The Autonomous Region of Bougainville has made significant progress towards localizing its cocoa exports, with the first three export licences officially issued under the Bougainville Agriculture Commodities Regulatory Authority (BACRA) during the 8th Bougainville Chocolate Festival in Buka this week. The licences were presented to SANKAMAP EXPORTS LTD, ELLIVEN, and BOSSI, a female cooperative group from Central Bougainville thus marking the start of Bougainville’s efforts to take full control of its cocoa export industry. Speaking at the Festival’s opening was the Chief Secretary of the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG), Kearnneth Nanei, who acknowledged the efforts of BACRA and the ABG Department of Primary Industry to localize control and governance of Bougainville’s commodity sectors. He said these developments represent Bougainville’s determination to take charge of its economic destiny, encouraging farmers and cooperatives to engage with BACRA to learn about export compliance and market requirements.  “This Festival is more than a celebration of cocoa; it is a reflection of how far we have come as a people from recovery to resilience, and from resilience to economic transformation.” “It tells the story of farmers who refused to give up, of cooperatives that innovated, and of institutions that are now taking bold steps to restore Bougainville’s rightful place as a leader in the cocoa world.” Highlighting President Ishmael Toroama’s 2025 Inaugural Address and 100-Day Plan, the Chief Secretary said the Administration is focused on rebuilding Bougainville’s economy on the foundations of independence, productivity, and partnership. “We as the Administration face a significant task ahead in translating this vision into action, hence, with your support, we will unpack and operationalize the President’s priorities into key work streams that will guide the implementation of the 2025–2030 Development Agenda.” He also urged development partners to align their support toward expanding global market access for Bougainville cocoa. “This is where real and lasting development happens, not just through projects but through enabling Bougainville’s producers to compete and succeed globally.” The Chief Secretary called for the Bougainville Chocolate Festival to evolve beyond exhibitions and competitions, positioning it as a practical platform for trade and partnership. “It must be a catalyst for trade, partnership, and market access, where farmers return home not only with prizes and awards, but with tangible opportunities for contracts, business partnerships, and export linkages.” “As we move forward, let this Festival remind us that public service excellence, productive partnerships, and people-centred innovation are the anchors of Bougainville’s journey toward sovereignty.” “The road to independence is not only political, but also economic, institutional, and generational,” he said.

In a significant step toward enhancing national resilience, senior government officials, Provincial Administrators, and Provincial Disaster Coordinators from across Papua New Guinea convened in Port Moresby for a one-day National Consultation Workshop on the Review of the Disaster and Emergency Response Mechanism. The workshop, organized and led by a government-mandated Review Committee, brought together provincial stakeholders to contribute to the Government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the national disaster management framework. This initiative reflects Papua New Guinea’s commitment to building a more coordinated, responsive, and future-ready disaster governance system. In his opening remarks, Mr. Laso Mana, Acting Director of the National Disaster Centre, acknowledged the dedication of participants and the enduring support of development partners: “We are now facing increasingly complex and frequent disasters — from earthquakes, floods, and landslides, to droughts, cyclones, and health emergencies. These challenges demand a legislative and policy framework that is modern, inclusive, and responsive to emerging risks, while empowering our provinces and districts to act swiftly and effectively." “Thank you to everyone present today for your continued efforts to protect the lives and livelihoods of communities, and I also extend my appreciation to our partners and donors — including the Governments of New Zealand, Australia, and the United States — for their steadfast support.” The workshop focused on reviewing the current disaster and emergency response mechanism, assessing institutional roles, and identifying opportunities to improve coordination, resource allocation, and legal frameworks. Participants also took part in thematic discussions focused on risk reduction, readiness, response, and recovery. Interactive sessions and group discussions enabled provincial stakeholders to share local experiences and propose actionable recommendations to enhance disaster governance and operational readiness at all levels. Mr. Ray Paul, Chairman of the Review Committee, emphasized the importance of collaborative dialogue: “We began this consultation process with various groups of partners and stakeholders, and one thing we all agreed on was the importance of collaboration. Bringing everyone together allows us to have a rich exchange of ideas and insights.” “I want to thank all our partners, donors, and our dedicated national and provincial disaster management teams, as well as the International Organization for Migration (IOM), for their continued support.” The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has been working in close partnership with the National Disaster Centre and Provincial Disaster Centres across Papua New Guinea to strengthen disaster preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery systems. Through technical support, capacity building, and community engagement, IOM has played a key role in advancing the country’s disaster risk management initiatives. Mr. David Arnold, IOM Chief of Mission, reaffirmed IOM’s long-standing commitment to supporting the Government of Papua New Guinea: “This workshop marks a critical step in strengthening Papua New Guinea’s disaster management system. Preparedness must begin at the community level and be supported by strong national coordination.” “IOM remains committed to working hand-in-hand with the Government, communities, and partners to build a disaster response framework that is resilient, collaborative, and future-ready — one that protects every Papua New Guinean.” Findings and recommendations from this national consultation will inform the Review Committee’s final report and guide the ongoing review of Papua New Guinea’s national disaster management policy and legislative framework, with the aim of strengthening disaster risk management across the country. The Review Committee will continue engaging with stakeholders and partners to promote evidence-based policymaking and collaborative disaster governance that enhances national resilience. The workshop was funded by the United States Government under the IOM-led project in the hope to address the Drivers and Consequences of Disaster Displacement through Enhancing Resilience in Papua New Guinea.

