Communities around the country at first light Saturday morning stood fast as the trumpet sounded off the “Last Post”, marking Anzac Day as Australia and New Zealand along with Papua New Guinea (PNG) standing by them, remember the sacrifices the Anzac soldiers made on the battle fields of the world.The Anzac Dawn services were held in places of historic military significance across the country from Port Moresby to Wewak, honouring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice and reaffirmed the enduring bonds forged through shared history and service. The breadth of these commemorations highlights the extent to which this shared history remains part of communities across PNG.After several days hiking to the site, Australian Minister for Defence Personnel and Minister for Veterans' Affairs Matt Keogh MP spoke at the Dawn Service in Isurava in honour to those who served on the Kokoda Track during World War II. Australian High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, Mr. Ewen McDonald, made remarks at Bomana War Cemetery in Port Moresby, along with Australian Defence Force Major General Matt Burr, Commander of 2nd (Australian) Division. “This moment represents a bridge between the present and what was a defining moment in our nations’ shared history. Every year on 25 April, the stillness of the early morning is broken by the same solemn vigil. Australians and New Zealanders come together in the darkness, awaiting the dawn of a new day,” said High Commissioner McDonald.Major General Matt Burr added that Anzac Day in Papua New Guinea reminds that Australia did not fight alone. "Papua New Guinean soldiers, carriers, and villagers stood by Australians, fought shoulder to shoulder, guiding them, supporting them and saving lives. That contribution was decisive, and it is remembered with the deepest gratitude and respect,” said the Major General.Papua New Guinea and Australia continue to stand side by side, as they did during World War II, continuing to develop the strong partnership that was founded in these areas, decades ago.The Dawn Services were held in Manus, Wewak, Mt. Hagen city, Kavieng, Lae city, Isurava, Alotau, Ok Tedi and Port Moresby city.  Picture: Australian Minister for Defence Personnel and Minister for Veterans' Affairs, Matt Keogh MP attended the dawn service at Isurava located in Oro Province, on the Kokoda Track. Credit Defence Imagery

The Rabaul District has received its disaster relief food rations from the Provincial Disaster Office, ensuring that aid reaches affected communities and families across its four Local Level Governments (LLGs). The primary distribution hub at the district headquarters in Kurakakaul received 800 cartons of biscuits and 400 cartons of tin fish. Additional supplies collected from the Provincial Disaster Office included 350 cartons of cooking oil, 1000 cartons of noodles, 144 bales of sugar, and 100 cartons of tea bags, all of which have been mobilized for the relief effort. During a recent District Disaster Committee Meeting, District Administrator Freddy Lemeki expressed his gratitude toward the Provincial Government and the Provincial Disaster Office. He commended the Provincial Administration for their leadership and coordination regarding the relief supplies and related logistics. Mr. Lemeki also extended his thanks to NH Trading Limited and other local business houses for their proactive support in assisting affected families within Rabaul Town and the Malaguna villages. Furthermore, it was revealed that the Rabaul District Development Authority Board has approved K200,000 in disaster relief funding to support the four LLGs. Petrus Maninga, the Deputy District Administrator for Operations, emphasized that the effectiveness of this aid relies heavily on accurate reporting from the ground. “Proper assessments and data are needed currently as these are vital information to help us better serve our people and communities at this time,” said Maninga. The distribution of food rations is being carried out strictly according to the listings of affected families provided by each LLG. Alongside the food aid, the Rabaul District Disease Response team- which includes the District Health Coordinator and Environmental Health Officers, is conducting awareness campaigns regarding disaster-related diseases. Other sectors, including DPI and Fisheries, are also scheduled to provide guidance on the impact of the disaster on local food crops and marine resources.

