The Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL) Board expressed satisfaction with the progress of the new Cancer Facility and the National Heart Centre at the Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH). However, concerns were also raised with regards to other infrastructure initiatives by the company.Successful Progress at PMGH Cancer and Heart Facilities. Scheduled for opening next month, Kumul Petroleum has invested K10 million to support the completion of structural works on the Cancer Facility, including the foundation works for two cancer bunkers.This success is directly attributed to the direct participation of the Port Moresby General Hospital management and Board, combined with the oversight of construction by an independent Project Manager. Once operational, the Cancer Treatment Facility will improve access to lifesaving cancer treatment services within PNG, reducing the need for patients to seek costly treatment overseas.During a site visit facilitated by PMGH Chief Executive Officer Paki Molume and his team, KPHL Chairman Isaac Lupari, board director Jacob Anga, and acting Managing Director Luke Liria inspected the progress and visited the Kumul Petroleum National Heart Centre.Chairman Lupari emphasized that these healthcare investments align with national development strategies, echoing the company's broader efforts such as committing over K50 million to restore the Cardiac Centre at the Port Moresby General Hospital.KPHL’s investment in the National Heart Centre (Cardiac Unit) has already improved the nation’s capacity to diagnose and treat cardiovascular diseases, which is one of the leading causes of deaths in PNG. Concerns, Forensic Audit, and Path Forward for the Surgical Theatre Project In sharp contrast to the collaborative success of the cancer and health facilities, the Board addressed severe concerns regarding the Surgical Ward project.The Surgical Ward project was separately managed by a group of external project managers, and according to KPHL and the Hospital Management Team, had no control or oversight. Furthermore, the PMGH management and decision-making team had no direct role in the design and construction of PMGH. Despite the lack of local governance, the project incurred millions of funds belonging to the people, reaching almost K70 million.Despite the substantial investment, there is no visible development on the ground. Consequently, the Board expressed huge disappointment in the manner KPHL had managed the project. A forensic audit has been conducted under the direction of the Trustee and Government.The findings of the audit will be scrutinized, and appropriate actions will be instituted to recover the money and ensure accountability. Recognizing that the surgical ward is a vital part of the hospital operation, KPHL will reexamine the scope, design, funding and execution architecture of the project with a view to salvaging this critical project.

Kina Bank’s women’s volleyball team, Koble, has secured its fourth consecutive Women’s Premier Division championship in the Port Moresby Corporate Volleyball Competition (POMCVC) after defeating Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) 3-1 in the Grand Final on Sunday, August 9th, 2026.The latest title continues Team Koble’s strong run in the competition and caps off another successful season for the team, which competed alongside 19 corporate teams in the Premier Division.Koble progressed to the Grand Final after defeating Denton’s in the final round and overcoming the Department of Education in the Preliminary Final.Koble Captain Juliet Daton-Oala said the team’s latest championship was the result of commitment, teamwork and the support they received throughout the season.“Winning our fourth consecutive title is a proud moment for all of us. We worked hard as a team, stayed committed and supported each other throughout the competition.”“We are grateful for the support from Kina Bank and proud to represent the Bank on the court.”The achievement reflects Koble’s continued commitment to teamwork, discipline, and excellence, while strengthening Kina Bank’s presence in the corporate volleyball competition.

