In a commendable display of corporate social responsibility, Ramu NiCo, the mining company operating in the Kurumbukari Mine area, recently contributed thousands of Kina worth of medicine supplies to the Enakuai Village Clinic. The generous donation, facilitated through the company's ongoing Community Development Fund (CDF) scheme, was handed over on Sunday, January 7, 2024. The initiative stemmed from a late 2023 request by the Kurumbukari Landowners Association (KBK LOA) to Ramu NiCo Management (MCC) Limited (RNML). Mr. Albert Tobe, Deputy General Manager of RNML Community Affairs (CA), commended the KBK LOA for their prudent decision to utilize the CDF scheme for procuring essential medicines for the local community. Traditionally, RNML has been delivering quarterly medicines to clinics situated along the project corridor, as per the terms of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOA). However, the recent surge in the population of KBK neighbouring villages necessitated additional support. Mr. Tobe acknowledged that the quarterly supply was no longer sufficient to meet the healthcare needs of the growing population. Expressing optimism, Mr. Tobe stated that the Enakuai Village Clinic is now well-equipped with an ample supply of medicines, ensuring improved healthcare services for the local residents. KBK LOA Deputy Chairman, Mr. John Tigavu, highlighted the historical support provided by RNML to the clinic, emphasizing the quarterly medical assistance received since the mine's inception. He clarified that the CDF scheme, while not explicitly outlined in the MOA, reflects RNML's voluntary commitment to uplift communities along the project corridor. Since its initiation in 2019, the scheme has funded various community projects, including sponsoring students, constructing classrooms and aid posts, procuring vital medicines, and building roads in KBK neighbouring areas. Mr. Tigavu urged residents of Enakuai and surrounding communities to take ownership of their services and contribute to maintaining a conducive social environment for RNML's development efforts. Meanwhile in appreciation of RNML's consistent support, Mr. Kop Koiti, Officer Incharge of Enakuai Village Clinic, expressed gratitude for the ongoing assistance provided by the company since 2011. He pledged to work diligently to ensure the well-being of the villagers, acknowledging the significant impact of RNML's recent medicine donation.

In a secluded part of the Western Pacific, Wenceslaus Magun is tirelessly advocating for the preservation of endangered leatherback turtles. These majestic sea creatures are on the verge of extinction, and Magun is fervently dedicated to their cause. The leatherback turtles are among the five most critically endangered species worldwide, according to the international conservation union. Magun is deeply troubled by this dire situation, prompting him to become their staunch defender and prevent their irreversible disappearance. "These turtles need a voice," asserts Magun. "I've taken it upon myself to be that voice." Magun's journey started in 1995 when he collaborated with the Late Sir Peter Barter. Their expedition took them to Ramu Ranger, where they rescued leatherback turtles ensnared in ropes, intended for consumption or financial gain. Overcoming past actions, Magun found redemption through the Turtle Island Restoration Network, transforming his remorse into an unwavering commitment, and becoming a beacon of hope for these turtles. Leatherback turtles, known for their magnificence, are on the brink of extinction and nest in New Guinea, with the Huon Coast boasting the second-largest nesting beach. Nesting season occurs from October to March in the Western Pacific, with each turtle nesting up to three times, laying about 100 eggs per clutch. The conservation of female leatherback turtles, who lay around 2,100 eggs in their lifetime, is crucial. These turtles play vital roles globally and regionally due to their migration routes and feeding habitats around Australia and the California current ecosystem. They journey from the Gulf of Mexico to Southern California, with nesting beaches spanning regions like Madang, Milne Bay, and the Solomon Islands. After spending most of their lives at sea, they return to their original nesting spots guided by imprinted GPS markers on their heads. Recent local victories include the protection of nesting sites. At Malas Primary School, students safeguarded a nesting leatherback turtle, ensuring the safe journey of hatchlings to the sea after a 65-day wait. Despite collective conservation efforts, challenges persist, as a regrettable incident unfolded when a young individual hunted and consumed a female leatherback turtle. However, hope remains as the eggs are unharmed, and hatchlings embark on their sea-bound journey. In Tokain 2 Village, the Leatherback turtle has become a symbol of unity, sustenance, and cultural harmony. Across generations, this revered sea creature has played a vital role, serving as a traditional meat that fosters solidarity within families and the larger community. The act of hunting these creatures’ showcases skill and underscores their cultural significance, beyond providing sustenance, as leatherback turtles are believed to have mystical powers. Traditional songs and dances in the village pay homage to these sea creatures, celebrating ancestral heritage, spiritual values, and healing practices passed down through generations. As twilight descends on Tokain 2 Village, the Leatherback turtle transcends its role as a source of nourishment, becoming a beacon of unity, an embodiment of heritage, and a testament to the enduring power of shared culture and values in an era of rapid change.

