Four major education infrastructures projects valued at more than K2.58 million were officially commissioned and handed over by East New Britain Governor Michael Marum recently, to Kokopo Technical Secondary School, East New Britain Provincial FODE Centre, Don Bosco Technical Secondary School and Vunamami Farmers Training Centre.The projects included a new classroom each for Kokopo Technical Secondary School, East New Britain Provincial FODE Centre and Vunamami Farmers Training Centre, including a funding handover for Don Bosco Technical Secondary School.Governor Marum recognized the strong partnership between the East New Britain Provincial Government and the Kokopo District Development Authority, led by the Member for Kokopo, Ereman ToBaining Jr., in delivering projects that directly benefit the people of Kokopo District.“Today’s commissioning demonstrates what can be achieved when the Provincial Government and our districts work together with a shared commitment to improving services for our people.”He continued saying that the Provincial Government is determined to ensuring that all four districts—Kokopo, Gazelle, Pomio and Rabaul—receive equitable investments in education, infrastructure and essential services.“Our development agenda is for the whole province. Every district has priorities, and the Provincial Government will continue working closely with all Open Members to ensure development reaches every community across East New Britain.”According to Governor Marum, the Provincial Government invested:K796,000 for the construction of the new classroom at Kokopo Technical Secondary School;K795,000 for the new East New Britain Provincial FODE Centre classroom;K246,000 towards infrastructure support at Don Bosco Technical Secondary School; andK745,000 for the new classroom at Vunamami Farmers Training Centre.He added that the projects were delivered by locally owned small and medium enterprises, including Belo Constructions, Paveks Constructions Limited, and Gugu Building Constructions.“I am particularly pleased that these projects were undertaken by our own local contractors.”“Supporting local SMEs means the Provincial Government is not only delivering quality infrastructure but also creating jobs, building local capacity and ensuring provincial development creates economic opportunities for our own people.”He then commended the Provincial Administration, the Education Division, school boards, principals, church agencies, community leaders and all stakeholders who worked together to deliver the projects successfully.Institutions receiving the new facilities were encouraged to conduct proper maintenance to ensure longevity.“These facilities belong to our people. I encourage every school board, administration and surrounding community to take ownership of these investments by maintaining them and ensuring they continue to provide quality learning environments for years to come.”

The Cabinet is expecting a major reshuffle this week as the government moves to make changes to ensure better delivery of its commitment to the people before the 2027 National General Election.Prime Minister James Marape said the reshuffle is expected to occur tomorrow or Friday.It follows an extensive review of ministerial performance, integrity, and the progress of key Government priorities since the Pangu-led Coalition Government assumed office in August 2022.“My department is completing its final assessment, and later this week I will announce changes to Cabinet that will position Government to deliver strongly during the remaining months of this parliamentary term,” Prime Minister Marape said.  “I have listened carefully to the concerns expressed by our people regarding ministerial performance, integrity and the pace of implementation. As Prime Minister, it is my responsibility to ensure the Government remains focused on delivering results.”Marape said he had already advised Ministers several months ago that their performance would be closely monitored and assessed against the commitments made to the nation in 2022.“Our commitments to the country are being measured every day. With approximately nine months remaining before the issue of writs for the 2027 National General Election, we cannot afford complacency. Every remaining month must count.”He stressed that the reshuffle was not motivated by politics or the approaching election but by the need to utilise time in office to maximise Government performance and ensure the successful delivery of national priorities.“This exercise is about strengthening the Government, not simply changing personnel. It is about placing the right people in the right portfolios to complete the important work that still lies ahead. Nine months is long enough if all of us run and do work correctly and not walk and waste time, the Prime Minister said.

