The Government of Papua New Guinea has officially launched Agri-Connect in Goroka, Eastern Highlands, calling it a landmark initiative to implement the National Agriculture Sector Plan (NASP) 2024–2033 and advance the Marape-Rosso Government’s agricultural transformation agenda.The launch was attended by Prime Minister James Marape, multiple sector ministers, the Governor of Eastern Highlands, vice presidents from the World Bank and International Finance Corporation, representatives from AIIB and IFAD, the Business Council president, diplomatic representatives, commodity boards, development partners, and provincial leaders. John Boito, Minister for Agriculture described Agri-Connect as a central platform integrating value chains, infrastructure, biosecurity, institutional reform and digital innovation into a unified national framework. He highlighted PNG’s 50-year partnership with the World Bank noting that early investments in smallholder oil palm and rural credit programs laid the foundation for today’s focus on integrating farmers into global markets.Agri-Connect builds on previous initiatives like the Productive Partnerships in Agriculture Project (PPAP) and the PNG Agriculture Commercialization and Diversification Project (PACD), which have delivered measurable results:Supported over 60,000 smallholder households, benefiting nearly half a million Papua New Guineans. Rehabilitated and replanted over 3 million cocoa and 7 million coffee trees. Conducted nationwide mapping of coconut trees. Boosted cocoa production in East New Britain from 4,000 to nearly 12,000 tonnes, generating K418 million in foreign exchange with more than 80% going to farmers. Describing Agri-Connect as the “connective tissue” of NASP, Minister Boito said the platform aligns infrastructure, reforms, private sector engagement and finance under one strategy. An initial US$250 million will scale traditional commodities such as coffee, cocoa, spices and livestock while supporting emerging value chains like rice and livestock feed. The Minister emphasized that agricultural transformation requires a whole-of-government approach, including transport, energy, trade, and climate resilience. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening institutions alongside investment, recognizing the ongoing support of development partners. The launch of Agri-Connect marks a major milestone in PNG’s agricultural transformation, aiming for higher productivity, better market integration, and inclusive growth. “May God bless our farmers and our nation,” Minister Boito concluded.

A delegation from the Government of Papua New Guinea (PNG) recently participated in the Peer‑to‑Peer Learning Exchange on Multi‑Hazard Early Warning Systems, held in Port Vila, Vanuatu, from 23 to 25 February 2026. The delegation included representatives from the National Weather Service (NWS) and the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG), where the learning exchange brought together government officials from PNG, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Fiji, and the Kingdom of Tonga.The event was facilitated by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and funded by the Government of Japan under the project Strengthening Early Warning Systems in the Pacific. In PNG, the project has strengthened coordination among state and non-state actors involved in early warning systems and continues to provide technical and material support to local authorities and at-risk communities. Assistance includes the development of community early warning plans and systems that integrate disaster risk reduction, upgrades to emergency operations centers, and improvements to National Weather Service facilities to enhance the country’s multi-hazard early warning capabilities. Equipment supported through the project includes VHF two‑way radio communication for areas without mobile or internet coverage, localized weather stations, volcano monitoring equipment for Mount Balbi in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, and sea‑tide monitoring gauges. The project has also partnered with Digicel PNG to expand early warning broadcast messaging and television communications nationwide. Pacific island countries remain highly exposed to hydro-meteorological hazards such as tropical cyclones, floods, and droughts, as well as geophysical hazards including earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic activity. These events continue to drive economic losses, infrastructure disruption, and displacement, particularly in remote and rural communities. Under the Government of Japan–funded Early Warning System Scale‑Up in the Pacific, IOM is supporting PNG, Fiji, and Vanuatu to strengthen multi‑hazard early warning systems. The workshop brought together senior representatives from meteorological services, local government authorities, civil society organizations, and regional technical agencies to compare progress, identify gaps, and share lessons learned across the three countries. Participants worked to strengthen interoperability and institutional cooperation, deepen their shared understanding of the Early Warnings for All (EW4ALL) pillars and investment priorities, and engage in practical exercises on early warning, notification technologies, and emergency operations centre procedures. The workshop also discussed the development and implementation of country‑level action plans to accelerate the strengthening of multi‑hazard early warning systems. This regional exchange contributes to the broader EW4ALL goal of ensuring that every person in the Pacific is protected by an effective early warning system by 2027. The workshop’s overall objective was to enhance cross-country collaboration, technical capacity, and institutional coordination to accelerate the development of robust multi-hazard early warning systems in Fiji, PNG, and Vanuatu.