Vice President of the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG), Hon. Ezekiel Masatt, has formally assumed responsibility as Minister for Fisheries, following a minor cabinet reshuffle as part of the Government’s broader repositioning exercise. Vice President Masatt was formally presented with a handover Report from outgoing Fisheries Minister Hon. Amanda Masono recently. The Vice President said the transition would be managed in a way that maintains continuity and protects the progress already made under Minister Masono’s leadership.Minister Masono retains responsibility for the Ministry of Climate Change and will remain involved in Fisheries during the transition period to support continuity and the completion of ongoing work. Vice President Masatt said this approach was necessary because significant work had already been undertaken by Minister Masono and the Fisheries Department, and it was important that this work was not disrupted. He said the arrangement was intended to ensure continuity while the Government addressed a number of outstanding issues within the ministry. “Whilst things have changed, things have also remained the same,” the Vice President said, adding that Minister Masono would continue to have visibility over the ministry and work with him on key issues". Vice President Masatt stressed that the arrangement was temporary and that the Government would review the situation once key targets had been achieved. He also acknowledged the contribution of Minister Masono during her tenure, noting that she had introduced greater discipline and a different approach to the management of the ministry.As part of the transition, Vice President Masatt has directed the Fisheries Department to provide, within seven days, a complete list of all permanent and casual employees within the department, including an audit of all department assets and properties. The measures are intended to strengthen accountability, improve oversight, and provide the Government with a clear understanding of the ministry’s workforce and assets.Vice President Masatt also highlighted progress already made on fisheries policy and legislation, saying the Government intends to introduce fisheries legislation by September to strengthen Bougainville’s authority and capacity to manage the sector. “By September, under my stewardship, I’ll be bringing the legislation, the fisheries legislation that requires Bougainville to now exercise many of the things that we’ve not been able to exercise.”The Fisheries Ministry realignment is part of the ABG’s broader efforts to strengthen government administration, improve accountability and advance the institutional and legislative foundations required for Bougainville to exercise greater powers and responsibilities.

Two major tribes in Wara Kar, Banz, North Waghi Electorate in Jiwaka Province have surrendered their illegal firearms to Kumul 23 and the State on Saturday 15th August 2026.The Wara Kar community, included members of the Komblo and Takipkanem tribes, took a major step toward peace when they voluntarily surrendered their firearms at Banz Police Station under the Kumul Peace and Gun Surrender Programme.The surrendering of these weapons signifies commitment to peace, reconciliation and a safer Jiwaka for all.These tribes were known for tribal tensions and firearms; thus, this is a bold step into ending possession of illegal firearms. Through the Kumul Programme, the Wara Kar community has made it clear that they now choose peace over violence, law and justice over retaliation, and protection of lives and properties over tribal wars. The Kumul Peace and Gun Surrender Programme encourages communities in conflict-affected areas to voluntarily hand over their illegal firearms and ammunition. The goal is to reduce the number of weapons that fuel tribal violence, retaliation, and loss of life.With the nationwide guns amnesty period set to end on September 16th this year, Jiwaka Province has set August 31st as deadline for those within the province.The call is being made to all Jiwaka citizens who possess illegal firearms to surrender them to police during this Kumul Peace and Gun Surrender Programme.

The Rural Electrification Project is making steady progress in the redevelopment of the Gagidu township in Finschhafen District, Morobe Province. The Rural Electrification Project's 600 meters of Cherry Cable stringing completed, the four Stay Logs all installed already, and the thirty-four (34) Power Poles have all been erected. This work is part of the broader effort to strengthen electricity access and supporting infrastructure in Gagidu as the township continues to develop.Gagidu is the administrative and service centre of Finschhafen and already hosts a PNG Power generation facility. The station has undergone major investment, including a K67 million Australia-supported power infrastructure upgrade which was announced in 2021, aimed at improving the reliability and sustainability of electricity supply in Finschhafen.In March 2025, PNG Power also commissioned a new generator at Gagidu, further strengthening the district's electricity generation capacity.The current distribution works — including the erection of poles, installation of stay logs and cable stringing — are therefore an important part of turning generation capacity into usable electricity connections for communities, public facilities and businesses.Reliable electricity is more than just power. It means better conditions for schools and health facilities, stronger business activity, improved public services, greater investment opportunities, and a township better positioned for future growth.For Finschhafen, the vision is bigger than individual projects."We are building the infrastructure platform needed to support Gagidu Township's redevelopment and the long-term economic transformation of the district."34 poles up. 600 metres of cable strung. Another step closer to a brighter Gagidu.