The PNG Chiefs have issued a public warning against the sale and purchase of counterfeit merchandise bearing a fraudulent version of the club's logo, saying no official club merchandise has been launched.The club said it is aware that unauthorized products are being produced, distributed and sold across Papua New Guinea through markets, retail outlets and online platforms.Meanwhile, the official logo and merchandise are yet to be launched, meaning any PNG Chiefs-branded items currently on sale are counterfeit and are not endorsed or approved by the club.PNG Chiefs Chief Executive Officer Lorna McPherson said the club was taking the issue seriously and urged supporters to remain vigilant."The pride our people have shown in the PNG Chiefs has been extraordinary, and it is disappointing that others are seeking to exploit that pride for their own gain.”"We want to be very clear with our fans: our official logo and merchandise have not yet been released. Anything you see being sold today is not the real thing."She said earnings from counterfeit sales do not support the club, its development pathways, community programs or the future growth of rugby league in Papua New Guinea.The PNG Chiefs said the official club logo, merchandise and sales launch will be announced in the coming months through the club's official digital platforms and traditional media.Supporters have been encouraged to wait for these announcements before purchasing any club merchandise.Anyone with information about counterfeit merchandise being produced or sold is encouraged to contact the club at Peggy.Maha@pngchiefs.com.pg.The PNG Chiefs will work with the relevant authorities and will pursue all available legal avenues against those involved in the production, distribution and sale of counterfeit merchandise.The club's name, logo and branding are protected intellectual property, and any unauthorized use constitutes a serious infringement.

The Catholic Professionals Society (CPS) of Papua New Guinea has marked a year of institutional growth, spiritual formation, and expanding national initiatives, while preparing for a leadership transition ahead of its 2027 elections.Presenting the President's Report at the Society's 2026 Annual General Meeting, CPS President Paul Harricknen described the past year as one of renewal and succession, pointing out achievements in governance, membership growth, and faith-based leadership development."Over the past year we have strengthened our governance, commissioned our Rule of Life, expanded our membership, developed new formation programs, launched important national initiatives, and positioned the Society for sustainable growth.”An important milestone reached was the commissioning of the Society's Rule of Life in February 2026, followed by induction workshops and a spiritual retreat.The framework is designed to help members integrate Catholic faith, ethical leadership, and professional excellence into their daily lives.The Society plans to extend the program to its diocesan chapters in Lae, Alotau, and Madang.Membership has grown to 161 members across five chapters, with renewed interest from Lae and Alotau reflecting increasing support for the Society's mission of promoting servant leadership and professional integrity within the Church and the wider community.The Society is also reviving its Catholic Platform Project ahead of the 2027 National General Election.This project aims to provide Catholic-inspired values and principles to guide candidates, voters, and public discussion, while encouraging ethical leadership and informed civic participation.Building on the canonisation of Saint Peter ToRot in 2025, CPS has launched a quarterly formation series to strengthen Catholic identity and encourage members to live out their faith in public life.The Society has also expanded its communication efforts through its Voice of the Church program on Radio Maria and its monthly newsletter, The Catholic Professional.Work is also underway to develop an official CPS website to improve communication and engagement with members.Institutionally, CPS achieved incorporation and secured a Certificate of Good Standing under the amended IPA Act, strengthening its legal and governance framework.Among its advocacy priorities, the Society continues to call for the establishment of a National Constitution Day to promote civic responsibility, constitutional awareness, and greater respect for Papua New Guinea's democratic institutions.During the meeting, members endorsed Dame Jean Kekedo for honorary membership in recognition of her lifelong service to the Church and the people of Papua New Guinea.Looking ahead, Harricknen announced he will not seek re-election when the current Board's term concludes in 2027, describing the coming year as an important period of succession planning."Leadership is a sacred trust entrusted to us for a season, and every season calls for renewal.”“I am confident that God is already preparing new leaders who will continue to build upon the foundations we have laid together.”As it prepares for its next chapter, the Catholic Professionals Society says it remains committed to forming professionals who embody integrity, competence, servant leadership, and a commitment to the common good, both within the Church and in workplaces, communities, and public life across Papua New Guinea.