The Governor for Madang Province, Ramsey Pariwa, has reaffirmed that 2026 is a year of reset for the next 50 years in Madang under his leadership.Governor Pariwa reiterated his government’s focus for this year when he visited remote Brahman Catholic mission station situated in Ward 18 of Bundi LLG in Usino-Bundi Gama District on Tuesday, March 3rd where he delivered two cheques worth K20,000 each to both St. Pius Brahman Primary School and Brahman Health Centre respectively.The financial assistance to the two institutions in the remote mission station was done following commitments by Governor Pariwa made in 2024 when he officiated at a Brahman Rugby League tournament.Governor Pariwa told a crowd of people, mostly residents of the mission station including teachers, health workers, ancillary staff and local community and leaders that he has not yet fully implemented his programs and priorities in the last and previous years due to administrative impasse and that he would do it this year.Mr. Pariwa explained that only when the administration is in order and functioning well with all sector directors aligning their annual activity plans to the Madang Provincial Integrated Development Plan 2023-2027, then the province would be completely heading in the right direction.“I have not yet implemented all my programs and priorities. What I am doing recently to this date is attending to honour my commitments I've made during the impasse since 2023, and as a leader, I'm honouring my commitments,” Mr. Pariwa explained.He further clarified that in the last three years since he took office, he had to literally fight in the courts to fix issues in the provincial administration and clear out the mess created by the previous regime so that his government would focus on his programs and priorities which are contained in the Madang Provincial Integrated Development Plan 2023-2027.He further reiterated that for the first time after many years Madang Province has a new and official five-year development plan to set the course for development in the next fifty years.Meantime, Mr. Pariwa remarked that while he is attending to his commitment and delivering K20,000 or K50,000 financial assistance out of his PSGs to rural institutions in basic services such as education, health and economic activities in the province, certain individuals are criticizing him for hiring helicopters to attend to his people on electoral duties. He dispelled the critics stating that they must not be in pain, troubled or uneasy when he gets on a chopper and travel out to visit his people in remote places in Madang Province that have not been visited before and are in need of basic services.“As a leader I have the utmost duty and responsibility to visit all my simple and ordinary people of Madang who are in the remote parts of the province or wherever," he said.“It’s the people’s money I am using to go out and visit them and find out from them whether they are doing fine or not," he added.“I am not a person who spends more time in the office at Jomba or Waigani and pretend that everything is fine, I must tell you this,” he added.“90 per cent of my people are in rural settings and I must go and visit them, even if it means hiring a chopper, I must do it so that I know how my people are doing and getting along in life so that I can arrest and attend to some of their immediate, and perhaps urgent challenges they are facing at hand,” Mr. Pariwa said.He further clarified that there is administrative component of funds allocated purposely for logistics on electoral visit which he utilizes to get helicopters to travel out to see his people."If I don't go on electoral visits and see my people, then how could I know how my people are doing so that I could be able to attend to their immediate needs?" Governor raised a questioned.  "I must remain with my people and walk together with them in big or small ways and in good or bad times, even if it costs us," Governor answered. There was huge applause from the Brahman community in response to the bold remarks by Governor Pariwa.Brahman Ward 18 Member, Sokrum Camilus, expressed his gratitude and appreciation at Governor Pariwa for visiting Brahman mission station in Bundi Local Level Government (LLG) for the fifth time.“You are a very unique Governor who honours your commitments unlike previous governors,” Camilus said.“You coming today is the fifth and we are so honoured to have a leader who has the heart for his rural people and takes time to come and see us at where we are” he added.An official with the Teaching Services Commission, Kenneth Kalai, who was invited to travel with Governor’s delegation to Brahman told the crowd that what he observed on Tuesday where two heads of the province, particularly the Governor and his Deputy officiating at the same venue is so unique and history in itself.The Principal of St. Michael Brahman Catholic Secondary School, John Malangen, representing all the institutions at the station, appreciated the good work Governor Pariwa has done so far in improving the aging infrastructures at the mission station. “It goes to show that you have the passion to develop Madang Province,” the principal said.“I’ve been following you secretly on social media and I must admit, I admire your assistance to rural settings greatly," he added.“With your assistance to the education sector in rural settings, I see there is glimmer of hope for the children of Madang under your servant-leadership into the future,” Mr. Malangen stated.