The Department of Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs (DPLGA) has commenced consultations this week on the establishment of the new Motu Koita Open Electorate, which is set to be operational in the 2027 National General Elections. The consultation process, led by the Legal Division of DPLGA, aims to gather views, insights and recommendations from the Motu Koitabu communities and key stakeholders on how best their representative to the National Parliament should be elected. The team has begun engaging with community leaders, elders and relevant stakeholders to obtain feedback on how the new electorate should function politically, administratively, financially and legislatively. This consultative approach ensures that the Motu Koita Open Electorate is established on a strong legal and governance foundation that reflects the aspirations of the Motu Koita people while remaining consistent with national laws and administrative frameworks. The Motu Koita Open Electorate was approved by Parliament in 2021, following recommendations from the Electoral Boundaries Commission (EBC) Report. The creation of this new electorate acknowledges the unique historical and cultural circumstances of the indigenous Motu Koitabu people — the traditional landowners of the Nation’s Capital. While 13 new districts were approved in 2021, six have already elected their representatives to Parliament. The Motu Koita Open Electorate, however, is scheduled to become operational in 2027, allowing sufficient time to establish the necessary governance systems and frameworks for a smooth and effective transition. As part of the ongoing consultations, DPLGA officials conducted meetings on Wednesday, 29 October 2025 in Vabukori, Korobesea and Mahuru villages. The team visited Pari, Taurama and Kirakira on Thursday, 30 October, followed by Tatana and Baruni on Friday. Consultations will continue next week in Poreporena Laurabada and Poreporena Lahara, followed by Elevala Lahara and Elevala Mirigini on Tuesday as well as with the Motu Koita Assembly and National Capital District authorities. Community leaders and stakeholders have expressed strong appreciation to the National Government for recognizing the Motu Koitabu people’s long-standing call for representation in Parliament. “This is our land — our ancestors lived here long before the city was built. For too long, we have been overlooked. Now, our voices will finally be heard and our prayers answered,” Korobesea Councillor Bonnie Cardigan said. Many leaders highlighted that the Motu Koitabu people have been marginalized in their own land, often missing out on essential infrastructure and services such as roads, water supply and other basic amenities.  The establishment of the new electorate is therefore seen as a historic milestone toward ensuring fair representation and equitable development for the indigenous landowners of Port Moresby. This initial consultation marks the first phase of a wider engagement process that will continue into next year. Upon completion, the findings and recommendations will be compiled into a report to be presented to the Minister for Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs, for tabling in Parliament in 2026.

Forty-six Chinese nationals have been deported from Lae after they were arrested in a joint immigration and police operation in Wau-Bulolo. They were flown to Port Moresby last night for processing and deportation. Lae Metropolitan Commander Chief Superintendent Chris Kunyanban said the arrests were part of a wider crackdown led by the Immigration and Citizenship Authority (ICA) with support from police. “A total of 46 Chinese nationals — 16 and another 30 — were caught at different locations outside Lae and have all left for Port Moresby,” Kunyanban said. “They will be processed, blacklisted, and deported according to the law.” He said the group had fled Wau-Bulolo’s alluvial mining areas to avoid being caught. “They used the cover of darkness and tried to escape from the joint operations team,” he said. The arrests bring the total number of foreign nationals detained in Morobe Province this week to 151. Most were found working in mining areas while holding store or business work visas. “They came with visas to work in stores but were found doing mining in Wau and Bulolo,” Kunyanban said. He said the operation will continue to target anyone breaching immigration and labour laws. “Our goal is to restore order and make sure everyone working in this country follows the law,” he said.

