The International Organization for Migration (IOM), in partnership with the National Disaster Centre (NDC), has successfully concluded the Provincial Disaster Centre (PDC) Institutional Capacity Assessment Validation Workshop in Port Moresby recently.The workshop brought together Provincial Disaster Coordinators from across all 22 provinces of Papua New Guinea to review, validate, and strengthen the findings of a nationwide institutional capacity assessment. The assessment examined key dimensions of disaster management, providing a comprehensive overview of strengths, gaps, and opportunities at the provincial level.During the workshop, participants:Validated key findings on institutional capacity across disaster management systems.Identified priority gaps and opportunities to strengthen preparedness, response, coordination, and recovery efforts.Shared practical experiences, lessons learned, and good practices from provincial disaster management efforts.Developed actionable recommendations to inform both provincial and national capacity strengthening roadmaps.Provincial Disaster Centers play a vital role in coordinating disaster preparedness, response, and recovery across Papua New Guinea; thus, strengthening their institutional capacity is critical to improving resilience, safeguarding lives and livelihoods, and ensuring communities are better equipped to respond to future shocks and hazards.“This workshop marks an important step towards building stronger, more responsive disaster management systems at the provincial level,” said Mr. Martin Mose PNG NDC.“By grounding resilience efforts in local capacity, Papua New Guinea is reinforcing its ability to respond effectively to disasters and protect its communities.”The assessment and validation workshop were jointly implemented by NDC and IOM, with financial support from the United States Government and the Government of Australia. Theircontinued partnership remains instrumental in advancing disaster risk management systems and strengthening resilience nationwide.IOM and NDC extend their sincere appreciation to Provincial Disaster Directors, Provincial Disaster Coordinators, government counterparts, and all partners for their strong commitment and collaboration in building more effective and inclusive disaster management systems across Papua New Guinea.

The National Superannuation Fund Limited (Nasfund) is proud to announce the rollout of its first mobile service booths, bringing full member services directly to workplaces and remote communities across Papua New Guinea (PNG).Starting in Port Moresby, the Mobile Service booth is fully equipped to deliver:On-the-spot ID card productionMember statement printingBenefit eligibility screeningAccount and benefits updatesThis rollout is made possible by upgraded, high-speed satellite internet through Starlink.With download speeds of 90+ Mbps, our teams can now operate securely and efficiently from remote sites where traditional office internet is limited.It means faster service, real-time updates, and no more delays for Nasfund members.“We are excited to be the first in the superannuation arena to take the full Nasfund office to our members’ locations,” said Rajeev Sharma, Chief Executive Officer of Nasfund.“For too long, distance and connectivity have been barriers. With these mobile booths and Starlink connectivity, members can now get served at their workplace or community without the need and expense to travel to the branch.”The mobile booth program launches this month, with a comprehensive site visit schedule to be released in the coming weeks. The schedule will cover major employer sites, project locations, and rural areas to ensure more members can securely access their super conveniently.

More than 100 youths from the communities of Poreporena (Hanuabada) and Elevala in Port Moresby city, have departed for Lae in Morobe Province to attend the Urban Region Youth Convention hosted by the United Church – Morobe Circuit Christian Youth Ministry (CYM).The convention is more than just a trip away from home. It is a spiritual journey designed to strengthen the faith and character of young people through worship, Bible teachings, fellowship, leadership development sessions, and life-changing crusades.Youths attending the convention will have the opportunity to encounter God in a different environment, connect with fellow believers from various regions, and participate in activities aimed at nurturing their spiritual growth. The gathering is expected to challenge participants to deepen and strengthen their spiritual life and prepare them for greater service within their churches and communities.Church leaders have highlighted that the convention will provide a platform for youths to experience spiritual renewal, develop leadership qualities, and gain valuable lessons that will positively shape their future. As they travel and participate in the convention, prayers are being offered for God's protection, guidance, and blessings upon each participant.The participation of the delegation has been made possible through the unwavering support of the United Churches of Poreporena and Elevala. Through fundraising activities and generous financial contributions, church members and supporters united to ensure that the youths could attend this important regional gathering.The communities now eagerly anticipate their return, believing that the convention will inspire a new generation of spiritually empowered young leaders who will continue to serve God and make meaningful contributions to society.The Urban Region Youth Convention hosted by Morobe Circuit CYM serves as a reminder of the vital role young people play in the Church or towards nation building. 