In the aftermath of the events that transpired on January 10, 2024, in Port Moresby, Assistant Police Commissioner (ACP) Peter Guinness has been appointed as the interim Commander for the NCD/Central Command. This move comes as ACP Anthony Wagambie Jr faces suspension pending disciplinary investigations into the aforementioned events. Acting Police Commissioner Donald Yamasombi made the announcement, expressing confidence in ACP Guinness's capabilities and citing his esteemed track record and the respect he commands within the police force. ACP Guinness has a wealth of experience at the operational level, having served as ACP Northern Command since 2015. During this tenure, he actively engaged with communities and played a crucial role in preventing both local and international crime infiltrating the region. In light of the challenges faced by Port Moresby following the events of January 10, Acting Commissioner Yamasombi emphasized the importance of a stable and reassuring leadership. ACP Guinness is expected to precisely provide that to police personnel and the residents of NCD and Central province during these tumultuous times. The immediate priorities for the NCD/Central Command under ACP Guinness include maintaining calm in the city, preventing further unrest, and restoring confidence among residents and the business community. The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) is currently undergoing a comprehensive review of operational responses on the fateful day. Acting Commissioner Yamasombi acknowledged the approaching expiration of the State of Emergency on January 25. ACP Guinness is set to guide the personnel under his command as security measures are gradually lifted, ensuring a smooth transition. Noteworthy is ACP Guinness's extensive background in law enforcement, hailing from a police family, with his father serving as a Senior Constable in Manus. Joining the RPNGC in 1975 as a constable, ACP Guinness underwent officer training, graduating with distinction. His professional journey includes leading the NCD Criminal Investigation Division and receiving training in Australia for major crimes investigations. With this comprehensive skill set, ACP Guinness is poised to navigate the challenges ahead and uphold the security and well-being of the NCD/Central Command.

Investigations are underway into the contributing factors and the breakdown in security measures leading to significant civil unrest in Port Moresby on 10th January 2024. A five-member investigative team began its work on 11th January at the direction of the National Executive Council, under the leadership of the Chief Secretary to Government, Ivan Pomaleu, and Secretary for Department of Justice & Attorney-General, Dr Eric Kwa. “Interviews with relevant parties are underway through the current week with the investigation anticipated to take place over fourteen days,” Mr Pomaleu noted. “It is important this investigation be undertaken immediately after the events, as recollections of points of interest are fresh in minds if the individuals involved.” “The scope of the investigation is wide involving a range of elements that will be considered individually, and also how these interrelate leading to the civil unrest.” In a statement on the 16th January, 2024, Pomaleu stated that this included, in one part consideration of the alteration in the amounts provided to public servants in the first pay-run of 2024 that preceded the civil unrest as well as getting to the root cause of the pay discrepancies in terms of where pay calculations were made and how the configuration for pay was approved in order for the transfer of funds to take place. “We must get to the bottom of these pay issues so that it never happens again and causes hardship for the families of our workers.” “These are matters that are principally being taken up with the Departments of Finance, Treasury and Personnel Management.” The Chief Secretary said another crucial part of the investigation is consideration of command, control, and response issues in security forces throughout the 10th of January. “Our investigation is looking at the conduct of security forces personnel from the initial gathering in Unagi Oval on the morning of January 10, through the events of the day until calm was restored.” “This includes how it came to be that police personnel were not at their designated posts around the city that morning, and factors relating to RPNGC and PNGDF personnel moving to protest at Parliament House, and Sir Manasupe Haus.” He added that these were important issues for our disciplined forces where maintaining command and control is fundamental in sustaining organizational structures and governing the actions of personnel. “Central to this part of the investigation is the RPNGC, and the work that the Acting Commissioner of Police will do, with additional input from the PNGDF and Correctional Services.” Furthermore, Chief Secretary Pomaleu said the investigative team will further engage with the business community, considering how they were adversely affected. “Business managers and employees were at the receiving end of the civil unrest, and their perspective on how this transpired and the responses of security forces it very important.” "They saw with their own eyes how the looting and property damage began and escalated to the destruction that was left behind.” Meanwhile He further highlighted that the civil unrest of January 10 was a dark day for our country that caused the loss of life, the theft and destruction of hundreds of millions of Kinas in goods and property and damaged the reputation of our Nation. “My team and I are being thorough and will deliver our findings to the National Executive Council, so that reviews in procedures can take place and we can do our best to prevent a recurrence of this type of unrest and criminal activity.”

