U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, Christopher Landau, has met with Papua New Guinea Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso and Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko during the Pacific Agenda: Investment, Security and Shared Prosperity Summit to discuss strengthening economic ties and expanding U.S. support to PNG.The talks build on the Framework for Strategic Cooperation signed between the two countries in Port Moresby in September last year. Papua New Guinea already hosts several major American companies including ExxonMobil, Newmont, Coca-Cola and Hilton. These companies contribute to job creation, technical expertise and long-term investment in the country. Leaders at the summit also highlighted opportunities to increase U.S. investment in sectors such as critical minerals, infrastructure, health, telecommunications and security. During their bilateral meeting, discussions focused on strengthening the long-standing partnership between the two nations and identifying new areas for economic cooperation. U.S. assistance to PNG includes about $87 million (K378 million) in health programs since 2001. In addition, $4.25 million (K18.5 million) has been provided through the HALO Trust to clear unexploded ordnance, allowing land to be safely used for development, agriculture and tourism. The leaders also discussed ongoing defence cooperation under the Defence Cooperation Agreement and the Ship Rider Agreement, as well as the need to strengthen PNG’s ICT sector to attract further investment. Across the Pacific Islands, U.S. economic engagement has totaled more than $53 billion over the past 11 years, with more than 90 percent coming from private investment and trade. The three-day summit, held at the East-West Center in Honolulu, was co-led by Deputy Secretary Landau and U.S. Indo-Pacific Command Commander Admiral Samuel Paparo. It brought together government leaders, investors, businesses and financial institutions from across the Pacific to explore new economic opportunities for the region.

Two new staff houses were recently opened at Alain de Boismenu Junior High School in Wama, Kairuku District, Central Province as as part of the Central Provincial Government’s ongoing efforts to improve living conditions for teachers serving in rural and remote communities.The new homes are expected to ease this problem and help attract and retain teachers at the school as the lack of proper accommodation has long been a major challenge, consequentially discouraging teachers from accepting or remaining in postings outside urban centres. Principal Henry Aupu stated that the new houses will make a difference to the morale and stability of teachers serving the Wama community. “This is a first of its kind here and a very important development for our school, we are thankful to Governor Rufina and her administration team and all stakeholders who continue to assist the school.” “Teachers who serve in rural areas face many challenges, and decent accommodation is one of the biggest needs. “With these houses, our teachers will be able to focus more on their work and on delivering quality education to our students.” According to Aupu, Alain De Boismenu Junior High School plays caters to children from surrounding villages, including students who travel from the remote rural Mekeo LLG, parts of Kuni LLG, and Veimauri. Central Governor Rufina Peter called the project a result of “prudent investment by the Provincial Executive Council (PEC)” An investment that has strengthened education infrastructure in rural communities. “I acknowledge all the stakeholders, the Japanese Government, the Kairuku MP and DDA, and other donors who have supported the school to reach where it is today.” “I call upon this Government, all stakeholders and donors to continue working together in unity. Education reforms require our collective responsibility.” “It requires coordination, accountability and sustained commitment, and when we align our efforts, we see real, tangible results for our children.” Additionally, a ground-breaking ceremony was held for two new dormitories for boys and girls, each built to accommodate 80 students.

To mark World Book Day on March 6th, Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP), in partnership with Fincorp, donated 1,000 high-quality library books to St Theresa Primary School in Port Moresby, National Capital District.The donation was made through BbP’s School Library Re-establishment Program, which provides structured School Library Kits designed to help schools rebuild or strengthen their library facilities. The kits are available in curated collections of 1,000, 500, and 250 books, allowing schools of different sizes and budgets to benefit. The books cover a wide range of education levels—from elementary and primary to secondary, technical and tertiary institutions—supporting diverse learning needs and curricula. The kits also include titles published by BbP. Fincorp’s Head of Unsecured Sales, Adriaan De La Rey, together with a representative from Buk bilong Pikinini, presented the books to Ako Alex, Head Teacher of St Therese Primary School. Mr. De La Rey said the donation represented far more than just books. “These are not just 1,000 books but 1,000 stories and adventures.” He encouraged students to read widely, adding that knowledge gained through reading is something that cannot be taken away and can empower them to pursue any future they choose. BbP PR and Marketing Team Lead Mary Sawa thanked Fincorp for supporting the initiative. “We are grateful to Fincorp for supporting St Therese Primary School with a 1,000-book Primary School Library Kit through our School Library Re-establishment Program.” “This support will also benefit three other schools, bringing a total of 4,000 books to students across Papua New Guinea.” “Investing in children’s education is a noble act, and we encourage more organizations to help schools gain access to the books and libraries they need.” Meanwhile, Deputy Head Teacher Jane Dukaduka said the donation was timely as the school had been in urgent need of reading materials. “The school currently runs a reading program every Monday where students read for 30 minutes after assembly to discourage excessive screen time. This generous book donation will definitely give a boost to this program.” Access to quality books strengthens vocabulary, comprehension, critical thinking and confidence among students, while improving academic performance and nurturing a lifelong love of learning. On World Book Day, BbP is calling on more corporate organizations to support the development of functional school libraries across the country.