The National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA) has finalized its Strategic Health Service Development Plan following a year-long, five-part consultative process, setting a new course for healthcare delivery across the district and Motu Koitabu Villages.Supported by key local leaders, including Governor Powes Parkop, the final workshop, brought together district CEOs and stakeholders to align service improvements with community needs."It is important that we have a clear plan to guide our health sector development. This is something I have always advocated for because without a plan, it is difficult to achieve meaningful progress. These documents provide the direction needed to improve health services for our people and ensure accountability in implementation," Governor Parkop said."The development of the Strategic Health Service Development Plan has been a collaborative journey involving our staff, partners, stakeholders, development agencies, district leaders, and community representatives. The productive discussions and contributions received throughout the consultation process have helped shape plans that are practical, achievable, and aligned with our vision of delivering quality health services to the people of the National Capital District," NCDPHA CEO Dr. Robin Oge added.The successful completion of these consultations paves the way for the formal endorsement and implementation of the plan. You can read the full, original media release for more details.

Seventy-two (72) women leaders from the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church in Moresby South recently completed a three-day financial literacy training and received certification.The training, delivered by the Informal Economy Section of the Department for Community Development and Religion, equipped participants with practical knowledge on budgeting, saving, and responsible financial management.The closing ceremony was marked by emotional testimonies from participants, with several women expressing gratitude for the opportunity and sharing the financial struggles they face in their daily lives.Assistant Leader of Koki SDA Church, Glendalyn Auma, said the training had changed the way participants think about managing their finances."We learned the importance of saving money and avoiding the habit of carrying cash to reduce unnecessary spending. We now have the advantage of having our own bank accounts.”Moresby South District Director David Gairo commended the Department for delivering a program that addressed the practical needs of women in the community.He congratulated the participants on completing the training and encouraged them to apply the knowledge gained to improve their financial discipline and achieve greater economic independence.Speaking on behalf of Department Secretary Jerry Ubase, Assistant Director for Informal Economy Cecilia Wrondimi highlighted the critical role of the informal economy in Papua New Guinea."About 80 to 90 percent of our people are engaged in informal economic activities. It is a driving force of the formal economy, employing more people than the formal sector. However, many remain unbanked, unregistered, and unprotected.”Additionally, she said the training was designed to help participants transition from informal economic activities into formally recognized small and medium enterprises (SMEs), enabling them to access greater financial opportunities."With these certified skills, you can begin saving with Mama Bank, register with the Investment Promotion Authority (IPA), and formally establish yourselves as SMEs.”She described the initiative as an important pathway towards improved financial inclusion, increased economic participation, and long-term sustainability for women entrepreneurs.Ms. Wrondimi also revealed that the Department is finalizing the National Informal Economy Policy, which is expected to be submitted to the National Executive Council (NEC) for approval later this year.