It was a historic moment for the Bank of Papua New Guinea (BPNG), as the Prime Minister announced the appointment of its First Woman Governor in Ms. Elizabeth Genia. Ms. Genia has been acting in the role of Governor of the BPNG since January 2023 and was officially appointed by the National Executive Council. In making this announcement, an elated PM James Marape conveyed the confidence that the government places in the women of Papua New Guinea, saying it was through her work over the last 40 years that progressed Ms. Genia up the rank, to be picked as a qualified candidate. PMJM also highlighted the government’s commitment for greater collaboration and cooperation with the BPNG to address persistent issues such as national fuel security, foreign exchange, and the proper organization of the Credit Guarantee Corporation, launched in 2022, to sustain and boost the growth of the small to medium enterprise (SME) sector. “The Government will respect the independence of Central Bank but use the monetary policy to support and grow the economy,” he said especially from the PNG LNG Project and mines and other export items, to beef up the country’s foreign exchange which is now at K14 billion. “This will ensure that importers have ready access to foreign exchange to import goods than wait for a long period of time,” he said. “The bank should also be encouraging resource projects to keep their export earnings onshore." “One of the country’s biggest problems over the last 10 years has been the foreign exchange issue.” Marape went onto to say the Governor and BPNG must look at the possibility of using the Chinese 'renminbi' as an alternative to the US dollar, given China’s increasing trade with PNG. “I want the bank to look at the possibility of using the Chinese currency, given our increasing trade with China.” Prime Minister Marape also wants BPNG to properly organise the Credit Guarantee Corporation, which was launched in 2022, to sustain and boost the growth of the SME sector. “I want SMEs to be properly linked to the Credit Guarantee Corporation." "The government will support with some funding for SMEs as our people want cheap, easy to obtain loans.” “This is also very much of the government’s Medium-Term Development Plan IV where we aim to have jobs created from SMEs.” In his final remarks to the New BPNG Governor, he said the Central Bank must operate with a PNG character and understanding of PNG people and banking requirements.

