An overwhelming majority of Papua New Guineans are demanding urgent government action to tackle sorcery accusation-related violence (SARV), according to a ground-breaking national survey conducted by the Melanesian Institute.Captured from 2, 000 respondents across every province, the findings highlight a stark public mandate: 95% of citizens feel the Government is failing to prevent SARV, while 96% believe it falls short in supporting survivors and prosecuting perpetrators.Speaking at the findings’ launch event in Goroka, Brother Martin Tnines, Executive Director of the Melanesian Institute, stressed the critical need for immediate intervention.He noted that SARV claims hundreds of lives annually across PNG and called on the Government to immediately publish, fund, and implement its revised SARV National Action Plan (SNAP).Although the revised framework exists to strengthen legal enforcement, prevention, and survivor care, it currently remains unpublished, unfunded, and unexecuted- leaving vulnerable communities without essential state support.Public consensus on actionable solutions is nearly unanimous.An astounding 99% of respondents believe the Government must fund the SNAP.Furthermore, over 90% want dedicated resources for community advocacy, specialized rapid-response police units in high-risk provinces, and guaranteed free medical care for survivors at health facilities.A notable 86% also support a complete ban on sharing social media videos and photos depicting SARV acts.The data underscores both the pervasive reach of SARV and a clear cultural shift against violence.While 90% of respondents report that SARV occurs within their communities and 68% acknowledge a personal belief in sorcery, 89% firmly reject violence as a response, condemning it as morally wrong.Supported by the PNG-Australia Partnership, the Melanesian Institute- which has led research and advocacy on SARV for over four years- vows to build on these findings alongside civil society and media partners until the violence ends.

The PNG Lewas squad has been selected already and are set to represent Papua New Guinea in the Thailand Women’s Tour of PNG 2026 which will go down here at Amini Park. The PNG Lewa girls will be led by Captain Brenda Tau and Vice-Captain Pauke Siaka. The PNG Lewas are ready to take on Thailand in a five-match international series on home soil.PNG LEWAS SQUADBrenda Tau – CaptainPauke Siaka – Vice CaptainKonio OalaHollan DorigaTanya RumaSibona JimmyNaoani VareHenao ThomasIsabel TouaHane Lohia TauGeua TomDika LohiaBuruka VickyKevau GabeStandby:Kevau Frank – Batting replacementErani Pokana – Batting replacementThe PNG Lewas will take on the Thailand Women's team in five different matches;10 August – T20I11 August – T20I13 August – 50 Overs15 August – 50 Overs17 August – 50 OversAll five games will go down here at Amini Park, Port Moresby. Bringing in the international cricket right here at Amini Park!Everyone is urged to come out and support the PNG Lewas as they represent our nation on home soil.

The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) on Friday 07th August 2026 took another major step in improving police welfare with the official opening of ten (10) unit modified H65 duplexes police barracks at Mirane in Kundiawa, Simbu Province.The housing project was officially opened and commissioned by the Assistant Commissioner of Police Highlands Eastern End Command, Mr. Clement Dalla, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Mr. David Manning, and the RPNGC Executive Management.The 10 duplexes will provide decent and secure accommodation for police officers and their families serving in the Simbu Provincial Police Command.Speaking at the ceremony, ACP Dalla said the project was part of the Government’s commitment through the Special Police Assistance Program (SPAP) to upgrade the police infrastructure nationwide."For too long our officers have been serving under difficult living conditions. This government, through SPAP, is now delivering proper housing, workstations, and support for our front-line police officers. This is an investment in the welfare and morale of our members,” ACP Dalla said.ACP acknowledged the Marape-Rosso Government for its vision and funding through SPAP and the RPNGC Executive Management under the leadership of Police Commissioner Mr. David Manning for prioritizing police welfare and infrastructure.ACP Dalla also thanked the Provincial Government, District Development Authority, Provincial Police Commander, and the local community for their support in making the project a reality.He urged officers who would occupy the houses to take ownership and take care of the properties."These houses belong to you because of your service to the nation. Look after them. This is your home while you serve the people of Papua New Guinea,” ACP said.ACP Dalla also acknowledged the contractor, Far East Handyman Limited, and all stakeholders involved in the successful delivery of the project on time and to the standard.ACP said the opening of those (ten) 10 duplexes marks another milestone in building a modern, disciplined, and community-focused police force that is well-supported to meet the law and order challenges today. 