The Sanctuary Hotel, Port Moresby and the Pang Family have officially stepped into the ring with professional boxer John “The Ring Monster” Ume, becoming his first commercial partner in Papua New Guinea.Under the partnership, The Sanctuary Hotel will serve as Ume’s dedicated accommodation base whenever he is in Port Moresby — providing a quiet, secure environment for recovery, training preparation, and strategic meetings with his management team.The agreement also extends to Rapopo Plantation Resort in East New Britain for future training visits.Ume emphasised the importance of a peaceful environment in his performance and recovery, stating a good rest away from distraction plays a vital role in his recovery after a hard training or a big fight as he thanked The Sanctuary Hotel and the Pang Family for the partnership. “A good rest away from distractions plays a vital role in my recovery after hard training or a big fight, "Ume said. "Peace of mind and comfort help me stay focused on my goals." He expressed his gratitude to the Pang Family and welcomed them into his growing supporter network – “The Monster Squad.” “I am incredibly grateful to Sir James Pang, the Pang Family, and everyone at The Sanctuary Hotel for their support. I look forward to enjoying your beautiful hotel. Welcome to The Monster Squad,” Ume said.The Sanctuary Hotel General Manager, Isabelle Pang, said the partnership reflects the hotel’s commitment to supporting PNG’s elite athletes.“We are proud of the hospitality and comfort we offer our guests, and excited to become the official PNG accommodation partner for one of our professional athletes. Everyone needs a place to rest well before an important task or relax after a tough challenge, and we trust our support will assist John on his journey.”She added that Ume’s achievements continue to inspire Papua New Guineans, “John has inspired many through his performances as an elite athlete and now as a professional fighter. We are proud that he has chosen The Sanctuary Hotel and Rapopo Plantation Resort as his official accommodation partners in PNG.”Zenith Sports and Event Management, Ume’s commercial management team, also acknowledged the significance of the partnership and a major contribution to John’s welfare, helping prepare him mentally and physically, says Mr. Chris Tanner, Head of Zenith Sports and Event Management.“With the Pang Family’s long association with professional combat sports through former MMA World Champion Adrian ‘The Hunter’ Pang, they understand what elite athletes need. We thank them for supporting The Ring Monster.”Ume will return to Australia on 17 August to continue preparations for the BX-9 Welterweight Championship Final, where he will face Hamze Perwaisey on 3 October in Auckland, New Zealand. Perwaisey replaces Riley Allan, who withdrew due to injury. 

Thailand Women have defeated the Papua New Guinea Lewas by 40 runs in the second One Day International (ODI) at Amini Park on Saturday.After winning the toss, the Lewas elected to bowl first and restricted Thailand to 191 all out in 47.3 overs through a disciplined bowling performance.Thailand captain Naruemol Chaiwai led from the front, scoring a well-made 61 from 74 deliveries, including four boundaries. She received valuable support from Nannapat Khoncharoenkai, who scored 35 from 41 balls, while Chanida Sutthiruang contributed a brisk 28 from 32 deliveries and Phannita Maya made 25 from 52 balls.Thailand struggled to build sustained partnerships as the PNG bowlers continued to strike at regular intervals. Chaiwai helped steady the innings, but her dismissal with Thailand on 184 triggered the final collapse, with the last two wickets falling at 188 and 191.PNG’s bowling attack was led by Pauke Siaka, who produced an outstanding spell of 4-18 from 9.3 overs, including three maidens. Sibona Jimmy also impressed with 3-28 from nine overs, while Isabel Toua, Henao Jean Thomas and Dika Lohia claimed one wicket each.Chasing 192 for victory, the Lewas' innings got off to a difficult start when Thailand’s Maya struck twice early, removing Hollan Doriga and Naoani Vare.Maya continued to trouble the PNG batting order, finishing with excellent figures of 3-16 from seven overs. Brenda Hoi Tau and Tanya Ruma were also dismissed cheaply, leaving the Lewas under significant pressure.PNG attempted to rebuild through Kevau Frank and Siaka. Siaka contributed 21 from 22 balls, including three boundaries, while Frank made seven from 35 deliveries.The middle order provided greater resistance, with Sibona Jimmy top-scoring for PNG with 32 from 55 balls, including three fours. Henao Jean Thomas battled through for a valuable 35 from 70 deliveries, with one boundary.Isabel Toua added 15 from 29 balls before being caught and bowled by Sunida Chaturongrattana. Dika Lohia made seven, while Buruka Vicky remained unbeaten on two as the final PNG wicket fell in the 46th over.The Lewas were eventually bowled out for 151, including 13 extras comprising seven leg byes, four wides and two byes.Maya and Thipatcha Putthawong led Thailand’s bowling attack with three wickets each. Putthawong finished with 3-34 from eight overs, while Onnicha Kamchomphu claimed 2-34 from 10 overs. Chaturongrattana and Sutthiruang took one wicket each, with Sutthiruang particularly economical, returning figures of 1-10 from five overs, including two maidens.Thailand’s 40-run victory have all but secured the ODI tri series 2 - Nil. PNG will need a much better plan to get a win in the final match Monday 17th August.