The Minister for Provincial and Local Level Government (LLG) Affairs, Soroi Marepo Eoe has revealed that he will be taking actions against many provincial governments after citing serious issues relating to the misuse of public funds.He said this when addressing the people of Ihu Local Level Government recently during the official opening of the newly built Ihu Market and the launching and commissioning of integrated infrastructure and community development projects.Referring to his role as a State Minister responsible for Provincial and Local Level governments, Eoe said, “I am a Minister who governs the Organic Law on Provincial and Local Level Governments, I can walk into any provincial governments and check their books. So much money has been squandered and misappropriated by few people. For most of the provincial governments, I’m taking that action.”Minister Eoe stressed that so much money has been given to provincial governments, but the output is so little or nothing at all. And as the minister responsible for provincial and local level governments, he will be taking action against some provincial governments soon.“I want honest public officers. They must be honest when they are dealing with people’s money, public money. That’s where the problem lies, and these are issues we as the government need to address, so that we can develop this country,” said Minister Eoe.He also made the call to the people to stop being lazy and start working on their land. He told them not to sit around waiting for free hand-outs or expect the government to come and save them. He said it is up to them to mobilize and utilize the resources they have and do something for themselves, and eventually they will be rewarded.Minister Eoe explained to the people that being elected and getting in as a parliamentary leader is one thing. But when you are actually there and get to know and understand the government system, it is not that easy.“As a former long serving public servant been elected to the parliament, I had a lot of expectations, confidence and belief that I can deliver services. But I found out, it doesn’t work that way. Waigani is different. Different priorities and different games are played until, you realigned with these priorities, then you’ll start seeing funds been allocated and services been delivered,” said Eoe.For the National Government to deliver services, there has to be strong collaboration effort with the Provincial, District, and Local Level governments. When all three levels are systematically connected and working in synchronization, development takes place, and that is the kind of system which the good Member and Minister wants to see practiced in every province across the country.

Hekari Women FC have stormed into the semi-finals of the OFC Women’s Champions League after a dominant 9-1 victory over hosts Henderson Eels, securing top spot in Group A in emphatic fashion.The Papua New Guinea champions knew only a big win would guarantee progression at the top of the group, and they delivered in ruthless style, scoring twice inside the opening three minutes and reaching their target of a six-goal lead before halftime.Hekari struck inside 61 seconds when Hortance Kimit reacted quickly to tap into an empty net after Henderson goalkeeper Betty Sade denied her initial effort. Moments later, Phylis Pala doubled the advantage after Maria Veronika’s low cross caused confusion in the box.The pressure continued as Sewruwaia Laulaba made it 3-0 from close range before an own goal from Anna Ellen added to Henderson’s misery. Veronika then took centre stage, scoring twice before halftime to push Hekari into a commanding 6-0 lead at the break.Hekari maintained control in the second half, with substitute Calista Maneo adding further pressure on the Henderson defence. Veronika continued her outstanding performance, setting up Maneo for two quick goals as the lead stretched further.Despite Hekari’s dominance, Henderson Eels continued to battle and were rewarded late in the match when Edith Nari struck a superb long-range effort, finding the net in the closing minutes to register the home side’s only goal of the contest.Hekari added a ninth through Nenny Elipas before the final whistle confirmed a comprehensive victory and their place in the semi-finals.The win sets up a semi-final clash against Puaikura FC on Wednesday at the National Stadium in Honiara, while the other semi-final will see Auckland United face Tafea FC.

The Madang Provincial Government (MPG) under the leadership of the Governor, Hon. Ramsey Pariwa, on Friday, July 3, 2026, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the PNG National Rice and Grain Board (NRGB) for the development of the rice and grain production in the fertile Ramu Plain in Madang.Other parties to the MoU included the Manam Resettlement Authority (MaRA) and the Department of Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs (DPLLGA) who would jointly work with the MPG for the implementation of sustainable rice and grain production.The instruments for the project MoU were signed by the Provincial Administrator for Madang, Daniel Aloi, and witnessed by Governor Pariwa, while for the other parties saw the Executive Chairman of the PNG Grain and Rice Board, Koren Rokas Maso, Chairman of MaRA, Dr. Boga Figa, and the Secretary of the DPLLGA, Philip Leo, signed their respective organizations.The project background as initiated by the NRGB is for the development of domestic rice and grain industry in Madang Province, including activities aimed at promoting food security, sustainable agriculture and commercialization of rice and grain production (“Rice Development Program ”).The Madang Provincial Government and MaRA are responsible for coordinating provincial development initiatives within Madang Province, including agriculture development, rural economic growth, and support farming communities in the Ramu Plain.The role of DPLLGA is to coordinate the customary land conversion from Customary into State Lease and oversight the implementation is coordinated within agreed framework of MaRA and results are achieved as per MaRA agreement. Moreover, the parties recognize the mutual benefit in establishing a public sector partnership to strengthen rice and grain production, agricultural infrastructure, farmer participation, and investment opportunities within Madang Province.The parties jointly agree to collaborate in implementing agricultural development initiatives, training, extension services, infrastructure support and related activities in furtherance of the Rice Development Program upon the terms of the MoU.According to the project documentation, the NRGB would provide technical and advisory services related to rice and grain development activities;coordinate national-level support and stakeholder engagement relevant to the joint project;assist in project planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation activities; facilitate farmer training program, technical workshops and extension support services; support the distribution and promotion of rice varieties, farming technologies and sustainable agriculture practices;facilitate engagement with government agencies, development partners, research institutions and private-sector stakeholders relevant to the Joint Project;mobilize resources and funding support where possible for agreed projects and activities.Furthermore, the project would support the scaling and adoption of successful rice and grain production systems within the Manam Resettlement Authority (MaRA) economic zone within Ramu Plain of Madang Province for large scale production and downstream processing through the setup of the Momase Regional Rice and Grain Industrial Hub as per the MoU.

