The Central Provincial Government has gone ahead to establish the Central Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) with an interim board and is now poised to deliver change in the Central Province by working with the Central Provincial Government (CPG). The CCCI received a boost of K200, 000 from Central Governor Rufina Peter at the inaugural CCCI meet and greet at the Hilton Hotel in Port Moresby on Friday 14th July. The event saw a gathering of people from different sectors in the Central Province as well as Minister for International Trade and Investment Richard Maru, Minister for Mining and Rigo MP Sir Ano Pala, Hiri-Koiari MP Keith Iduhu, elder statesman Sir Moi Avei, Central Provincial Executive Council members, Chairman for SME Corporation John Pora and Dame Josephine Abaijah graced the event with their presence. CCCI Interim President Linda Paru stated that the CCCI aims to protect and promote the interest of Central CCI members, which will also be a business and investment advisor to the Provincial Government and assist develop Foreign Trade within the Central Province. “Central Chamber of Commerce and Industry is a provincial chamber will affiliate to PNG Chamber of Commerce and Industry. As mentioned earlier we will have a common objectives with other Chambers like Port Moresby Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Lae Chamber of Commerce and Industry etc. However our unique position is that we are establishing this chamber during the PNG LNG Project and recently announced Papua LNG Project,” Paru said. She added that this enables members to have greater benefits, have access to resources and capitalize on the opportunities this projects brings to our door. International Trade and Investment Minister Richard Maru in his address stated that the CCCI was long overdue and encouraged the Central Government to make use of the chamber in collecting revenue for the province. He also called on the Central Provincial Government to align their goals with the Medium Term Development Four plan of the National Government that was launched recently at the APEC Haus.

The Wanderers just pulled through the skin of their teeth to deny the MBB Marlins victory in the dying minutes of the match through a Manu Bryan Field goal that put the match to bed with 10 minutes remaining. The Shane Amean coached Wanderers for the better part of the match, controlled both ball and field possession and scrummaging but were unable to hold the Marlins down as they fought back in the second half. Forty seconds into the Match and the Wanderers were first to put up points after kick off through Captain Foster Maso. In a space of 3 minutes the Wanderers extended their lead to 10-nil after Elisha Singut burst through some tiring defence to get his 5 pointer. Having the heavier pack, the Wanderers punched holes in the defensive line with much vigour, however the Marlins kept turning up, making it difficult for the Wanderers to score. The Marlins were only able to salvage a late try in the first half to bring the score to 10-5. In the Second half, the Wanderers asserted their presence in the Marlins half for almost 20 minutes, attacking the defense line with dangerous intent but the men from Gerehu held firm. This did not deter the Wanderers as they clocked two more tries that went unconverted. Momentum switch can sometimes make or break a team, and the Marlins capitalized on their chances broken play seeming to be their specialty as they ran around tired defenders to score two more tries. Benjamin Gaius converting their last try to put them within 3 points of the Wanderers and later slotting in a penalty to bring the scores level. The Wanderers had the last say in the final 10 minutes of the match with a field goal. Following the match, Coach Amean, though satisfied with the win, stated that there were a lot of things that they could have done better but they applied pressure on themselves and allowed that Marlins to get back into the Game. “That’s where we went wrong, we just scraped through by the skin of our teeth I reckon but that means that we learnt a lot from this game so we’re going to apply that in the next game.” Meanwhile, with both Moni Plus Nova and the Crusaders seeing out a draw and the Gangloff Consultants University Piggies also holding on to draw with the Credit Corporation Harlequins, this gives an opportunity for the Wanderers to secure a spot in the Finals should they win their final season match.

The Department of Personnel Management has issued a circular instruction to all departmental heads and government bodies in the country informing that Monday 24th July has been declared a public holiday, to observe National Remembrance Day. The memo released by Secretary Taies Sansan stated that this was confirmed by the National Executive Council under its instrument on the Public Notice for 2023 Public holidays and observance days and National Gazette No. 18 of 2022 on Public Holidays for 2023. Remembrance Day usually falls on the 23rd of July but due to the Holiday falling on the weekend, they have made amends for Monday to be a public holiday. Sunday July 23rd is National Remembrance Day in Papua New Guinea. It is a memorial day observed to honor PNG soldiers and officers who lost their lived during World War I, World War II and other military engagements within Papua New Guinea and abroad. Australia began to recruit PNG soldiers immediately before Japan entered the Second World War. They eventually formed five battalions of the PIR (Pacific Island Regiment). After the war, PNG soldiers continued to serve in the Australian military. When Papua New Guinea gained independence, it established its own defense force. The date of July 23 was chosen to commemorate the First Battle of Kokoda that occurred during the New Guinea campaign of the Pacific War. This battle was fought between allied forces (primarily Australian) and invading Japanese forces in the territory of Papua. It took place on July 23, 1942. National Remembrance Day commemorates PNG soldiers who served in the Australian military and servicemen of the Papua New Guinea Defense Force who died in service. All Public offices are advised to return to normal business on the 25th.

