The first digital press for industrial size printing is now in country introduced by BizPrint in Port Moresby on Friday; the new tech is a marvel when it comes to finding ease in a major printing job.BizPrint, a member of the Remington Group, announced a major investment in the Konica Minolta AccurioPress C12010S — the first digital press of its kind to be installed in the Pacific region.The decision to bring the AccurioPress C12010S to Papua New Guinea (PNG) reflects BizPrint's position within the Remington Group's technology ecosystem. As part of the Remington Technology brand, and through its partnership with industry leader Konica Minolta, BizPrint gains early access to next generation print technology to replace traditional offset printing.Remington Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Justin Kieseker said the decision to bring the press in was to revolutionize printing."We jointly identified an opportunity to give BizPrint a point of difference and to offer the PNG Market the value that comes with a 5-colour digital press with built in finishing, giving exceptional quality, consistency and automation— not only in the PNG market, but across the Pacific region as a whole."Mr. Yohei Konaka, Managing Director of Konica Minolta Australia, highlighted the decisions and work that went into getting the AccurioPress to PNG. “We’re proud to support BizPrint and the Remington Group as they bring this first-of-its-kind production print capability to the Pacific region. This investment opens new opportunities for local businesses to access high-quality, creative and efficient print applications, backed by the training, technical expertise and service support needed for long-term success. It’s a strong example of partnership delivering practical innovation for customers across the Pacific.”When it comes to printing, the press handles extremely thick paper and cardstock (up to 450 GSM), shiny or smooth finishes, stickers, textured linen, and even specialized waterproof paper-plastic blends. These flexible, moisture-resistant materials make it ideal for tough product packaging and manufacturing labels.Two key features set this investment apart as a benchmark for the industry's future in PNG:White ink and spot colour capability: Along with standard CMYK, this machine unlocks spot-colour effects to highlight underlying and overlying artwork, creating shadow and shimmer finishes previously unavailable in the local market.Integrated Plockmatic Booklet Maker: The press is fitted with a Plockmatic Booklet Maker, enabling booklets with covers up to 250 GSM and pages up to 150 GSM to be collated, folded, bound, and trimmed to size automatically.Ahead of installation in country, the company sent two technicians to the Konica Minolta Training Centre in Sydney for a two-week intensive course covering the new equipment. This was followed by three weeks of in-country support from three Konica Minolta specialist trainers and technicians, who oversaw the installation of the digital press and the Plockmatic SD-450e booklet finisher."The investment in hardware is one thing — however, it is the investment in our people that we are most proud of," said Mr. Kieseker. "The key to its success lies in both our people and the creative work, and we have proudly invested in both to ensure BizPrint continues to be a market leader, both now and for years to come."

Claressa Shields made a powerful return to middleweight on Sunday, stopping Kaye Scott in the sixth round to reclaim the WBA and WBC titles in Atlanta.Fighting at middleweight for the first time since 2023, the five-division world champion dropped three classes to face 42-year-old Scott of Australia.Dominant from the start, Shields shifted through the gears to seal a fourth career stoppage win and take her professional record to 19-0 - with Wales' Lauren Price in her sights."It was a hard camp," said Shields, an Olympic champion in 2012 and 2016. "I always tell myself that everything is easy work, but it was a really hard camp."I cut 38 pounds. I started 14 weeks ago at 198 and then I got down to 160."It was the most disciplined I've been since the Olympics."In just her eighth professional bout, Scott was outclassed by the challenger's hand speed and accuracy before being weakened by a flurry of body shots in the fifth.In the following round, Shields put Scott on the ropes with a vicious left hook and, sensing opportunity, the American threw a barrage of shots as the fight resumed.As a dazed Scott failed to defend herself, her corner threw towels into the ring to end the bout."I was actually just trying to figure [Scott] out," said Shields, who holds all four heavyweight titles. "She was stronger than I thought."She was very strong, and I knew that with me cutting the weight that I cut, that I didn't want to exert too much early."Following her statement win, Shields suggested welterweight champion Lauren Price should be her next opponent in December or January.Failing this, the 31-year-old hopes for a meeting with compatriot Mikaela Mayer, or Canada's Tamm Thiebault, who holds the IBF, WBO and Ring middleweight belts."She's only had five fights as a professional, but she's got belts," Shields said of Thiebault."It's not my fault these girls don't have the experience that I have. She's got a belt that I know belongs to me – and that's the Ring belt."Source: BBC News

