Kaumu, on behalf of the NAC Board and Management, acknowledged Mr. Warren’s contribution in delivering major airport development projects under CADIP.Mr. Kaumu commended Mr. Warren’s leadership in the successful implementation of CADIP I projects, including developments at Momote, Vanimo, Kavieng, Tari and Mendi airports.He also recognised Mr. Warren’s involvement in CADIP II loan negotiations and implementation, which has supported ongoing airport and rural airstrip development projects across the country.“Mr. Warren’s departure leaves a gap for NAC, and we will require a leader of similar calibre to continue the momentum of CADIP II and the upcoming CADIP III,” Mr. Kaumu said.He encouraged the CADIP Project Implementation Unit staff to remain committed and resilient while assuring them of NAC’s continued support.Following Mr. Warren’s departure, NAC has appointed Ms. Fiona Serum as Acting Project Director for CADIP.Ms. Serum, an Institution of Engineers Papua New Guinea (IEPNG) registered Civil Engineer, brings more than a decade of experience with NAC, having previously served as Project Engineer, Project Manager and Deputy Project Director.She has also acted in the Project Director role on several occasions and has extensive experience in airport infrastructure design, procurement and contract management.Mr. Kaumu called on NAC staff and stakeholders to support Ms. Serum as she leads the Project Implementation Unit and ensures continuity of CADIP operations.CADIP, jointly funded by the Asian Development Bank and the Government of Papua New Guinea, was established in 2009 and continues to support the transformation of Papua New Guinea’s aviation transport sector through major airport and rural airstrip improvements.

Tahiti produced a strong second-half comeback to overcome Vanuatu 4-2 in their opening Group B match of the OFC U-16 Men’s Championship 2026.The Tahitians were forced to recover from a first-half setback but responded with four goals after the break to secure a fifth consecutive tournament victory over Vanuatu, dating back to 2005.Vanuatu looked set to head into halftime with the advantage after taking the lead in the closing stages of the first half. Under pressure from Rohan Masauvakalo, Tahiti captain Manatea Ahupu attempted to clear the danger, but the ball took an unfortunate deflection and ended up in his own net.The goal gave Vanuatu confidence, but their hopes of holding onto the lead faded quickly after halftime as Tahiti capitalised on defensive mistakes.Vanuatu goalkeeper Ezekiel Tasso gifted Tahiti an equaliser when his goal kick went straight to striker Esdras Jamet inside the penalty area. Jamet made no mistake, calmly finishing to bring the match level.Just four minutes later, Tahiti completed the turnaround. Santiago Covic took advantage of another mistake while Vanuatu attempted to play out from the back, producing a composed finish into the bottom corner to put his side ahead.Tahiti continued to punish Vanuatu on the counterattack, with Jamet scoring his second goal of the match in the 61st minute after racing clear following a quick transition.Vanuatu refused to give up and reduced the deficit in the 77th minute when Franso Shem headed home from Mathew Naviti’s accurate cross, giving the qualifying winners hope of a late comeback.However, Tahiti sealed the victory late in the match when Covic scored his second goal of the day, once again capitalising on a Vanuatu error during build-up play.The result gives Tahiti an important opening win in Group B, while Vanuatu will look to respond when they face the Solomon Islands in their next match.Tahiti’s next challenge will be a meeting with defending champions New Zealand as they continue their campaign in the OFC U-16 Men’s Championship 2026.