The Secretary of Foreign Affairs Mr. Elias Wohengu, is strongly advising Papua New Guinea citizens to exercise cation and avoid travelling to the Middle East due to outbreak of war in the Gulf and Arab regions.He said many governments are unable to carry out any evacuation exercise at this point as all land borders and air spaces are closed and evacuation itself would be a security risk under the present war scenario. “Given the situation, governments of the region have issued humanitarian instruction to service providers to accommodate third country nationals who are stranded, including PNG citizens,” stated Secretary Wohengu. Meanwhile, Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko announced the temporary closure of the PNG Embassy in Jerusalem and all staff called to adhere to host country instructions to hunker down in bomb shelter following the State of Israel being at war with Iran and its proxies. “As soon as we are able to extradite or evacuate our diplomatic personnel when border and airspace open, PNG will relocate the operations of its embassy to the capital, Port Moresby,” said the Minister. In the meantime, relatives and friends of PNG citizens who are stranded in the Middle East are encouraged to contact the Department of Foreign Affairs through its State Protocol and Consular Division on telephone: 301 4115 or email: consular.affairs@dfa.gov.pg.

The Rookes Marine Preseason competition successfully concluded over the weekend at Laiwaden Oval, marking the end of weeks of competitive football action in Madang.The preseason tournament, which began on 14th February, featured a total of 29 men’s teams and nine women’s teams, highlighting the growing interest in football across Madang province.Among the participating sides were Panu 1 and Panu 2, teams made up of selected players who took part in the Governor’s LLG Cup hosted across the six districts of Madang Province. Following a three-day Madang FC trial at Laiwaden Oval, the management divided the selected players into two teams — Panu 1 and Panu 2 — to allow further screening and selection for the final Madang FC squad.Both teams were eliminated during the knockout stage of the competition.The men’s grand final saw Tusbab Blue Kumuls face Centers in a tightly contested match that ended in a penalty shootout. Tusbab Blue Kumuls secured victory with a 4–3 win on penalties after an intense battle on the field.In the women’s division, Nabasa defeated Tusbab Blue Kumuls 2–0 to claim first place in the Rookes Marine Preseason tournament.Madang Soccer Association President Siegfried Beschel thanked partners and sponsors for their continued support in developing football in the province and ensuring the success of the preseason competition.“Thank you to all partners and sponsors. Your support has helped us run a successful competition,” he said.He also extended his appreciation to club management, teams, referees, and members of the public for their contribution and support throughout the tournament.Captain of Tusbab Blue Kumuls, Ritchie Apisa, while receiving the first prize, thanked the Madang Soccer Association and Rookes Marine for their commitment to supporting football development in Madang.The Rookes Marine proper season is expected to commence later this month.

