The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) officially launched the Papua New Guinea National Tourism Policy (NTP) 2025-2045 on November 18 at the APEC Haus in Port Moresby. The launch signifies the culmination of more than a year of extensive nationwide consultations across the public and private sectors, academia, non-governmental organizations, and community representatives. Developed with the support from Pacific Private Sector Development Initiative (PSDI), an Asian Development Bank (ADB) technical assistance program undertaken in partnership with the governments of Australia and New Zealand, the review of the NTP 1995 was conducted in December 2022, followed by Key Informant Interviews and regional consultations in 2023. An Issues Paper was developed to guide the policy drafting, and a National Tourism Policy Stakeholder Validation workshop was facilitated in December the same year. Following the validation, the draft NTP 2025-2045 was put through numerous rounds of technical vetting before obtaining endorsement from the National Executive Council in August 2025. The NTP 2025-2045 serves as a guide for whole-of-government efforts to achieve multi stakeholder shared tourism vision. It will be implemented through the Tourism Sector Development Plans (TSDP) convened by the Authority every five years, outlining specific agreed medium-term strategic actions for all public, private and community stakeholders. The NTP 2025- 2045 is framed around fifteen Policy Areas comprising five cross-cutting themes and ten tourism enabling functions. 1. Policy Areas by Cross-cutting Themes Environmental Sustainability Cultural Heritage Preservation and Promotion Empowerment of Resource Custodians Inclusive Economic Growth Resilience Building 2. Policy Areas by Tourism-enabling Functions Tourism Sector Governance Air Connectivity Hub-based Destination Development Niche-based Visitor Experience Development Investment in Tourism Supply Public Infrastructure and ServicesTourism Industry StandardsWorkforce DevelopmentDestination Marketing Visitor Entry and Safety TPA’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Eric Mossman Uvovo, described the policy as a transformative roadmap for tourism in Papua New Guinea (PNG). “The launch of the National Tourism Policy marks a new chapter in our tourism journey as a nation.” “This policy provides the strategic direction needed to position PNG as a leading nation in tourism, a country that celebrates its rich cultural diversity, pristine natural environment, and authentic adventure experiences.” In addition, he emphasized that the policy’s implementation will focus on strengthening partnerships between government agencies, provincial authorities, tourism operators, and local communities. He also highlighted the importance of building resilient tourism infrastructure, promoting investment, and supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) within the tourism industry. The launch event was officiated by the Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Belden Norman Namah, and attended by senior government officials, industry leaders, development partners, and representatives from across the country. The PNG National Tourism Policy 2025-2045 provides a long-term vision to ensure that tourism contributes meaningfully to national development, creates employment opportunities, supports cultural preservation, and enhances the well-being of communities throughout the country. For more details, contact the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority or visit their official website: www.papuanewguinea.travel  

Mrs. Gwebi Sasobi, a 64-year-old grandmother from Gasuke village in North Fly District in Western Province, had a touching moment when her eye bandage was removed after cataract surgery. For the first time in five years, she could see her husband’s face and her daughter’s smile. Over the past five years, Gwebi gradually lost her eyesight due to cataracts. “Everything looks so new. I feel as though God has shown me His favour once again,” Mrs. Sasobi said as she was overwhelmed with joy looking at her surroundings. Gwebi was among 109 patients identified by the Callan Connect project to receive life-changing cataract surgery in Kiunga, Western Province. With funding support from the Australian Government, Callan Connect Project offers mobility, vision, and hearing impairment screening services, along with assistive device distribution, referrals and surgery for communities in Bougainville, the Kokoda Track region, and Western Province, in partnership with the respective Provincial Health Authorities. The project demonstrates the Australian Government’s commitment to supporting inclusive services in Papua New Guinea. Since April 2024, the Callan Connect project has provided 32,000 visuals, hearing and mobility screening services to over 10, 700 individuals from the remote areas of Bougainville, the Kokoda Track region and Western Province. The Callan Connect project, implemented by the Callan Services National Unit, offers more than just disability diagnosis and treatment. In partnership with Inclusive Education Resource Centers (IERC), it also provides inclusive education training to teachers in the Kokoda Track region. Meanwhile, Kokoda Primary School teacher Ms. Stella Nave, was among the fourteen primary school teachers from the Track region to receive inclusive education training. An educator for the past 26 years, Stella says that it is heartbreaking to see children with learning impairments often progress to the next year without the support they need. Through the skills gained from the IERC training, Stella has been able to identify and apply practical learning strategies for two students with visual and hearing impairments. “This training has truly empowered me.” “After the workshop, I took the lead in conducting an in-service session on signing the alphabet and numbers for nine other teachers, including those from the Junior high school.”