Papua New Guinea made the perfect start to their campaign with a commanding 4-0 victory over Samoa in their opening match, after taking full advantage of their numerical advantage following a first-half red card.The hosts country controlled much of the evening fixture and were already in a strong position before Samoa were reduced to 10 players late in the first half.PNG opened the scoring in the 14th minute through full-back Jaru Eron, who produced an impressive individual effort. Eron burst forward down the left side, beat two defenders and rounded Samoa goalkeeper Moemanatu Lesatele before calmly finishing into an empty net.Just two minutes later, PNG doubled their advantage through Toka Goro. Good work from Iga Steven on the left created the opportunity, with Goro reacting quickest after Samoa failed to clear their lines and scrambling the ball into the net.PNG captain Matthew Sopo came close to adding a third before halftime, striking the crossbar as the hosts continued to apply pressure.Samoa’s hopes of a comeback were dealt another blow in first-half stoppage time when defender Bevan Jr Kapisi was shown a straight red card. Boas Tommy was through on goal and was brought down on the edge of the penalty area, leaving the referee with no option but to dismiss the Samoa defender.With a one-player advantage, Papua New Guinea continued their dominance after the break. Samoa worked hard defensively, with goalkeeper Lesatele making several important saves to keep the scoreline within reach.However, PNG eventually extended their lead in the 63rd minute when Nigel Gunemba delivered a perfectly timed pass into the path of Boas Tommy. The forward showed composure, cutting inside onto his right foot before firing past Lesatele.Samoa continued to fight despite being a player down, but PNG’s attacking pressure proved too much in the closing stages.The fourth goal arrived in the 80th minute when Iga Steven followed up after Klivet Ronald failed to make clean contact with John Millis’ cross. Steven reacted quickly to finish from close range and seal a convincing victory for the hosts.The result gives Papua New Guinea a perfect start to their tournament and provides a strong confidence boost ahead of their next match against New Caledonia on Wednesday.The home side will now look to build on their impressive opening performance as they continue their push for tournament success on home soil.

Prime Minister James Marape is expected to announce the new National Executive Council (NEC) composition and ministerial portfolio allocations today following formal processes at Government House.The Prime Minister said he was undertaking final consultations with ministers affected by the Cabinet reshuffle while also finalising appointments of new members to the National Executive Council.Prime Minister Marape said the reshuffle was a significant exercise requiring careful consideration, respect and courtesy towards colleagues who had served alongside him over the past four years.“To be fair to ministers who will be leaving Cabinet, including some with personal and medical considerations, they deserve the courtesy of hearing from me personally before any public announcement is made,” Prime Minister Marape said.“These are colleagues I have worked with closely over the past four years. As Prime Minister, I owe them that respect and courtesy. It is only proper that I communicate with each of them personally before the changes are announced publicly.”The Prime Minister said selecting replacement ministers was equally challenging.“It is not simply a matter of filling vacancies. We must identify capable leaders while maintaining an appropriate political, regional, and provincial balance in Cabinet. These are important considerations in assembling a team that can effectively deliver for the country.”Prime Minister Marape said that with only eight months remaining before the issue of writs for the 2027 National General Election, it was important to position the right leaders in key portfolios to complete the Government’s legislative and development agenda.

The Minister for Higher Education Research, Science and Technology, Kinoka Feo will be amongst the distinguish speakers to speak at the 2026 Resource Week that is set to commence tomorrow in Port Moresby city.Minister Feo will be addressing a key topic on the National Government’s mission to strengthen higher education and TVET institutions in the country, during the 2026 PNG Resources Week from 13-18 July.Mr. Feo’s presentation on “aligning education development with future workforce and industry needs,” comes at a critical time as the industry looks forward to welcoming new investments that are likely to create more job opportunities across the country.The Minister will outline how Papua New Guinea (PNG) is strengthening its higher education system and TVET by improving access, quality and ensuring education remains relevant to the needs of industry and for the country.He will also discuss the importance of collaboration between government, industry, education institutions and development partners in preparing the workforce PNG needs for the future.The PNG Chamber of Resources & Energy (PNG CORE) Executive Director, Mr. Richard Kassman, OBE has acknowledged Minister Feo’s presentation and highlighted how vital it is for the industry and the government to work hand-in-hand."Building a skilled workforce and increasing PNG participation in procure and supply chains is achievable through strategic collaboration between the State and industry,” stated Mr. Kassman.Amongst several major steps undertaken by the department to address skills development, Minister Feo and Australia's High Commissioner Ewen McDonald last month launched the Pacific AustraliaSkills Program (PASP) initiative at the Port Moresby Technical College aimed at strengthening PNG's national skills systems by creating better employment pathways and preparing the workforce for emerging industries.Minister Feo noted during that launch that collaboration is key to developing future prosperity.As PNG’s resource sector continues to expand more, training local workers will create a sustainable, skilled workforce and keep wealth inside PNG, empower citizens, and prevent project delays.