The MBB Marlins may have fallen short of the finals of the Pepsi Cup Capital Rugby Union 2023 season, but they are determined to see the end of the season on a high. Going down fighting to the Wanderers in yesterday evenings main match, coach Rawali Bokuik said they’ll be gunning for a few one more scalp in the Gangloff Consultants University Piggies in the Final week of the Season Proper. He said there was a lot to take away from the match yesterday, stating that they were there to get the job done and prove that they too can bring the heat. “We knew that the Wanderers are also gunning for the top and we wanted to give them a good game.” Coach Bokuik said he was impressed with his sides counter attacking prowess, utilizing their smaller forward pack to run down the heavy Wanderers forward pack. Although they know that the season will be coming to a close next week, the Marlins aim to cause an upset, knowing fully well that this will be an uphill battle. Bokuik said this will be the final match for the season and they will be playing for pride next week in the “Battle for Gerehu”. He said that they may not have the forward pack to match up against the Piggies, but they are working on a game plan to counter this.

Following the eviction of those residing at Portion 26, Lot 81; the National Housing Corporation (NHC) has lodged a request for a Stay Order to put a temporary stop to all eviction activities as they head to court to litigate the matter. A representative from the NHC’s (Identity Withheld) who is front lining the case stated that they have already lodged their request and will be looking to contest the legitimacy of the State Lease and ownership by Decision 2000 Limited. According to the NHC, this has been an ongoing case since 1997 and has been subject of quite a number of court proceedings regarding the state lease of the property. As part of an unregistered state lease, NHC would provide the housing facilities and that at certain points in time, employees would be able to apply for and be granted lease of properties. The tenants residing over the property are families of past NHC employees that have been residing on the property for almost half a century. “While in the process of applying for Direct Grants, the Division 2000 limited owned by Professor John Nongorr acquired the state lease. We don’t know how he did that but he managed to acquire the state lease.” “That has been an ongoing battle between NHC and the Division 2000 Ltd since 1997 until now. He is trying to enforce a state lease that has already been cancelled. It was cancelled in 2012.” This is why the NHC has lodge a request to obtain a stay order where they can put a halt to the eviction on hold till the current court proceedings have been concluded and ownership is determined. Meanwhile, it has been mentioned by the tenants of the properties that people employed by Division 2000 have been employing strong arm tactics to intimidate the families and they have brought that matter to the attention of the Police.  

Cricket PNG has announced the official 18 man squad that will be taking on both Japan and Vanuatu for the only spot in the East Asia-Pacific in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. The team to be headed by Coach Nathan Reardon, features both a wealth of experience and young talent that have come up the ranks. The 18 man squad includes; Charles Amini, Sese Bau, Kipling Doriga, Jack Gardner, Riley Hekure, Hiri Hiri, Sema Keama, John Kariko, Alei Nao, Lega Siaka as Vice-Captain, Tony Ura, Assadollah Vala [Captain], Norman Vanua and Hila Vare, with reserves Chad Soper, Jason Kila and Michael Charles. Assisting Nathan Reardon in the team will be John Ovia (Team Manager) and Justin Sternes as assistant coaches. Reardon stated that the players are very excited leading into the EAP Finals and are certainly aware of the positive impact of qualifying for the 2024 World Cup, will have on cricket in Papua New Guinea. “As head coach I am certainly excited to be involved with CPNG again, as I was part of the team when we qualified in Dubai with Joe Dawes and I saw how positive this was for everyone involved in PNG cricket, so being coach to potentially get them into their 2nd World Cup is very special.” “We have been blessed with the support from PacificAus Sports and Kumul Petroleum PNG to help assist us with our preparations.” With the support of sponsor PacificAus Sports, Readon said it has also allowed CPNG to have fantastic coaches involved over the last 3 months to get the Barramundis skills where they need to be to dominate this tournament. “With the addition of Justin Sternes, who has over 25 years of coaching experience and as a selector, this has definitely helped me get the correct balance in our squad. Physically, the team has had a great 6-week lead up, with the ISUZU T20 SMASH sponsored by Boroko Motors Tournament, and centre wicket practices, there is no reason why we couldn’t be mentally prepared. “This upcoming week is about sharpening up the team’s skills, giving them some clarity around their individual roles and then giving them the freedom to back their skills. The players have 100% backing from the Coaching team.” Cricket PNG Board-Chairman Mick Harrison said they are proud to announce the Men’s squad for the upcoming EAP T20 World Cup Final to be held in Port Moresby from Saturday 22nd to Saturday 29th July, and congratulates and fully supports the team. “The Barras preparations are in full swing, and I am sure the other countries of Vanuatu, Philippines and Japan will be hot on their heels to take out the tournament.” This will be the second appearance for the Kumul Petroleum Barramundis in this prestigious tournament, which is a direct qualifier straight into the world cup from the East Asia Pacific region. Only one team can qualify from the tournament. Meanwhile, the staff and crew at Cricket PNG are working overtime to make sure the facility is ready for the event. The ICC ODI World Cup Trophy Tour is passing through PNG from the 18th of July to show off this magnificent country. This will be televised at the upcoming world cup and will showcase Papua New Guinea.  

