The Central Provincial Government (CPG) has partnered with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) to deliver a major education infrastructure project for Sabusa Primary School in Hiri-Koiari District, reinforcing a long-standing collaboration between the Church and communities across Papua New Guinea.The partnership was formalized with the presentation of a K350,000 cheque to developer Najala Properties. The funds have already been deposited by the Central Provincial Government into the contractor’s account to commence works on the K2.4 million project. The development will see the construction of a three-unit, four-in-one double-storey classroom block, accommodating four classrooms (two on each level) designed to meet modern standards of safety, durability and functionality. Each classroom will include an integrated teacher’s office and cater for up to 40 students. The project also includes additional facilities such as offices, a residential home for a school board member, and a bore water system. The bore will supply the school and provide fenced external access points for Sabusa residents, improving access to clean water for the wider community. Central Governor Rufina Peter described the initiative as timely and strategic, noting Sabusa has been earmarked as the future seat of government for Central Province. “We are very happy for the Church to bring us on board.” “I would especially like to thank the Church for its work in developing faith through service delivery and education.” “One of my key pillars since taking office is developing human resources.” She said the project would be transformative for the rapidly growing population of Hiri-Koiari. Church Regional Humanitarian Coordinator for Welfare and Self-Reliance Bret Dandoy outlined the project’s funding structure, confirming staged payments to contractor Najala Builders from the Church, Central Provincial Government and the Hiri-Koiari District, whose contribution is expected in March. Acting Provincial Administrator Bala Kapa called on all stakeholders to work closely with customary landowners to ensure smooth implementation. “We must partner with the landowners and work together for the benefit of everyone.” The Sabusa Primary School project is expected to take six to eight months to complete.

The Kokopo City Boundary Committee headed by the Chairman and former Kokopo City Mayor, Albert Buanga, recently completed two weeks of the Proposed Kokopo City Boundary General awareness program.The general awareness started off on the 26th of January and ended on the 6th of February 2026 which targeted 19 wards within the Kokopo District administration in East New Britain province (ENBP). These wards include Malakuna 5, Rainau, Taui 1, Taui 2, Ramale, Bitagalip, Ulagunan, Vunabalbal, Bitarebarebe, Vunamami 1, Vunamami 2, Karavi, Balanataman, Ulaulatava, Malakuna 4, Tinganavudu, Takubar, Kabakaul and Ranguna wards that the proposed Kokopo City Boundary covers. The main purpose of the awareness was to do close consultation with wards and their ward members as well as getting local knowledge on the different types of land available in their respective wards whether it be freehold, customary, state or plantations. The two-week awareness saw much feedback from locals that were raised. Many landowners claimed that their blocks of land have no proper titles. The alarming issue identified and even raised, was the land disputes between different parties and have led to ongoing fights and even death in wards. Another issue identified was the Integrated Land Group (ILG). Many locals in the wards visited, said their customary lands have no ILG certificate or have not been formally registered claiming that the barrier was the ILG process of which many of them are not sure of. In response to the ILG query raised, provincial customary lands officer Henry Pinuana, stated that the problem many land groups faced in getting their ILG registered is because of the trend of recruiting private consultants for a quicker way of getting their ILG’s registered but many ended up spending a lot of money and the outcome is always negative. Mr. Pinuana stated that the Lands division have process to apply for and ILG certificate and even getting the ILG registered, however, it is the people that make the choices and end up blaming the Provincial Lands Office. In complementing the awareness program, Kokopo Open Member Ereman ToBaining Junior, said that the awareness will be an ongoing program and the first leg of it has been done during the first two weeks. He added stating that the expansion of Kokopo City will not take place on the sea or up in the air but will take place on land in which land is life, therefore, in order for the town to expand without disputes, landowners must be well informed. “That is why the Lands sector and the Lands division through the provincial lands office, will play a vital role in assisting landowners to get their available land surveyed and title in preparation of the city expansion." ToBaining further added that all untitled land must be titled so that when the government moves in with development, the very people to benefit will be the rightful landowners because their titled land will now be ready to partner with the government in terms of the city expansion. He also mentioned that the expansion of Kokopo City will be unique from Port Moresby, Lae and Mt Hagen. “As it is, no land grabbing, only municipal services will be expanded to all the wards captured in the city boundary and people will enjoy doorstep service” said ToBaining. He says more wards consultations will continue with rightful landowners because the expansion of Kokopo as the 4th city and the tourism hub of Papua New Guinea, depends entirely on land and because 97% of land in PNG is customarily owned, the city expansion will take time and proper consultations and planning with landowners is a must. Moreover, this is first step into establishing a good working relationship with the local people in th wards that the proposed city boundary will run through. ToBaining also urged landowners to stop the sale of land whereas selling their land, is selling their birth right. Meanwhile, chairman of the City Boundary Committee Albert Buanga, also made it clear during the awareness that the main purpose of the awareness was to let people know of the city expansion and the proposed city boundary that will run through the above-mentioned wards. “This awareness is all about close consultation with wards and getting proper feedback on land, land use and other issues within wards, it is not land- grabbing as many claimed.” Mr. Buanga also stated that due to rumours heard, the awareness is not a political move thou Kokopo MP Mr. ToBaining is supporting the program because he was the one who presented the Bill in 2015 in parliament for Kokopo to be the 4th City of PNG. He added that Kokopo town at the moment cannot cater for its growing population, therefore, the town needs to expand. That is the reason the committee was established in 2024 to carry out proper awareness and consultations within wards so that people are well informed of the current developments taking place in Kokopo City and ENBP as a whole. Furthermore, the successful completion of the awareness saw the teamwork from the provincial and district lands office, community development sector, district information unit, city boundary committee and the Kokopo open members office. The awareness team is now working on the second detailed awareness program including all interested stakeholders from both the public and private sectors.

