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.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) has been chosen to play host to the EAP Regional Qualifiers next month.The International Cricket Council (ICC) has confirmed that Papua New Guinea will host the Under 19 Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifying event for the East Asia Pacific (EAP) Region.Five teams will compete in the tournament, with the winning team earning qualification to the ICC Under 19 Women’s T20 World Cup to be held in Nepal and Bangladesh in January 2027.The qualifier will take place at Amini Park in Port Moresby from 8 April through to 13 April 2026.Participating teams include Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Samoa, Vanuatu and Indonesia.PNG’s Under 19 Women’s team, the Siales, are currently undergoing a rigorous training program led by Cricket PNG Head Coach and High-Performance Manager Tim McCaskill, alongside recently appointed Siales Coach Jason Kila. Chairman of Cricket PNG, Mr. Michael Harrison, confirmed that hosting rights have now been signed and preparations are well underway to ensure the grounds are ready and all logistics are in place for the arrival of visiting teams. “This is an exciting tournament for Cricket PNG as we show once again that PNG can host international events to the exacting requirements of the ICC. We will be working with the PNG Sports Foundation and NCDC to ensure the event precinct is ready to welcome the ICC officials and the four visiting teams.”

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape is expected to commission today the 132kV Highlands Transmission Line at the Keltiga Substation in Mt Hagen city, marking a major milestone in strengthening Papua New Guinea’s national electricity grid and improving power reliability across the Highlands region.The commissioning ceremony will take place at Queen’s Park in Mt Hagen, followed by the technical commissioning at the Keltiga Substation with the event hosted by PNG Power Limited, Kumul Consolidated Holdings and the Ministry for State Enterprises. The Highlands 132kV Transmission Line forms part of a major national grid investment that began in 2018 and has progressed through several phases before reaching its commissioning stage in 2026. The project upgrades the historic 66kV transmission corridor to a modern 132kV high-voltage backbone, allowing the system to transmit larger volumes of electricity across the Highlands with improved reliability and reduced technical losses. Prime Minister Marape said the commissioning represents an important step in the Government’s efforts to modernize the national electricity grid and expand reliable power access to more Papua New Guineans. “This project strengthens the backbone of our national electricity system and brings more stable, reliable and affordable power to our Highlands provinces. Reliable electricity is essential for economic growth, business development, and improving the quality of life for our people,” Prime Minister Marape said. The transmission corridor runs approximately 189 kilometres from Mt Hagen to Tari, supported by around 448 transmission towers across challenging highland's terrain, and includes the construction and upgrading of key substations at Keltiga, Kaupena/Pauanda, Mendi (Tindimi), and Tari (Wabia).  The project also includes a Tari–Hides extension of approximately 40 kilometres, enabling the integration of gas-powered generation from the Hides area into the Highlands electricity grid.  Overall investment in the Highlands grid backbone exceeds PGK 1 billion, with financing arrangements including concessional support from the Export–Import Bank of China and counterpart funding from the Government of Papua New Guinea. Prime Minister Marape said the upgraded transmission corridor would deliver wider economic benefits to the Highlands region. “Reliable electricity will support hospitals, schools, small and medium enterprises, agricultural processing and major resource developments across the Highlands. It also strengthens our national energy security and lays the foundation for future power generation projects, including hydropower and renewable energy investments. “Our government is not only investing in roads through the Connect PNG programme, but also in other key enabling infrastructure such as electricity, ports, telecommunications and water systems that are essential to supporting economic growth and development across our country.” The Prime Minister noted that the Highlands grid upgrade forms part of a broader national effort to strengthen Papua New Guinea’s electricity generation and transmission network across the country. He acknowledged the support of the Government of Japan through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for the Ramu Transmission System Reinforcement Project valued at over K200 million, which strengthens the critical Yonki–Lae transmission line supplying electricity to Morobe Province and the country’s industrial hub. He also highlighted the Government’s direct investment in expanding electricity supply to the National Capital District, including a K120 million Government contribution towards the 132kV transmission line connecting the 54-megawatt Edevu Hydropower Project in Central Province to the Port Moresby grid, significantly improving power reliability for Port Moresby. Prime Minister Marape added that these investments are part of the Government’s long-term strategy to build a stronger national power system capable of supporting economic growth, industrial expansion and improved living standards for Papua New Guineans. He added that the project contributes to the Government’s broader national goal of achieving 70 percent household electricity access by 2030. Prime Minister Marape also acknowledged the cooperation of landowners and provincial governments along the transmission corridor and recognized the partnership with the People’s Republic of China and engineering contractor TBEA in delivering the infrastructure project. “Major infrastructure projects such as this require strong partnerships and cooperation from all stakeholders. I thank our landowners, provincial leaders, development partners and project teams who have worked over many years to bring this important project to completion.” The Prime Minister said the commissioning of the Highlands 132kV Transmission Line demonstrates the Government’s commitment to strengthening national infrastructure as part of Papua New Guinea’s long-term economic transformation.