The Department of Prime Minister has officially launched an ambitious national initiative to plant 30, 000 mangroves by the year 2030, in partnership with the Office of Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (CEPA) and the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG). This activity, held in Tahira, is part of the 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations, underpinning the importance of protecting the natural systems that sustain our people and our future. In a ceremony at the breathtaking Bootless Bay, the Chief Secretary Ivan Pomaleu, acknowledged the traditional landowners and custodians of the area for their invaluable stewardship and customary knowledge essential to conservation efforts. “Mangroves are crucial to the ecological and economic health of our coastal zones, they protect our shorelines, act as nursery grounds for vital marine life, and serve as significant carbon sinks in our fight against climate change.” “By planting mangroves, we are taking practical steps towards enhancing resilience for coastal communities, strengthening biodiversity, and honouring the environment that underpins our way of life.” Furthermore, Mr. Pomaleu has highlighted that this initiative is more than an environmental exercise; it is a strategic investment in the nation's resilience and a commitment to international community goals. “Our presence here is a response to the promises we've made globally regarding climate action and biodiversity.” PNG has committed to several international agreements, including reducing carbon emissions and enhancing natural carbon sinks at the Climate COP and participating in the Kunming- Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and this mangrove rehabilitation initiative is a cornerstone of achieving these commitments. The Chief Secretary has called for collective action from all sectors including local communities, development partners, NGOs, and the private sector, to realize the target of 30, 000 mangroves by 2030. “Your knowledge, commitment, and contributions will be essential for the success of this initiative.” In a profound act of commitment, participants planted over 400 mangrove seedlings at Bootless Bay. The event underscored the significance of ongoing stewardship, with a call for continued engagement in monitoring and supporting local regeneration efforts. “Let the mangroves we plant today stand tall as living symbols of our nation’s resilience, unity, and commitment to a sustainable future.” The Chief Secretary also emphasized the importance of respecting customary rights, conducting environmental assessments, and prioritizing sustainability. Mr. Pomaleu concluded the address by reinforcing that the quality of the environment left for future generations is a measure of our nationhood. The event also included a signboard erected to mark the launch of the National Mangrove Rehabilitation Initiative and also discussions with Executive Dean of School of Natural and Physical Science, Professor Simon Saulei on the proposed UPNG Scientific Research Center on Motupore Island. This was once a historical site for the drafting of PNG’s constitution to be rehabilitated into a modern scientific facility to cater for scientific research work on the Motupore Island and around the Bootless Bay coastal area.

A 17-year-old grade-11 student from Kefamo Village has been arrested by Police for stirring violence through the use of social media in Goroka.Police informants identified the suspect from Kefamo Village, allegedly posted a video encouraging the pedestrians to attack students from the University of Goroka on November 9th which resulted in major injuries and destruction of property. The suspect was taken into custody on Thursday 20th November, charged under the section 22 subsection 1 paragraph (c), (i) of the PNG Cyber Crime Act, but later released on a K5,000 Bail. Meanwhile, Acting Police Commissioner Dr. Philip Mitna declared a special task force team setup to investigate the Goroka Violence, while Internal Investigations will be carried out to examine the lack of police response at the height of the violent incident. Furthermore, Dr. Mitna emphasized that calmness has been maintained and the Constabulary will stride to restore trust and confidence firstly to communities, in their hearts and minds, and above all deal with law breakers.