The Papuan Compound (PC) Ravens have announced their return to the national rugby sevens stage in emphatic fashion, winning the 2026, 9th Papua Open Rugby Sevens without conceding a single point throughout the tournament.The Lae-based outfit completed a remarkable two-day campaign on Saturday with a commanding 20-0 victory over Highlanders Spartans in the grand final in Jayapura, Indonesia.It was a tournament of defensive dominance for the Ravens, who scored 186 points across their five matches while keeping every opponent scoreless. The victory completes a remarkable turnaround for the Ravens, who returned to the PNG rugby sevens scene in 2025 after a year away from competition.They immediately made their presence felt, reaching the 2025 Firelight Sevens Cup final and finishing runners-up. The Ravens then reached another Cup final at the 2026 SportsTok Sevens, where they finished runners-up to a Fijian side.With the Papua Open Cup now secured, the Ravens return to Vanimo before heading back to Lae, where preparations will begin to defend their Rosso Trans Highway Sevens title in September.

The Joint Consultation Report, Melanesian Framework and the Bougainville Referendum Results will be tabled in the National Parliament later this month.This consensus was reached recently when the Joint Supervisory Body (JSB) endorsed the Melanesian Framework and the Joint Consultation Report (JCR) during the meeting held at the Melanesian Haus in Port Moresby, co-chaired by Prime Minister James Marape and the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) President, His Excellency Ishmael Toroama. The Melanesian Framework and the Joint Consultation Report were jointly developed by the ABG and the National Government in accordance with the resolutions of the Melanesian Agreement signed by both governments on 26 June 2025. Together, the two documents provide an agreed pathway for progressing Bougainville's political future through a peaceful, stable and Melanesian-led process that is consistent with the Constitution of Papua New Guinea (PNG) while continuing an enduring relationship between PNG and an independent Bougainville. Addressing the Joint Supervisory Body, President Toroama described the Joint Consultation Report as the culmination of years of engagement between the two governments."The Joint Consultation Report is a record of facts and an account of everything we have consulted over since the 2019 Referendum, culminating in the defining Melanesian Agreement. They capture jointly-agreed resolutions of both our governments." In its resolutions, the JSB endorsed the Melanesian Framework as the agreed pathway jointly designed by the two governments to give effect to an affirmative decision by the National Parliament should it endorse the Bougainville Referendum Results. The meeting resolved that the Bougainville Referendum Results, together with the Joint Consultation Report and the Melanesian Framework, will be tabled in the National Parliament on 27 August 2026 for Parliament's consideration. The Prime Minister and the President will jointly determine the date on which Parliament will consider the question arising from the Referendum Results. The JSB also directed the Independent Facilitator and the Joint Technical Team, supported by the Joint Ministers, to conduct awareness for Members of the National Parliament on both the Joint Consultation Report and the Melanesian Framework before the matter is debated. President Toroama said the two documents now provide the agreed roadmap for the next phase of the peace process."Combined with the Melanesian Framework, this is the institutional pathway to Bougainville's self-government and ultimately, to full sovereignty. This pathway reflects Bougainville's Final Position on our timeline for self-government and for political independence," he said.  The Joint Consultation Report, Melanesian Framework and the Referendum Results will be tabled in the National Parliament by the National Minister for Bougainville Affairs.

A total of 11 staff from Motor Vehicles Insurance Limited (MVIL) graduated from a value-based leadership program on Friday 07th August 2026.Another corporate partnership between Motor Vehicles Insurance Limited (MVIL) and PNG Tribal Foundation, through the Senisim PNG Program, saw a small but significant event with members from the Customer Service and Human Resources Departments graduating and now certified as Transformation Table Facilitators.GT Bustin, President of PNG Tribal Foundation, said the country will only change when citizens take ownership of their actions and change their mindsets.“We have hope for this country to change soon, just like the value of hope you’ve learnt during your 11-weeks journey through the program.“We have so many natural resources like forests, minerals, gas and oil, tuna, mountains and rivers, but we have bad leadership,” Mr. Bustin said. "If we change our mindsets and change the way we do things with having good values, the country will change."Mr. Bustin encouraged the staff to form Transformation Tables in their respective communities, associations, churches, sporting groups, homes, and even at the workplace to continue spreading good values and the servant leadership program.He thanked MVIL for its commitment and efforts in working with the Senisim PNG team through the program.Motor Vehicles Insurance Limited Executive Manager for the Customer Service Department, Avi Hubert, congratulated the staff and encouraged them to put what they had learnt into practice and share the knowledge with others.“It’s not something that you acquire and it stays with you. You have to put it into practice and share it. Through life’s journey, you have to modify yourself and enhance the things you have learnt,” Mr. Hubert said.He wants to see more of his staff taking the lead in the program.The Senisim PNG Program is a value-based program under PNG Tribal Foundation, in partnership with Maxwell Leadership Foundation. It started in 2022 and has reached over 10,000 people across PNG.It is a free program, and any interested groups or individuals can be part of the National Transformation Program.