The Rabaul District Development Authority (DDA) Board has approved K200,000 in disaster relief funds to support its four Local Level Governments (LLGs) following the devastation caused by Cyclone Maila. The decision was finalized during the second-quarter DDA Board meeting held this month at the District Headquarters in Kurakakaul. During a District Disaster Committee meeting held recently, Rabaul District Administrator Freddy Lemeki announced that the funds will be distributed with K60,000 each for Kombiu and Balanataman LLGs, and K40,000 each for Rabaul Urban and Watom Island LLGs. Mr. Lemeki stated that the relief funds will assist in improving accessibility to government services, especially regarding roads, and the distribution of food relief supplies and other immediate necessities. He noted that eleven contractors have been engaged to perform clearance and improve accessibility on roads and severely affected sections in both origin and resettlement areas. Regarding the challenges in the Sikut area, Lemeki stated, “For Sikut, we are just waiting for the river to subside sometimes soon so we can cross the river as we cannot go by bridge due to heavy machineries.” He emphasized that the immediate concerns remain the welfare of affected families, road safety, and ensuring access to health facilities and vital government services. The district has already received food donations including rice, tinned fish, biscuits, and water containers from the Provincial Disaster Office, which have been distributed to families across the four LLGs followed by a second load of supplies. Mr. Lemeki commended the support from the Provincial Government, Provincial Administration, and the Provincial Disaster Office, noting that the district will continue to bolster these efforts through the newly approved funds. Furthermore, Deputy District Administrator for Operations Petrus Maninga, confirmed that the District Health Team and Environmental Health Officers are conducting community awareness programs regarding disaster-related diseases and safety issues.

The Kerevat Correctional Services (CS) in East New Britain province received a significant boost as the Rabaul District Administration officially handed over a brand new 10- seater vehicle dedicated to supporting its rehabilitation programs.The vehicle valued at just over K240, 000 under the District Support Grant (DSG) Former Year’s funding was approved last year and made possible through the District’s Social and Law & Order sector. During the presentation at the district headquarters in Kurakakaul, the member for Rabaul Dr. Allan Marat said that the detainee care and rehabilitation program is a great initiative in providing inmates with a smooth transition back into their communities once they are released. “It is not easy to rehabilitate inmates who have been discharged from prison. It is not easy to correct them,” Marat said. He said that such rehabilitation program aims to help inmates develop vocational skills, mindset and support systems needed to prepare them re-enter society. Dr Marat also commended the District Administration and the District Social Sector for fulfilling the long-anticipated request by CS and added that the rehabilitation program can have a life- changing impact on offenders when it is done right and with the right support. When receiving the vehicle, acting Kerevat CS Commanding Officer, Superintendent John Poris thanked the Rabaul MP and the Rabaul District Administration for the timely assistance. “Thank you, we need this vehicle to help coordinate and carry out our programs effectively, we have a lot of activities, however logistics is still a challenge.” The Kerevat CS Team also expressed their gratitude towards the district by presenting taros, a pig and shell money (tabu) to end the day’s program. Apart from this presentation, a 10-seater vehicle was also presented to Balanataman Local Level Government (LLG) Village Court as well as a dump truck and front-end loader which were received by the district.

Young Papua New Guineans will be able to build practical skills to lead, work and create opportunities through a series of youth- focused short courses launched once again recently.The short courses are hands-on and targeted training for recent university graduates and young professionals to navigate and excel in workplaces, businesses and the community. Over the next 18 months, eight courses will be facilitated by the University of the Sunshine Coast, Australia with a focus on applied learning that participants can immediately use. The course are ethical leadership and decision-making, governance, entrepreneurship, digital capabilities, project management, and monitoring and evaluation. While courses will be delivered in Papua New Guinea (PNG) with the aim to support work-ready capacity needs, selected courses will offer study tours in Australia to build networks and gain further insights. Australia and PNG’s close collaboration to supporting young women and men develop skills and build confidence and leadership capability, is essential for individual success, strong institutions, inclusive economic growth and adaptable communities. Participant Ms. Lissah Iruinu noted that the course opened up new possibilities for the future. “The course helped me to gain insights in reasoning, ethical decision-making, and leadership skills for achieving win-win solutions. It also introduced me to three different schools of thought to consider when making decisions. I feel more confident after attending the course, and I can now easily interact with other people,” she said. Beyond networking with potential employers, two standout participants will secure internships with Australia Awards PNG, gaining vital experience and professional connections. These 28 participants (14 women and 14 men), join a prestigious network of over 7,000 alumni driving change across PNG’s public, private, and civil sectors. Applications for the next youth short course intake open in late 2026. More information is available at australiawardspng.org.