Polling in the remote areas of Madang Province and even in semi- urban villages has reportedly progressed well in the past four days, even without the presence of police personnel. In the Ambenob Local Level Government of Madang District, polling locations visited in the South Ambenob area by the Community Policing Unit of Madang police reported nil hiccups. Although there were complaints raised by voters mainly about missing names on their respective common rolls, these were immediately addressed by the polling teams and members of the Community Policing Unit, who stood in to ensure polling was conducted smoothly. Polling in almost all rural areas of the province has been progressing without police presence due to logistical issues. Provincial Police Commander, Superintendent Robert Baim has, however, extended gratitude to all CPU members who are assisting during this difficult time. He commended their invaluable contribution to the election process. Superintendent Baim further stated that their presence at the polling locations have made a significant difference and urged them to continue into the counting period. He said police officers are moving around in random locations just to make sure there are no major incidences that may jeopardize the polling process. "I also commend our Rural Police Station Commanders & policemen & women throughout the province for tireless efforts put in to ensure smooth flow of the election process. Though minor incidents were reported, all seems good, and I encourage all to maintain throughout," said Superintendent Baim.

NCSL Savings & Loan Society has unveiled its newly redesigned website today, marking a significant step in improving digital accessibility and member services.The refreshed site features a modern, user-friendly interface designed to serve registered members, employers, and the general public. The redesign aims to make it easier for users to explore savings and loan options, access member services, and stay informed with the latest updates, whether at home, at work, or on the go. “This launch is a humble step forward in our journey to serve our members better. It reflects our gratitude for their continued trust and our commitment to making financial empowerment accessible to every Papua New Guinean,” said CEO Frans Kootte. “This isn’t just a new look; it’s a new way of connecting with our members.” Key features of the new website include: · Simple Layout: Easy navigation from homepage to all menu options. · Interactive Interface: Clickable links for quick access to key information. · Quick Access Tabs: Fast entry to About Us, Forms, FAQs, and more. · Media Section: Employer videos, tutorials, and the Wokabaut Tokabaut show. · Digital Services: Direct access to MyNCSL Member Online and Your NCSL Employer Online. “This redesign is more than just a new look it is a strategic step toward transparency, convenience, and member engagement, supporting our goal of building trust and delivering value through digital innovation,” said Gila Ebenosi, Head of Digital Services. The website was developed in collaboration with local technology provider SnS Tech, a company with decades of experience operating in Papua New Guinea. Members and the public are encouraged to visit www.ncsl.com.pg from today to explore the enhanced NCSL online experience.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape said he is not scared or upset about a fresh motion of Vote of No Confidence (VoNC) in him lodged by the Opposition and looks forward to the outcome of the motion.Marape welcomed news yesterday, saying it is part of the democratic process and reflects the Constitutional rights of Members of Parliament to choose their Leaders freely and without coercion. Speaking after Parliament was informed of the new Motion’s admission by the Private Business Committee, Prime Minister Marape said he holds no fear or resentment towards the process, stressing that he will not resort to Political Camps or “behind-the-scenes lobbying” as often seen in past political struggles. “I welcome any challenge. This is not the first time Mr. Peter O’Neill has challenged me, and it may not be the last. Since I left his Government in April 2019 because I had no belief in his leadership, he has continued to pursue every possible Political and Legal means to unseat me. But I remain focused on governing and serving our people,” Prime Minister Marape said. The Prime Minister emphasized that he has faced multiple Political and Legal challenges since assuming Office on 30 May 2019, including the 2020 Political Impasse, numerous Court cases, and repeated attempts to destabilize his government. Yet, he noted, Papua New Guinea has continued to progress under his leadership. Prime Minister Marape concluded by reiterating his belief that the stability of Government and the maturity of leadership are critical to national progress. “We must stop this nonsense of constant political maneuvering. Fifty years on, our nation deserves better. Leaders must grow up and make responsible choices. The people are watching, and history will judge us all by how we act today.” He further called on ordinary Papua New Guineans to also prepare for their moment of choice, reminding them that the 2027 National General Election is only 14 months away.

