The Emergency Department at the Port Moresby General Hospital continues to attend to emergency cases every day, with the department attending to a maximum of 180 patients during a 24-hour period. Emergency Physician at Port Moresby General Hospital Dr Mangu Kendino told PNG HAUSBUNG that at this time, nothing’s changed as the same volume of patients they see every day remains the same. “Strokes, tuberculosis, diabetes and all degree of trauma whether motor vehicle accidents/incidents, penetrating injuries and fractures, are common cases that we at the emergency department attend to on a daily basis.” The change in the climate weather during this time is also a contributing factor as the city is experiencing strong winds and dry season. Dr. Kendino stated that the current change of weather does impact people with particular illnesses, including those with respiratory problems either with asthma or people with chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases such as bronchitis. “These are patients who come in with more increase in shortness of breath and we are currently dealing with these cases.” “This is something that we have seen with the alignment in change of the weather pattern.” Meanwhile, a recent power disruption has been resolved after Dr. Kendino confirmed that there was no power supply at the hospital on Friday the 25th to Saturday the 26th of August 2023. This she said had affected the hospital and especially the emergency department during that time. She further confirmed that they have backed up power with new generators in place at the hospital to maintain the power supply.

The Lae Tennis Club (LTC) has sent an 11 strong Junior Team to represent Lae in the Port Moresby Racquets Club (POMRC) Tennis & Squash Open 2023, held at the POMRC Courts this weekend. President of the Lae Tennis Club Mr. Glenn Cabasug, said the LTC continues to invest in the development of the juniors, not only through local coaching, training and tournaments in Lae, but also through much needed participation in Port Moresby. “This will allow more exposure for our juniors to develop their skills and build their confidence.” He said winning will always be a bonus for the young tennis players, but it is more important that they learn about teamwork, sportsmanship and respect towards other people. The team consists of the following players: 1.Macklyn Meninga (9 yo) 2.Cassandra Thomas (11 yo) 3.Eston Gordon (11 yo) 4.Irene Jose (13 yo) 5.William Thomas (13 yo) 6.John Louie Domalaon (14 yo) 7.Stacy Thomas (15 yo) 8.Christopher Jose (15 yo) 9.Wagivogo Walter (16 yo) 10.Emmanuel Nixon (16 yo) 11.Bianca Bacani (17 yo) They 11 Tennis Juniors will be participating in both junior events U12 Mixed, U14 Mixed, U18 Boys, U18 Girls. Mr. Cabasug explained that the junior team’s participation at this weekend’s tournament was made possible through financing from the club’s accumulated funds, with much need additional assistance from 13 generous sponsors, who include the wider business community in Lae, as well as the Lae Chinese Club and sister club, POMRC. “We would like to thank our sponsors, who have come board for a very worthy cause and have supported financially, provided uniforms and merchandise, food and drinks and assisted with transportation and accommodation.” The President said this support towards the junior development program will allow them to train and have coaching sessions at the LTC for free. “This will be the third time for our young club to send a team of tennis juniors to participate in Port Moresby.” “Our juniors have performed very well in other such past events and two of them, John Louie Damolaon and Cassandra Thomas were selected to represent PNG to the West Pacific Regional Championships in Vanuatu in May this year, further qualifying to represent West Pacific to the Pacific Oceania Junior Championships in Fiji last month.” He thanked all LTC’s partners who continue to support their junior development initiatives to grow Tennis in Lae and provide opportunities and a pathway for children in the code.