NCD Governor Powes Parkop has described the release of the National Capital District Commission Organisational Capacity Assessment Report as a “critical milestone” in strengthening governance and service delivery.Governor Parkop, joined by City Manager Ravu Frank and the executive team, received the report from Deputy Australian High Commissioner Adrian Lochrin at City Hall this week.Conducted by ABT Associates with support from the Australian Government, the assessment benchmarks NCDC’s performance against its Vision, Mission, Urban Development Plan, Corporate Plan, and service mandates. Governor Parkop expressed gratitude to the Australian Government for its partnership, noting that the report provides evidence-based recommendations to guide institutional strengthening and reform.“This report gives us the evidence we need to strengthen our systems, professionalize our workforce, and ensure Port Moresby sets the benchmark for governance across Papua New Guinea," said Governor ParkopDeputy Australian High Commissioner Adrian Lochrin reaffirmed Australia’s support highlighting that Australia is proud to support this important work."Strong institutions are the foundation of effective service delivery, and this assessment will help NCDC chart a path toward sustainable urban governance.”City Manager Ravu Frank further emphasized the practical value of the assessment indicating that the assessment identifies where they are strong, where they must improve, and how the commission can transform NCDC into a modern, efficient, and accountable city administration.Reflecting decades of systemic challenges in public service delivery, often undermined by politicization and weak merit-based systems, Governor Parkop highlighted the Commission’s recent reforms. Over the past three years, NCDC declared all positions redundant and required reapplication based on merit, laying out the foundation for a professional, self-sustaining institution.He added: “We must build a merit-based bureaucracy that endures beyond political cycles. Institutional continuity is the key to reliable service delivery and long-term urban resilience.”With Port Moresby’s population projected to double or triple in the next 20 years, Governor Parkop stressed the need for resilient systems in water, power, roads, health, and education. He noted that the timing of the assessment coincides with the development of NCDC’s 2040 Vision and Corporate Plan, ensuring the capital city is prepared to meet the challenges of urbanization and infrastructure demand.

The 2026 PNG Resource Week commences tomorrow in the city of Port Moresby, and the PNG Chamber of Resources & Energy (PNG CORE) is gearing up to deliver it.The PNG Resource Week is the country’s largest resource sector gathering at APEC Haus under the theme, “PNG Resources Beyond 50.”The Chamber has confirmed 81 exhibitors, around 70 speakers and 16 schools to engage and participate meaningful during this eventful week.The 2026 Resources Week expects an exciting development starting with forming strong trade ties to accessing global markets with foreign investors to empowering landowners andlocal businesses.The presence of international delegation arriving in numbers to attend the event indicates an important opportunity for the country to boost its global economic profile.PNG CORE Executive Director, Richard Kassman, OBE has highlighted the importance of bringing together different voices where discussions on “National Content,” is a keyhighlight.“This event will ensure resource operations create sustainable, long-term economic resilience and inclusive growth for Papua New Guineans.”“PNG Resources Week is an important event because it drives nation building and ensures resource projects benefit communities, boost the economy, and create local jobs,” stated Mr. Kassman.The event will take place at APEC Haus from July 13-18 with key discussions to center around national growth beyond PNG's first 50 years, landownership rights, and supporting the future workforce.