Residents across Western Province are facing increasing hardship as an extended dry season continues to affect communities, leaving many families struggling to access clean water.For more than a month, Kiunga and surrounding areas in the North Fly District have received little to no rainfall, causing water shortages that are impactingdaily life.Small creeks, streams, water wells and household tanks that residents rely on for drinking, cooking and washing have either dried up or are rapidly running out of water.Kiunga resident and parent, Taita Parau, said her family has been forced to walk long distances in search of water."All our tanks have dried up. We are now fetching water from wells that are not clean and boiling it before drinking. The continuous sunny weather in Kiunga is drying up the wells we used to depend on," she said.Many residents in Kiunga town and nearby settlements are no longer able to rely on water tanks and are travelling to Sare Kona and Hongas Kona settlements to access the few remaining wells. Another resident, Ansel Bot, said the situation has become increasingly difficult for families. "The water wells and small creeks we used for washing dried up last week. My family and I have dug several wells, but there is still no sign of water. We now have no choice but to wash in the dirty waters of the Fly River," he said. As the dry conditions persist, many residents continue digging wells in search of underground water, although much of the water found is unsuitable for drinking without treatment. Concerned youth leader Moxcy Bainge said the prolonged lack of rainfall has left communities desperate for a more sustainable solution. "Our water tanks have dried up, and we are travelling to Sare Kona to fetch water. We cannot continue to suffer like this. What we need now are water bores in our settlements so that people can continue to access water," he said. Some residents are also travelling along the Kiunga-Tabubil Highway to wash and collect water from any available sources. The prolonged dry season is not only affecting households but is also beginning to impact transportation and business activities in the province. The water level of the Fly River has reportedly fallen by six metres and continues to decline, making it increasingly difficult for cargo vessels to access the Kiunga Wharf. Business operators in Kiunga have indicated that current stock levels may only last another two to three months if dry conditions continue and transportation along the river becomes further restricted.Residents have also reported unusually cold nights and mornings, conditions many say are unlike anything experienced in recent years.The effects of the dry season are being felt across the province, including in the Middle Fly, Delta Fly and South Fly districts.Speaking on behalf of many residents, Mr Bainge appealed to the Fly River Provincial Government to prioritize the installation of water bores in affected communities."There are many swampy areas around us, and if we dig deep enough there is still water underground. Water bores are what our communities need right now," he said.Meanwhile, Western Governor Taboi Awi Yoto said in a social media update last week that the Fly River Provincial Government has already allocated funding, with support from development partners, to assist with initial relief operations and emergency response activities should the dry conditions worsen. As the dry season continues, communities across Western Province remain hopeful that relief measures, including the installation of water bores, can help ease the growing water crisis.

The Morobe Provincial Health Authority (MoPHA) has issued a strong warning against the illegal sale of prescription medicines in shops, markets, and street vendors across Morobe Province.In a Circular Instruction Management Information System (MIIS) notice issued on 18 June 2026, MoPHA advised all retail shops, pharmacies, staff and the general public that prescription drugs must only be dispensed through a registered pharmacy or authorised health facility, and only with a valid prescription from a registered medical practitioner.The authority stated that the sale of medicines without proper authorisation is illegal and poses serious health risks, especially when drugs are stored or used without professional guidance.MoPHA, in collaboration with the Pharmacy Board of Papua New Guinea, said it will begin enforcing the Medicines and Cosmetic Act 1999 and the Medicines and Cosmetic Regulation 2022 to crack down on offenders.The circular warned that illegal sellers may face penalties including fines of up to K5,000, imprisonment for up to 12 months, or both.The notice also called on members of the public to report individuals or businesses involved in the unlawful sale of prescription medicines.Morobe PHA Chief Executive Officer Dr Kipas Binga signed off on the directive, stressing the importance of public safety and compliance with pharmaceutical laws.The authority has set 30 June 2026 as the deadline for illegal sales to cease, urging full cooperation from all stakeholders.

The Autonomous Bougainville Government’s Department of Veterans Affairs has launched its Corporate Plan, setting out a strategic roadmap to strengthen support for veterans and positioning them at the center of Bougainville's nation-building agenda.The Corporate Plan was officially launched during Bougainville Foundation Day celebrations at Hutjena Oval in Buka recently by Minister for Veterans Affairs, Hon. Linus Dakei Jnr.Speaking during the launch, Minister Dakei said the Corporate Plan represented a commitment by the Toroama–Masatt Government to ensure veterans remain active and valued contributors to Bougainville's development and future aspirations."The Department of Veterans Affairs carries one of our most important responsibilities: to honor the legacy of our veterans and to ensure that they remain active, respected, and valued participants in the progress of our nation," Minister Dakei said.The Minister said the Corporate Plan provides a clear framework for how the Department will deliver services, strengthen partnerships and support veterans as Bougainville advances its long-term development and independence readiness objectives.The launch also highlighted the significant progress made since the reinstatement of the Ministry and Department of Veterans Affairs in 2025.Minister Dakei described the Corporate Plan as more than a strategic document, stating that it serves as a covenant between the government and the men and women who made sacrifices during Bougainville's struggle.The Corporate Plan aligns with the Bougainville Integrated Strategic Development Plan (BISDP) and Bougainville Vision 2052, ensuring that veterans remain integrated into the broader development agenda of the ABG.Key priorities outlined in the plan include rehabilitation and wellbeing support for veterans, efforts to locate and account for missing persons, economic empowerment initiatives, support for veteran families, and strengthened governance and service delivery systems.The plan also provides a pathway for building stronger institutional partnerships and improving coordination with the Bougainville Veterans Federation and other stakeholders to deliver services more effectively."As your Minister, I want you to know that your government recognises your service, values your contribution, and remains committed to working alongside you as partners in building our future," Minister Dakei said.Minister Dakei acknowledged the support of the Vice President, the Office of the Chief Secretary, the Department of Finance, the Department of Personnel Management and Administrative Services, and other government agencies that contributed to the development of the Corporate Plan.He said the successful implementation of the plan would require a whole-of-government approach and continued collaboration with veterans and communities throughout Bougainville.