Prime Minister James Marape has expressed deep concern over reports that Papua New Guinea’s Chief Justice has been referred to a Leadership Tribunal, describing the development as an unprecedented matter involving one of the nation’s highest constitutional offices.Speaking on the matter, Prime Minister Marape said the Office of the Chief Justice represents the rule of law and the administration of justice in Papua New Guinea. “Any development affecting that office must be treated with the utmost seriousness and care,” he said.“The last place in our country where we would want such matters to arise is from the Office of the Chief Justice,” he added. “That office embodies our laws and the integrity of our judicial system. Any issue concerning it must be handled with the highest level of responsibility and respect for our constitutional processes.”The Prime Minister said he was informed of the development while in Angoram, East Sepik Province, and was taken by surprise. “I was in Angoram when I received the news. Like many Papua New Guineans, I was surprised by this development,” he said.In response, Prime Minister Marape has instructed the Chief Secretary to Government to convene an urgent meeting on Friday with senior officials to review the matter and safeguard the integrity of the judiciary and constitutional processes. Attendees will include the Chief Secretary, the Secretary for Justice and Attorney-General, the State Solicitor and the Secretary for Judicial Services.“This is not a light matter. It is unprecedented territory for our country. The referral of the Chief Justice – the head of the judiciary – raises serious constitutional considerations,” the Prime Minister said.He stressed that the Executive Government respects the independence of constitutional offices, including the Ombudsman Commission and will not interfere with their lawful duties. “I have no authority to compel the Ombudsman Commission or any constitutional office holder to carry out their duties. They must perform their functions independently and we respect that.”At the same time, Prime Minister Marape highlighted the Government’s responsibility to understand the circumstances surrounding the referral and ensure the judiciary’s institutional integrity is protected. “Our judiciary has been the anchor of our democracy since Independence. It has upheld the rule of law and maintained stability within our constitutional system,” he said.Acknowledging the Chief Justice’s long-standing service, the Prime Minister added: “The Chief Justice has served our country for more than 40 years with distinction. From what I know of him, he has carried himself with integrity throughout his career.”Prime Minister Marape said the Government will seek a full briefing on the referral while continuing to respect the Constitution and the independence of the judiciary. “Our focus is to ensure the Office of the Chief Justice is not unnecessarily brought into disrepute, while fully respecting legal processes and the role of independent constitutional bodies,” he said.The Prime Minister confirmed that the Government will continue to monitor developments closely.

Michael Harrison, Board Chairman of Cricket Papua New Guinea (PNG), has commended the nation’s women cricketers for their achievements and resilience as the country marks International Women’s Day 2026.In a message to colleagues and cricket enthusiasts worldwide, Harrison reflected on the significance of the day, emphasizing that it is not just a date on the calendar, but a moment to honour the courage, determination, and brilliance of women everywhere.“Cricket in Papua New Guinea is more than a game – it is a bridge between communities, a classroom for skills, and a stage where dreams take flight,” Harrison said. He praised the PNG Lewas, the nation’s premier women’s cricket team, for their remarkable achievements on and off the field. “Our women’s teams have shown that determination knows no boundaries and talent knows no gender,” he said.Harrison highlighted that the pursuit of equality extends beyond borders. “Whether in Port Moresby, Mumbai, London, or Cape Town, the story is the same: when women are given the opportunity, they inspire generations,” he said. He noted that PNG’s women cricketers have broken records, motivated young girls in both urban and rural areas, and become role models in leadership, discipline and unity.The chairman also acknowledged that challenges remain. He called for continued investment in grassroots programs, equal access to cricket facilities and encouragement for every girl who picks up a bat or ball to feel included and empowered. Harrison stressed the importance of ensuring that the next generation of women cricketers has the support and resources needed to thrive.“Let us commit to a future where women in cricket – and at every level across all countries – are celebrated not just for overcoming barriers, but for thriving,” he said. Harrison concluded with a rallying message: “When women rise, cricket rises. And when cricket rises, the world becomes a little brighter.”Cricket PNG joins the global community in celebrating women this International Women’s Day, reaffirming its commitment to equality, opportunity and respect within the sport.