Prime Minister James Marape yesterday during the parliament sitting reaffirmed that his Government has been fair and consistent in distributing Funding support across all Districts and Provinces in Papua New Guinea since taking office in 2019, rejecting claims of bias or political victimization made in Parliament by the Member for Chuave, James Nomane.In his address to Parliament, Prime Minister Marape emphasized that his government has maintained a policy of fairness and accountability in the District Services Improvement Program (DSIP) and Provincial Services Improvement Program (PSIP) allocations, ensuring that every District and Province benefits regardless of political affiliation. “I want to place on record that this Government, for the past six consecutive years, has done its utmost best to be fair to all Districts and Provinces right across the country,” Prime Minister Marape said. “If we were not fair, then even Chuave District would not have received K7 million this year — that’s already been transferred to date.” He explained that even Members of Parliament on the Opposition side have received over half of their DSIP allocations to date, including other components such as Infrastructure and Kina-for-Kina policy grants, so long as their projects align with Government development priorities under MTDP IV (Medium-Term Development Plan4). “Every Member and District that complies with the national development policy gets their due funding,” he added. “We have not discriminated against anyone. Our approach is based on national interest, not political colour.” Prime Minister Marape noted that since 2019, a total of K56 billion has been disbursed through the Budget process to Provinces, Districts, Government Departments, and Statutory Bodies — all documented and transparent. “We are not a government that hides disbursement,” he stressed. “We have been transparent, telling the country how much has been transferred to every District, every Province, and every Sector.” “In fact, I met with the Auditor General last week and requested a full Audit Report on all Departmental Agencies and Sectors that have received public funds.” The Prime Minister said that all Agencies and Sectors receiving public funds are required under the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) to submit Annual Reports by 31st March each year.  He reaffirmed that it is the Government’s responsibility to ensure accountability, not just at the national level but across the entire Public Service delivery chain. Responding directly to the Chuave MP’s comments that Simbu Province had been unfairly treated, Prime Minister Marape rejected the notion and assured the people of Simbu that their Districts have not been “systematically victimized” under his leadership. “To the good people of Simbu — you have not been left behind, all your Districts have received funding allocations as per the National Budget framework.” “The Finance Department will publish full reports showing how much each Province and District including those in Simbu has received since 2019.” He also highlighted that his government established the National Monitoring and Coordination Authority (NMCA) to strengthen the follow-up and auditing of funds disbursed nationwide, ensuring that public money is being used for tangible development outcomes. “The NMCA will not act as another bureaucracy but will engage independent auditors like Deloitte to follow the money trail,” he explained. “We want to ensure that every Kina released is producing results in education, health, infrastructure, and other vital sectors.” Prime Minister Marape further pointed out that under his Government, Chuave and other Simbu Districts have continued to receive steady funding for key infrastructure, including the Karamui Road, which has seen over K50 million in cumulative funding since 2019. “I urge all Members to focus on delivery,” he said. “K7 million or K10 million may not do everything, but let’s ensure those funds make visible impact. The records will show that our government has allocated fairly and consistently not just to Simbu, but to every District in our country.” Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed his government’s ongoing commitment to equitable development, transparency, and results-driven governance. “Our records are open, the Final Budget Outcomes from 2019 to 2024 speak for themselves.” “We have delivered funding fairly and transparently to all Provinces and Districts. Let’s now work together to make sure those funds turn into real results for our people.”