It seems poverty looks to be increasing in Major Urban areas of the country, however it is difficult for many to admit that it exists. This can be attributed to the breakdown of the traditional support system in local PNG society. The National Research Institute (NRI) Spotlight Volume 16, Issue 11 titled “Papua New Guinea is facing the development challenges of poverty in urban centers” by Senior Research Fellow, Dr. Philip Kavan, focuses on urban poverty and suggests strategies to mitigate poverty. The paper looks into the four (4) areas of importance: 1. Characteristics of urban poverty, 2. What causes poverty, 3. Groups affected by poverty, and 4. Poverty reduction strategies. According to these findings, poverty is robbing people of their dignity, potential, and in some cases, their lives. Traditional social values and kin-based practices of taking care of those in need have broken down. The paper highlighted that the most important factors that cause poverty are lack of jobs, no land for farming, and no access to education, water supply, healthcare, transport, and markets. Children, youth, and women are most affected by poverty. In this, the strategies for poverty reduction must be informed by a better understanding of the needs, views, and priorities of the poor and implemented through a collaborative approach led by the government with the participation of churches, the private sector, NGOs, and communities.

Prime Minister James Marape expressed his support for the newly formed Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) today, heralding it as a significant milestone in the fight against corruption. The commission gained momentum with the recent arrival of three highly qualified and experienced ICAC Commissioners. Recognising the devastating impact of rampant corruption on the nation's progress, Prime Minister Marape has been an unwavering advocate for the establishment of ICAC since assuming office in May 2019. The culmination of these efforts led to the passage of the ICAC Bill in November 2020. The three distinguished Commissioners are as follows: Mr. Andrew Forbes, Commissioner; Mr. Daniel Baulch, Deputy Commissioner of Operations and Technical Services; and Mr. Graham Gill, Deputy Commissioner of Prevention and Corporate Administration. Commissioner Andrew Forbes brings over 30 years of legal expertise to his role and is a renowned legal professional from Australia. With a background in contentious disputes, disciplinary proceedings, and regulatory matters, his appointment significantly bolsters the Commission's capabilities. Deputy Commissioner Daniel Baulch, also hailing from Australia, boasts over 20 years of law enforcement experience, having previously served as a police officer with Victoria Police. His extensive investigative background will undoubtedly enhance the operational effectiveness of the Commission. Deputy Commissioner Graham Gill, a distinguished professional from New Zealand, previously held the position of Deputy Chief Executive Corporate and Strategy with the New Zealand Serious Fraud Office. With 26 years of experience in prevention work and investigations, his invaluable insights will contribute to the success of ICAC. "To ensure utmost impartiality, the Commissioners were selected under the oversight of Transparency International, led by Chairman Mr. Peter Aitsi, thereby alleviating concerns regarding Papua New Guineans leading ICAC," emphasised Prime Minister Marape. "The ICAC Appointments Committee comprised the Prime Minister, Opposition Leader, Chief Justice, Chief Ombudsman, Public Service Commission Chairman, and Transparency International, providing comprehensive oversight." "I assure the people of Papua New Guinea that ICAC will receive full support and resources to ensure its seamless operation." "This government will never compromise on ICAC's integrity and effectiveness." Prime Minister Marape clarified that ICAC's establishment does not diminish the important work carried out by the Ombudsman Commission, the Police, or other anti-corruption agencies. Instead, ICAC will focus on strengthening the fight against corruption by providing teeth and bite to combat this pervasive problem. Corruption, a pressing concern plaguing the nation, poses a significant threat to the economy. In order to achieve the vision of a K200 billion economy, eradicating corruption becomes paramount. Complemented by the Whistle Blowers' Act (2020) and the Proceeds of Crime Act (2022), ICAC will be an instrumental force in our battle against corruption. "ICAC's establishment is a cause for celebration as we approach Papua New Guinea's 50th anniversary of nationhood in 2025." "This milestone has been made possible through the support of Members of Parliament who recognise the damage caused by corruption in our country," stated Prime Minister Marape." The Prime Minister emphasised that ICAC alone cannot effectively combat corruption. He urged citizens at all levels, including Local-Level Governments (LLGs), districts, provinces, and the public service, to report cases of corruption. “They now have an added opportunity to bring these allegations, with evidence, to ICAC,” he said. Prime Minister Marape expressed his concern regarding serious allegations of corruption shared on social media without corresponding evidence reported to appropriate authorities. "We all have a responsibility to fight corruption for the betterment of our beloved country by reporting cases." "A stronger economy can only be realised if we eliminate the deep-rooted corruption that plagues our society," highlighted Prime Minister Marape. Prime Minister Marape issued a stern warning to political and public service leaders, emphasising that ICAC's arrival places them under intense scrutiny. ICAC will relentlessly combat corruption, and he advised against soliciting or accepting bribes, urging everyone to earn an honest day's pay.

