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.

The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) and Lloyds Metals and Energy Limited (LMEL) have officially opened the Lloyds Apparel Training Centre in Arawa, marking a new step towards expanding economic opportunities and skills development in Bougainville.ABG President, His Excellency Ishmael Toroama, and LMEL Managing Director Balasubramanian Prabhakaran officially opened the facility this week in the presence of Central Bougainville parliamentarians, LMEL staff, community leaders, trainees and members of the public.The center is a joint initiative between the ABG and LMEL and will initially train 150 women and girls from across Bougainville in apparel manufacturing.President Toroama described the initiative as a tangible result of the peace process and a vital step toward the region's target of self-government by September 1st, 2027. "We must be mature, we must train our women, we must train our youth so that when the declaration by the President is being made for next year, you can see that empowerment," President Toroama announced.He also acknowledged LMEL’s investment in Bougainville and its efforts to support opportunities beyond the mineral sector. He emphasized that such initiatives are critical for raising the internal revenue necessary for a sovereign nation. "I told [LMEL] if you believe in the terms that Bougainville stood firm and fought to become an independent sovereign nation, then I will take you on board," Toroama recalled his first meeting with Prabhakaran.The President said partnerships such as the apparel initiative would be important in building Bougainville’s economic base and internal revenue as it prepares for self-government and its independence aspirations. He said the partnership was based on a shared interest in ensuring that economic opportunities benefit the people of Bougainville."The government will not be greedy" and "Lloyds Metal will not be greedy," President Toroama said.He said Bougainville’s aspirations for self-government and independence were now being supported by practical initiatives and are no longer ‘distant hopes. "We are not dreaming. It's no longer a dream. Your leaders have provided this opportunity for all our younger people here in Bougainville," he said. Mr. Prabhakaran described the opening as "a great painting of our dream into a reality" and said the centre was designed to enable Bougainvilleans to eventually own and manage the apparel businesses."You are not working; you own this unit. You are going to be the owner of this mission,” Prabhakaran said. He said the long-term plan was to establish smaller apparel manufacturing units in communities across Bougainville, allowing women to work closer to their homes and families. The initiative aims to eventually create opportunities for up to 2,000 people and produce uniforms and other garments for schools, hospitals, and the mining sector."We commit to see that we will make this as a global apparel manufacturing hub of the world," Prabhakaran said. The center will initially focus on meeting local demand and reducing the cost of garments in Bougainville, with the longer-term ambition of exporting locally produced garments to neighboring countries.The first 150 trainees will undertake a three-month training program with trainers already in place at the facility before full-scale commercial production begins

President of the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG), His Excellency Ishmael Toroama says development in Bougainville is increasingly being translated into practical opportunities for the people.President Toroama made the remarks on Monday while officially opening the Lloyds Apparel Training Centre at the Arawa Country Club, alongside Managing Director of Lloyds Metals and Energy Limited (LMEL), Balasubramanian Prabhakaran.The opening brought together Central Bougainville parliamentarians, community leaders, LMEL representatives, trainees and members of the public.President Toroama acknowledged the people and leaders of Bougainville for embracing the partnership between the ABG and LMEL and thanked the company for its confidence in Bougainville.“Thank you for embracing the government (ABG) and Lloyds Metals with this building. It is truly an honour for every one of us that we are always inspired to become fruitful in whatever we do and whatever we say. Managing Director for Lloyds, I would like to thank you on behalf of my government, the people of Central, South and North for believing in Bougainville,” President Toroama said. President Toroama said LMEL’s engagement was extending beyond the mineral sector, with the company also contributing to employment and socio-economic opportunities for young people in Bougainville.“It is only within a year, and you have established not only within the mineral sector but also improved the lives and well-being of the younger generation.”He said such developments were important as Bougainville works to strengthen its economic base and build the capacity needed to exercise greater self-government.President Toroama encouraged women and young people to take advantage of opportunities created through skills development, training and employment. He also urged the young people attending the opening to remain committed to their training and learn from the trainers and industry professionals supporting the initiative.As Bougainville prepares for the Self-Government Declaration on September 1, 2027, President Toroama said practical investments in people and the economy are essential to achieving the region’s aspirations.He said the developments taking place across Bougainville demonstrated that the aspirations of its people were increasingly being realised through practical action.“The development in Bougainville is no longer just a dream, but it is now a reality, provided by the government to the people of Bougainville.” 