Residents, motorists and business houses in Hohola are set to benefit from safer and more reliable road access as National Capital District Commission (NCDC) continues rehabilitation works on Hibiscus Street, Kunai Street and Bombax Street.The project is being supervised by NCDC's City Works Division and carried out by 168 Enterprise Limited as part of NCDC's ongoing commitment to improving road infrastructure throughout Port Moresby.The three roads were identified as priority locations after assessments found they had deteriorated beyond routine maintenance and required urgent rehabilitation. The condition of the roads, coupled with drainage issues, had affected accessibility and road safety for residents and motorists travelling through the area.To address these challenges, the project includes comprehensive road rehabilitation works as well as the cleaning and restoration of storm water pits and open-lined drains. Improving drainage is a critical component of the works, helping to reduce water damage and extend the lifespan of the roads.The rehabilitation covers approximately 938.6 metres of Hibiscus Street, 895.19 metres of Kunai Street, and 941.7 metres of Bombax Street.Together, the three projects represent an investment of K3.6 million in improving critical road infrastructure for Hohola residents and road users.Once completed, the upgraded roads will provide smoother and safer travel conditions, improve connectivity within the community, and support the efficient movement of people, goods, and services.NCDC remains committed to delivering infrastructure projects that provide lasting benefits for residents while supporting the growth and development of the nation's capital.