The United State President Donald Trump, the First Lady Melania Trump and various members of the cabinet were evacuated at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner at the Washington Hilton Hotel after an alleged shooter penetrated security and threatened the life of the President.CNN reports that President Donald Trump was swiftly escorted off stage by Secret Service after shots were fired at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, DC. Trump, Vice President JD Vance and his Cabinet members are all safe, sources said. Reports state that the shooter has been apprehended. Authorities have identified the suspect as a 30-year-old California man, law enforcement officials told CNN. The President headed back to the White House and will give a news conference soon. The White House Correspondents’ Dinner will be rescheduled within 30 days. The Secret Service will now begin an investigative phase of its response. It will include identifying the shooter, determining their target and potential motive, and analyzing how they were able to penetrate so far into the event.

Every year on the 25th of April, countries around the globe mark World Malaria Day and Papua New Guinea joins the rest this year to commemorate the day with the theme “DRIVEN TO END MALARIA: Now We Can, Now We Must.”Today, the National Department of Health (NDoH) through the Public Health Division in partnership with the National Capital District (NCD) Provincial Health Authority (PHA), World Health Organization (WHO) and Rotarians Against Malaria (RAM) commemorated World Malaria Day at the St Peter Chanel Primary School in Port Moresby city. Representatives from the respective organizations spoke on the importance of prevention and treatment. While inspiring stories were shared to the students by the guests on each of their respective roles to raise awareness on prevention and control of this curable disease. Dr. Munir Ahmed, the General Manager for Rotarians Against Malaria, had the students and teachers recite an oath to help as advocators in the campaign against the malaria disease. While Dr. Petronia Kaima, Manager-Communicable Disease from the Department of Health emphasized the importance of prevention. Dr. Kaima said that while Malaria is a curable disease, many Papua New Guineans still do not practice safety and prevention measures, resulting in many experiencing the negative side of not getting treated and obviously end up dying. Dr. Rose Morre, Deputy Director-Public Health from NCD PHA, told the students that it is important to be aware of the implications of malaria when it is not treated immediately. She said, it is sad to know that malaria has become a killer disease even though it is a curable one. The day was also celebrated with students performing creative dance acts and singing, while the school’s teachers had a segment of quiz, with students given the opportunity to answer general and specific questions relating to the Malaria Disease to win mosquito nets given by Rotarians Against Malaria. The Celebrations ended with the staff from the Department of Health conducting a free malaria testing for interest students, staffs and parents that were part of the event.