Special Olympics Papua New Guinea recently concluded its first activity for 2026 with a three-day Volunteers Batch III Training beginning on Feb 14th at Sir John Guise Stadium, bringing together 42 participants to strengthen inclusive sports delivery nationwide.The capacity-building program engaged 28 youth volunteers and 22 athlete leaders, equipping them with the skills, knowledge and understanding needed to support Special Olympics activities and promote inclusion through sport. Sessions covered athlete health and safety, inclusive communication, and practical tools such as basic sign language for engaging with Deaf or non-verbal athletes. Special Olympics PNG also acknowledged the ongoing support of parents, guardians, siblings and teachers, whose encouragement enables athletes to participate and thrive in inclusive sport programs.

The Governor of East New Britain, Michael Marum, handed over a new administration bus to Kerevat Rural Hospital in Gazelle District of late, strengthening transport capacity to support rural health service delivery.Governor Marum stated that reliable transport remains one of the greatest operational challenges facing rural health services, directly affecting outreach programs and access to care in remote communities. “Transport remains one of the biggest operational challenges in rural health services. When mobility is limited, outreach clinics are delayed and communities miss out on essential care.” “This bus will improve efficiency and ensure services reach our people.” He repeated that health remains a key priority of the East New Britain Provincial Government, emphasizing that sustained investment in frontline services is essential to building strong and productive communities. He also acknowledged the ongoing partnership with NGIP Agmark, commending the company for its continued support to health and development initiatives across the province. “Strong partnerships between government and the private sector are essential in delivering practical and meaningful outcomes for our people.” “We appreciate Agmark’s commitment to East New Britain.” The Governor urged hospital management to maintain the vehicle properly and ensure it is used strictly for health operations and outreach programs.