The Governor of East New Britain Province has reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to improving education standards while calling for stronger accountability from all stakeholders during the recent official handover of a new school truck to Utmei Secondary School.The presentation ceremony brought together school leaders, teachers, parents, students and community members from the Inland Baining area. The Governor acknowledged the contributions of the School Board of Governors, school administration, teachers, parents, citizens, students, the Inland Baining President, community leaders and Baining cultural performers for their warm welcome and continued support for education in the community. In a notable moment during the ceremony, the Governor allowed a Grade 12 student to deliver his official keynote address. Chris Sokip, the Vice Head Boy of Utmei Secondary School, addressed the gathering on behalf of the provincial leadership. The Governor said the gesture was meant to encourage young leaders and give students a voice in important community occasions. During his remarks, the Governor emphasized that the newly donated truck must be used strictly for its intended purpose of supporting student transportation and school development activities. “In light of recent reports from members of the public regarding misuse of previous school vehicles, the Provincial Transport Division is considering placing all school trucks under ‘P’ plate registration to ensure proper monitoring and accountability. “Government assets must be respected and used responsibly.” The Governor also addressed the broader performance of the education sector in East New Britain Province, noting a concerning decline in results in recent years. “While we acknowledge the challenges facing our schools, these challenges can no longer be used as excuses. We must change the way we have been operating.” He challenged teachers to maintain professionalism and punctuality, warning that absenteeism and lateness will not be tolerated. Parents were also urged to prioritise their children’s education by ensuring regular school attendance and proper discipline at home. Provincial authorities, school boards and administrators were encouraged to strengthen oversight and raise education standards across the province. Beyond education, the Governor urged communities to actively engage in agriculture as a pathway to economic growth. He highlighted key income-generating crops such as cocoa, coconut, oil palm, and balsa. He confirmed that the East New Britain Provincial Government has allocated funding under its 2026 Budget Economic Development Programs to support agricultural initiatives across the province’s four districts. “Our people must work their land. Agriculture remains the backbone of our provincial economy, and we are committed to supporting programs that increase production and household income.” 

Eleven certified male advocates from the East New Britain Provincial Health Authority (ENBPHA) have once again undergone mentoring under the second session of the ‘Wok Wantaim Man’ program in Kokopo.This initiative is a core component of ongoing capacity building designed to empower men as full-time advocates against Gender Based Violence (GBV). Supported by the PNG-Australia Partnership through the PNG-Australia Transition to Health Program (PATH), the session focused on the pivotal role of male advocates in shifting the narrative from power and control toward equality. National Consultant and facilitator Emmanuel Ginis, who listened closely to the participants' personal stories, noted that the level of openness regarding the challenges of navigating masculine dominance was overwhelming. He shared his perspective on these societal pressures, stating that a man becomes dominant, aggressive and unemotional, leading to violence which is mostly defined by cultural norms and toxic masculinity. “However, men can leverage their power to mentor women, become vocal on discouraging men on harmful actions, support women and children’s rights and simply become role models in sharing tasks and responsibilities.” The ‘Wok Wantaim Man’ program has further strengthened the advocates’ ability to fully grasp the dynamics of power and control when applied in the appropriate context. Mr. Ginis emphasized the importance of transitioning toward a more collaborative leadership style. “One is to have power over certain decisions or over others, by sharing power rather than being dominant.” “It is than reflected as choices and becomes applicable towards the actions carried out.” In the coming weeks, the remaining three sessions will focus on identifying and discussing practical measures to address these challenges and issues within both the workplace and the household.

Prime Minister James Marape has apologized to the people of Western Highlands and Governor Hon. Wai Rapa for missing today’s commissioning of the Highlands 132kV Transmission Line in Mt Hagen due to unavoidable travel issues.The Prime Minister had been scheduled to commission the project at the Keltiga Substation in Mt Hagen, with the ceremony hosted by PNG Power Limited, Kumul Consolidated Holdings and the Ministry for State Enterprises. Mr. Marape said he regretted not being able to attend the milestone event and looks forward to visiting Western Highlands at another time. He congratulated State Enterprises Minister Hon. William Duma for his leadership in delivering the project, describing the Highlands 132kV Transmission Line as a major national infrastructure achievement. The new transmission system upgrades the historic 66kV network to a modern 132kV high-voltage backbone capable of carrying larger volumes of electricity across the Highlands region. The transmission corridor stretches about 189 kilometres from Mt Hagen to Tari and is supported by around 448 towers. It includes upgraded substations at Keltiga, Kaupena/Pauanda, Mendi (Tindimi) and Tari (Wabia), as well as a 40-kilometre extension from Tari to Hides. The project allows gas-powered electricity generation from the Hides area to be integrated into the Highlands electricity grid. The investment in the Highlands grid backbone exceeds K1 billion, supported by concessional financing from the Export–Import Bank of China and funding from the Government of Papua New Guinea. Prime Minister Marape said the transmission line will benefit communities and businesses across the Highlands and Momase regions, linking power generation from Hides through the Highlands to Yonki and on to Lae. He said the corridor serves major population centres across the Highlands and could benefit close to five million people. The next phase will focus on expanding distribution networks to ensure electricity reaches homes, schools, health facilities and businesses along the corridor. Mr. Marape said the government aims to increase electricity access to between 50 and 60 percent of the population as more distribution lines are developed across the Highlands. The Highlands grid upgrade is part of a broader national effort to strengthen Papua New Guinea’s electricity generation and transmission network and move towards a more unified national power grid. The Prime Minister also acknowledged development partners, landowners, provincial governments and contractor TBEA for their role in delivering the project.