TISA Bank has officially opened its new branch in Kavieng, New Ireland Province, marking a major step in its efforts to expand banking services and improve financial access for communities across New Ireland Province.The branch was officially launched during a ceremony attended by New Ireland Governor Hon. Byron Chan, provincial leaders, business representatives, community members, and TISA Bank officials.Speaking at the event was TISA Bank Board Chairman Moses Koiri who highlighted that the opening reflects the bank’s commitment to bringing essential financial services closer to the people.“This branch is more than just a new location for TISA Bank. It represents our commitment to making banking more accessible and convenient for the people of New Ireland,” Mr. Koiri said.He said the bank aims to support families, small businesses, and larger enterprises by providing reliable and customer-focused banking solutions that contribute to local economic growth. Mr. Koiri acknowledged the hardworking communities of New Ireland and stated that the bank looks forward to building strong and lasting relationships throughout the province. Governor Byron Chan welcomed TISA Bank’s arrival in Kavieng, describing the institution as a professional and dependable banking provider. He said the establishment of the branch would contribute positively to the province’s economic development and provide residents with greater access to modern banking services. Governor Chan also noted his confidence in the bank, citing positive experiences with its services both within Papua New Guinea and overseas. The Kavieng Branch will offer a full range of banking services to individuals, businesses, and organisations, further supporting TISA Bank’s mission of delivering accessible and customer-centered banking solutions across the country.

Divine Word University (DWU) has been confirmed by the Papua New Guinea University Sports Association (PNGUSA) as the official host of the 2026 PNG National University Soccer Games.The tournament will take place at the DWU Madang Campus from June 22 to 26, 2026, bringing together student-athletes and officials from universities across the nation for a week of intense inter-university competition and regional engagement.Participating institutions expected to compete include the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG), Papua New Guinea University of Technology (UNITECH), Pacific Adventist University (PAU), IBS University (IBSU), Innovative University of Enga (IUE), University of Goroka (UOG), and the University of Natural Resources and Environment (UNRE). Western Pacific University (WPU) has also confirmed its participation, entering the men’s soccer competition only.The PNG National University Games, commonly known as the Intervarsity Games, is a biennial sporting event designed to provide a platform for tertiary students to compete while promoting friendship, collaboration, and healthy competition. Following a period of inactivity, the Games were officially revived after a crucial meeting of Student Services Directors and Sports officers at UNITECH in March 2024, where it was agreed that the Games would return on a rotational hosting basis.The first revived competitions were held during the Semester One break in 2024, with UNITECH hosting soccer in Lae and UPNG hosting basketball in Port Moresby. The success of those events marked a major milestone in revitalizing university sports, and the 2026 edition in Madang is expected to build on that momentum. In preparation for broader sporting engagement, DWU will also be sending two basketball teams to UNRE, a netball team to UNITECH, and a men’s volleyball team to UPNG for other fixtures.DWU President Professor Fr Philip Gibbs welcomed the opportunity to host the national soccer event and expressed absolute confidence in the university’s readiness for the tournament.“We are delighted to receive students from other universities and to share these days of friendship, competition, and learning.”“Sport is more than winning a game. It teaches discipline, respect, courage, fairness, and perseverance.”“It helps us discover our strengths, accept our limits, and support one another as a team.""May your time at DWU build new friendships, strengthen unity among our universities, and inspire excellence on and off the field.”Meanwhile, DWU Student Services Deputy Director Mr. Alfred Ruene emphasized that current preparations are heavily focused on student welfare, accommodation, logistics, and the overall delivery of the tournament.“This event is particularly significant because the PNG National University Games have traditionally been hosted by state universities such as UPNG, Unitech, UOG, and UNRE.”“Divine Word University is honoured to be the first private university entrusted with hosting a national university sporting competition of this scale.”“We sincerely thank the executives of the Papua New Guinea University Sports Association for their confidence in DWU and for providing us with this opportunity to host the 2026 National University Soccer Games.”“We are committed to delivering a successful tournament that promotes sportsmanship, unity, and friendship among students from universities throughout Papua New Guinea.”Mr. Ruene added that hosting the Games will not only strengthen student engagement but also create opportunities for the wider Madang community to participate in and benefit from a significant national sporting event. DWU is working closely with PNGUSA and all stakeholders to ensure seamless planning, with fixtures and the official program set to be released closer to the opening date.