Treasurer Ian Ling-Stuckey has spoken out on the recent concerns raised by many around the country surrounding the Ministry plans to table a plan to devalue the Kina. Minister said until they gather more information, they do not plan to include any specific figures into the August Policy Roundup. He stated that there has been much speculation on the value of the Kina, questioning current views internationally and domestic and how to measure it. He added that these are all important questions. “We know that the International Monetary Fund considers the Kina is overvalued." "But we also know that this estimate goes up and down and varies through time." "For example, the IMF, using their “EBA-lite REER model”, estimated the Kina was over-valued by 11% in 2020." "By 2021, this figure had dropped to only 2.4%." "By 2022, the estimate for over-valuation had increased to 13.4%.” He further stated that the IMF is re-estimating the figure currently and all likelihood, this over-valuation estimate will fall, driven significantly by the fall in the US dollar against other currencies over the last nine months. “The latest ANZ estimate is for a small depreciation of 4.5% this year against the US dollar." "Nothing like the 20% being talked about by the Opposition." "However, the ANZ estimates that the inflow of foreign currency flows from the investment stage of the Papua LNG project will then lead to an appreciation during 2024.” Ling-Stuckey further elaborated that ANZ estimates that the Kina will be worth more by the end of 2024 than it is currently. “Of course, there are other views, such as Westpac seeing devaluations of about 4% both this year as well as next, so down to 0.2757 by end of 2023 and then 0.2640 by end of 2024." "They then expect to see a resource led recovery in the Kina in the second half of 2025." “The key point is that it is extremely difficult to determine the value of the Kina relative other currencies." "The shortages of foreign exchange point towards an over-valuation." "However, there is no agreement on the level of over-valuation.” The Treasurer said this lack of certainty about the size of any over-valuation, as well as uncertainty on the numbers of winners and losers, means that a responsible government will be cautious as it considers any adjustments. "The Government is taking its time, seeking advice and wanting clearer numbers on winners and losers." "However, once the foreign exchange regime is chosen by the Government, and as requested by the business sector, and consistent with the Mekere reforms, we have an independent central bank that will actually make the specific decisions on levels." “As we go through the numbers and the facts, there are two stand-out figures." "First, not the IMF, nor the ANZ, nor Westpac, is suggesting a figure of an immediate 20% devaluation initially announced by the Opposition in February, although we now see the leader of the Opposition directly contradicting his shadow Treasurer." “Second, no one seems to be talking about the 39% depreciation of the Kina to the US dollar during the PNC years.”

Two Police officers attached to the Badili Police Station are now being investigated and will receive charges from Boroko following news of their involvement in the escape of those involved in the Mad Monday incident that occurred last week. NCD Metropolitan Superintendent, Silva Sika advised that formal charges will be laid on the officers soon after it was discovered that they had aided and abetted many of the 56 suspects that were arrested last week to escape from the Badili Police Station. “I got the reports already." "It was a deliberate act of aiding and they may have been bribed [Snake Bail]." "The Police Station Commander is aware of that and I have given him this tasking.” The Met. Supt told PNG HAUSBUNG that he will be directing the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary Internal Investigations Unit to conduct criminal investigations into the incident and both suspects will be arrested. He explained that while many took the opportunity to escape, a handful of suspects chose to stay rather than risk falling into the hands of the Police again. Right now, 11 of the suspects still remain in custody, a few were granted bail but for those that escaped, police are still on the lookout for them. Superintendent Sika thanked those who had chosen to stay back inside the cell, trying to prove their innocence and said he's grateful that they have shown respect for the Rule of Law.