Sport continues to play a vital role in shaping communities across Papua New Guinea, and few demonstrate this impact more powerfully than Rutha-Meu Omenefa, recipient of the 2025 Westpac Outstanding Women Awards (WOWA) in the Sports & Arts category.Based in Goroka, Rutha-Meu is a committed coach, youth mentor and community leader who uses sport as a tool to build not only talented athletes, but confident, values-driven young people. For her, coaching goes beyond the field; it’s about developing better players and better individuals, while leading by example. “The most rewarding part is seeing young players seek guidance, apply what they’ve learned, and grow into leaders among their peers,” she said. “When they succeed in sport, school and their communities, I know the effort is worthwhile.” Rutha-Meu believes true leadership is rooted in service and sacrifice. Through her coaching, she invests time, trust and encouragement to prepare her players for both competition and life. In her community, leadership means honoring commitments and guiding the next generation with strong values. Reflecting on her 2025 WOWA recognition, she said the award has strengthened her motivation to continue inspiring others particularly young women in rugby league. While the recognition has brought added expectations and scrutiny, she views it as an opportunity to grow. “The award opened doors, built trust and placed a greater responsibility on me to deliver through my work,” she said. “I am passionate about supporting women in Papua New Guinea through sport and believe in the power of collaboration and unity.” Westpac Pacific Managing Director Emma Low said Rutha-Meu embodies the purpose of the awards. “Rutha-Meu represents leadership that drives lasting impact not only through sport, but through mentorship, service and strong values,” Ms. Low said. “Her story highlights how women are transforming communities across Papua New Guinea.” Westpac PNG Chief Executive Andrew Cairns added that her journey sends a strong message to women across the country. “Women in sport and the arts are building confidence, unity and opportunity for the next generation,” Mr. Cairns said. “We encourage communities to recognize and nominate women who are using their talents to create positive change.”

The United States is delivering urgent humanitarian assistance to communities impacted by Tropical Cyclone Maila, one of the most severe storms to hit Papua New Guinea, through a coordinated international response involving New Zealand, Australia, and the International Organization for Migration (IOM).Working alongside Papua New Guinea’s National Disaster Center, the joint effort has so far distributed 2,000 emergency supply kits valued at approximately US$142,000 (624,000 PNG kina). The kits include essential household and shelter items such as kitchen sets, plastic tarpaulins, shelter repair materials, and hygiene supplies. Through a coordinated airlift operation, U.S.-funded supplies have reached 325 people across 65 households in some of the country’s most remote and hardest-hit communities. Many of these areas are only accessible by air, making delivery efforts particularly challenging. “The United States stands with the people of Papua New Guinea during this difficult time,” said U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Alex Berenberg. “Our partnership with Papua New Guinea, New Zealand, Australia, and the International Organization for Migration demonstrates our shared commitment to supporting communities affected by Tropical Cyclone Maila and strengthening disaster resilience across the Pacific.” In Karavia 1 Ward, IOM, in coordination with the Provincial Disaster Centre, distributed 65 non-food item kits to the most affected households. The supplies included sleeping mats, soap, jerrycans, solar lights, blankets, gardening tools, and shelter repair equipment such as hammers, nails, rope, and saws. The Royal New Zealand Air Force played a key role in transporting pre-positioned U.S.-funded relief supplies from Kokopo to Lamaraim and Open Bay, both accessible only by helicopter. This effort delivered 20 kits to Lamaraim and 18 kits to Open Bay for distribution to affected families. The relief items had been pre-positioned in Lae and Kokopo as part of ongoing U.S. disaster preparedness support for Papua New Guinea, allowing rapid deployment immediately after the cyclone struck. Distributions began last week and are continuing as assessments identify further needs. Beyond immediate relief, the United States has also invested in long-term disaster resilience. Since 2023, a US$6 million program implemented through IOM has supported Papua New Guinea’s National Disaster Center, provincial authorities, and local communities. The initiative focuses on improving emergency coordination, information sharing, and preparedness systems to strengthen responses to future disasters. The United States reaffirmed its commitment to working with Papua New Guinea’s government and disaster authorities to ensure coordinated assistance that prioritizes the dignity and needs of affected communities.

Both Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Australia are working closely to provide essential learning materials to remote communities across PNG.Australia has distributed more than 207, 000 student books and almost 13, 000 guides for teachers. This support has reached a total of 2, 000 schools and more than 160, 000 students. The initiative was made possible through the Partnerships for Improving Education (PIE). Elementary schools in the West Sepik, Central, Enga provinces and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville have received books to ensure students and teachers in remote communities are fostering effective teaching and learning. Mrs. Margaret Manda, the Kaipu Elementary School teacher-in-charge in the Kompiam District of Enga province, notes that the lack of books and teacher guides has been an ongoing concern for the community. She expresses her sincere appreciation for the support, emphasizing the value of having both student and teacher resources available. In Bougainville, Mrs. Jacinta Simea of Voniskopo Elementary School, explains that student books and picture dictionaries are age-appropriate and create an enjoyable and conducive learning environment for students. Mr. Paeo Kipalya, a fellow teacher at the school, said that books are the heart of the classroom and key in helping students develop reading and comprehension skills. He expressed gratitude for the continued support to education for children across Papua New Guinea. Communities are encouraged to make reading a regular and enjoyable part of children’s lives – at school and at home – by sharing and donating books, supporting local schools, and nurturing a love of reading.