Four young athletes; Kondup Samson Wailo, Mark Sondo, Nelson Samson Wailo, and Clinton Hanku will be representing Papua New Guinea in Sydney, Australia on the 5th of December at the World Kickboxing Championships.Thanks to the assistance of The National Youth Development Authority in partnership with the PNG Kick Boxing Federation, these youngsters will be participating not just in the World Championships but also pre-championship fights leading to the main event starting on November 28th. Hanku will kick off the first international fight in the 67kg. Meanwhile his fellow athletes will partake later in the 88kg (Nelson Samson Wailo), 94kg (Kondup Samson Wailo) and 96kg (Mark Sondo). The Director General of the National Youth Development Authority, Mr. Joe Itaki, expressed his gratitude to PNG Kick Boxing Federation President, Mr. Stanley Nandex, for providing second-chance opportunities to youth through kickboxing. He emphasized that involving young people, particularly those at the grassroots level, in constructive activities like sports not only exposes them to new opportunities but also offers economic benefits, helping them sustain their livelihoods. This initiative aligns with the new National Youth Engagement Strategy, and the travel support provided by the NYDA highlights the positive impact of their ongoing partnership with the PNGKBF. It aims to create valuable opportunities for youth, promoting national pride, international exposure, and community leadership through sports.

In light of recent accusations made by the Member of Chuave James Nomane regarding the Marape- Rosso Government’s fiscal record, the prime minister has come out to dismiss them as misleading, describing them as politically driven accusations. Prime Minister James Marape said the Government remains firmly committed to responsible fiscal management, economic diversification, debt stabilization, and strengthening of provincial and district funding systems, despite the unprecedented global shocks that have affected economies worldwide since 2019. Prime Minister Marape said it is irresponsible and misleading to ignore the global realities that shaped every country’s fiscal position.“Between 2019 and 2025 the world endured COVID-19, international inflation, supply-chain disruptions, higher fuel prices, geopolitical conflicts, and collapsing commodity markets.Every major economy — Australia, New Zealand, the UK, the US — increased borrowing to protect services and livelihoods. PNG was no different.”He said the Government ensured the protection of essential services during this period, keeping schools open, hospitals functioning, law-and-order operations running, SME support programmes active, and ensuring no public servant went unpaid.Prime Minister Marape said commentary on debt must be matched with acknowledgment of PNG’s unprecedented GDP expansion.“Over the last six years, we have grown the economy faster than at any other time in our history — adding K50 billion to GDP. No government before us has achieved this level of expansion. “In 2019, we set a target to grow our economy beyond K200 billion, and we have now added K50 billion on top of the K79 billion economy we inherited from O’Neill in 2018.”“Our deficit peaked at 8.9% in 2020 due to COVID-19. Since then, deficits have declined every year — now under 3%, next year under 2%, and we remain firmly on track for abalanced budget by 2027.” He said the Government has restructured debt, secured long-term concessional financing, improved revenue compliance and strengthened the overall fiscal position.

The St Francis TVET Centre proudly marked its 35th Graduation Ceremony – another step in fulfilling its commitment to equipping young Papua New Guineans with vital technical and vocational skills.A total of 223 students graduated this year under full sponsorship from Jason Peter, Member for Huon Gulf and Minister for Community Development, Youths and Religion. His strong support for education continues to create opportunities for families across the district, enabling young people to develop their skills and pursue meaningful careers. Minister Peter further reinforced his commitment by announcing that more young men and women are encouraged to enroll at St Francis TVET in 2026, assuring that he is prepared to continue providing full scholarships. This sustained support reflects his clear vision for empowering youth, fostering community development, and building long-term human resource capacity in Huon Gulf District and throughout Papua New Guinea (PNG). The St Francis TVET Centre conveys its sincere gratitude to the Minister for his ongoing leadership and support. The Centre also acknowledges the dedication of its staff, parents, partners, and community leaders who continue to contribute to the institution’s success.