Redscar High School (RHS) in Porebada village in the Hiri Koiari District of Central province, has launched its 2026–2028 School Learning Improvement Plan (SLIP), outlining a three-year strategy aimed at strengthening academic performance and upgrading key infrastructure.The plan is a renewed commitment to improving learning outcomes for a school that has served communities along the Hiri West coastline for more than 40 years since its establishment in the 1970s.School Principal Mr. Paul Mitna said the SLIP is designed to drive meaningful change rather than serve as a routine policy document.  “This is more than just a document; it is a road map – our strategy to transform student learning in our school environment from 2026 to 2028.” The three-year plan focuses on seven priority areas, including staff professional development and major infrastructure upgrades to accommodate a growing student population. Implementation of the SLIP is expected to cost K4.4 million. Representing Central Governor Rufina Peter at the launch was the Acting Provincial Administrator Mr. Bala Kapa, who reaffirmed that education is a central pillar of the provincial government’s development agenda. Mr. Kapa said Governor Peter has aligned her focus on Integral Human Development with the National Government’s Vision 2050, stressing that progress depends on collective support.  “Our good Governor, in her wisdom, has linked her priority of Integral Human Development to the National Government’s Vision 2050.” “But that vision cannot be realized without proper support, from the national and provincial governments, from teachers, from parents, and from the churches who continue to work hard in changing mindsets.” On behalf of Governor Peter, Kapa announced a K3 million commitment towards the implementation of Redscar High School’s SLIP program. “The funding has already been allocated in the 2026 budget, and the budget has been presented to the Minister for Treasury and once endorsed, drawdown will be made for the schools infrastructure development needs in line with their Three (3) Years SLIP program.” Acting Provincial Education Advisor Marybrenda Kasokason challenged the school community to take full ownership of the plan, emphasizing accountability and shared responsibility. “Once we launch this SLIP today, it becomes ours — and ours for good for the next three years.”The ceremony concluded with the formal presentation of the three-year development plan to Mr. Kapa. The document was handed over by the school’s Head Boy and Head Girl in the presence of Mrs. Kasokason, symbolizing student leadership and a shared commitment to the future of Redscar High School

Madang Province has successfully completed its Under-16 trials and is now preparing to participate in the upcoming OFC Under-16 tournament in April.The province concluded its trials and final matches over the weekend at Laiwaden Oval, selecting players who will advance to the next stage of preparations for the regional competition.Susan Watpore, PNGFA Women’s Development Officer and U16 Women’s National Team Coach, confirmed that 10 players from Madang have been selected to attend further trials in Lae to finalize the Under-16 squad.“So far, 10 players have been selected to go for further trials in Lae,” she said.Watpore explained that Lae had already completed its trials, selecting 12 players, while Port Moresby and Madang wrapped up theirs yesterday.She said the Under-16 girls' team will compete in the OFC National Tournament in Port Moresby in April, which Papua New Guinea will host. The tournament is significant, as it will determine qualification for the second leg of the competition to be held in the Solomon Islands in September.Watpore expressed satisfaction with the strong turnout of players, parents, and teachers who showed their support during the trials. She encouraged parents and teachers to continue supporting their children’s involvement in sports.She also urged parents to ensure their children’s personal documents, including NID cards and passports, are prepared in advance.Watpore further emphasized that players who do not make the final selection should remain committed to training and development. She highlighted the need for Madang to establish a Centre of Excellence to nurture young talent and strengthen future selections.“This is about building the future of women’s football in the province,” she said.