Two new projects worth K 1, 240, 900 were officially opened and blessed at the Divine Word University’s (DWU) St Benedict Wewak Campus, in East Sepik province.These projects are the Nursing Simulation Laboratory and Extension and the Male Student Recreational Hall and were funded through the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and technology (DHESRT) under the Government’s Public Investment Program. Delivering the keynote address at the ceremony was Mr. Koney Samuel, the Secretary of the Department of National Planning and Monitoring. Mr. Samuel stressed that the Marape-Russo Government is committed to achieving quality education through the Medium-Term Development Plan IV and the Higher Education Plan. He reaffirmed that these national frameworks are vital in equipping young people with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue their goals and aspirations. He further stressed the importance of fostering inclusive learning environments through extracurricular activities alongside hands-on practical experiences. These methods make room for collective learning and encourage students to think beyond themselves, strengthening togetherness across the campus community, he stated. He encouraged the students, stating, “the equipment and training dummies represent a significant investment, and I urge you to use them responsibly so that they are preserved for the benefit of future students.” Speaking at the ceremony, Governor of East Sepik Province, Allan Bird, noted the country’s immediate need for more health professionals and commended DWU for its continuous investment in modern teaching and learning infrastructure, particularly in the health sciences education in the Sepik region. The ceremony was also attended by Fr Gibbs, who reminded students that education includes human development, healthy relationships and personal growth; he said spaces such as the new Male Recreational Hall promote holistic development. Meanwhile, in her opening speech the DWU Vice President Planning and Development, Mrs. Julie Ruene provided an overview of the projects. She outlined that the total cost of the Nursing Simulation Laboratory Extension was K421, 448, while the Male Student Recreational Hall amounted to K821, 487, a total of K 1, 242, 935. She expressed the University’s sincere appreciation to the National Government for its support and confidence in DWU, and acknowledged GOLB Bell Construction for delivering both projects on time and within the approved budget. The event concluded with the presentation of traditional gifts to distinguished guests, accompanied by traditional performances showcased by DWU students.

A recent report published by UNAIDS on the 17th of April has shared light on the rate in which HIV is increasing in Papua New Guinea (PNG).The report states that there is a staggering rise in HIV infections in PNG, which has doubled since 2020. This coupled with the strain on the Health System and challenges linked to declining funding, saw the government declaring a national HIV crisis in June of 2025. UNAIDS identified that women and children are being affected by this crisis. An estimated 2, 700 infants were infected with HIV, around seven per day, while women account for approximately 60 percent of adults living with HIV in the country. The report revealed that around one quarter of pregnant women living with HIV receive Antiretroviral (Anti-Retro-Viral) therapy to stay healthy and prevent transmission to their child. Health Minister Elias Kapavore has described the situation as “deeply concerning” and pledged to mobilize urgent resources to protect “the next generation of Papua New Guineans.” Furthermore, the report stated that the National Government approved and allocated an emergency funding of US$13.5million (K50million) for HIV, tuberculosis and malaria. This funding will support expanded prevention, increased access to testing and treatment, and strengthened services for pregnant women, children, adolescents and key populations. Meanwhile, attempts by PNG HAUSBUNG to speak to the National Aids Council Secretariat and National Department of Health Secretary for further comments on the UNAIDS report, were unsuccessful.