The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) wishes to clarify recent developments around Bougainville Copper Limited (BCL), its partnering process, and the redevelopment of the Panguna mine project. Firstly, the ABG formally announces that Bougainville now holds a confirmed 72.9% shareholding in BCL, comprising 36.45% shares held by the Autonomous Bougainville Government and 36.45% shares held by Bougainville Minerals Limited. This makes Bougainville the clear and controlling majority shareholder in BCL. Hon. Ishmael Toroama, MHR, President and Minister for Mining & Petroleum reiterated that as majority owner, the ABG is fully entitled under applicable corporate law to determine the strategic direction of the company in the best interests of the people of Bougainville. With regards to the BCL and Panguna process, the ABG operates in two distinct capacities: 1. As Regulator under the Bougainville Mining Act; and 2. As Majority Shareholder in BCL. President Toroama clarifies that the developments involving BCL, CMOC, and Lloyds Metals and Energy Limited (LMEL) are occurring strictly at the shareholder level. There are no breaches of the Bougainville Mining Act 2015 and no regulatory issues. “These shareholder decisions do not alter the fact that BCL remains the lawful holder of Exploration Licence EL01 over Panguna.” “There are no two competing redevelopment arrangements. BCL, as EL01 license holder, remains responsible for implementing its approved work program and complying with all statutory obligations.” These include land access and compensation agreement implementation, landowner identification studies, social mapping studies, geological and engineering studies, environmental baseline studies, and other compliance requirements under the Mining Act. However, it must be acknowledged that BCL does not presently have the technical or financial capacity to advance EL01 activities independently. Toroama added that BCL has proposed the introduction of CMOC as a partner to provide funding and technical capability; that proposal would have resulted in approximately a 20% dilution of Bougainville’s majority shareholding. However, the President and the Bougainville Executive Council have rejected that proposal. Instead, the ABG has endorsed the engagement of LMEL as a partner to provide the necessary financial and technical resources to progress EL01 activities. This decision is lawful and consistent with the ABG’s authority as the confirmed majority shareholder of BCL. It is also important to clarify that recently referenced Panguna redevelopment timelines are not timelines for mine production. “Panguna remains at the Exploration Licence (EL01) stage, the President’s comments on timelines relate specifically to increasing Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS) and Feasibility Study (FS) on-site activities under the EL01 exploration license.” The ABG remains committed to ensuring that the redevelopment of Panguna proceeds in a lawful, transparent, and orderly manner, delivering lasting benefits for the people of Bougainville.

The Road Traffic Authority (RTA) has stopped all cash payments for traffic offences, Acting Chief Executive Officer John Avira announced in a media statement on Monday, 16 February 2026.Mr. Avira said cash fines will no longer be collected by RTA or police at roadblocks, roadside checks or RTA offices. The directive takes effect immediately and applies to all Traffic Enforcement Officers nationwide, including both RTA and police traffic officers. “Any road user served a Traffic Infringement Notice (TIN) by an RTA or police Traffic Enforcement Officer must use the EFTPOS machines provided at the road-check,” Mr. Avira said. He clarified that if no EFTPOS machine is available at the roadblock, motorists must take the issued TIN to an RTA or police traffic office to make payment using an EFTPOS machine. “In either case, there must be no cash payments, and the road user must insist on a payment receipt showing the amount paid and when it was paid,” he emphasized. Mr. Avira said the directive follows social media allegations that some motorists were being fined in cash without being issued TINs or official receipts. “Road users must know their rights,” Mr. Avira stated. “Anyone whose rights are infringed by any RTA and police traffic officer through forced cash payments must note the name of the TEO and the time and report the matter to the Officer-in-Charge at the RTA office.” He further warned that any officer found soliciting money under the guise of enforcing traffic regulations will face serious disciplinary action, including possible termination of employment.

The Governor of East New Britain, Michael Marum, recently presented a 40-horsepower school boat to Kabilomo Junior High School in the Duke of York Islands of Kokopo District, assisting in transport access for the island school community.Governor Marum said the provision of the boat represents a major milestone for Kabilomo, where sea transport remains the primary means of travel for students and teachers. “For island schools like Kabilomo, transport is essential. This boat will ensure safer travel for students and teachers and improve access to education.” Governor Marum acknowledged and thanked the Agmark Group for its continued partnership and support to East New Britain Province, particularly in the education and health sectors. “Agmark continues to demonstrate strong corporate leadership and commitment to the development of our province.” “Their partnership in supporting education and health initiatives is greatly appreciated.” He also acknowledged the contributions of the Member for Kokopo, the President of Duke of York LLG, Ward Member for Kabilomo, Goliath Robin, School Board Chairman and Head Teacher Joe Robin, and the teaching staff for their leadership and collaboration in delivering the support to the school. Governor Marum reaffirmed that education remains a key pillar of the Provincial Government’s development agenda, noting that investments in school infrastructure and services directly improve attendance, academic performance and long-term outcomes for students. He encouraged students to make good use of the new boat and remain committed to their studies, describing them as the future leaders of the Duke of York Islands and East New Britain Province.