Australia reaffirms commitment to Papua New Guinea’s humanitarian assistance and disaster response at the 9th Provincial Disaster Coordinators’ Conference in Mt Hagen this week.  Australia was pleased to jointly sponsor the conference alongside the Government of Papua New Guinea and supported by the United Nations. This year’s theme was “50 years on: Reset, Realign, Resource, and Respond – Building Resilient Communities Together.” The National Disaster Centre (NDC) led conference brought together more than 100 Provincial Disaster Coordinators from across Papua New Guinea, key PNG Government agencies, development partners, donors and humanitarian specialists to consider how to bolster PNG’s disaster preparedness, response and management capabilities. Secretary for Defence and Chairman of the NDC Mr. Hari John Akipe delivered the keynote address, setting out the PNG Government’s priorities for building resilient communities and strengthening coordination across all levels of government. Representing Australia, Ms. Elizabeth Le Bas, Minister Counsellor at the Australian High Commission, presented at the conference highlighting Australia’s long history supporting humanitarian assistance to PNG during disasters, as well as its strategic assistance in preparedness and community resilience. Ms. Le Bas emphasized Australia’s commitment to working side by side with the PNG Government in responding to disasters. “Australia stands with Papua New Guinea in building resilient communities.” “Australia is proud to be the first responder to support the PNG Government’s disaster response efforts, and we are committed to working with key PNG stakeholders to carry out preparedness, response and recovery efforts.” Ms. Le Bas stated that the PGK68 million humanitarian and disaster relief package announced at the recent Ministerial Forum will support PNG’s disaster management and response capabilities. Australia and Papua New Guinea’s close cooperation on disaster management reflects the depth of the broader bilateral relationship, said Le Bas. “In times of disaster, Australia is a trusted partner, working with Papua New Guinea side by side and step by step to protect lives, livelihoods and communities.” The humanitarian and disaster relief package announced in October responds to the priorities identified by Minister Billy Joseph and the PNG Government, and includes: Construction of new humanitarian warehouses to strengthen PNG’s ability to respond rapidly to disasters across the country. A twinning partnership between Australia’s National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the PNG National Disaster Centre (NDC) to enhance capacity building, training and institutional links. Scoping for the construction of an emergency command and control centre in Port Moresby to improve risk monitoring and coordination of disaster responses at national level. This builds on a broad suite of Australian support already in place to work with the PNG Government and Provincial Disaster Coordinators, including through multilateral and non-government organizations. Australia supports the PNG Defence Force’s response efforts, including through the National Disaster Centre, and work with humanitarian partners to build the capacity and capability of the national humanitarian preparedness and response systems. “Australia maintains in-country humanitarian warehousing capabilities to enable timely deployment and distribution of lifesaving relief in the event of an emergency.” To build resilience, Australia supports the PNG Government and local communities to lead inclusive national adaptation and disaster risk reduction efforts to mitigate the shared threat of environmental disasters and continue support for capability in geohazards and forecasting through Geoscience Australia and the Bureau of Meteorology. “We also work with Australian and International NGOs and their local partners through the Australian Humanitarian Partnership to build community resilience and contribute to disaster and humanitarian response efforts.”