TISA is proud to congratulate TISA Insurance Group on securing four prestigious awards at the 2026 Insurance Asia Awards, building on its success from the previous year. This milestone brings the Group’s total to six major insurance awards over the past two years.The Insurance Asia Awards recognises organisations that demonstrate excellence, innovation and outstanding service to customers and communities.This year's recognition spans both Papua New Guinea and Fiji. TISA Insurance Papua New Guinea: Awarded Domestic General Insurance Company of the Year and Strategic Partnership Initiative of the Year.TISA Insurance Fiji: Awarded International General Insurance Company of the Year and Bancassurance Initiative of the Year.For TISA, this recognition affirms our strategic vision to integrate banking and insurance under one trusted Pacific brand, so that the families, businesses and communities we serve can save, borrow, invest and protect what matters most - all with a partner they know and trust.A key highlight of the awards evening was Group Chief Executive Officer of TISA and Chairman of TISA Insurance Group, Mr. Michael O. Koisen OBE, ML, accepting the awards on behalf of the Group. He was joined on stage by Dr Peter Mason, Chairman, TISA Group; Mr. Jeremy Norton, Group Chief Executive Officer, TISA Insurance Group, and Mr. David Ariff Chan, Chief Executive Officer - TISA Insurance Fiji & Tonga.“These achievements belong to our people across Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Solomon Islands, Tonga and Vanuatu. This recognition reinforces our commitment to serving our communities, customers, members, partners and regulators whose trust we work to earn every day,” Mr. Koisen said.“On behalf of the Board, Management and Staff of TISA and the Board of TISA Insurance, I would like to congratulate the entire TISA Insurance Management and staff on this great achievement.”From its origins serving hardworking Papua New Guineans to its current standing as a diversified financial services group operating across five Pacific nations, TISA’s core purpose remains unchanged: to help Pacific people build long-term financial security for themselves, their families, and their futures.

An elderly woman has been rescued by members of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) and the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) following a torture video linked to sorcery accusations that circulated widely on social media.The incident occurred at Kulapi Basketball Court in Porgera, Enga Province, where two elderly women were allegedly seized and assaulted after being accused of practicing sorcery.Enga Provincial Police Commander, Chief Superintendent Steven Harris, confirmed that the incident was brought to the attention of authorities after the video was shared widely online, prompting an immediate response from security forces.PPC Harris said one of the women managed to escape before police and defence personnel arrived, while the second victim was rescued and taken to safety.He said the suspects fled when security forces reached the scene, and no arrests have been made so far. Police investigations are continuing, with Porgera Police Station leading the inquiry.PPC Harris condemned the attack, describing it as a brutal act against vulnerable members of the community.“This was a brutal, cowardly attack on two elderly women, and RPNGC has zero tolerance for it. Our units and the PNGDF responded quickly and decisively and rescued one victim and is safe. I want the people of Enga to know that when a report like this comes in, my forces move, that is what happened at Kulapi.”He said those responsible for the attack must surrender themselves to police.“The men responsible ran the moment they saw security forces. They were brave enough to torture defenceless elderly women, but the moment RPNGC and PNGDF arrived, they ran like cowards.”PPC Harris said police were not deployed to negotiate or mediate but to enforce the law and protect victims.“They knew exactly what my forces were there to do, we were not coming to mediate, we were not coming to negotiate, and we were not carrying kola for a belkol. My forces were giving effect to my intent, and these men knew it.”He urged the suspects to surrender, warning that police have identified those involved.“Your images are clear and your identities are known. Hand yourselves in now, at any police station, and do it like a man, not by hiding and running because we will still find you.”The Enga police commander reiterated that violence linked to sorcery accusations and gender-based violence would not be tolerated.“Let this be clear across Enga: RPNGC will not tolerate sorcery-accusation-related violence or gender-based violence, in any form, from anyone. Every person in this Province, rich or poor, young, old, man or woman, is entitled to and will receive the full protection of the law.”PPC Harris has appealed to anyone with information about the suspects or the whereabouts of the woman who escaped to contact the nearest police station or Porgera Police Station.He said police operations with the PNGDF will continue across Enga Province to protect vulnerable people and address sorcery accusation related violence and gender-based violence.