Agriculture Minister Hon. John Boito has recently launched the National Agriculture Research System (NARS) Policy Framework 2026, a landmark blueprint aimed at modernizing agricultural research, strengthening coordination across the sector and delivering practical benefits to farmers throughout the country.The framework was launched at the NARS Policy Forum at the Lae International Hotel, bringing together government leaders, researchers, development partners, provincial representatives, commodity boards, universities, the private sector and farmers.The forum also marked the release of the World Bank report, Agri-Food System Transformation in Papua New Guinea, an evidence-based roadmap to guide the country's agricultural transformation. Minister Boito received the report from World Bank Division Director for Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu, Mr. Han Fraeters.Opening the forum, Minister Boito described agriculture as the foundation of Papua New Guinea's economy and the livelihood of the overwhelming majority of its people."Agriculture is Papua New Guinea," he said. "It is the livelihood of the overwhelming majority of our people, the foundation of our rural communities, our food security and our cultural identity."Despite the country's rich natural resources and resilient farming communities, Minister Boito said agriculture continued to operate well below its potential."Our farmers are resilient and our land is extraordinary. But too many still farm without access to improved technologies, quality inputs, reliable extension services or markets that reward their effort," he said. "This is a challenge we must confront honestly and urgently."Mr. Boito said the Government's National Agriculture Sector Plan 2024-2033 sets out a vision for a modern, productive, resilient and market-oriented agricultural sector capable of creating jobs, improving food security and driving rural economic growth."But vision without delivery is just words," he said.He said achieving that vision required stronger coordination among institutions, increased investment in agricultural research and extension, and research programmes that directly addressed the needs of farmers.The Minister also outlined the progress already made in building the National Agriculture Research System.Three technical working groups established in 2025 focused on rebuilding research capacity, strengthening extension services, and improving commercialization and market access. Their recommendations now form the foundation of the NARS Policy Framework.He said chief executives of key agricultural institutions endorsed the draft framework during a meeting at Loloata Island in September 2025 before formalising their commitment through a Memorandum of Agreement signed in Port Moresby three months later.Earlier this year, the Agricultural Research and Development Coordination Facility was established within the National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI) to oversee implementation. "This framework is no longer simply an idea," Minister Boito said."It has been built through consultation, collaboration and collective action." A central component of the framework is the US$250 million Agri Connect Programme, which aims to bring together government agencies, research institutions, provincial governments, universities, farmers, the private sector and development partners under a coordinated national approach.Minister Boito said Agri Connect would strengthen the link between research and commercial agriculture by translating scientific findings into practical farming solutions, expanding digital extension services, improving market access and encouraging greater private sector investment."In short, Agri Connect connects farmers to markets, research to commercialization, provinces to national priorities and our people to better livelihoods," he said.He called on every institution represented at the forum to commit fully to the programme, saying its success would depend on genuine collaboration. The Minister also stressed the importance of greater government investment in agricultural research, saying Papua New Guinea could no longer depend primarily on donor funding. "We cannot rely solely on external funders," he said."We must build our own capacity, our own resilience and our own future." Minister Boito thanked the World Bank for its continued support of Papua New Guinea's agricultural transformation agenda and acknowledged the contributions of Agri Connect, the Department of Agriculture and Livestock, NARI, commodity boards, universities, provincial governments and other stakeholders.He said the true success of the policy would be measured not by today's discussions but by improvements in the lives of ordinary Papua New Guineans."The success of this forum will be measured by what changes in the months and years ahead," he said."By whether our farmers become more productive, our young people find opportunities in agriculture, and our rural communities become more prosperous." Minister Boito reaffirmed the Government's commitment to transforming agriculture into a major driver of economic growth and rural development."Today, let us transform agriculture from a sector of untapped potential into a sector of realised opportunity," he said. "Together, let us transform Papua New Guinea's future."

PNG Tribal Foundation President GT Bustin has condemned the alleged attack on one of the frontline staff who was attacked by angry locals in Banz on Tuesday 30th July 2026. Mr. Bustin clarifies that the attack happened in the night whereby the Human Rights defender was stabbed. He is calling for an immediate police investigation and the arrest of the suspect in Jiwaka Province.Mr. Bustin condemned the violent attack on one of the organization’s key staff members, who was stabbed in the back last Tuesday night in what was believed to be retaliation by perpetrators involved in an active sorcery accusation-related violence (SARV) case in the province.“Our staff member was attacked because the Tribal Foundation is supporting a case against those responsible,” Mr. Bustin said.“ This is a direct attack on a human rights defender who is risking his life to protect vulnerable people and ensure justice is served.”He called on the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary to immediately deploy Mobile Squads and arrest the known perpetrators responsible for the attack.“The Tribal Foundation is currently supporting 65 active SARV cases alongside the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary and the Department of Justice and Attorney General. Our staff work in some of the country’s most dangerous environments to protect innocent people. They must be protected at all costs.”PNG Tribal Foundation is leading the national effort to end sorcery accusation-related violence in Papua New Guinea. To date, the organization has supported the arrest of 161 alleged SARV perpetrators and currently providing assistance to 759 victims across the country.“If individuals do not want to face justice, then they should not participate in SARV in the first place,” Mr. Bustin said. “Attempting to intimidate or attack those who are fighting for justice is completely unacceptable.“The Tribal Foundation will continue to dedicate its resources to ensuring those responsible are identified, arrested, and brought before the courts.”He said the attack should serve as a serious wake-up call for the Government of Papua New Guinea to strengthen its response to SARV and intensify efforts to hold perpetrators accountable.“Ending SARV requires a united commitment from law enforcement, government, and communities,” he said.“Those who commit these crimes must understand that violence against victims or against those who defend them will not prevent justice. It only strengthens our resolve to see the law enforced.”