The National Superannuation Fund (Nasfund) has achieved a historic milestone, surpassing K10 billion in Net Asset Value (NAV) for the first time.As of June 30, 2026, the Fund's net assets stood at K10.25 billion, a significant increase from the K9.45 billion recorded at the end of 2025.Nasfund Chief Executive Officer, Rajeev Sharma, stated that this achievement reflects the Fund's prudent financial management, strong governance practices, and unwavering commitment to protecting and growing members' retirement savings."Reaching over K10 billion in the first six months of 2026 is a testament to our continued growth and financial resilience in a dynamic economic environment," Mr. Sharma said. "We are delighted to share this milestone with our stakeholders, especially our members, whose trust and confidence make this possible."Mr. Sharma noted that this exceptional growth was driven by several key factors, including strong returns from a diversified investment portfolio, consistent member and employer contributions, and disciplined cost management."Crossing the K10 billion mark reflects our robust governance frameworks, expanding membership base, and focus on operational efficiency. It is also a direct result of the commitment of our contributing employers and the hard work of our dedicated Nasfund team," he added.Nasfund’s 2026 half-year report highlights positive momentum across all areas of the business.Key performance indicators include:* Membership Growth: Over 26,000 new members were registered, bringing the total number of actively contributing members to 220,175.* Contributions: The Fund received K458 million in contributions, further strengthening members' savings.* Member Benefits: A total of K351 million was paid in member benefits, demonstrating the Fund's ongoing capacity to meet its members' financial needs.* Cash Revenue: The Fund recorded K316 million in cash revenue, representing a 2% increase compared to the same period last year.Mr. Sharma concluded by acknowledging the invaluable support of all partners. "I thank our employers, members, stakeholders, and the hardworking employees of Nasfund. This milestone reinforces our goal to ensure all members are ready for tomorrow."

Enga Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Chief Superintendent Steven Harris confirmed that a serving ward councilor was arrested and handed over to the Criminal Investigation Division in Wabag, where he was formally charged with accessory after the fact to wilful murder.PPC Harris noted that the councilor would appear before the court in due course.The arrest stems from the killing of two innocent people in the Laiagam District, carried out by an escapee who remains at large.Addressing the suspect and others who have broken custody, PPC Harris urged all remaining escapees to surrender immediately to the nearest police station, cautioning the public that sheltering fugitives constitutes both a criminal offense and a direct breach of orders issued by the National Court.The National Court of Justice at Wabag issued interim orders for the Laiagam District prohibiting public assemblies for tribal fighting or retaliation, the carrying of offensive weapons, and the harboring of escapees or individuals responsible for the killings.The court mandated the immediate surrender of unlawfully held firearms, forbade threats or demands regarding the release of lawfully detained persons, and ordered all individuals to follow directions from the Provincial Police Commander and his delegates.Violations of these directives carry the risk of criminal charges or contempt of court proceedings ahead of the matter returning to court.Emphasizing that traditional compensation does not resolve murder, PPC Harris reinforced the longstanding position of the Supreme Court and National Court of Papua New Guinea that no amount of money or pigs can restore a human life.He made it clear that threats will not deter the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) or his officers from fulfilling their duties.“Persons lawfully detained will face the lawful process and they will not be bartered for. Anyone who demands their release, or threatens violence to get it, can expect to be arrested.”“If need be, we will arrest suspects one by one, anytime, anyplace. In your beds, in any village or city. The reach of the RPNGC extends across the entire country and we will hunt you down.”PPC Harris stated that the law-abiding majority of Enga supports this firm stance, reiterating that there will be no mediation, negotiation, or further violence involving criminals.He commended the restraint shown by the aggrieved families and communities who opted to respect the legal process rather than engage in retaliation.Regarding the circumstances surrounding the escapees, PPC Harris explained that an independent investigation is underway by the Internal Affairs Division, separate from the Provincial Command, and affirmed that the RPNGC will pursue the matter thoroughly.Anyone with details on the location of the escapees or those linked to the killings is urged to contact the police in Wabag or Laiagam.