A K1 million funding from the National Fisheries Authority (NFA) specifically designated for landowners’ mobilization and conducting of the socio-economic survey in the Pacific Marine Industrial Zone project in Madang province has not been used and is still kept at the Madang Provincial Treasury Office.The Provincial Fisheries and Marine Resource Division of the Madang Administration has come out to clear the air and brushed aside allegations on the misappropriation of the K1 million NFA funds since it went viral on social media last weekend.Assistant Director of the Provincial Fisheries and Marine Resources Division in the Madang Provincial Administration, Greg Serar has formally come out to set the record correctly following false and misleading information being circulated on social media.Mr. Serar clarified that the expenditure report which was published on social media is the recurrent expenditure of the Division of Fisheries and Marine Resources and has the consent of the Provincial Administrator as Section 32 Officer, since the division is administering the PMIZ Project and it is not NFA funds.“As the Assistant Director of the Fisheries and Marine Division I have the visibility of all the recurrent expenditure” he explained.Mr. Serar has set the record straight in stating that a K1 million was allocated by the Madang Provincial Government as a recurrent for the general administration of the PMIZ Project. These funds are correctly managed under 28320001 92227 account with the Madang Provincial Treasury.He further stated that the NFA Funding of K1 million specifically designed for Landowners Mobilization and Conducting Socio-economic survey in the five PMIZ impact communities is still there at Treasury and managed under 28320001 03 227.“As of this date the NFA funds have not been misused or misappropriated,” Mr. Serar stated.He also clarified that the NFA representative Mr. Presley Kokweiye, who is a member of the Task Force Team for the PMIZ Project Steering Committee is fully aware that funds are secure and yet to be spent.He further stated that official verification by NFA and the PMIZ Project Steering Committee on NFA’s K1 million funding has guaranteed that the fund is safe and had not been used. Furthermore, the Task Force Team has engaged an independent auditor to monitor and manage the NFA funds and other grants for the PMIZ project.Mr. Serar clarified that the K1 million counterpart funding from the Madang Provincial Government for the PMIZ awareness and socio-economic survey follows the launching by the Provincial Member and Governor for Madang, Hon. Ramsey Pariwa on December 7, 2025, to ensure legitimate landowners participate in the PMIZ project.Mr. Serar stated strongly that the spreading of false allegation is a serious matter that disrupts a vital national project. It is recommended that an official investigation be launched to identify the individuals responsible for creating and sharing this misinformation.He further stated that legal action would be taken pursuant to the Cybercrime Code Act 2016 on individuals spreading false and defamatory information online. These alleged can face penalties including fines of up to K25,000 or imprisonment for up to 15 years.

Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL) will host its 4th Annual Charity Golf Challenge on Friday, 6th March at the Lae Golf Club, reaffirming its commitment to supporting cancer treatment services in Papua New Guinea.Held in recognition of World Cancer Day, observed in February, the event aims to raise funds for the purchase of essential chemotherapy drugs for the National Cancer Services Unit at ANGAU Memorial Hospital in Lae city. Acting Managing Director, Dr Luke Liria, said the annual tournament continues to provide meaningful support to patients and families affected by cancer. “Cancer touches every family in some way. Many of us have witnessed loved ones and friends face this illness — some overcoming it, while others have sadly lost their battle,” Dr Liria said. “This charity challenge provides an avenue for organizations that may not be able to directly assist the Cancer Unit to contribute to a cause that impacts so many lives.” Chairman of the Morobe Provincial Health Authority, Mr. David Wissink, acknowledged KPHL’s ongoing partnership and the tangible difference it makes to patient care. “Chemotherapy treatment is expensive, and the Cancer Unit relies heavily on external funding to secure essential medications,” Mr. Wissink said. “KPHL’s continued support ensures a steady and reliable supply of chemotherapy drugs, enabling us to deliver urgently needed treatment to our patients.” Mr. Wissink also expressed appreciation to participating teams and sponsors who return each year to support the initiative. In addition to the annual golf challenge, KPHL recently funded the installation of radiation therapy equipment at the National Cancer Services Unit at ANGAU Memorial Hospital, including a brachytherapy unit commissioned in 2024, further strengthening cancer treatment capacity in the country.

Community Rugby League (CRL) officers from the Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) have completed an intensive coaching education workshop delivered in partnership with the National Rugby League (NRL), reinforcing efforts to build stronger grassroots rugby league programs across the country.The session was conducted at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby city and facilitated by NRL Community Lead – Education Development Manager, Ross Antoniolli. Unlike traditional coaching clinics that focus primarily on drills and techniques, this workshop centred on improving facilitation skills and coaching approach. Participants examined practical strategies for delivering structured, inclusive, and engaging sessions that can be adapted to both school and community environments. Mr. Antoniolli said the initiative is aimed at ensuring development officers are equipped not only to run programs, but also to mentor and guide volunteer coaches. “Strong community rugby league programs depend on confident and capable coaches,” he said. “By strengthening how coaching courses are delivered, we create better learning environments for volunteers and ultimately better experiences for players.” He encouraged the CRL team to reflect on their current methods and explore innovative ways to incorporate the new strategies into upcoming clinics and outreach activities. PNGRFL CRL National Game Development Manager Mr. Nigel Hukula said the workshop provided valuable insights into improving consistency and quality across all development programs. “Our officers were reminded that effective sessions require planning, adaptability, and a clear focus on participant needs,” Mr. Hukula said. “Whether working with young students or community groups, sessions must remain safe, enjoyable, and purposeful.” He added that CRL officers continue to work closely with registered associate schools, delivering fundamental rugby league skills programs and pathways for students who wish to further their participation. This season, PNGRFL is broadening its reach to include schools not currently involved in the formal schools’ league competition but interested in structured development programs. Schools across the Northern, Southern, New Guinea Islands, and Highlands regions are encouraged to connect with their regional Game Development Officers for further information.