More than 15, 000 people living in the Gelegele Resettlement area in Kombiu Local Level Government (LLG) of Rabaul District in East New Britain Province, will soon benefit from a Rural Water Supply Reticulation Project aimed at improving access to clean and reliable drinking water.The project stems from fruitful discussions between ENB Governor Michael Marum and Aid Donor, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. The initiative is also supported by the ENB Governor’s Office and the Rabaul District Development Authority. Governor Marum invited humanitarian specialists Bret Dandoy and his wife to visit the Gelegele Resettlement area last year, where they witnessed first-hand the need for a proper rural water supply reticulation system to serve the growing communities. During the visit, the team inspected two existing boreholes located at Waterhouse Junior High School and Gelegele Health Centre, that had ceased to function 30 years ago, identifying opportunities to properly utilize them to supply water closer to households across surrounding wards. Speaking on Friday March 6th at Waterhouse Junior High School, Elder Dandoy said the aim of the project is to ensure families have reliable access to safe drinking water. “Clean drinking water, year-round, 24 hours a day- that is our goal that we are hoping to come out of this,” Elder Dandoy said. “From our visit, we realise that having access to more water will allow you to grow even more in your gardens and be more self-reliant and productive.” “We are grateful for the church members and many non-church members who donate money to the church to do these types of projects around the world.” “We do these projects in almost 200 countries around the world with volunteer couples like us.” He also stressed on the importance of having an ongoing maintenance program to keep the project functioning once it is completed. Meanwhile, Himson Novulu from Hornet Consultants PNG Limited, engaged in community mobilization said the project is progressing well and is currently about 50 percent into the drilling stage. Mr. Novulu said the first phase of drilling by WKB Drilling Contractors has been completed at Gelagela Health Centre, with drilling works now underway at Waterhouse Junior Memorial High School. He explained that stage two of the project has also commenced, focusing on training and awareness forward leaders so they can learn how to properly manage and maintain the water systems. Local youths will also be engaged to dig trenches to enable pipes to be laid from the boreholes and wells to bring water closer to families. He also stated that stage three of the project will involve the establishment of LLG WaSH Committees and Ward WaSH Sub-Committees, which will later be formally inducted to oversee the management and sustainability of the rural water supply system in their respective wards. “The project is particularly important for the Gelagela Resettlement communities, which experienced severe drought conditions in 2022, and are in urgent need for a reliable and sustainable water source.”

The Rabaul District Administration in the East New Britain province will continue to roll out its current projects and programs regardless of the recent fire tragedy that destroyed its main Administration Building on Thursday 26th of February 2026.In a recent meeting with the district public servants and its support staff, the District Administrator Mr. Freddy Lemeki, encouraged officers to still turn up to work and continue with respective sectoral programs or projects and other routine programs. “Rabaul District, we may be out but not out. Our office got burned down but our knowledge, skills, expertise, and experiences are very much alive,” Lemeki said. He said that while the old office will be under investigation by the National Fire Services and assisted by Provincial Disaster Office, officers will be using other buildings at the district headquarters for work. “Our sector officers will be temporarily occupying the new District Court House and Education Resource Centre while our Treasury team who also had their office partially burned will be using our new Archives Building.” He said that meetings will be conducted as scheduled and we will still progress with awarded projects and continue programs such as the District Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy. “Printing of cheques will not be affected as advised by our District Finance Manager; however, they will need the assistance of Provincial Treasury for the first two weeks to get us off the ground as some of their vital machines such as the server, cables and computers were looted by opportunists.” Meanwhile, the Member for Rabaul and Chairman of the Rabaul District Development Authority (DDA) Board Dr. Allan Marat, sympathized with the district administration for the tragic loss of government properties; however, assured officers to be positive. “What happened has happened and we cannot change it or continue reacting to the situation but work together and move forward in rebuilding the district headquarters.” Marat made these remarks during an urgent special DDA Board meeting conducted last Saturday which the main discussion was on the short- and long-term strategies of rebuilding the district administration and even considering safety measures. “Rabaul District we are resilient people and we will rise from the ashes. We did it during the 1994 twin volcanic eruption and will do it again.” The DDA Board resolved for the new district administration building to be built again at the district headquarters at Kurakakaul considering scientist predictions on future eruptions and ample land for development.