It was the first time an awareness program on sorcery accusations and domestic violence was brought to Mushu Island in the East Sepik province last week.PNG Tribal Foundation conducted its screening program, Senisim Pasin, a community outreach initiative through documentary screening, last Friday in Sup Village. The event saw more than 60 villagers, both young and old turn up in large numbers. Many described the program as eye-opening and expressed their gratitude for the opportunity, PNG Tribal Foundation President GT Bustin and his team screened the documentary Senisim Pasin, which focuses on shifting cultural mindsets and encouraging greater value and appreciation for women and gender equality. The screening sparked meaningful discussions during an open forum that followed, with many participants describing it as an eye-opener. Esther Numbos from Sup Village, a mother of two children aged 14 and 18, raised concerns about the increase in drug abuse and law-and-order issues in the village. She said many parents have failed to prioritize education for their children. “The film shows that we stop our daughters from furthering their education because we believe they belong at home looking after families,” Esther said. Rodney Maiet said it is now up to the youths to take responsibility to shift their mindset and start making the right decisions, rather than resorting to violence whenever rumours arise. Sup Village Chief Vincent Kamboge thanked PNG Tribal Foundation for bringing the program to the community, saying such opportunities have been needed for a very long time. A Wewak CID officer who attended the screening said documentary awareness programs are new to many communities but are very important in helping locals change their mindset. He added that such programs are also valuable for police awareness. He also thanked the Foundation for raising awareness about the Glassman Act 2022, noting that many people were unaware that such a law exists to hold perpetrators accountable.

More than 100 locals recently attended an awareness program on the Glassman Act conducted by PNG Tribal Foundation on Mushu Island, East Sepik Province.The session focused on educating communities about the provisions of the law under the Criminal Code Act, particularly the penalties for sorcery accusation–related violence, false claims of practising sorcery, spreading rumours, and engaging in ritual activities that may incite violence. PNG Tribal Foundation President, GT Bustin, led the full-day session, explaining the interpretation of the law, legal consequences, and the responsibility of individuals to refrain from actions that could endanger innocent lives. Mr Bustin stressed that the law clearly holds accountable any person who spreads rumours, falsely labels others as “glassman” or “glassmeri,” hires individuals to perform rituals, or incites violence against suspected persons. Community members openly shared their concerns during the session. Village elder Mr. Tobias Mandieng said that while he currently moves freely in his community, he fears that rumours or jokes accusing him of practicing sorcery could one day lead to violence against him. “I am a good man, but one day I could be labelled a sanguma because someone spreads rumours,” he said. Another community member who previously claimed to be a “poison man” confessed publicly that he would cease such activities to avoid future conflict, acknowledging the risks associated with such claims when deaths occur in the community. Patric Koncung also spoke, saying many people are suspected of practicing sorcery without evidence. “I am thankful for this awareness. If someone is suspected, the matter must be reported to police instead of people taking the law into their own hands,” he said. Community members acknowledged that while cultural beliefs exist, the law of Papua New Guinea must prevail. They agreed that anyone involved in violence, attacks, killings, or destruction of property in relation to sorcery accusations will face legal consequences. Youths at the gathering pledged to work closely with PNG Tribal Foundation and to report cases of disorder and lawlessness to police rather than resorting to violence. PNG Tribal Foundation continues to work with victims of SARV, police, court officials, community leaders, politicians and individuals to further address the issue in the communities.