The Papua New Guinea (PNG) economy, despite global uncertainty along with the fluctuating commodity prices, continues to perform well and is set to further grow, something which the prime minister attributes to good policies and measures in place.According to the Asian Development Bank and the World Bank, PNG remains one of the fastest-growing economies in the Pacific, despite global uncertainty caused by trade tensions, slowing Chinese demand, and volatile commodity prices.PNG’s economy is projected to strengthen in 2025, with major international financial institutions forecasting growth between 4.2% and 4.7%, supported by improvements in the resource sector, expanding agriculture, and significant Government investment in infrastructure, education, and household relief measures. Prime Minister James Marape welcomed the latest assessments, saying they confirm that Government reforms, fiscal responsibility, and targeted support to families and businesses are positioning the country for long-term stability.“Through global shocks and domestic challenges, our economic fundamentals have held firm,” Prime Minister Marape said.“We remain committed to responsible fiscal management, diversification beyond extractives, better provincial and district funding systems, and reforms that place families and small businesses at the centre of economic recovery.”

COMMUNITIES living along the Transgogol road from Bau in the Ambenob Local Level Government (LLG) up to Mawan in the Transgogol LLG of Madang will now have access to better upgraded road system as contractors have begun road works in this inland part of Madang Province.The road upgrade project, funded by the Madang Provincial Government under the leadership of the Provincial Member and Governor, Ramsey Pariwa, at the cost of K500,000 has seen contractor Kobimel Construction commencing work last week with 2 kilometres already cleared. During the launch of the road upgrade program on Tueday, 18th November 2025 at Bau Village, mothers who frequent the markets, PMV owners and the community at large, expressed gratitude towards their government for this vital infrastructure which was neglected for the past 7 years. Sofain Niku, a mother from Efu village who frequents the market at 4 Mile to sell betelnuts and garden food said lack of transportation especially PMVs has been an issue which affects them. "Every day we do marketing but because of the road, we do not have many PMVs travelling to town and back and it affects our routine to sell our products and buy basic necessities from the store," Niku said. "Sometimes our children who attend schools in town turn up late for classes and our families who are working are also late for work," she said. Niku said drunken youths sometimes capitalize on the situatuon and intimidate them while they travel to the markets and back especially on the weekends. Nillah Kikireng, another mother who is married to Dahe Village shared similar sentiments saying most times they become stranded at the markets at 4 Mile and town late in the afternoons because PMVs refused to operate late due to law and order issues where youths stop PMVs along the worst parts of the highway. Ambenob LLG Ward 20 Councilor, Jonah Gulul, whose area stretches from Suyau Mountain all the way to Weliwel Village along the road project upgrade area says the road upgrade is a relief for the simple people in the village. "The project gives hope to us the villages along this part if the highway and those inlands who frequent the highway daily to access basic services, mothers going to the market and students who attend schools in town and those working," Gulul said. "For 7 solid years we've seen this road condition worsen because of neglect by our government," he said. "We are a bit okay but my heart cries for our people at the back like Mawan and those along the Utu road and further inland," Gulul said. New Ambenon LLG Ward 21 Councilor, Libok Sawan, who also expressed the same sentiments as his counterpart, Jonah Gulul, said the negligence of this particular economically viable infrastructure clearly indicates the negligence from the Madang District Administration. "This road is our lifeline to access government services such as schools and aid posts and we appreciate the Madang Provincial Government for allocating funding for its upgrade and thanked the Governor for coming down to our level and addressing our needs," Sawan said. Upon thanking the Governor for engaging a local contractor who understands the geography of the area, Sawan added that locals have PMVs but with the road condition, it's costly to maintain them. Provincial Member and Governor for Madang, Ramsey Pariwa, who skipped a day of Parliament sitting to attend the program told the people that he understands their needs as road infrastructure is the vital connection for the rural population to basic government service and contributes to economic development. "My first reason for funding the road upgrade is because of the education service. We have two schools here, Transgogol High School and Bau Vocational and with better road access, our children will travel to and from school with ease to get educated and contribute to nation building," Pariwa said. "Secondly, is because we have plans in place to extend this road connection from Mawan to Wanuma. We have approved their new LLG and it's only proper that we give them road access," he said. Madang PTD Works Project Supervisor Michael Sakarim assured the people that the DoWH will be on standby to support the contractor Kobimel Construction wherever necessary to ensure that the upgrade is completed on time and within budget to ensure smooth flow of services. "2014 was when I last saw the condition of the road and seeing its current status now, I am saddened by what I see," he said. "Our machines from DoWH will come and support this upgrade project," Sakarim said. "The Governor has put funding into Works for road projects to service the people not only in this area, but also in other parts of the province and we are commited to play our part in this road projects," he said. Meantime, Sakarim assured the Governor that the Transgogol to Poata road works which will continue to Akraski and Ramu River is progressing. Kobimel Construction Director, Sule Kuri, gave assurance to the Madang Provincial Government and the people that his team is committed to complete the project as per their contract within the given time and budget.