Senior government officials met in Port Moresby on Monday 27th October 2025 to mobilize action against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), asserting that the long-standing crisis demands immediate, institutional ownership and accountability within the public sector. The meeting, hosted by the Department of Personnel Management Secretary Ms. Taies Sansan, serves as a crucial preparation platform for the upcoming 20 Days of Activism against GBV and the NCD "Redvember" campaign. The nation’s alarming GBV statistics, which continue to rise despite decades of activism, were front and centre in the discussions. Secretary Sansan stressed that combating violence is not merely a women's issue but a shared human responsibility. She focused her call to action directly on the nation’s bureaucracy, urging public servants to lead the change. "Ending violence is everyone's responsibility.  It is not just a women's issue. It is a human being issue both male and female," Ms. Sansan stated. "We must all work together to take ownership and make sure our actions match our words." She also outlined a clear directive for all government agencies: "Let us lead by example. Show zero tolerance for GBV in our workplaces. Uphold the GESI policy and make gender equality and respect part of how we work every day." She further appealed to development partners to assist in the urgent development of a GBV database with the GBV secretariat, noting the current lack of proper data registry. Closing her remarks, Ms. Sansan reminded attendees of the global challenge: "The world must end GBV by 2030. We have 5 years to go. The question that is put forward to us is, are we set to achieve this for PNG?" NCD Governor Powes Parkop, also serving as Chairman of the Permanent Parliamentary Committee on Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment (GEWE), declared that the fight against GBV is failing because government agencies have not taken ownership of the response strategy. Governor Parkop noted the persistent high prevalence of violence is a major impediment to achieving national progress. He pinpointed the solution and mandated policy enforcement across all state entities. "The government itself is not taking ownership and responsibility for the response strategy to GBV and that is why it is failing.” “We are not showing leadership. We are not taking ownership. We are not walking the talk," the Governor asserted. He issued a stern challenge to all state institutions to implement immediate action. "I want to see in the city all the government departments, state agencies, state owned enterprises, they must take ownership of the strategy, and implement it at the workplace, in the homes, in the community.” “Make it the terms and condition of employment of all the state employees." Governor Parkop confirmed that NCDC is already implementing zero tolerance as a term and condition of employment, and this mandate must be extended nationwide. Furthermore, he announced a personal challenge to all Members of Parliament, including the Prime Minister and Ministers, to sign a declaration adhering to the strategy and saying no to violence. All the attendees including GESI Officers of various government departments agreed that the upcoming campaigns, including Redvember (where the color red signifies danger and the call to 'stop' violence) and the 20 Days of Activism, must mark a decisive turning point for the country.

A 1-megawatt Buin Solar Farm was officially launched last Friday in Buin Town, that marking a major milestone in Bougainville’s renewable energy journey.The project, was funded by the Government of Japan and implemented through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG), will see to deliver clean and reliable electricity to homes, schools, hospitals, and business houses across Buin and its surrounding communities — thus this clean energy will be reaching nearly 80 percent of the population. Chief Albert Nukuitu who spoke during the officially opening of the solar Farm, reflected on the community’s determination to keep Buin powered through difficult years. “In 2018, we formed Buin Power — a community-driven effort that ran 22 hours a day without government funding,” he said. “These young people gave their lives to serve the community and deserve recognition as Bougainville Power moves forward.” The solar farm now transforms that legacy into a region-wide power solution, integrating solar panels, battery storage, and backup generators to ensure a constant energy supply while cutting fossil fuel dependency. President Ishmael Toroama in his keynote address, commended the people of Bougainville for their resilience and unity, describing the solar project as a milestone in the region’s journey toward self-reliance. “What we have achieved today is not by chance, but it is through our own hands, our pride, and our unity as Bougainvilleans.” Stating that peace is here to stay, and he further expressed gratitude to development partners for their continued collaboration and encouraged communities to take ownership of projects that contribute to Bougainville’s growth. “We must take ownership of our land, our power, and our future,” he said. “When we work together, we strengthen our journey toward independence,” said President Toroama. Representing the Japanese Ambassy was Japanese Ambassador Hisanobu Mochizuki who reaffirmed Japan’s support for Bougainville, describing the project as a reflection of a long-standing friendship and cooperation. “This solar farm will help stimulate the local economy by improving access to clean energy,” the Ambassador said. He also highlighted Japan’s ongoing assistance to Bougainville, including the construction of 15 coastal bridges, support to the 2019 Bougainville Referendum, and the building of new school facilities. Furthermore, the UNDP Resident Representative Nicholas Booth noted that the event coincided with United Nations Day, marking 80 years since the UN Charter came into force and 50 years since Papua New Guinea joined the UN. “Bougainville once knew the scars of war, but today it stands for peace,” Booth said. “This solar farm represents renewal — linking peace, equality, and sustainable development.” He added that the project will reduce energy costs by up to 50 percent, deliver steady power to essential services, and directly benefit over 200 households. Chief Secretary Kearnneth Nanei also acknowledged the continued partnership with Japan and UNDP, describing the initiative as a vital step toward Bougainville’s energy independence. “Bougainville Power will manage generation and distribution across Buin, Arawa, and Buka,” he said. Nanei added that the upcoming government initiatives, including plans for a new hospital, teacher’s college, market facilities, and major road improvements will also be supported by this project. The Buin Solar Farm will expand its network to nearby villages and missions, including Piano, Tokaino, Tabago, and Kangu, covering a 48-kilometre radius.