In a decisive move,Acting  Police Commissioner Donald Yamasombi has relieved the Command of the NCD/Central Command of duties, placing him on a 21-day suspension. The suspension comes as part of an ongoing investigation into disciplinary offenses, as stipulated by Part IV of the Police Act 1998. Acting Commissioner of Police, Donald Yamasombi, announced the suspension, attributing it to preliminary findings from the RPNGC Internal Affairs Directorate (IAD). The investigation focuses on the events that unfolded on Wednesday, January 10, 2024. "Acting on the advice of the IAD Director, I have approved the suspension of the NCD/Central Commander in accordance with the requirements of the Police Act to facilitate a thorough and impartial investigation," stated Acting Commissioner Yamasombi. "In my capacity as Acting Police Commissioner, I have an obligation to adhere to correct administrative processes transparently, thus removing the officer from their role during this disciplinary process." "The member in question will have the opportunity to provide further information to investigators as required." Acting Commissioner Yamasombi highlighted that this suspension is the initial step in a potentially broader series, addressing the conduct of some police personnel during the events of January 10. The Commissioner emphasized the public's expectation for answers regarding the looting and destruction that occurred. "The RPNGC, as a constitutionally designated Disciplined Force, operates under the Police Act, which clearly outlines disciplinary offenses in legislation." "As this is part of an ongoing investigation, there is limited information that can be disclosed at this point." "However, the public deserves leadership from their police commanders, and that was lacking on the events of last Wednesday." Yamasombi expressed concern over the absence of leadership on January 10, highlighting the abandonment of posts by police in the NCD/Central command to attend strike meetings. He emphasized that police, by constitutional mandate, should prioritize their duty and not engage in strikes. "There are alternative means to address industrial issues, and these were not followed on January 10, leaving NCD city vulnerable to criminal activity." "At the core of this issue lies a failure of leadership and command at the local level, with every commander responsible for maintaining discipline within their ranks," concluded Acting Commissioner Yamasombi.

“We disagree with the Prime Minister regarding the civil unrest where he stated, it was orchestrated by one group of people.” “If the Prime Minister had done his investigations, he would know this act was carried out by 60-70% of the semi-urban and settlements. And each suburb had its own uprising to it nearest service areas.” That’s according to the PNG Banks Finance Institution Workers Union (PNGBFIWU) Vice President (VP) Raphael Waiyalaka, who expressed the concerns. “We condemn what has happened on 10th Wednesday that affected businesses and law-abiding citizens.” Furthermore, he added, addressing the statement from the PNG Trade Union Congress Acting General Secretary regarding Bills passed into law at shocking speed abusing constituency. “Laws are being passed in lightning speed to benefit the few groups in power.” “What about the Labor and Vagrancy laws and others that need to be updated from many years, to provide relief and control issues.” “This civil unrest could’ve been avoided if we had utilized these laws.” “We’ve witnessed a time bomb explode in our faces.” “Therefore, we need to be honest and address the root issues such as high cost in living and inflation, to work around it to relive the people from its burden.” Mr. Wiyalaka further added if we are to never face such a situation in this country, the government “NEEDS” to implement laws that will benefit its people.

Public Servants who had their pays deducted last week, will be refunded in the next pay run, scheduled for next week. This according to the Prime Minister James Marape, who explained that collectively, the deductions amounted to K7.3 million and will see K60 reimbursed for each individual public servant. Prime Minister Marape made this announcement following a meeting with suspended Finance Secretary Sam Penias, suspended Treasury Secretary Andrew Oaeke, and suspended Personnel Management Secretary Taies Sansan. Also present at the meeting were Chief Secretary Ivan Pomaleu and Justice and Attorney-General Secretary, Dr. Eric Kwa, who are investigating the payroll issue that led to last Wednesday’s rioting, arson, and looting in the national capital by opportunists. “The issue is being looked at in totality with detailed investigations into what took place,” he said. “I want to assure our public servants that the K7.3 million that was taken out of their pay last week will be reimbursed in the second pay run of the year.” Prime Minister Marape said he queried the suspended secretaries about the implementation of the dependency rebate during the meeting, to which they replied in the negative. “This dependency rebate has not been implemented as yet, and I directed Treasury not to implement it until it is amended in the February session of Parliament,” he said. “In the first pay run of 2024 last week, many public servants thought that additional taxes had been imposed.” “I want to assure that this was not influenced by the dependency rebate, which has not been implemented as yet. “The problem was caused by the non-configuration of the K20, 000 non-tax threshold reverting back to the earlier K12, 500 non-tax thresholds of the previous O’Neill government.” Prime Minister Marape expressed his desire to identify the individuals responsible for the configuration of the tax. “There were officers who were supposed to input that but were not at work at the time of the first pay run.” “The irony of this whole tragic incident is that we were supposed to have given benefits to our public servants; however, we were hit in the face.” “I apologize to our hardworking public servants, including the Police that some people went to sleep when Pay No. 1 of 2024 was supposed to have been paid according to the right Government policy.” “Papua New Guineans must appreciate that no government, before our time, has lifted the non-tax threshold to K20, 000, and also that not too many countries in the world do this.” “We did this because of the hard times our people are going through.”