A 22-year-old man from Laiagam has been sentenced to 50 years of imprisonment with hard labor for two separate killings tied to a cycle of tribal retaliation in the Laiagam District, following a decision commended by the Enga Provincial Police Command.Enga Provincial Police Commander (PPC), Chief Superintendent Steven Harris, stated that the offender, Sebari Jimmy also known as Sebari Kanjol Lylip, was sentenced by Justice Ellis in the National Court sitting at Wabag on Friday, August 14, 2026, following back-to-back hearings.In the first matter, following a three-day trial, the offender was found guilty of the willful murder of Jeremiah Peno, who was shot in the back at close range with a Magnum pistol at Lasambus village on September 30, 2024.Justice Ellis sentenced him to 35 years of imprisonment with hard labour for this crime.In the second matter, on his own guilty plea, the offender was convicted of the murder of Tommy Kelata at Wairos/Aiyak village on December 29, 2024.During that attack, the offender’s brother struck the fatal blow to the victim’s head with a bush knife, while the offender inflicted a secondary wound to the victim’s shoulder.He was sentenced to 15 years of imprisonment with hard labor, ordered to run cumulatively with the 35-year willful murder sentence, bringing the total term to 50 years.Reflecting on the court’s decision, PPC Harris emphasized the precedent set by the heavy sentence for tribal violence.“These sentences send an unambiguous message to Enga Province and to Papua New Guinea as a whole that the Rule of Law will prevail.”“If you retaliate, if you take another person’s life to settle a score, a payback, or a tribal grievance, you can expect to spend between 35 and 50 years behind bars.”“That is the reality this offender now faces, and it is the reality that awaits anyone who chooses violence over the law.”PPC Harris stressed that law enforcement will not permit retaliatory killings to dictate dispute resolution in the province, noting that every life lost to payback is unacceptable and that every offender will be pursued, charged, and prosecuted.He commended investigators from the Wabag Criminal Investigation Division (CID) for their thorough work.The initial breakthrough occurred when the suspect was arrested on an unrelated matter.Subsequent interviews and diligent evidence- gathering enabled investigators to link him directly to two separate murders committed months apart.“This outcome reflects sustained, patient investigative work by Wabag CID. They followed the evidence, built two strong briefs, and delivered outcomes that will keep a dangerous offender off our streets for decades.”“That is the standard of policing this Province deserves, and it is the standard Wabag CID has delivered.”Police have already received reports of further retaliatory activity connected to these cases.PPC Harris confirmed that these reports are being taken seriously, fully investigated, and that any perpetrators will face justice, warning that taking the law into one’s own hands only extends the cycle of grief.“There is a need, particularly in this time and in this place, for the Court to make it clear that those who obtain an illegal weapon, such as a pistol or gun, and use that weapon will need to provide the Court with a good reason why a sentence of life imprisonment should not be imposed.”“This was a pre-meditated, cold-blooded murder when an unsuspecting man was shot in the back with a powerful pistol,” PPC Harris added.Members of the public with information regarding threats or acts of retribution linked to these events are urged to contact Wabag Police or the Enga Provincial Police Command immediately.

The Finschhafen District Development Authority (FDDA) in Morobe province, has reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating closely with the National Airports Corporation (NAC), affected landowners, local communities, and relevant government agencies to ensure the smooth implementation of the Gagidu Airport Redevelopment Project.This collaborative approach follows a key stakeholder coordination meeting held on August 6, 2026, at the Finschhafen District Office Conference Room, which brought together representatives from the Finschhafen District Administration, FDDA, NAC, Local-Level Government (LLG), landowners, and the community.Chaired by District Officer in Charge Mr. Kawage Mesere, with FDDA Secretary Mr. Gingkeme Yaning serving as Secretary, the meeting focused on establishing robust frameworks for project execution, community engagement, and security.​A major outcome of the gathering was the unanimous decision to establish a Grievance Redress Committee (GRC) to provide a formal mechanism for addressing project-related concerns and grievances throughout the implementation phase.Comprising representatives from the District Administration, PNG Power, Gingala landowners, Water PNG, Public Service Commission, FDDA, Urban LLG, NAC, Works, and the District Data Coordination office, the GRC will ensure that any issues arising during construction are properly received, assessed, and resolved through structured consultation.​On the development front, the NAC informed stakeholders that CRCG has been officially awarded the airport redevelopment project, with funding secured through the National Development Bank (NDB).With contractor consultations now complete, preparations are underway for implementation, and the project is targeted for completion in September 2027, subject to standard requirements.The contractor is legally obligated to comply with all Papua New Guinea laws, environmental standards, and labor regulations.​Landowner compensation and property valuation also took center stage during the discussions.Participants agreed that properties and houses situated close to the airport must undergo proper valuation, with the NAC and District Administration joining forces to expedite the assessment process and resolve outstanding compensation payments.Landowners urged for additional funding to settle claims with a target completion date by the end of September, emphasizing the necessity of resolving these matters fairly to maintain positive relations between the project developers and the local community.​Regarding infrastructure details, the NAC clarified that its current project scope covers security fencing around the terminal building, while the remaining airport boundary fencing will be handled separately by the FDDA through a local contractor.To facilitate this, the NAC will supply survey maps and boundary data to help the FDDA determine the necessary fencing specifications, quantities, and cost estimates.​Stakeholders were also advised that Gagidu Airport will be closed during construction, with operations including helicopter services, suspended or restricted from June 8, 2026, until project completion in September 2027.Recognizing the potential disruptions to local communities, businesses, and public services, the FDDA pledged to work alongside the NAC to keep the public informed.Furthermore, following reports of possible wartime remains and suspected unexploded bombs within the project area, the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) has been requested to inspect the site prior to major construction activities to guarantee safety.​Concluding the meeting, the Finschhafen District Development Authority underscored that the infrastructure investment will significantly enhance connectivity, mobility, and economic opportunities for the district.The project will move forward under NAC supervision, guided by the newly formed Grievance Redress Committee, expedited property valuations, and PNGDF site safety inspections.