Bumayong in the Morobe Province, recently opened its new Police Station, New Police Staff Houses and a Mini BSP Agent. The new police station was opened by the Internal Security Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jnr in the presence of the Morobe Governor Luther Wenge, Nawaeb MP Theo Pelgen, alongside the ACP Northern Command Peter Guinness, among other dignitaries. In his opening remarks, Minister Tsiamalili likened the new facility to a lighthouse, saying the people can now oversee their own affairs and he thanked the local landowners for allowing the facility to be built on their land. “The new infrastructures built here stands to look after the community and allow them especially the mothers to partake in economic activities such as marketing of garden produce.” “The Police Station reminds us to be humble and be productive in revenue generating activities.” Tsiamalili revealed the new police station was made possible through funds allocated for the Bumayong Township Redevelopment. He made mention as well that Deputy Prime Minister Hon John Rosso has further pledged a new Police Vehicle to support police operations at Bumayong. Morobe Governor Luther Wenge, speaking during the opening of the police station urged the community to appreciate development in their area. Governor Wenge also thanked BSP for the set-up of the Mini Cash Agent within the police station precinct. “It is now convenient for the people of Bumayong to have easier access to banking services at their doorstep.” Nawaeb MP Theo Pelgen further praised contractor Allied PNG Group for the installation of Solar Lighting Systems, Water Supply and 3 times staff houses and BSP Mini Agent construction.

Cheshire Disability Services (CDS) received a substantial donation from a fundraising swim. The Fundraising Event saw the General Manager of Pacific Towing, a Mr. Neil Papenfus, swimming the English Channel, attracting over K300, 000 in support, which was more than three times the original fundraising target. General Manager of the CDS Mr. Benson Hahambu, when giving a rundown of this fundraising, said he was thrilled when Neil first told him of his plans to swim the English Channel as a fundraiser. “I remember wondering if Neil’s goal of K100, 000 was even possible so you can imagine how surprised and absolutely delighted we were at the response.” Mr. Hahambu said the fundraising target was surpassed with a significant contribution from Swire Shipping. “Swire Shipping had already pledged K36, 000 early in 2023 in support of Neil’s swim.” “However, after learning more about CDS, they were inspired to provide additional support to help fund the vehicle purchase and building upgrades.” He said the media coverage of the fundraiser was great awareness for Chesire and helped to shine the spotlight on the challenges that Persons Living with Disabilities face. “Life is extra hard when you have a disability but in developing countries, especially in one where disabilities are so stigmatized, it is even harder.” “We want everyone in PNG to know that our brothers and sisters living with disabilities have a lot to contribute to our country’s development and that we just need to provide them with the support and opportunities to do so.” Cheshire Disability Services is Papua New Guinea’s main service provider for Persons Living with Disabilities (PLWD). The funds raised will allow them to now extend their services into the greater part of Port Moresby, the Central Province and into the Gulf Province as well as the purchase of a new vehicle. This will enable better access to essential healthcare and education for marginalized communities who either cannot access a hospital/school or where none exists. Building upgrades to an outdoor meeting space and guardhouse will also provide a safe, secure space for students, teachers, and caregivers to meet.

Operational plans are being adapted to focus on the root manipulators of bloodshed and there will be an increase of security force personnel in hotspots to minimize killing and property of damage. This is the advice from the Commissioner of Police David Manning, who explained the tough approach by security forces to address the increasingly horrific and senseless killings in parts of the Highlands and especially in the Enga Province. He said security forces will continue to neutralize combatants and search warrants are being taken out against people instigating fighting for their own personal and political gain. “Through their respective commanders, security force personnel have been instructed to use all means necessary to detain gunmen and to use lethal force when warranted.” The Commissioner has advised the Prime Minister and Internal Security Minister of these additional measures to the security operations in Enga. “Assistant Commissioner Operations, Samson Kua, will lead the effort in his new appointment as ACP Western Region.” “ACP Kua is being supported with an enhanced deployment of specialist tactical equipment to deliver maximum damage to the criminal element in Enga.” Manning further said they will be bringing in senior and respected security personnel who are either from Enga, or have long term experience in the area, to advise local commanders. “This is essential for security forces to intervene, and to identify and arrest known agitators, including any political operatives.” Capacity for detainees from tribal conflict zones being processed through courts and a zero-tolerance for any risks will be increased. Manning said security forces are opting to address the root cause of conflicts to stop the senseless violence. “We all know the tribesmen going out with guns and bush knives are being manipulated by politicians at all levels.” “These are puppeteers shedding the blood of their tribesmen for their personal gain.” “Hired gunmen are also being used to conduct raids on villages, but these hired idiots are being slaughtered because they do not know the lay of the land they are threatening.” He admitted that colonial interventions are little help in this situation where people are being driven by traditional ways of conflict resolution. “There has never been a specific strategy that honestly brings together cultural tradition with modern law enforcement, and of course the potential of political manipulation, so this is where we are rewriting the rulebook.” “As Commissioner, I will see our Police Force continue to adopt a problem-focused model of policing, responding to serious crimes forcefully and without hesitation. “Community policing engagement will continue with relevant personnel, while the main effort is using force to stop the fighting and detaining the political agitators. “Many of these are politicians who wear a suit and tie by day and abuse cultural beliefs and manipulate tribes by night.” Commissioner stated there is an increased security force personnel in Enga Province along with a simple message. “If you pick up a weapon with the intention of fighting you will likely be killed, and if you are a political manipulator causing villagers to bear arms, there is nowhere for you to hide.”  