The Rai Coast District Development Authority (RCDDA) in Madang will be voluntarily publishing Annual Reports. This was revealed by the Rai Coast MP, Kessy Sawang, in a post from social media recently. MP Sawang stated in her post that under her leadership, the RCDDA will make the comprehensive annual reports a public document providing financial reports of funding received, the Board approved Budge, the expenditures and progress of work in each sector. A draft report has already been drawn up and was provided to the MP. “We will separate 2022 from 2023, despite me not having oversight of much of the funds spent in 2022. “ “We will also include Financial Statements.” She said copies of this Annual Reports will be given to every Council Ward and schools as well, for the people’s consumption. “I will set a standard of accountability and transparency that no one will beat.” “My sole interest is the people of Rai Coast.” “They will get the services they deserve - SLOWLY BUT SURELY!”

The Investment Promotion Authority (IPA) of Papua New Guinea (PNG) has condemned the reckless and senseless attacks by opportunists last week that led to the destruction of shops, major supermarkets and warehouses resulting in over a hundred million Kina lost in goods and properties. The IPA Board and Managing Director Mr. Clarence Hoot were deeply concerned as it was a terrible reflection on IPA’s efforts to promote PNG as a preferred investment destination. “One of our key setbacks continues to be the law and order concerns. Even though such problems are common throughout the world, and occur just occasionally, security is one of the costs that investors unfortunately have to incur as part of their operational costs to ensure that their businesses are protected and secured.” “The IPA would like to convey its utmost regret and sympathies to the companies affected and at the same time assure you that we will work with you in terms of compliance requirements if required to ease some of the pain,” said the Managing Director. He added that with the recent incident, it will take a lot of effort and resources to rebuild the eroded investor confidence built over time and especially, on the eve of the country’s next economic boom. The losses unexpectedly forced upon business by way of lost stocks from the looting doubled with the huge costs of rebuilding burnt down shopping properties and warehouses, would be in millions of Kina and something that could have easily been avoided. Mr. Hoot also said that large numbers of PNG citizens have been forced into unemployment and there will be huge losses of revenue, both for the affected companies and the government from various taxes which will be lost. Meanwhile, the IPA also fell victim to the looting and arson where its rented warehouses at Konedobu were burnt with some records totally destroyed last Wednesday evening. A fire truck was onsite and managed to contain the fire from spreading and completely burning all the files. They were able to save the files which were stored in compactus shelves. However, Mr. Hoot has assured the business community and government that the IPA’s entity records are safely stored on cloud and files kept in the warehouses were hard copies of business information that are currently available on its online registry system. Business entities that have any issues are urged to contact the Registrar of Companies (ROC) for assistance.

A Cabinet restructure is imminent this week. This is being initiated by the Prime Minister James Marape, in response to the civil unrest that erupted in Port Moresby City on the 10th Wednesday. "The issues concerning the economy and the functionality of key state agencies, including Treasury, Finance, and Planning, have been heard loud and clear," said Prime Minister Marape. “We will examine the central agencies of Government along with all supporting departments. At the same time, the PMJM will engage with members of the Port Moresby business community this week to address the aftermath of the riots, arson, and looting. "I will specifically meet with business houses affected by the completely unnecessary events of last Wednesday," he said. “Our discussions will focus on ways to assist them in recovering from the arson and looting of their businesses." While emphasising the need for peace and sanity during the recovery process, Prime Minister Marape expressed gratitude to the disciplined forces, especially those who worked to control the mayhem. He acknowledged the State of Emergency's enforcement under Acting Police Commissioner Donald Yamasombi and the ongoing administrative investigations led by Chief Secretary Ivan Pomaleu regarding the payroll issue that contributed to the chaos in the capital city. "The Government will collaborate closely with the National Capital District Commission, led by Governor Hon. Powes Parkop, to ensure the recovery and resurgence of our capital city," Prime Minister Marape said.