The Autonomous Region of Bougainville warmly welcomed His Eminence Luis Antonio G. Cardinal Tagle, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization and Special Envoy of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, who arrived in Bougainville on Friday 14th August 2026 for the 125th Jubilee Anniversary of the Catholic Diocese of Bougainville. Cardinal Tagle was accompanied by His Excellency Archbishop Maurizio Bravi, Apostolic Nuncio to Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands, and Rev. Fr. Lawrence Arockiaraj, General Secretary of the Catholic Bishops Conference of PNG and Solomon Islands. The delegation was welcomed at Buka Airport by an ABG delegation including ABG Member for Tsitalato Constituency, Hon. John Bosco Ragu; ABG Minister for Community Development and Public Service, Hon. Melvin Wilolopa; Regional Member for Bougainville, Hon. Peter Tsiamalili Junior; Bishop of the Bougainville Diocese, Darius Kaluza; and ABG Heads of Departments.The delegation later paid a courtesy visit to ABG President, His Excellency Ishmael Toroama, at his residence in Buka. President Toroama warmly welcomed the delegation and thanked them for gracing Bougainville with their presence for the historic 125th Jubilee Anniversary of the Catholic Diocese of Bougainville.

Prime Minister James Marape has directed the National Gaming Control Board (NGCB) to verify serious public allegations concerning payments and the alleged unauthorised use of his name, saying any evidence of improper or unlawful conduct will be referred to police for investigation.Prime Minister Marape said he had become aware of allegations circulating publicly concerning former NGCB trustee Mr. Steven Temo and payments reportedly associated with the organisation.“I have written to the National Gaming Control Board and asked them to verify these allegations and establish whether the payments being referred to were actually made, to whom they were made, the basis upon which they were made, and whether all proper processes were followed,” Prime Minister Marape said“I do not go down to the operational level of government agencies and statutory bodies to direct individual payments, contracts or transactions. These organisations have their own management, boards, processes, and legal responsibilities."“Many people use my name, or claim to be acting on my behalf, when dealing with government departments, agencies and businesses. Let me make it absolutely clear that nobody has authority to use my name or the Office of the Prime Minister to obtain payments, contracts, preferential treatment or personal benefits."“If anyone claims that the Prime Minister has directed a payment or transaction, that claim must be verified through the proper channels and against official records.”Prime Minister Marape said the NGCB had been asked to establish the facts surrounding the allegations, including whether payments were made and whether they complied with applicable laws, policies and approval processes.