The close defence partnership between Papua New Guinea and Australia has been reinforced following the successful completion of the Australia-based phase of Exercise Wantok Warrior 2026.Soldiers from the Papua New Guinea Defence Force’s (PNGDF) Royal Pacific Islands Regiment (RPIR) joined personnel from the Australian Army’s 3rd Brigade for the exercise in Townsville, Queensland, where they trained alongside Exercise Southern Jackaroo to strengthen combat skills, teamwork and interoperability.The joint training focused on small-team tactics, battlefield decision-making and operating in challenging environments. Soldiers conducted exercises involving tactical movement, threat identification, responses under pressure, and trench and bunker clearance drills.The exercise provided an important opportunity for PNG and Australian personnel to strengthen professional relationships, share knowledge and gain a deeper understanding of each other’s operational methods, enhancing their ability to work together during future exercises and regional operations.PNGDF Lieutenant Emolle Ryan from 2nd Battalion, Royal Pacific Islands Regiment, said the training was both challenging and rewarding.“For many of us, this is our first time working in ASLAVs [Australian Light Armoured Vehicles], and it’s been an incredible learning experience,” Lieutenant Ryan said.He said the strong partnership between the two forces was evident throughout the exercise.“We’re just happy to be here. It’s a privilege and we’re pretty humbled to be with the 2CAV guys. They’ve been superb and we’re really enjoying our time here,” he said.A significant milestone during Exercise Wantok Warrior was the PNGDF’s first participation in a multinational mortar live-fire activity, marking a major step forward in capability development and interoperability training.PNGDF Colonel Boniface Aruma, Deputy Commander of the Australian Army’s 3rd Brigade, said witnessing the achievement was a memorable moment.“The live fire was significant because it is the first time in the history of the PNGDF that its mortars were able to participate in a multinational live-fire exercise on foreign soil,” Colonel Aruma said.“I have been in the PNGDF now for over 30 years and I have never seen PNGDF mortars in action. In fact, I thought I would never see the mortars on the mortar line. So, it was quite emotional for me to see this capability brought back to life.”Colonel Aruma said the exercise provided an important platform for the PNGDF to develop greater understanding of how to integrate and operate with partner nations.“This exercise is a very crucial platform to opening the scope and enabling the PNGDF to understand how to integrate and operate with other likeminded partner nations,” he said.Exercise Wantok Warrior highlights the enduring defence relationship between Papua New Guinea and Australia, which has entered a new phase under the Pukpuk Treaty.The treaty elevates the bilateral defence relationship to an alliance and provides a framework for deeper cooperation in areas including training, capability development, security and regional stability.The next phase of Exercise Wantok Warrior will be conducted in Papua New Guinea in October.

The initial consultation work that is currently underway to review the National Statistical System, is aimed towards improving the systems and processes within the National Statistics Office (NSO).A team from the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) is currently in the country for a two-week mission to review the system.National Statistician Mr. Alfred Mokae welcomed the visit, describing it as the first step towards reforming and modernizing the National Statistical Office (NSO) and improving its processes.  "This initial consultation with NSO staff and other key government agencies will ensure that data collected complies with international standards. It will also support theGovernment in developing evidence-based policies and ensure statistical output meets the demands of government, businesses, and the public," Mr. Mokae said.He also emphasized that lessons learned from the 1990 and 2024 census highlight the critical need for timely disbursement of appropriated funds for the roll-out of statisticalactivities and strengthen data-driven decision-making process.“The review is critical to improving the quality and relevance, of official statistics, strengthening coordination between the NSO, line ministries, and other agencies, reducingduplication and data gaps, building public trust to support strategic planning.”During the first week, the review team met with various divisions within the NSO to understand current challenges. The next week, the team will meet with the Department of National Planning to discuss its role as the coordinating body for the National Statistical System and progress on the National Statistical Indicator Framework.The team will also meet with other producers of official statistics, data users, and development partners before concluding the mission and departing for Bankok, Thailand.