Clans in the Gembolg District in the Chimbu Province are taking necessary steps to protect their natural environment and resources. This was marked by the signing of a Conservation Deed (CD) by five Clans from the Inaugl Tribe Gembolg District. This CD will now protect 12 000+ hectares of high biodiversity forests. This CD also signifies the five clans joining their neighbours in the Bismarck Corridor to legally protect their pristine forests while allowing sustainable use of natural resources within certain marked zones. USAID PNG LGP Chief of Party, Tom Pringel was present to witness the signing of this milestone achievement. He congratulated the community and the World Conservation Society (WSC) and everyone else who was part of the journey in creating the Conservation Area. “Conservation Deeds are an effective way of sustainably conserving and managing our forest especially at this time when Papua New Guinea is experiencing environmental degradation and biodiversity loss.” He explained that this also includes the loss of cultural identity associated with traditional bilas, folklores, totems, species, songs, areas of cultural significance, water sources, herbal medicine, traditional knowledge and skills, useful plants, animals and insects. “All living and non-living things in the natural environment are interconnected and form various elements of the life supporting ecosystems.” “With the increase in human population and demand for more resources there is now a greater need to promote biodiversity conservation and environmental protection in PNG.” He said the USAID-funded Lukautim Graun Program, promotes biodiversity conservation efforts as well as providing alternative options for sustainable livelihood activities, capacity building and training within the conservation sites. The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) in PNG with support provided from USAID PNG Lukautim Graun Program (PNG LGP), has been working with members of the clans to educate and empower them to be good stewards over their land and natural resources. These hectares of land are managed by KGWan, a community-based organisation made up of representatives from each of the tribe’s five clans and monitored by local rangers or “Wasman”. Villagers turned up in traditional attire and put on a song and dance to welcomed dignitaries to mark this occasion. The event was witnessed by representatives from the Simbu Provincial Government, Officers from the Kundiawa-Gembogl District Administration, USAID LGP Chief of Party, representatives from WCS and other notable persons from civil society.

Mega Foods & Beverages Corporations, a large customer based in Port Moresby was prosecuted for Power Theft. This after PNG Power Limited (PPL) launched a campaign to identify and prosecute those participating in power theft; a campaign that saw the heightened monitoring and surveillance efforts to uncover unauthorized connections and tampering with electricity meters. PNG Power Ltd (PPL) Chairman, McRonald Nale explained that after a thorough investigation, they uncovered evidence of power theft activity and a back back-bill charge of K697, 350.61 was issued to this company. It is understood that due to compliance, PPL had lodged a formal complaint with the Police that lead to the arrest of the company’s Operations Manager, a Mr. Wilson Ong. PPL Chairman Nale reiterated that PPL is dedicated to fight power theft and manage a just and secure electricity distribution system for all customers. “We are pleased that the comprehensive measures we are taking to counteract power theft, including legal action against both customers and employees involved, is producing results.” Mr. Nale emphasized PPL’s commitment to pursue all customers involved in illegal power consumption, to ensure that the practice ceases. He also urged the public to report anyone making illegal connections, as such practices affect every power consumer. Mr. Nale is calling on the public to report anyone undertaking illegal connections as such practices affect everyone and must be deterred. “Those found to be stealing power will face criminal charges.”