Rugby Union athlete Joanne Butler's hard work and determination has finally paid off as she received a scholarship placement and contract with the ACT Brumbies on the 14th of January 2024, at a small function attended by representatives from PacificAus Sports, the Australian Acting Commissioner, PNGRU Officals, Coaches and officials. In a media statement, PNG Rugby Union proudly extended its heartfelt congratulations to Joanne Butler on her achievement. The ACT Brumbies compete in Australia's Super W Rugby Competition and this placement marks a momentous milestone in Butler's rugby career and for PNGRU. "This achievement is a direct outcome of the PacificAus Sports program' support for rugby in the Pacific and PNG, a transformative partnership between the Australian government, Rugby Australia and Oceania Rugby." "Australia's PacificAus Sports program is designed to provide opportunities for athletes from the Pacific region to compete at the highest levels." PacificAus Sports has played a crucial role in bridging gaps and establishing pathways for aspiring rugby players across the Pacific and PNG. " Joanne's inclusion in the ACT Brumbies is a living testament to the positive outcomes of this cooperative initiative." The PNGRU extends its deepest thanks to the Australian Government, Rugby Australia and Oceania Rugby for this powerful partnership which is transforming lives and wishes Joanne the very best in her new endeavour with the ACT Brumbies. Scholarship recipient, Joanne Butler expressed her absolute gratitude by thanking PacificAus Sports, Rugby Australia and Oceania Rugby for providing a solid platform for women in the Pacific region to progress to elite rugby. "Glory to God Almighty for steering my life's journey and opening this incredible door for me.” “The recent news and the past few days have felt surreal, yet I approach this opportunity with deep humility as i join the ACT Brumbies on scholarship and begin the Super W journey." "My sincere hope is that this achievement inspires my fellow Papua New Guineans and Pacific Islanders to fearlessly pursue their aspirations." "I encourage women and girls to embrace rugby union because life changing opportunities for women in the sport, are growing." Butler extended a special gratitude note to PNGRU for reviving women's rugby and to the PNG Government for supporting the women's program. "I extend my thanks to everyone involved in my rugby journey, especially my father, whose passion for rugby inspired me to play." Australian Acting High Commissioner to PNG, Dr. Joanne Loundes stated that the Australian Government is thrilled that Joanne will have the opportunity to play with the ACT Brumbies for the 2024 season and join the other talented Pacific players that are now on Australian Super W Scholarships through Pacific Aus Sports. "We're excited to see a locally grown Papua New Guinean in the Super W and we acknowledge Joanne's hardwork and sacrifices to get to this elite level.” “We also recognize the contributions to Joanne's development from PNG Rugby Union, its coaches and the clubs." Dr. Loundes mentioned that the Australian Government is proud to be increasing pathways for aspiring female athletes in the Pacific who offer inspiration for women and girls across the region to persue their dreams. "We wish Joanne a best of luck to the season ahead." Founder of Women's Rugby in PNG and Women's Rugby, Cybel Wari stated that Joanne's signing holds significant meaning, representing the culmination of sacrifices, dedication and investments that have gone into Women's Rugby in PNG from its humble beginnings up to this point in time. "We are confident that she will make a substantial impact with the ACT Brumbies, serving as an inspiration for young rugby enthusiasts in Papua New Guinea and across Oceania." Meanwhile Chief Executive Officer of PNG Rugby Union, Sailosi Druma stated that it was an exhilarating moment to be a part of the Rugby Community in PNG. "This historic signing serves as the catalyst that will propel the growth of the game in PNG." "It is a game changer and we extend our heartfelt gratitude, particularly to PacificAus Sports, Rugby Australia, Oceania Rugby and the PNG Government and all others who played a role in bringing us to this pivotal point. "