The Government of Papua New Guinea is actively tracking developments surrounding tensions involving Iran, Israel and the United States, with close attention to how the situation may affect international fuel markets and the domestic cost of living.Prime Minister James Marape said, Papua New Guinea remains vigilant as volatility in global oil supply chains has the potential to trigger imported inflation, particularly in fuel and essential goods sourced from overseas. “We are monitoring global developments carefully and responsibly,” the Prime Minister said. “Should fuel prices exceed sustainable levels, or if imported food costs begin placing pressure on families and businesses, the Government stands ready to step in.” He noted that a significant portion of the world’s oil supply moves through critical international shipping routes, and any disruption could quickly drive prices upward across global markets. “Fuel underpins every sector of our economy — from transportation to electricity generation and food distribution,” he said. “If prices rise to extreme levels, we are prepared to introduce targeted subsidies to shield households, businesses and essential services from destabilizing impacts.” Prime Minister Marape emphasised that Papua New Guinea has previously demonstrated its ability to respond decisively to external economic shocks. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government implemented temporary support measures to stabilise supply chains and maintain food distribution between key centres, including Lae and Port Moresby. He confirmed that similar targeted interventions — particularly on fuel — would be considered if verified inflationary pressures threaten affordability or broader economic stability. The Prime Minister also reiterated that subsidies on 13 essential household items remain in place to help cushion families from rising living costs. At the same time, he underscored that long-term resilience depends on strengthening domestic production and reducing reliance on imports. “In uncertain global conditions, buying local is one of the strongest actions we can take as a country,” he said. “Papua New Guinea has the capacity to feed itself.” He encouraged greater consumption of locally grown staples such as sweet potato, taro, yam, banana, cassava and sago, highlighting their affordability and nutritional value. He also pointed to emerging local rice production in areas including Rigo as a positive step toward reducing import dependence. The Prime Minister added that ongoing improvements in road connectivity between agricultural regions and urban markets are enhancing food distribution and reinforcing national food security. “Our land is fertile and productive,” he said. “Supporting our farmers keeps money within our economy, strengthens rural communities, and protects our nation during global uncertainty.” Prime Minister Marape assured citizens that should global tensions intensify and economic pressures mount, the Government will implement additional measures to safeguard stability and help the country navigate what may become a challenging international economic environment.

The National Airports Corporation (NAC) has officially reopened Wewak (Boram) Airport following a comprehensive safety and security risk assessment.The temporary closure, which was imposed to address identified risks, was lifted at 4:00 PM on Sunday, 1st March 2026. NAC in a statement confirmed that the decision to resume operations was made after management was satisfied that all safety and security risks had been appropriately addressed. The airport has met all necessary aviation security and aerodrome certification requirements. Recent incidents that led to the airport’s closure have prompted investigations by the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) and the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF). The law enforcement agencies have apprehended suspects in connection with the unlawful activities. Police and PNGDF personnel will continue to patrol the airport perimeter and surrounding areas to ensure the safety of the airport and its operations. The Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), issued on Saturday, 28th February 2026, which had announced the temporary closure, was officially rescinded following the completion of security measures. "Airlines have been informed of the reopening and will conduct their own operational and safety assessments before resuming flights into Wewak," the NAC stated. Passengers are advised to contact their respective airlines directly for confirmation of flight schedules. NAC has expressed its gratitude to the police, PNGDF, local authorities, airline partners, and the Wewak community for their cooperation and support during the closure.