The people of East Sepik province will soon see the construction of a new road link to ease the movement of people and goods.This is road project is the Wewak- Angoram Road along the Sepik Coastal Highway, which comes under the National Government’s Connect PNG Programme. It covers an 87km section from Passam Junction to Angoram Station. The contract is valued at K382, 517,799.41, inclusive of 10% GST, and will be fully funded by the National Government. The duration of the contract is 48 months. The National Executive Council (NEC) has approved to award the contract to China Railway Construction Engineering Group (PNG). Company representatives Mr. Sam Jia and Klaus Jiang signed the contract before the Governor General and witnessed by Secretary of Department of Works & Highways Mr. Gibson Holemba. Member for Angoram and Minister for Forest, Salio Waipo attended the contract signing ceremony at Government House in Port Moresby city this week.

National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop on Tuesday 3rd March officially launched the Trade Union Congress Workshop on the Elimination of Violence in the Workplace, a landmark initiative supporting the city’s broader efforts to end Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Papua New Guinea.The launch coincides with International Women’s Day 2026, highlighting the importance of creating safe and inclusive work environments for all, particularly women and young workers. The workshop, organized in collaboration with the Papua New Guinea Trade Union Congress and other key stakeholders, aims to equip workers, employers and community leaders with the tools and knowledge to prevent workplace violence, hold perpetrators accountable and raise awareness about the risks faced by vulnerable groups. It emphasizes the need for proactive measures, advocacy programs and strong legal frameworks to protect workers from harassment, exploitation, and abuse. Governor Parkop commended PNGTUC for its leadership in championing this initiative, noting that while many workplaces already have anti-harassment policies, these protections are often limited to individual organizations. He stressed the need to expand these policies across all sectors, creating a national standard to ensure zero tolerance for workplace violence and harassment. “We already have workplace policies that address harassment, but they are often confined to specific organizations. It’s time to expand these protections across all sectors and make them a national standard,” Governor Parkop said. He also highlighted the role of leadership at home in preventing GBV. “Leadership starts in the home. If a person is found to be abusive—whether it’s a man towards a woman or vice versa—there must be consequences. Changing our national mindset starts with how we address violence in our own homes,” he added. The workshop provides a platform for workers, employers, and government officials to come together to promote dignity, respect, and equality in the workplace. Participants will engage in sessions covering preventive measures, reporting mechanisms, legal protections and advocacy strategies to create workplaces free from violence and harassment. Governor Parkop concluded by urging all participants to take the lessons learned from the workshop back to their organizations and communities, reinforcing a culture of safety, respect and accountability. “This is more than a workshop; it is a movement to ensure that every worker can perform their duties without fear and that our workplaces reflect the values of fairness and equality that our nation upholds,” he said. The TUC workshop marks a significant step forward in uniting workers, employers and government leaders to create safer workplaces, strengthen policies and empower individuals to stand against violence in all its forms, contributing to a more just and equitable Papua New Guinea.

The Yawan Primary School is fighting to keep its doors open as high transport costs and isolation threaten education in this remote community.The school is only accessible by chartered aircraft via a small rural airstrip. There are no roads linking the village to other parts of the Kabwum district in Morobe province.Head teacher Albert Stanley said the school relies entirely on air transport. Flights are used to bring newly appointed teachers, building materials, school supplies, and professional development resources. Large sums of money are spent on charter flights, which are limited by freight capacity.There are no regular flight schedules. Delays in plane availability often push back the start of the school year when teachers cannot reach the school on time.Communication is also a challenge. Mobile phone coverage is poor and unreliable.The school faces a shortage of Standard Based Curriculum materials, leaving both teachers and students with limited resources.Geography makes attendance difficult. Children walk long distances, cross rivers, and climb steep mountains. During bad weather, travel can be dangerous.Health and banking services are almost non-existent. Families cannot access clinics locally or use bank cards.Infrastructure development is hampered by the reliance on air transport. Building permanent classrooms and staff houses is difficult. Support from the district and Local Level Government is limited.When teacher positions are vacant, classes are combined. Government tuition fee subsidies provide basic resources, while the district education office assists with professional development and school operations.Despite these challenges, the community remains committed. Parents maintain bush material classrooms, provide garden food for teachers, and organize clean-up campaigns. Local leaders meet regularly to discuss school matters.

Special Olympics Papua New Guinea (SOPNG) has congratulated 52 youths and athletes who successfully completed its recent three-day Call for Volunteers Batch III Training.The final day opened with Sports Director Sophia Tuna outlining the various sporting codes offered by SOPNG and highlighting pathways for volunteer involvement. Youth Leader Tenahlee facilitated an interactive session on Youth Activation Projects, guiding participants through group discussions to develop project ideas that can be implemented by athletes and their unified partners. Meanwhile, fellow Youth Leader Antonette delivered training on safeguarding, focusing on athlete protection and wellbeing during SOPNG activities, while Shonaye Leslie conducted a public speaking session aimed at building participants’ confidence and communication skills. Participation certificates were presented by Mr. Henry Vuia, Director Training, Innovation and Research at the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, alongside the SOPNG President. The newly trained volunteers and athlete leaders are now set to actively engage in SOPNG programs over the next 10 months.