An old man who is believed to be a glassman and often claims to have the power to identify supposed sorcerers has been arrested and formally charged under the Glassman Act 2022 for inciting violence that resulted in torture, killings, and the displacement of more than 100 people across four villages in Kerowagi (Simbu) and Banz (Jiwaka). Kerowagi Police Station confirmed the suspect, in his 50s from Moroma Village in the Kerowagi District, was apprehended by police at Ganiga Market last Friday. He was charged on Monday this week with offences under Glassman Act 520(b), willful murder, and arson. Police said the suspect is charged relate to a major incident in Moroma Village which occurred back in September. The suspect is also alleged to have instigated three incidents in Barawagi, Duagona, and Kombulno between 2023 and 2025. Police said the suspect had been moving between communities claiming to be a glassman who could identify sorcerers whenever sickness or deaths occurred. His accusations reportedly triggered brutal attacks, the killing of innocent women, and the destruction of homes and properties. PNG Tribal Foundation President GT Bustin said the Foundation has supported police and survivors throughout all four incidents. “We have been working closely with the Kerowagi CID team since last week, which resulted in the arrest of this glassman,” Bustin said. “Our support has included logistics for police and essential supplies for victims.” Tribal Foundation has records of three deaths, including a mother and child in Barawagi, six survivors with severe injuries from torture, and homes burned as a result of the suspect’s accusations. Kerowagi police station, arresting officer Detective Willie Keba said the suspect has been charged in relation to the Moroma case due to strong evidence and witness support, however investigations into the three additional incidents are still pending at this time.

More than 86 teachers from Goilala in Central Province have significantly strengthened their skills and confidence in fostering inclusive and safe learning environments, thanks to a recent comprehensive training initiative.The recent training, a collaboration between the Central Provincial Division of Education, the Catholic Diocese of Bereina, the National Department of Education, and the Australian-funded Partnerships for Improving Education program, highlighted the importance of including every child in teaching and learning. For educators in some of Papua New Guinea’s most remote schools, the experience was transformative. Mr. Kanansio Kito, the teacher-in-charge at Kerau Primary School, noted that the training opened his eyes to drawing on policies more effectively. “Before this session, I did not know much about GESI (Gender Equality and Social Inclusion) and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene).” “I am now ready to implement these new policies,” said Mr. Kito, a 14-year veteran at the school. Mr. Francis Paru, who has taught at Kivori Primary School for eleven years, described the training as transformative. “The training showed me how to maintain a safe and hygienic environment for both school and community.” He highlighted that the policies provided practical strategies for promoting equal participation in class and preventing the spread of illness, ensuring every student has the opportunity to learn. This policy in-service, supported by Australia’s Partnerships for Improving Education program, has now reached over 700 teachers and almost 100 education officials acting as trainers. The initiative has not only equipped teachers with critical knowledge but also empowered them to champion inclusive and safe education practices. As these educators return to their classrooms, they are determined to share what they have learnt, foster equity, and nurture the potential of every student. The Partnerships for Improving Education is a $75 million AUD, 5-year Australian Government program delivered through the PNG-Australia Partnership, focusing on supporting quality education for all children in the early grades (Prep – Grade 2).