The recent visit by the Provincial Member and Governor for Madang Province, Ramsey Pariwa, to Lalok Primary School in ward seven of Astrolabe Bay Local Level Government (LLG) in Rai Coast District has somewhat open the flood gates for a number of significant financial assistance to the school. Governor Pariwa was at Lalok Primary School last Thurday, February 12 to deliver a K20,000 cheque following a commitment he made last year during a community gathering at Lalok Village.After delivering the cheque last Thursday to the head-teacher, Sand Robin, the Governor also pledged to assist with another K30,000 to the school this year.Upon the Governor's announcement, the newly elected President of Astrolabe Bay LLG, Garry Kulonga, wasted no time in announcing a commitment of K50,000 assistance to the school.Governor Pariwa at the occasion also told the people that he has appointed Mr. Kulonga as Chairman of Education Sector in the Provincial Executive Council. The significant part of the occasion was when the Provincial Education Director, Alphonse Igag, announced an undertaking to the head-teacher, Sand Robin, that Lalok Primary School would be included in the tuition fee free (TFF) subsidy this year.Mr. Igag assured that the TFF subsidy assistance would eventuate at the second quarter of this school year. The TFF subsidy assurance drew huge applause from the crowd who gathered to welcome the Governor. Mr. Pariwa also presented a K10,000 assistance to the Lalok Sports Association.He encouraged youths to turn away from drugs, homebrews and lawlessness and turn to sports to keep themselves occupied. He even urged the youths to continue playing soccer and select a side to participate in the Governor's Cup soccer tournament where scouts would be moving around to select players to the Madang Football Club.

Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP) recently marked Valentine’s Day with a special appreciation event, “Cupcakes with BbP,” celebrating its long-standing partnership with Nasfund and recognizing the fund’s continued support through office space and governance facilities for the organization.The event highlighted Nasfund’s contribution, particularly in 2026, as BbP has recently relocated its head office to a new space at The Face Building in Downtown Port Moresby — a site that previously housed the organization. The visit also provided an opportunity for the Nasfund team to meet BbP’s head office staff and gain insights into the organization’s day-to-day work supporting early childhood literacy across the country. Nasfund has provided office space to BbP since 2010, alongside access to meeting and conference facilities for board engagements. BbP says this support has played a critical role in strengthening its operational capacity, enabling its head office team to oversee the delivery of early childhood education programs, manage administration, develop educational content and coordinate learning centres nationwide. BbP also acknowledged its Board Treasurer, Tamzin Wardley, who serves on the Nasfund Board, noting that her guidance has further strengthened the organisation’s governance and accountability. A stable and supportive working environment remains essential for BbP to deliver quality programs for children. The organization said Nasfund’s long-term support has allowed it to focus on improving literacy outcomes through early childhood education. Since its establishment in 2007, Buk bilong Pikinini has supported more than 15,000 children through its learning centres across the country. The provision of office space since 2010 has been a key enabler of this growth, allowing the organization to expand sustainably into communities in need. BbP expressed gratitude to Nasfund for the longevity of the partnership and its reaffirmed commitment in 2026. The Valentine’s Day event symbolized appreciation, shared values and the importance of long-term collaboration in achieving meaningful social outcomes in Papua New Guinea.

Health authorities in Morobe Province have reported a sharp rise in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) cases, starting at the end of 2025 and peaking in early January 2026.Weekly reports showed the highest number of cases in epidemic week #2, causing concern among healthcare workers and the public. Rumours circulated on WhatsApp and through word of mouth about deaths from cough and shortness of breath, but investigations found no confirmed cases. From 8–13 January 2026, samples collected from Buimo, Bulolo, Butibam, Malahang, Mutzing, Taraka and Situm Health Centres confirmed Influenza Type A with the H3N2 subtype. Out of 27 samples sent to the Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research (PNGIMR), 12 tested positive, with two more cases from medivac patients from Siassi Island. Healthcare workers reported that this H3N2 strain seemed particularly strong, leading to higher demand for medical supplies. In January alone, 15 emergency supply orders were sent out, more than in previous years. Over the past three years, influenza strains in Morobe have varied. In 2023, Type B (Victoria lineage) was detected in Salamaua. No samples were submitted in 2024. In 2025, Type A (H1N1) was found in Erap and in 2026, Type A (H3N2) was confirmed in six health facilities and on Siassi Island. The Lutheran Church Synod gathering on Siassi Island from 13–23 January 2026 showed the impact of influenza at large events. Over 436 locals and 235 church delegates were diagnosed with ILI. Five delegates developed Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) but all survived after medical care. One person with influenza-like symptoms died from pre-existing conditions. Patients received timely care at Angau Hospital and were discharged for home management after stabilization. The surge was not caused by COVID-19. Health facilities had limited medical supplies and PPE and public awareness of the seasonal nature of influenza was low. The elderly, especially those over 50, were most affected. Influenza remains a serious public health concern in Morobe. Like COVID-19, it spreads through the air and can severely affect older adults and people with existing health conditions. Authorities recommend keeping patient records to track severe cases and deaths, testing samples during each influenza surge, running ongoing public awareness programs, ensuring PPE availability, following infection control procedures at public gatherings and maintaining weekly surveillance to track trends and prepare responses. Health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and urge communities to stay aware and take preventive measures to reduce the impact of seasonal influenza.