National Superannuation Fund Limited (nasfund) will now be providing On-site ID Card Printing as part of its Super Saturday Roadshow. The commencement of nasfund’s Super Saturday Roadshow is an initiative to provide convenient access to its valued members and will continue throughout this month of August 2023. Nasfund is running the Brian Bell Discount and to complement this promotion, their Team will be set up at the Brian Bell Home Center at the Gordons Plaza on Saturdays, from 9am to 3pm, to assist members access this discount by acquiring their nasfund ID cards on-site. Nasfund’s Chief Executive Officer, Rajeev Sharma said that on-site printing of nasfund ID cards for members with updated details is one of the main drives of this initiative. ‘‘It is also important for our members to note that as a requirement for nasfund to issue membership ID cards, they must have updated personal and beneficiary details or ensure that they come with a completed and fully endorsed Member Details Update Form.” Other services that are being offered include but are not limited to balance checks and account statements, Housing Eligibility statements and Member Online registrations.’’ Nasfund members Michael Valaun and Kellie Keta, who utilized the service recently, shared similar sentiments and thanked the nasfund team for organizing the Saturday roadshows, saying it made it easier and convenient for customers to obtain their membership cards on-site. ‘’This is an awesome service during the weekends when we workers have free time.’’ Nasfund Members without a nasfund ID Card who haven’t updated their details in the last two years are expected to update their personal beneficiary details employers before visiting the Mobile Service Booths. The Member Details Update Form (MDUF) can be accessed on the nasfund website. This form is to be completed, signed and stamped by member’s employers before visiting the Mobile Service Booths. Members with recently updated details will be assisted on the spot to be issued their nasfund ID Cards. This service is currently rolled out in Port Moresby only with plans of extending to other centres soon.

The 64th Mt. Hagen Show is coming up this weekend, kicking starting on Saturday 19th through to Sunday the 20th of August 2023, at the Queens Park Oval, Western Highlands Province. BSP Financial Group Limited has come out to lend their support to the Mt. Hagen Show with K20 000 sponsorship and they will be on the grounds, offering banking services to the attendees of the Mt. Hagen Show. BSP Mt Hagen Branch Manager Theresa Pilamp said people and culture plays an integral part in strengthening community and business relationships. “BSP has been a long-time partner of the historical Mt Hagen Show and in demonstrating our commitment to our community in Mt Hagen, the highlands region and PNG as a whole, we are pleased to be part of the 64th show this weekend.” She said BSP is a bank that promotes culture, people and small businesses and events that helps promote tourism while encouraging small businesses in the provinces to engage and expose their local products. “We acknowledge that Mt Hagen, the Western Highlands Province, and the Highlands region are key contributors to PNG’s economy through the support of informal markets, farmers, fresh produce and SMEs and are happy to support the event.” She said BSP as multicultural financial institution operating in the Pacific and Asia, they like to ensure the cultures of each country help us develop products and services to suit the banking needs of people. “Our team will be at the Mt Hagen Cultural Show to assist with opening of personal accounts, along with registering customers and assisting them adapt to digital banking services. We can also assist customers with other services like card replacements and address general enquiries.” Mt. Hagen Show Committee Chairman Pym Mamindi is thankful to BSP for their continued support to the show. Up to 100 tribes are expected at the show this weekend to display their cultural traditions through their costumes, dancing, and sing-sings.