South Pacific (SP) Brewery has appointed Noel Pepemik as the new Brewery Manager for its Moresby Brewery, marking a significant milestone in the company’s efforts to develop local talent and create opportunities for Papua New Guineans to take on senior leadership roles.Mr. Pepemik’s appointment follows 14 years of dedication and professional growth within SP Brewery, with the role now successfully localized under his leadership.Originally from Boikin in East Sepik Province, Mr. Pepemik’s rise to one of SP Brewery’s senior operational positions is a testament to perseverance, commitment and continuous professional development.Reflecting on his journey, he said his early life was shaped by challenges, including the loss of his father when he was just 10 years old.“I faced many challenges growing up, especially when my father passed away when I was 10 years old, leaving my mother to raise me and my siblings.”“I had to take on responsibilities at a young age, but I was fortunate to have the support of my elder brother and his wife to complete my education.”He began his education at Boikin Primary School on the west coast of Wewak before attending Brandi Secondary School.He later graduated from the Papua New Guinea University of Technology with a Bachelor of Science in Applied Chemistry.His interest in science and chemistry was sparked by two secondary school teachers whose passion for the subjects inspired him to pursue a career in the field.“My teachers in high school made Chemistry and Science fun. Even after lunch, when most students were tired, I looked forward to their classes.”“Their passion inspired me to pursue science and eventually major in Chemistry.”After graduating in 2011, Mr. Pepemik faced the challenge of finding his first job. His opportunity came in 2012 when he joined SP Brewery through its Graduate Development Program.“It’s never easy finding your first job as a fresh graduate, and I was no different. SP Brewery gave me my first opportunity through its Graduate Development Program, and I remain grateful for that,” he said.Since joining the company, he has progressed through a range of roles, including Brewing Supervisor, Brewing Manager in Lae in 2020, Packaging Manager, and Acting Brewery Manager in 2025. His latest appointment sees him take charge of the Moresby Brewery.He said his career development had required significant personal commitment, including spending time outside normal working hours on training and professional development.“Many sacrifices were made along the way. Time was one of the biggest.”“I spent countless hours developing myself, often coming to work on weekends and days off to complete training and other development activities without expecting extra pay. That was my personal commitment to growth.”Mr. Pepemik credited SP Brewery’s training and development programs for helping him build his career.“SP Brewery has excellent training and development platforms that provide clear pathways for my career growth. This company has helped shape me into the professional I am today.”As he steps into his new role, Mr. Pepemik also acknowledged the mentors who supported him throughout his career, including the late Kuri Yuwai, Gia Vela, and Stella Ikasa.“This business has given me the opportunity to learn from the best professionals in the brewing industry.”“They created a supportive environment that felt like family and made coming to work something to look forward to every day.”For Mr. Pepemik, leadership is also about creating opportunities for others.He identified mentoring junior employees who have since progressed into management positions as one of his proudest achievements.“I believe that before you move up, you must prepare others to move up with you. Leadership is not only about your own success but about ensuring those around you are ready to take the next step.”He encouraged young Papua New Guineans seeking careers with SP Brewery to embrace opportunities for learning and professional development.“SP Brewery is a great place to work. Embrace every opportunity to learn, work hard and stay committed to your goals.”“The standards, systems and ways of working are second to none in Papua New Guinea.”“Commitment, discipline and a willingness to continuously develop yourself are the key to building a successful career here.”Mr. Pepemik’s appointment highlights SP Brewery’s continued investment in local talent and the development of Papua New Guinean professionals into leadership positions within the company.

The Rabaul District Administration has partnered with Devine Management Services (DMS) Limited, a local agri-company specializing in buying Galip nut (Canarium indicum). Supported by K50, 000 in funding from the district, DMS Ltd is rolling out a program across three Local Level Governments (LLGs) in the Rabaul District: Watom Island LLG, Balanataman LLG, and Kabiu LLG.The District District Primary Industry (DPI) sector and DMS Ltd have already completed initial galip tree stock surveys and awareness campaigns in Watom and Balanataman LLGs, with field operations scheduled to expand to Kabiu LLG in September.Participating Kabiu LLG origin wards include Baai, Nordup, Matalau, Rakunat, Rabuna, Korere 1, and Korere 2.During a galip nut training conducted today at the district headquarters in Kurakakaul for Kabiu LLG community leaders and farmers, DMS Ltd Project Manager Genevieve Luana said the goal of the program is to evaluate the existing galip tree stock in the district and encourage local communities to view the galip nut not just as a native delicacy, but as a high-value commercial product.“Once we completed all surveys on the bearing and non-bearing galip trees in the respective communities and have conducted awareness on the product then we can identify a central location for a galip nut buying point for Rabaul district,” Luana said.She added that at the moment there is only one DMS buying point located at Kokopo Market that is buying galip nuts at K15 per kilogram. Luana further stated that the awareness will cover topics such as identifying a good galip nut, preferred harvesting and processing techniques, packaging for buyers and their requirements, as well as safe handling and hygiene practices.DMS Ltd Enumerator and Field Officer Roboam Akai, who was also present at the training, encouraged ward members, ward recorders, and other community leaders to utilize the Galip Nut Manual distributed to them and learn more about the product.Meanwhile, District Administrator Freddy Lemeki has commended the initiative between the district and DMS Ltd, stressing that such public-private partnerships are crucial in assisting local farmers and the economy.