One hundred inmates at Buimo Correctional Institution in Lae have graduated from an eight-week pre-release training program designed to prepare them for life after prison.The program provided practical training in financial literacy, life skills, spiritual development, and vocational activities, including coconut oil processing.Delivered by the Papua New Guinea Correctional Service and Necktop Training Centre, with support from the Australian Government, the program aims to help inmates reintegrate into their communities, find livelihood opportunities and reduce reoffending.Graduate Sharon Kamu, who was released on the same day she completed the program, said the training restored her confidence and gave her hope for the future.| Australian High Commission Minister-Counsellor Ms Elizabeth Le Bas addresses graduates, correctional service officers and partners at the Buimo Correctional Institution pre-release training graduation ceremony.She said the experience “resurrected my dreams” and reminded her that there is always a second chance.Buimo Correctional Institution Commander Michael Wundia congratulated the graduates and urged them to use their new skills to support themselves, their families and communities.The program is supported through the Australia-PNG Law and Justice Partnership, which works with PNG’s law and justice sector to strengthen rehabilitation and community safety.

Young Papua New Guineans have been introduced to education, skills training, scholarships and professional development opportunities at the NCD Youth Expo 2026.Pacific Australia Skills and Australia Awards PNG showcased pathways designed to help young people build careers and contribute to Papua New Guinea’s future development.The Expo, themed “Youth Empowerment for a Sustainable Future,” highlighted opportunities in technical and vocational education and training, international scholarships and professional development.NCD youth participant Henry Mekere said access to information about these opportunities would help young people plan their education and career pathways.Through Pacific Australia Skills and Australia Awards PNG, Australia says it is continuing to support the development of a skilled and inclusive workforce and invest in Papua New Guinea’s next generation of leaders.

The Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) with the support from the Australian Government, is helping transport one million doses of the antibiotic azithromycin to West Sepik Province as part of efforts to eliminate yaws.The first shipment was flown from Lae to Vanimo earlier this month by an Australian Defence Force (ADF) aircraft. The medicines were donated by Brazilian pharmaceutical company EMS through the World Health Organization (WHO).Yaws is an infectious disease that mainly affects children and can cause skin sores and damage to bones and joints if left untreated. However, it can be cured with a single dose of antibiotics.The medicines will support a mass drug administration campaign led by the West Sepik Provincial Health Authority, targeting the province’s entire population to help stop the spread of the disease.Around 50 pallets weighing 6,800 kilograms will be transported from Lae to Vanimo over several flights, with support from Australia, the National Department of Health, WHO and the Japan International Cooperation Agency.The operation highlights PNG and Australia’s ongoing partnership in supporting critical health initiatives and improving access to healthcare for communities in West Sepik and across Papua New Guinea.