Mining operations at Ok Tedi mine in the Western province are continuing as normal despite the current dry weather conditions and low river levels along the Fly River. Ok Tedi Mining Limited (Ok Tedi) confirms that there has been no disruption to production activities, and all operations remain stable and fully functional. Ok Tedi also advises that there are sufficient food stocks and essential supplies on site to support ongoing operations and workforce needs.   As part of its proactive planning, the Company is currently assessing and implementing alternative supply routes to ensure the continued delivery of fuel, food, and other critical materials. These measures are being put in place to minimise any potential impact arising from reduced river levels. “Alternate routes are currently being reviewed for exporting of copper concentrate and bringing in fuel and other supplies in the event of an El Nino,’’ said Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Kedi Ilimbit.“Unlike in the previous dry seasons, we didn’t have those routes,’’ Mr. Ilimbit added. Ok Tedi remains committed to maintaining safe, reliable, and continuous operations while ensuring the wellbeing of its employees and host communities. The Company will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as necessary.

Key government agencies, state-owned entities, industry representatives and development partners convened in Port Moresby this week and participated in a stakeholder consultation on the review of the Organic Law on the Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF).The consultation workshop brought together representatives from the Bank of Papua New Guinea (BPNG), Kumul Consolidated Holdings (KCH), Kumul Minerals Holdings Limited (KMHL), Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL), Internal Revenue Commission (IRC), Department of Treasury, First Legislative Council, Constitutional Law Reform Committee, Association of Superannuation Funds, PNG Reset@50 Unit and other relevant institutions.The workshop formed part of the Government's ongoing efforts to strengthen the legislative framework governing the Sovereign Wealth Fund and advance its operationalisation.Participants were reviewing proposed amendments to the Organic Law and governance, accountability and operational arrangements necessary to ensure the Fund delivers its intended objectives of macroeconomic stabilization, responsible resource revenue management and intergenerational savings.The consultations also provided an opportunity for stakeholders to consider international best practice and lessons from other sovereign wealth fund jurisdictions.Among the participants was Her Excellency Anne Riise, Ambassador of Norway to Papua New Guinea, who shared insights from Norway's experience in managing one of the world's largest sovereign wealth funds. Discussions focused on governance standards, transparency, long-term investment strategies and the role sovereign wealth funds play in securing future prosperity.The Sovereign Wealth Fund was established under the Organic Law on the Sovereign Wealth Fund 2015 following its passage by Parliament and the Fund was designed to ensure revenues generated from Papua New Guinea's mineral and petroleum resources contribute to long-term national development and economic stability.Minister for Rural and Economic Development and Minister responsible for oversight of the Sovereign Wealth Fund, Hon. Joseph Lelang, MP, said the review process represents an important step towards making the Fund fully operational.Speaking from Singapore, where he is currently undertaking his annual medical review, Mr. Lelang reaffirmed the Government's commitment to operationalising the Sovereign Wealth Fund before the next National General Election."I intend to see the Sovereign Wealth Fund operational before the next National General Election. Bringing further amendments to the Organic Law on the Sovereign Wealth Fund is necessary to ensure the framework is robust, practical and capable of delivering benefits for current and future generations of Papua New Guineans," Mr. Lelang said."The Sovereign Wealth Fund is an important national institution that will help safeguard our resource revenues, strengthen economic resilience and ensure that the benefits of our natural resources are shared with future generations."Mr. Lelang is expected to return to Papua New Guinea this weekend.The stakeholder consultations will continue as part of the review process aimed at strengthening the Organic Law and establishing an effective Sovereign Wealth Fund framework that reflects international best practice while addressing Papua New Guinea's development priorities.