Papua New Guinea's (PNG's) economy remains resilient, driven by strong export earnings, improved foreign exchange availability, and continued investment despite ongoing economic challenges.This is according to the latest Westpac Wailis June 2026 PNG Economic Update and Outlook report, stating that the economy remained resilient in the first half of 2026.The report says PNG is still on track for real GDP growth of around 4.6 per cent in 2026, following an estimated growth of 5.5 per cent in 2025. This is supported by strong activity in agriculture, industry and services, firm import demand, mining and LNG export earnings, and better foreign exchange liquidity.Westpac Pacific Senior Economist Shamal Chand said PNG has managed global shocks better than expected, helped by fuel price support, stronger resource earnings, and continued activity outside the resource sector.“PNG’s economy has shown good resilience despite external shocks. While global risks are still there, domestic demand, resource exports and non-resource activity continue to support growth,” Mr. Chand said.Growth is being driven by activity in provincial centres, including the Highlands, where retail, industry and services are benefiting from internal migration, urbanisation and stronger local demand. Westpac says import activity also remains firm, showing continued consumer spending and capital investment.Foreign exchange conditions have also improved, with typical order clearing times reducing from several weeks to just days. Westpac says this has helped businesses and supported private sector lending, while demand for Government securities remains strong.Inflation remains relatively low at the national level, with headline CPI at 2.24 per cent in the March quarter. However, price pressures remain uneven, with higher increases recorded in the Highlands and some regional centres.PNG’s export base remains an important support. LNG export volumes reached about 3.73 million tonnes year to date to May 2026, while gold exports to Australia reached K6.51 billion year to date to April, up 30 per cent from the same period in 2025. Cocoa and coffee have also supported rural households, with cocoa export earnings reaching K1.80 billion in 2025 and coffee earnings rising to K1.31 billion.Major projects remain central to PNG’s medium-term growth. The report highlights Papua LNG, Wafi-Golpu, K92 Mining’s Kainantu expansion, the Agogo tie-in gas development, Connect PNG, port and airport redevelopments, and other infrastructure projects as important drivers of future activity.Westpac says the outlook remains positive, but PNG still needs to manage risks from global energy markets, commodity price movements, inflation pressure, fiscal constraints, major project delivery and ongoing compliance reforms.

Prime Minister James Marape has launched a K316 million package of roads, bridges and community infrastructure aimed at connecting more than 85% of Papua New Guineans who remain in rural enclaves.Speaking on the banks of the Vailala River at Ihu Station, the Prime Minister said the projects were about “unlocking and connecting” people who have been locked out of services for too long.“My children at the banks of Vailala river, Ihu station, over 85% of my people still remain in the rural enclaves of PNG, that's why my government continue to pass resources to districts and provinces so each leader look after development needs prevalent there,” PM Marape told a crowd of Ihu families and school children.“So, it is good to see roads being developed here and happy to open a modern market here the banks of Vailala in the home of Papua LNG.”The visit, held under the theme ‘Connecting Communities, Empowering People, and Advancing Development in Kikori’, saw the Prime Minister launch six major projects for East and West Ihu Local Level Governments:1. Ihu–Muro Road Project – K176 million 2. Vailala River Bridge – K126 million 3. Keuru Bridge to Vailala River Road Soil Stabilisation Works – K10 million 4. Multi-Purpose Community Centre – K1.4 million 5. Official Opening of Ihu Market – K0.7 million 6. Baimuru Market – K1.92 million The new Ihu Market and Baimuru Market are expected to give local farmers, fishermen and women vendors direct access to sell produce without travelling long distances byPrime Minister also highlighted that the timing of the visit was significant, with Gulf Province at the centre of the upcoming Papua LNG project.“Good news on Papua LNG will break soon, and I am here in the heartland of this important project with people and children from whose land the resources will be extracted from,” he said.He urged the landowners and the youths to be prepared to take part in jobs, business and service opportunities that will flow from the project, while calling on public servants to lift their performance.“Compatriots let's all work, especially those of us who earn from the public purses. Work your heart out for your country and our people,” Marape said.The Ihu launch is the latest in the Marape-Rosso Government’s push to decentralise funding and infrastructure to districts and provinces. With more than K316 million committed to Kikori alone, the Government says it is putting money where the majority of the population lives.