A sum of K214 million held in a trust account was recently successfully frozen by the police in light of suspicion of corruption and money laundering.The money believed to be rightfully belonging to the people of the Western province was about to be moved into subsidiary accounts when upon intelligence, police moved in to freeze the trust account. This move by police has been commended by Prime Minister James Marape, who described the action as a major step forward in the government’s ongoing fight against corruption. The Prime Minister confirmed that police obtained a court stay order under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) to prevent the transfer of the funds. “I want to commend the police for acting swiftly and decisively. From the reports I have received, this K214 million belongs to the people of Western Province, and police have successfully stopped it from being transferred or dissipated,” Prime Minister Marape said. He said the onus is now on those holding the account to explain the source and purpose of the funds. “Police have informed me that those involved have six months to account for the money — where it came from, why it is being held, and for what purpose. If the court is not satisfied, the funds will be recovered and returned to their rightful beneficiaries,” he said. The restraint order was secured under the Proceeds of Crime Act, Papua New Guinea’s principal legislation for freezing, seizing and forfeiting assets suspected to be derived from criminal activity, including corruption and money laundering. The POCA framework allows law enforcement agencies to act swiftly to preserve suspected proceeds while investigations and court processes are ongoing, preventing funds from being concealed, transferred offshore, or dissipated. Police investigations indicate that the restrained funds were held in a professional trust account and were at risk of imminent movement into subsidiary accounts, triggering urgent action to preserve the money pending further examination. Under POCA provisions, the restraint does not determine guilt, but ensures that funds remain secured while authorities establish whether the money constitutes proceeds of crime and whether forfeiture proceedings should follow. If the court ultimately determines that the funds are state monies or proceeds of unlawful activity, the legislation provides for recovery and forfeiture to the State, with potential prosecution of individuals involved— including professionals entrusted with managing such accounts — where breaches of the law are established. Prime Minister Marape emphasized that the fight against corruption is not a one-off event, but a sustained process that requires long-term investment in law enforcement capability.

The Rookes Marine Pre-Season Tournament will officially kick off this weekend following the official draws held today at Laiwaden Oval in Madang.The draw was conducted by the General Secretary of Madang Soccer Association, John Maripal, together with representatives of Rookes Marine. Mr. Paul Rookes, representing the major sponsor, picked team names to be placed into their respective pools for both the men’s and women’s divisions.A total of 29 men’s teams has confirmed their participant and have been drawn into four pools, while nine women’s teams have also confirmed participation in this year’s tournament.Rookes Marine, the major sponsor of the competition, has supported football in the province for the past 15 years. Mr. Maripal thanked the company for its long-standing commitment, describing this year’s competition as one of the biggest ever due to the increase in team participation.“Rookes Marine has been with us for 15 years now. Thank you, Rookes Marine,” he said.Mr. Maripal also acknowledged the support of the Madang Provincial Government and other partners, including BNBM and Sigma Construction, for their continued backing of football in the province.After conducting the draws, Mr. Paul Rookes thanked the President of Madang Soccer Association, Mr. Siefried Beschel, and wished all participating teams well.“Thank you to the President of Madang Soccer Association and the team. Good luck to all the participating teams,” he said.Meanwhile, the selected players from the recent Madang FC trials will also feature in the tournament under two teams, Panu 1 and Panu 2. Their participation will allow the scouting team to further assess and identify the best players to join the final Madang FC squad to represent the province in upcoming competitions.The tournament is expected to draw strong competition as teams prepare to battle it out when matches begin this weekend at Laiwaden Oval and end in two weeks' time.