As the International Cricket Council Men's T20 World Cup Trophy takes its world tour, Papua New Guinea is one of the stops it will make before moving on into the Pacific. The honor of hosting it, will be bestowed upon Gomore Village in the Rigo District of Central Province. Ward Councilor for Gomore Village and President of the Sinaugoro Cricket Association Buri Magari said he is excited and thankful that his village will be welcoming the cup when it lands on the 20th. He said when he was first advised of the it would be making its way up to central province, particularly his village he was awestruck. “As a ward member of the community, when we were first advised of the world cup was coming into Papua New Guinea and for it to make its way up to Central province, into Rigo District into my village, it’s a very proud moment for the community we’ve never had an opportunity for such a cup that’s celebrated around the World.” He said the village is excited to celebrate the cup and gave thanks to Cricket PNG for giving them the opportunity to do so. Magari added that apart from Rugby League, Cricket is a sport that their community has enjoyed for a very long time since it was introduced by the London Missionary Society a century ago and this is an exciting event. “Cricket goes back historically for us, so we’re honored to have the cup celebration in our community.” He said at the same time this is also for the surrounding villages as well, as they have been invited to take part in the festivities. Magari further stated that there will be traditional dances and the Sinaugoro Cricket team will get a chance to showcase their talent against the PNG Cricket Academy team. It is said that representatives of the Rigo District and the Provincial Administration will also be present to receive the World Cup. Meanwhile the country will also play host to the East Asia-Pacific Qualifiers this month. The Barramundis will take on both Japan and Vanuatu to score a second appearance in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

Five members of the Papua New Guinea Defense Force had the opportunity to visit the Wisconsin National Guard as part of the Defense Department’s State Partnership Program, administered by the U.S National Guard Bureau last month. Coordinator of the Wisconsin National Guards State Partnership Program, Major Jessica Kelly stated that the intent of the visit was to build upon the medical introductory exchange that took place last year and that the visit was amazing. It was in March last year that members of the WNG set foot here in the country to observe how our Defense force medical services operated. In return, PNGDF medical personnel this year had the opportunity to visit the 135th Medical Company Area Support in Waukesha, which is the Wisconsin Military Academy at Fort McCoy and the 115th Medical Group at Truax Field in Madison. “This exchange was unique in its ability to incorporate both Army and Air National Guard representation.” The PNGDF Personnel that took part in the exchange were Maj. Louisa Wanma, the PNGDF military hospital’s second-in-command and a medical lab scientific officer, Capt. Philomena Marai, a registered nursing officer serving at Lombrum Naval Base on the island of Manus. Capt. Ryan Manzin, the commanding officer of the PNGDF preventative health platoon and an environmental health officer. Lt. Job Barnabas; a mental health nurse, and Warrant Officer Jerry Aihi an experienced community health worker and the officer in charge of combat medical training for soldiers and recruits at the PNGDF Goldie River Training Depot. During their visit to Wisconsin, the PNGDF officers learned and exchanged practices and techniques on the fundamentals of medical training, suicide prevention, behavioural health, medical readiness, combat medic resiliency training, tactical trauma assessment, massive haemorrhage control, wound management, shock recognition, fractures, care under fire, and preventative medicine. It was a positive trip, with the PNGDF reporting that they had learned a lot in their visit. Maj. Wanma pointed out a key difference in the medical training between the Wisconsin National Guard and Papua New Guinea adding that it would be interesting if they come, and WO Aihi shows them what he does when he improvises. Manzin explained that the Wisconsin National Guard has more resources and dedicated support for its training. Maj. Kelly said additional takeaways from the visit included adding more academics on mental health and how to build resiliency within the force, as well as drug and alcohol preventative medicine and recovery medicine. “We learned that Papua New Guinea is starting to emphasize and incorporate more conversations on mental health and whole health concepts.” Upcoming State Partnership Program engagements with Papua New Guinea include Wisconsin National Guard legal representatives participating in a legal exchange hosted by the Defense Institute for International Legal Studies and a disaster response exchange and exercise hosted by the U.S. Army Pacific to support the PNGDF in building disaster response capacity within the country. The State Partnership Program has been successfully building relations around the world for 30 years and now includes 88 partnerships with 100 nations. The Wisconsin National Guard has a State Partnership Program relationship with Nicaragua as well as Papua New Guinea.