Forty (40) netball administrators and coaches from Hiri Koiari District have completed the Oceania Sports Education Program (OSEP) training, strengthening the capacity of local sports organizations and enhancing community-level sports development in Central Province.The five-day training, held at Koke Hanua Lodge in Boera Village from October 20 to 24, forms part of the Oceania National Olympic Committee’s regional capacity-building initiative delivered through the Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC). The OSEP program aims to address a key challenge in PNG’s sports landscape where around 80% of community sports organizations operate without formal training by equipping participants with essential skills in sports administration, coaching, and event management. According to the PNGOC, this training supports PNG’s long-term preparations for regional events, including the Pacific Games, by strengthening grassroots leadership and governance in sport. President of the Hiri Koiari Netball Association, Hoi Koani, described the training as a milestone achievement for local sports leaders. “This is a blessing, and a dream come true for Hiri Koiari Netball Association as it aligns with our goals for capacity building,” Ms. Koani said. “We sincerely thank the PNG Olympic Committee for coming down to the community level to deliver this program. We are also grateful to ExxonMobil PNG, the main sponsor of this week’s OSEP event, and to our local member Keith Iduhu for his continuous support and funding.” A total of 34 sports administrators and 6 community coaches successfully graduated from the program, immediately putting their new skills into practice by organizing a “4-Net Netball Tournament” on the final day. Participants managed all aspects of the event from planning and officiating to post-tournament evaluation demonstrating practical application of their training. Sere Airi, Assistant Match Coordinator for the Tubusereia Netball Association, said the training provided valuable insight into how sports organizations should operate. “It was my first time attending an OSEP course. I’ve learned about the structure of sports organizations and how people should connect and run associations and clubs at the community level,” she said. “I’m excited to take this knowledge back and apply it in Tubusereia.” Serah Vagi Lohia, Tournament Team Manager for Boera Netball Association, who completed the OSEP Community Coach course, said the experience expanded her understanding of coaching systems across PNG and the Pacific. “The OSEP Community Coach course has broadened my understanding of coaching systems in PNG and Oceania. I thank the facilitators for this opportunity and look forward to putting my new skills into practice in Boera,” Ms. Lohia said. Each participant will receive certification recognized by the Oceania National Olympic Committee, giving them access to future advanced training and career development opportunities within the sports sector. The PNG Olympic Committee says the success of the Hiri Koiari training highlights the importance of investing in people at the community level to sustain sporting excellence and development across Papua New Guinea.

The first grade- 12 students of the Roy Biyama Academy graduated recently marking a historic milestone for both the school and the people of Western Province. Held on campus under the theme “Breaking Barriers and Creating Pathways for Success,” the graduation ceremony brought together students, families, community leaders, education officials and partners to honour the pioneering graduating class of 2025.Distinguished guests included Provincial Education Advisor Mr. Charlie Buia, Deputy Provincial Administrator Mr. Rupert Tabua, representatives from SDP and KTF, as well as local education and community leaders.The day was filled with pride and celebration, featuring traditional dances, cultural performances, and the presentation of certificates to the graduates.Academy Principal, Ms. Patricia Kombele, reflected on the significance of the occasion, stating: “This is a proud and historic day for our students, our school, and our province. Our first graduating class represents hope, perseverance, and progress for Western Province. They have shown that with vision, community, and determination, anything is possible.” Deputy Provincial Administrator, Mr. Rupert Tabua, paid tribute to the late MP Roy Biyama, saying: “In his lifetime Roy Biyama was a tree that spread seeds in his community that are still growing today.” A total of 20 students graduated from HRBBA’s inaugural Grade 12 class, representing communities from North Fly, South Fly, Delta Fly, Balimo, and beyond. Grade 12 dux, Jonathan Somono, shared his pride and optimism for the future.“We are proud to be the first graduates of Roy Biyama Balimo Academy. This school has taught us to aim high, to lead with humility, and to serve our communities. We leave here ready to make a difference.” In just its second year of operation, the Academy has grown rapidly, currently enrolling over 400 students from communities across Western Province. An SDP initiative delivered in partnership with KTF, the Academy provides education from kindergarten through to Grade 12, offering passionate teachers, fee-free tuition, boarding, and high- quality facilities and resources. SDP CEO, Lesieli Taviri, said this is a significant achievement to improve learning for students by providing quality education and facilities and a pathway into tertiary institutions such as Balimo College.Welcomed warmly by the Balimo community and beyond, the Roy Biyama Balimo Academy has already established itself as a leading educational institution, not just in Western Province but across the country, dedicated to unlocking the potential of students from across the region.