Professor Nicole Haley has been officially welcomed into the Papua New Guinea public sector by the Chief Secretary to Government, Ivan Pomaleu after her appointment as the new Electoral Commissioner.Professor Harley officially assumed her role on Thursday August 6, 2026, following a formal ceremony at Government House in Port Moresby city. The proceedings included the signing of her Contract of Employment and her swearing-in by the Governor General of Papua New Guinea, Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae.Following the ceremony at Government House, Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika administered the Declaration of Oath of Office and Secrecy at the Waigani Court Complex.This declaration marks the final legal requirement for Professor Harley to take office, ensuring full compliance with the Employment of Non-Citizens Act.Pomaleu expressed his absolute confidence in Professor Haley’s leadership and expertise. He emphasized that her primary mandate will be the strategic planning and successful execution of the 2027 National General Elections.“I am looking forward to Professor Haley taking the Office and providing leadership to the Electoral Commission,” Mr. Pomaleu stated.“She will take charge in running the 2027 National General Elections, while also addressing residual activities such as conducting failed elections in various Local-level Governments across the country.”The Chief Secretary further highlighted that the Commissioner’s responsibilities extend beyond election cycles to include critical administrative and structural reforms. “There is a wider role for the Electoral Commissioner which includes correcting any misalignment during the redistricting of electorates as a result of the last electoral boundaries report,” Mr. Pomaleu added.To ensure the success of these initiatives, Mr. Pomaleu assured Professor Harley of the National Government's full support through the Inter-Department Election Committee, which he co-chairs alongside the Electoral Commission.The Chief Secretary reaffirmed the National Government’s steadfast commitment to protecting the integrity, independence, and credibility of Papua New Guinea’s electoral system.He emphasized that the government’s dedication to ensuring the Electoral Commission remains fully operational and capable of implementing its core functions for the ultimate benefit of the nation.

The ongoing dry weather conditions brought about by the El Nino is no obstacle to Ok Tedi Mining Limited (Ok Tedi), as the mine continues to operate safely and remains focused on maintaining production in the Western province.The company is closely monitoring the impacts of El Nino on the Fly River. While river levels are currently low and parts of the river are not being utilised for normal freight movements, Ok Tedi is proactively sourcing alternative logistics arrangements to ensure the continued supply of fuel, critical consumables, equipment, and other operational requirements to site.“As part of our business continuity planning, Ok Tedi has been actively managing the impacts of the dry conditions through a range of mitigation measures, including the use of alternative supply routes and careful management of key resources,’’ said Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Kedi Ilimbit.“At present, mining and processing operations continue, and the company remains focused on delivering its operational objectives safely and responsibly. While the current conditions present additional logistical challenges, Ok Tedi has contingency plans in place and continues to adapt its operations as required.Like many businesses operating in PNG, Ok Tedi is experiencing some increased costs associated with managing the impacts of the dry weather, particularly in the area of logistics and supply chain management. However, the company is taking prudent measures to manage these impacts and maintain operational resilience.Ok Tedi continues to monitor weather patterns, river conditions and supply chain risks closely. The safety of our employees, contractors and communities remains our highest priority, while ensuring the ongoing reliability of our operations."While the current dry weather conditions require us to be agile and proactive, it is business as usual at Ok Tedi. We anticipated the potential impacts and have activated contingency measures to support our operations. Our teams continue to do an excellent job managing the situation, and we remain focused on safely delivering our operational commitments.