“If the NGCB establishes that improper payments were made, or if there is evidence suggesting wrongdoing, then I will ask police and other appropriate authorities to investigate all persons involved,” he said. “No individual will be protected because they claim to know me, work with me, come from my electorate or province, or have political connections. “The law must apply equally to everyone.” Prime Minister Marape also clarified that Mr. Temo is no longer a member of the NGCB trust. “Mr. Temo is no longer a member of the trust,” he said. “People appointed to positions of public trust are there to serve Papua New Guinea.They must conduct themselves lawfully, ethically and in the national interest. “Appointment to public office is not a license to use public resources, political connections or the names of leaders for private benefit.”Prime Minister Marape cautioned against treating allegations circulating on social media as established facts before they had been properly investigated.“Serious allegations have been made publicly, but allegations are not evidence, and they must be verified,” he said. “That is why I have asked the NGCB to check its records and establish the facts."“If the allegations are false, the facts should clear those who have been wrongly accused. If the allegations are supported by evidence, then the appropriate authorities must deal with those responsible according to law.”Prime Minister Marape said his government does not tolerate and would not tolerate corruption, illegal payments, abuse of office or the misuse of public funds. “We do not tolerate and would not tolerate illegal practices,” Prime Minister Marape said. Public money belongs to the people of Papua New Guinea, and every kina must be accounted for and used for its lawful and intended purpose.“I expect the NGCB and all government agencies to maintain proper records, follow lawful processes and cooperate fully with any investigation that may arise from these allegations.”Prime Minister Marape said the same standard applied across government, "If anyone is using my name to solicit money, secure contracts, influence payments or gain benefits, I want that exposed,” he said.“Those appointed to public office must work for the country through lawful conduct. Where there is evidence of wrongdoing, let the law take its course.” 

Australia Awards is supporting Papua New Guinea agriculture professionals to strengthen agricultural trade and help local products reach domestic and international markets.Through a recent short course delivered by the University of Queensland in collaboration with Pacific Adventist University, around 30 professionals from across government and industry came together to explore practical ways to create new opportunities for farmers, businesses, and exporters.With more than 85 percent of Papua New Guineans relying on agriculture for their livelihoods, the sector remains vital to food security, rural incomes, and overall economic growth.By building stronger partnerships and targeting improvements in logistics, supply chains, and export systems, Australia and PNG are advancing their shared interest in expanding agricultural trade.Papua New Guinea Biosecurity Authority representative Mr. Douglas Siuta highlighted the value of collaboration across the sector.“This course is helping us understand how the whole system fits together and where we can work more closely,” Mr. Siuta said.“I will take these lessons and connections back to my organization so we can contribute to real improvements.”Building on two earlier short courses and a study tour to Australia, the program is strengthening a network of local professionals equipped to link producers with markets more effectively.Australia, through Australia Awards, remains committed to investing in PNG’s institutions and supporting local leaders to turn shared priorities into long-term progress.

The Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA) has successfully concluded a four-day women’s football development programme in Wewak in the East Sepik province, bringing together teachers, community volunteers, women and girls through football, education and life-skills activities.The programme, held from August 6 to 9 in partnership with the Wewak Football Association (WFA), featured the Oceania Football Confederation’s (OFC) “This Is How We Football” Capacity Building Training, followed by the PNGFA Women’s Football Festival.The two-day capacity-building training attracted 17 participants from Wewak town and surrounding schools and communities. Participants were equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to deliver the “This Is How We Football” programme within their own communities.The OFC initiative uses football as a platform to empower girls aged 13 to 18 through education, leadership and life-skills development. Training sessions used FIFA and OFC educational resources and focused on four key areas: gender empowerment, life skills, health, and safety and gender-based violence prevention.The programme culminated in the PNGFA Women’s Football Festival on August 9, which brought together approximately 100 girls from Wewak and surrounding communities.Beyond football activities, the festival reinforced key messages from the capacity-building sessions, encouraging teamwork, confidence, inclusion and leadership among participants.PNGFA Executive Committee Member and Women’s Representative Cathy Agunam also joined the Women’s Football Development team in Wewak, supporting the programme and engaging with participants and members of the local football community.The programme was facilitated by PNGFA Women’s Football Development Officer Susan Steven, Social Responsibility Manager Christine Wamala-Uru and Social Responsibility Programme Coordinator Sonia Embahe, with support from PNG Women’s National Football Team Assistant Coach Edna Thomas.Embahe said the programme demonstrated the important role football can play beyond the playing field.“Football has the power to bring people together while creating opportunities for learning, empowerment and personal growth,” she said.She said the strong participation in both the training and festival showed there was significant interest in using football to create positive opportunities for women and girls.“By building the capacity of teachers and community volunteers, we are creating local champions who can continue delivering these important messages within their schools and communities,” Embahe said.“Our goal is to ensure more girls have access to safe spaces where they can build confidence, develop leadership skills and learn valuable life lessons through football.”The partnership between the PNGFA Women’s Football Development Team and the Wewak Football Association reflects a shared commitment to expanding opportunities for women and girls to participate in football while promoting gender equality, health, safety and respect within communities.PNGFA also acknowledged WFA President Judith Kumasi and her executive management for their hospitality and support in helping ensure the successful delivery of the programme.The Wewak programme further demonstrates PNGFA’s commitment to using football as a tool for positive social change and community development, while strengthening local capacity so more women and girls can benefit from the sport both on and off the field.

Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL) has invested more than K500,000 to support five licensed out-of-home care centres providing shelter, care and protection for vulnerable and disadvantaged children in Papua New Guinea.The national petroleum and energy company provides support to five centres licensed by the National Office of Child and Family Services (NOCFS).They are Born Free Foundation and 3-Mile New Hope Centre in the National Capital District, St Mary’s Home for Vulnerable Children and Bible Faith Outreach (BFO) in Western Highlands Province, and St Francis Care Centre in Mendi, Southern Highlands Province.KPHL has raised funds for the centres through its annual Port Moresby Charity Golf Challenge since 2022.Last year’s tournament raised more than K150,000 through the participation of 40 teams, corporate sponsorships and auction proceeds. The funds have since been distributed among the five care centres.Born Free Foundation, Bible Faith Outreach and St Francis Care Centre each received K40,000, while St Mary’s Home for Vulnerable Children received K30,000 and 3-Mile New Hope Centre received K20,000.KPHL Acting Managing Director Luke Liria said the company was proud to support the Government’s Vision 2050 by investing in initiatives aimed at improving the lives of vulnerable children.He said supporting children to grow up in safe and nurturing environments was consistent with the Government’s commitment to ensuring that no child is left behind.“Through our partnership with the National Office of Child and Family Services and the gracious support of the business community that participates in our Charity Golf Challenge, we are helping to ensure these children are not forgotten,” Mr. Liria said.He said investment in the children’s wellbeing, education and future would contribute to stronger communities and a more inclusive and prosperous Papua New Guinea.Mr. Liria also acknowledged the founders and caregivers at the centres for opening their homes and dedicating their time to caring for children who are orphaned or come from abusive and difficult family environments.“Only a person with a kind and patient nature can do that,” he said.Since KPHL began supporting the centres, Born Free Foundation has received K115,000, 3-Mile New Hope Centre K45,000, Bible Faith Outreach K140,000, St Mary’s Home for Vulnerable Children K90,000 and St Francis Care Centre K140,000.St Francis Care Centre founder Rebecca Rami said the latest funding would help complete the centre’s girls’ dormitory, which has been constructed with financial support from KPHL over the past three years.Meanwhile, Bible Faith Outreach founder Rosa Kepo in Mt Hagen said funding received from KPHL had enabled the organisation to construct a boys’ dormitory, which is now occupied by the children.Mr. Liria said KPHL would continue to seek support from the business community, with the next Charity Golf Challenge scheduled for November this year.He said the company looked forward to continued participation and support from businesses in raising funds for the five care centres.