The deliberate vandalism of power transmission lines is adding on to the already many issues affecting PNG Power Limited (PPL) production capacity, leading to the shortfall of electricity supply to its customers in Port Moresby city.PNG Power has confirmed that deliberate vandalism of transmission lines, compounded by El Niño drought conditions and fuel shortages, is a key reason behind the shortfall in electricity supply. It’s the most challenging power crisis in recent years.PNG Power Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Paul Bayly said that the deliberate damage to transmission lines is one of the key reasons behind the severe load shedding affecting Port Moresby.“Our teams have identified cracked insulator discs along the L545 transmission line between Dirio Gas Power Station and Kanudi Switchyard. While some damage is linked to dust build‑up during the El Niño drought, we have also confirmed that individuals have been using slingshots to deliberately target these poles and insulators.”The L545 faults relate to cracked 66kV disc insulators. Prolonged dry conditions under the El Niño have led to heavy dust accumulation on the insulators, which produced a corona effect and allowed electrical tracking to develop between the conductors, the dust build‑up, and the steel poles. This tracking caused sparking, progressively cracking a number of discs along the line. The first fault occurred on 7th August 2026, and since then our crews have been conducting pole‑by‑pole inspections, replacing cracked discs, and washing insulators to remove dust build‑up.The resulting loss of Dirio Gas Power Station’s 28 MW output has compounded an existing shortfall of approximately 15 MW already caused by reduced hydro generation under El Niño conditions.“I strongly appeal to members of the public: if you see anyone vandalising power infrastructure, report it immediately to PNG Power or the police. These reckless acts are not only illegal but directly responsible for outages that disrupt homes, hospitals, schools, and businesses across Port Moresby,” said the CEO.In addition to vandalism, the current load shedding is also being driven by Low water levels at Sirinumu Dam and Rouna hydro stations, reducing hydro generation, and Fuel supply and equipment issues at Moitaka and Kanudi thermal plants, leaving only 5 MW available out of a rated 128 MW.Together, these factors have left Port Moresby with just 116 MW of available generation against a weekday demand of 150 MW, forcing PNG Power to implement rotational load shedding across suburbs.Nevertheless, PNG Power is working urgently to mitigate this by:Short‑term (2–6 weeks): Completing the L545 line restoration, commissioning Rouna hydro units currently ready for service, and sourcing temporary emergency generation to bridge any residual shortfall.Medium‑term (2–6 months): Progressing rehabilitation of the Kanudi and Moitaka thermal units, and implementing a transmission asset integrity programme - including regular insulator washing during dry/El Niño periods - to prevent recurrence of faults such as those on L545.“We understand the inconvenience this causes and thank our customers for their patience and cooperation as we work to restore reliable supply.”PNG Power is working urgently to restore the L545 line, rehabilitate thermal units, and manage water releases responsibly. We understand the inconvenience this causes and thank our customers for their patience and cooperation as we work to restore reliable supply.”

East New Britain Governor Michael Marum has continued his support for education and community development by presenting a new school truck to Boisen Secondary School, funded through his Provincial Services Improvement Program (PSIP).The truck was officially handed over to the school administration, which will assist in transportation for educational and administrative activities.The presentation was witnessed by Rabaul Town Mayor Timothy Biang, Balanataman LLG President Leonard Maing, community leaders, school representatives, invited dignitaries and other stakeholders.Governor Marum said continued investment in schools was important to improving services for students and supporting the wider development of communities.“Investing in our schools is investing in the future of our children and our communities.”

Grade 12 Science students from Kokopo Technical Secondary School recently visited the Tokua Airport in Rabaul, while Air Niugini engineers were carrying out an engine replacement on a Fokker 70 aircraft.The excursion gave them an opportunity to observe commercial aircraft maintenance and interact directly with aviation professionals.The visit was organized under the school’s Science and Technology learning program and allowed students to see how classroom knowledge in science and mathematics is applied in a highly specialized industry.For many of the students, it was their first time entering an airport’s restricted operational area and witnessing licensed aircraft maintenance engineers work on a commercial aircraft.Leading the maintenance team was Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Chuck Matane, a former student of Kokopo Technical Secondary School.Matane and his team explained the engine replacement process, discussed career pathways in aviation engineering and answered questions from the students about working in the industry."As a former student of Kokopo Technical Secondary School, it was both humbling and rewarding to welcome these students and share with them the work we do every day.”"Aviation engineering is a highly rewarding profession that requires commitment, discipline and a strong foundation in science and mathematics.”“We hope that seeing our team in action today inspires some of these students to pursue career in aviation and contribute to the future growth of Papua New Guinea's aviation industry."Meanwhile, Kokopo Technical Secondary School Principal Doreen Lasumon thanked Air Niugini for providing the students with the opportunity to gain practical exposure outside the classroom."Experiences like this bring science and technology to life. Seeing highly skilled Papua New Guineans working in specialized professions helps our students better understand the opportunities that education can create."Air Niugini Chief Executive Officer Alan Milne said the national airline was committed to encouraging young Papua New Guineans to explore careers in aviation, engineering, science and technology.He said exposing students to the airline’s engineering operations allowed them to better understand the expertise and professionalism required to maintain aircraft safety and reliability.