The Bank of South Pacific (BSP), in partnership with the Simbu Provincial Health Authority (SIPHA), recently launched a new ATM at the Sir Joseph Nombri Memorial Kundiawa Provincial Hospital on Wednesday 4th March.The ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by BSP Group General Manager Retail, Ronesh Dayal, and attended by key BSP and SIPHA leaders, including Jonathan Harvey, BSP Group Executive for People and Culture, and Herman David Nime, SIPHA Board Chairman. The new ATM is expected to improve access to banking for hospital staff, patients, and the local community. Both BSP and SIPHA emphasized the importance of this partnership in supporting provincial development and community well-being. The initiative aligns with BSP’s broader commitment to extending financial services across Papua New Guinea, particularly in rural areas.

Prime Minister James Marape has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to boosting downstream processing and value addition in Papua New Guinea’s agriculture sector.During a visit to the Las Malo Coffee Factory in Goroka, Eastern Highlands Province on Tuesday, 3 March 2026, the Prime Minister highlighted the importance of moving away from exporting raw commodities towards local processing, branding and stronger market positioning. The Las Malo facility, supported under the PNG Agriculture Commercialization and Diversification (PACD) Project with backing from the World Bank, contributed about two per cent of the country’s total exports in 2025. Mr. Marape said while PNG produces some of the world’s finest coffee, more value must be retained locally through processing, packaging and direct market engagement. He commended the factory’s management and staff for creating jobs, supporting farmers and strengthening Eastern Highlands’ position as a leading coffee-producing province. The Prime Minister stressed that agriculture remains key to the government’s economic transformation agenda under the National Agriculture Sector Plan 2024–2033, aimed at improving productivity, formalizing smallholder participation and increasing export earnings. He added that coffee supports hundreds of thousands of livelihoods and improving the sector will help strengthen rural incomes and build a more resilient economy. Mr. Marape also reaffirmed ongoing collaboration with the Coffee Industry Corporation, provincial governments, development partners and the private sector to deliver real outcomes for farmers. He encouraged young Papua New Guineans to see agriculture as a modern and commercially viable industry, with opportunities across agribusiness, logistics, export marketing and manufacturing. The Prime Minister concluded by calling for stronger partnerships across the sector to grow PNG’s premium coffee presence in global markets while increasing returns to local communities.

Urugen Primary School located in the inland of North Karkar, Madang Province has been granted K30,000 to improve its education infrastructure through the Sumkar Education Infrastructure Grant program. The funding was presented in a ceremonial event held recently, at the school, with Sumkar Acting District Administrator Mathias Awagasi handing over the dummy cheque to the school's Board of Management. The event was attended by key figures, including District Finance Manager Geoffery Talia and Sumgilbar Education Inspector Wargem Wargem. This presentation marks Awagasi’s first as the duly appointed District Administrator for Sumkar. In his speech, he emphasized the district's commitment to strengthening educational infrastructure, particularly for schools in remote areas. “This grant demonstrates our dedication to ensuring that inland schools, like Urugen Primary, are not left behind in-service delivery.” He also called on the school board to make the best use of the funding for the benefit of the students. In his remarks, Sumgilbar Education Inspector Wargem Wargem underscored the importance of responsible fund management. He issued a strong warning to the Board of Management, stressing that the K30,000 should be spent strictly for the intended infrastructure improvements. Board Chairman Francis Nugur, representing the school community, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Sumkar District Development Authority for their generous support. “On behalf of the school, staff, students, and the Urugen community, we sincerely thank the SDDA for this funding. It will help us improve our facilities and create a better learning environment for our children.” He also emphasized the importance of Urugen Primary School in catering to a significant number of students from large villages in the inland of North Karkar, Waskia. Nugur also announced the upcoming commissioning of a new double classroom, which will be facilitated by the Member for Sumkar, Alexander Suguman Orme, in the near future. He assured the district that the school board would ensure the project’s implementation would be transparent and efficient.