Education Minister Francis Kikin Siune has condemned the recent outbreak of violence involving secondary school students in the National Capital District (NCD), warning that schools must remain as places of learning and not centres of criminal behaviour.His comments follow a violent confrontation involving students from two secondary schools that caused public concern, damaged property and disrupted public order.Minister Siune threw his full support behind the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary's decision to arrest and charge students involved in the violence."Schools are for learning, not fighting. No student is above the law," he said.The Minister commended NCD Metropolitan Superintendent Warrick Simatab and police for taking a firm stance against student violence."I fully support Superintendent Warrick Simatab and the NCD Police in treating violent students as criminals," he said. "When a student commits assault, destroys property or acts violently, police action is essential. Being a student is not an excuse to escape the law."Minister Siune said the National Department of Education, led by Secretary Dr Uke Kombra, fully supports the police response and will continue working with schools to strengthen discipline and student engagement.He said school boards, principals and administrations have been directed to take swift disciplinary action against students involved in violence, including suspension or permanent expulsion where necessary."School administrations that fail to enforce strict discipline will also be held accountable," he said.The Minister also appealed directly to students to prioritise their education and avoid being influenced by peer pressure, social media or unnecessary conflict."Your parents sacrifice so much for your future. Don't ruin your life over peer pressure, social media or foolish pride," he said. "Choose education over violence and respect over conflict. Your future is worth more than a senseless fight."Minister Siune said while the Government continues to invest in initiatives such as free education and standards-based learning, maintaining discipline in schools requires the combined efforts of parents, schools, churches and communities.He highlighted the Department's implementation of Christian and Citizenship Values Education (CCVE) from Early Childhood Education as part of efforts to instil moral values and responsible citizenship from an early age.The Minister reassured parents, students and the wider public that the Department of Education, together with police and school administrations, would continue to enforce a zero-tolerance approach to school violence to ensure schools remain safe, orderly and conducive to learning.

Prime Minister James Marape has strongly condemned an armed ambush on Enga Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Chief Superintendent Steven Harris and his team, describing the incident as a direct attack on the rule of law and the authority of the State.Chief Superintendent Harris was travelling in a police convoy near Yaltep, just before the Sirunki Strawberry Farm, to arrest suspects tied to an ongoing murder investigation when gunmen opened fire without warning.Three police reservists accompanying Harris immediately shielded him from the gunfire, returned fire, and helped secure the area.Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) personnel who heard the shooting swiftly responded to support the team, allowing the police commander to safely continue his journey.Prime Minister Marape commended Harris, the reservists, and the PNGDF personnel for their bravery and discipline under extreme danger.“This was a cowardly and calculated attack on a senior police officer who was carrying out his constitutional duty to uphold the law and protect the people of Enga,” Prime Minister Marape said.“I strongly condemn this ambush. An attack on our police personnel is an attack on the State, the rule of law and every law-abiding citizen who wants to live in peace.”“I commend Chief Superintendent Steven Harris for remaining calm and focused under fire. I also pay special tribute to the three police reservists who placed themselves between their commander and the gunfire.”“Their courage, loyalty and quick response helped protect lives and demonstrated the highest traditions of service.”“I also thank the PNG Defence Force personnel who responded to the sound of gunfire and helped secure the area.”“This cooperation between our police and defence personnel is vital as we restore peace, security and respect for the law in Enga.”Prime Minister Marape emphasized that the Government will not allow armed criminals to intimidate public servants, police, or local communities, warning that the full force of the law will be brought against those responsible, as well as anyone providing them with assistance, shelter, or weapons.“The criminals responsible must understand that they cannot hide forever,” he said. “I call on community leaders, churches, councilors and ordinary citizens in the area to cooperate with police and provide information that will lead to the identification and arrest of the gunmen.”“Anyone protecting these criminals is helping to prolong violence and suffering in Enga.”Reflecting on the ongoing risks frontline personnel face, the Prime Minister noted that police officers, reservists, and PNGDF members put their lives on the line daily to protect communities across Papua New Guinea.He reaffirmed the Government’s pledge to strengthen law enforcement operations and support long-term peacebuilding efforts.“These men and women leave their families and place themselves in danger to protect our communities.”“They deserve the support, respect and cooperation of every Papua New Guinean.”“The Government remains committed to strengthening police operations, restoring law and order and supporting long-term peacebuilding in Enga.”“We will not surrender any part of Papua New Guinea to criminals, tribal fighters or those who believe the barrel of a gun places them above the law.”Addressing citizens directly, particularly those in Maramuni, Marape urged people to use lawful channels to air grievances rather than turning to violence, pointing out that two wrongs do not make a right.“I want to remind the people of Maramuni, and indeed all Papua New Guineans, that if you have legitimate concerns or grievances, there is no need to resort to lawlessness to have your voices heard,” Prime Minister Marape urged.“If your concerns are not being addressed at the district or provincial level, raise them again through the proper channels.”“If necessary, submit your petitions or letters to the Enga Provincial Government and to the National Government in Port Moresby. Someone within the machinery of government will attend to your concerns. Two wrongs do not make a right.”“Breaking the law is never the answer to resolving legitimate issues. Our democracy provides lawful avenues for citizens to seek justice and accountability, including peaceful petitions and, where necessary, the courts.”Looking ahead as the country moves beyond its 50th anniversary, the Prime Minister called on all Papua New Guineans to embrace peaceful resolution and protect Enga’s future from being held hostage by armed criminals.“Peaceful advocacy will always achieve more than violence or intimidation. You do not need to fight the Government to have your concerns heard.”“Raise them through the proper processes, and I have every confidence that someone, somewhere within our system of government will respond.”“To Chief Superintendent Harris and his team, I say: The Government and the people of Papua New Guinea stand with you. Remain strong, continue your duties professionally and know that your courage is recognized and deeply appreciated.”“Enga has produced many outstanding leaders, professionals, public servants and businesspeople. Its future must not be held hostage by a small number of armed criminals.”“The people deserve peace, development and the freedom to move, work, learn and raise their families without fear.”“Let us all work together to restore lasting peace, uphold the rule of law and build a stronger and more united Papua New Guinea.”

The Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA), in partnership with FIFA, successfully conducted a five-day FIFA Member Association (MA) Instructors Course from July 27th-31st, 2026, at the PNGFA Education Centre in Lae, Morobe province.Facilitated by FIFA Instructor Michael Fabian alongside Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Technical Instructor Ben Niso and Regional Fitness Instructor Kennedy Yambundimi, the programme brought together 25 participants representing all four regions of Papua New Guinea.This initiative reinforces PNGFA’s commitment to building a highly skilled network of coach educators nationwide.PNGFA Chief Operating Officer Stanley Khanna officially opened and closed the course, commending the participants for their dedication to advancing football education.The workshop aimed to equip instructors with the latest knowledge, teaching methodologies, and practical skills required of modern football educators.Through a blend of classroom sessions, practical field activities, and collaborative learning, participants enhanced their capacity to deliver high-quality coaching programmes within their home regions.Speaking at the closing ceremony, Mr. Khanna acknowledged FIFA and the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) for their continued support in strengthening local football development.“Our instructors play a critical role in shaping the next generation of coaches across the country.”“By investing in their education, we are investing in the future of football in Papua New Guinea.”“We sincerely thank FIFA and OFC for their continued commitment to developing our people and raising coaching standards.”FIFA Instructor Michael Fabian praised the participants for their enthusiasm and willingness to learn throughout the week, encouraging them to apply their new skills to foster regional growth.Additionally, PNGFA extended its appreciation to the Presidents of Member Associations who supported the programme by covering participant expenses, demonstrating a crucial investment in regional technical structures.This FIFA MA Instructors Course reflects FIFA’s ongoing commitment to building capacity and ensuring coaching standards align with internationally recognized levels.Moving forward, PNGFA remains dedicated to establishing sustainable development pathways through continuous professional education for coaches, instructors, and technical personnel across the country.

The Maimai’s in New Ireland province yesterday turned up at the New Ireland Provincial Administration office building, dressed up in their traditional attire to protest and demand the immediate resignation of current Provincial Administrator – Mr. Richard Andia.In a media conference held in Port Moresby yesterday, New Ireland Governor, Byron Chan said that he was informed of the protest carried out by concerned chiefs, elders and community representatives of the Maimai’s, placing traditional taboos at the provincial administration building.He said the protest is in relation to the recent orders by the Prime Minister to suspend underperforming public officers from the National level down to the Provincial level.Governor Chan highlighted that he is aware of the decision and the Provincial Executive Council has already deliberated on the matter by agreeing to the resignation of Mr. Andia.“We have just received the letter from the Public Service Commission to proceed with the appointment of the new administrator, and we will be doing so on my return to the province this week.“The process has already started, and I just want to reaffirm our decision (PEC’s decision) to proceed with the resignation of our current Administrator, Mr. Richard Andia. However, processes are there and we must not overlook it, but it will take time,” said Governor Chan.The New Ireland Governor has asked the people, especially the Maimai Leaders, Chiefs and elders to withdraw from what they’re doing, and patiently wait for the process to fulfil itself as everyone is subject to the laws of Papua New Guinea.   Chan returns to the Province on Thursday this week and will call a provincial executive council meeting to further discuss this matter.