The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) welcomes the appointment of Chief Secretary Mr. Kearnneth Nanei as the new Chairman of Bougainville Copper Limited (BCL), succeeding Sir Melchior Togolo.The appointment follows a decision by the BCL Board announced today to the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX), confirming Mr. Nanei as Chair of the Board, effective immediately. Sir Melchior Togolo has stepped down as Chair but will continue to serve as a Director of the Company and Acting Chief Executive Officer. ABG President Ishmael Toroama today met with the BCL Board, together with Lloyds Managing Director and a Lloyds delegation, to discuss the way forward for the Panguna project and Bougainville’s mining sector. President Toroama thanked Sir Melchior Togolo for his leadership and for ensuring a smooth transition in the Chairmanship of the Company. The President also congratulated Chief Secretary Mr. Kearnneth Nanei on his appointment as Chairman of BCL and expressed confidence in his leadership. President Toroama further reiterated the ABG’s decision for Lloyds Metals to be the strategic partner for Bougainville Copper Limited, emphasizing that the proposed redevelopment of the Panguna Mine must proceed in a manner that serves the common interests of the people of Bougainville and contributes to the region’s long-term economic future. BCL and Lloyds Metals will enter into a Non-Disclosure Agreement and a Cooperation Agreement that will pave the way for Lloyds Metals to access the Panguna exploration tenement and the BCL data room, and to undertake various technical studies and exploration activities, including drilling, towards the potential redevelopment of the Panguna Mine. Both parties also acknowledged the importance of Panguna landowners as key partners in the redevelopment process and have agreed to roll out a comprehensive consultation program in partnership with the Autonomous Bougainville Government to ensure inclusive landowner engagement and participation moving forward. The meeting reaffirmed the shared commitment between the Autonomous Bougainville Government, Bougainville Copper Limited, and Lloyds to work collaboratively towards responsible resource development that benefits the people of Bougainville

The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) Ministry of Community Development has begun a two-day community engagement program which started today in Bove, Central Bougainville, to consult with local stakeholders on the proposed Bougainville Sports Academy.Minister for Community Development, Melvin Wilolopa, is leading the consultations as part of efforts to strengthen sports and youth development initiatives in Bougainville. The engagement program, which began yesterday and concludes today, provides a platform for consultation and dialogue with key stakeholders and supports community participation to ensure equitable and inclusive outcomes for sports and community development in Bougainville. “Development must begin with the people. Our role as government is to listen to the community, respect customary land rights, involve our people in decision-making and policy development that affects their lives; and ensure that our young people have opportunities to grow and succeed through initiatives such as the Bougainville Sports Academy,” Minister Wilolopa said. The consultations brought together government officials, chiefs, ward leaders, women’s representatives, youth leaders and members of the Bove community to discuss the proposed academy and ensure that landowners and community members are fully consulted before further steps are taken. “Engaging directly with our communities secures the right pathways for government policies to effectively reflect the needs and desires of the people.” “This also ensures our communities are proactive in addressing local challenges. We are empowering our people right at the grassroots level to participate in discussions and provide feedback directly to us. When we work together to identify issues and challenges during these consultations, we also work together through collaborative efforts to design the solutions we need to move development priorities forward.” “This is all done transparently, hand-in-hand with the people who have entrusted us to lead and serve, strengthening partnerships with our local communities,” said Minister Wilolopa. Officers from the Department of Community Development presented an overview of the proposed Bougainville Sports Academy, outlining its intended role in nurturing young talent, strengthening sports structures and creating opportunities for young people across Bougainville. The meeting was attended by Sports Coordinator Fabian Kotsin and regional sporting coordinators Donald Komoiki (South), Peter Kabui (North) and Gwen Kauva (Central), as well as representatives of Lloyds Metals and Energy, ward members, chiefs and community members from the Bove area. Minister Wilolopa also acknowledged the strong participation of chiefs, women, youth and community members, noting that their views will play an important role in shaping the direction of the proposed project.