Manus Island will come alive with the Island Vibes Manus Stringband Festival under the theme ‘Our Culture, Our Identity’. The Stringband Music Festival will kick off on Friday the 25th to Saturday the 26th of August 2023 at the Prince William Oval, in Lorengau Town. Organizer of this first of its kind event for Manus Province, Mr. Livingstone Pagat, said this is an initiative of Barefoot Productions and the Manus Provincial Government. “This Stringband Festival is an effort to keep our Manus Stringband Music alive and thriving.” Mr. Pagat explained that with the introduction of technology into music today, they have observed a concerning loss of this unique style of music. “The Stringband Festival is our way of paying homage to our style of stringband music, while also providing an initiative for stringband members to continue playing that unique style of music and to pass it on to the new generation.” Registrations to participate in the Island Vibes Manus Stringband Festival 2023 are running, with several local stringbands already registered to participate. The organizers said there has also being interest expressed by stringbands from Suau in the Milne Bay Province to participate in the Stringband Festival. There will be display booths, Live Bands, Traditional Performances, as well as stringband competition, prizes and more. “The Island Vibes Manus Stringband Festival is also a lead up event to the Independence Celebrations on the Island and we hope that it will become an annual event.”

The country will in two years’ time mark its 50th Independence Anniversary, but the people in the rural areas continue to experience a lack of development and services provided to them; however, that has not deterred them from doing what they can to help themselves. The local people always have this spirit of never giving up and they demonstrate this spirit through resilience, and one good example of such is the Simbai people from isolated Madang bordering Chimbu and Western Highlands Provinces. They walk for hours, night and day, through bad weather conditions, climbing mountains and crossing fast flowing rivers to access basic services. Bapaimb Primary School headmaster Mr. Thompson Awunt who is also a local from Tickrau village in Simbai Local Level Government (LLG) area said inaccessibility of basic services has remained an un- addressed issue for decades. Over the years students have had to walk for five hours to attend classes at Kumbruf, Kongrau and Kombaku Primary schools. Kumbruf and Kongrau Primary schools are situated at Middle Ramu District and Kombaku Primary School is located in Usino Bundi district. "Communities have experienced these difficult challenges over the years and had enough of walking long distances looking for health care and education services," said Mr. Awunt. "In 2019 communities from ward seven in Gama LLG in Usino Bundi district and ward 17 of Simbai LLG in Middle Ramu District brainstormed and resolved an idea to establish a school at the boarders of the two areas." "The Madang Provincial education department gave us a green light and supported us to establish the school." "The school was built using mostly bush materials and was launched in 2021. Classrooms were built to cater grades three up to five only with streamline classes," he added. He said they had 317 students' population when the school first commenced in 2021. Last year the number went up to 327 students. This year with the continuous support from communities, six more classrooms were built, and they took on grades six and seven enrolments. This has now increased the students’ population to 638. "As you can see though the school is a newly established school, the number of students has increased within a short span of time placing the school as level four school." "We are preparing to pass out our first grade eight next year." "The student population is showing the real cry children have for education right at their steps." "Children from these two ward areas can now access education service at the communities without walking for distances," Awunt said.

Students of the Erap Primary School in the Huon Gulf district of the Morobe province have been urged to pursue all sources of information to learn from, instead of just focusing on one source. Erap Primary School’s senior subject master teacher, Mr. Brandon Thomas delivered this statement on Friday 11th August during the school's observation of National Book week. "Though the school doesn't have a library doesn't mean you don't have access to information," he said. "Information coming from different background of people is similar to having access to books and the internet." "These information, are from books, the internet and more from personal experiences they share with you and you must make it your business to learn as much as possible through listening and asking questions." "Don't just listen, you have to ask questions about what you heard. This broadens your knowledge to advance in life," Mr. Thomas said. Mr. Freddy Sifuma a former teacher by profession, during his speech urged students to choose carefully which mediums of learning would contribute positively to their lives. He said making decisions to grasp knowledge is very vital. "You must decide on where and who to get information that would help advance you to achieve your dreams."