Papua New Guinea (PNG) is ramping up its efforts to tackle the growing threat of invasive weeds, with the National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI) stepping into a regional initiative focused on sustainable, biological control methods.Six NARI scientists joined key government agencies and partners in Port Moresby on September 24 for the National Stakeholders Workshop on Invasive Species, a one-day event aimed at boosting the country’s capacity to manage the spread of harmful weed species. Hosted by the New Zealand Bioeconomy Science Institute in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and Livestock (DAL) under the Natural Enemy Natural Solutions (NENS) program, the workshop marked PNG’s first major step toward re-engaging in biological control, an area where the country once led the way. PNG has a strong legacy in biological weed control, having successfully introduced 19 natural enemies since the mid-20th century. However, no new introductions have occurred since 2014, despite the rising spread of new invasive weeds, partly fuelled by climate change and environmental disruptions. Rodney Aku from NARI’s Momase Regional Centre stated that invasive weeds are silently undermining food production and rural livelihoods. “Reviving the natural enemies’ approach can restore balance in our ecosystems and safeguard agriculture for future generations.” The NENS initiative, spearheaded by the Pacific Regional Environment Program (PREM) and led by the New Zealand Institute of Bioeconomy Science, supports Pacific countries in adopting long-term, environmentally friendly solutions to weed management by using carefully selected natural enemies that target invasive species without harming crops, communities, or local ecosystems. So far, eight Pacific nations including, Fiji, Samoa, Vanuatu, Cook Islands, Marshall Islands, Niue, Tuvalu, and Tonga, are participating in the NENS program. PNG’s active interest marks a significant expansion of the initiative in the region. Representatives from NARI, NAQIA, DAL, CEPA, and several NGOs attended the workshop, focusing on three key goals: • Building a shared understanding of the threat posed by invasive weeds in the Pacific. • Identifying and prioritizing the top 10 invasive weed species in PNG. • Exploring opportunities for collaboration and institutional alignment to improve national weed management systems. NARI staff from research centres across the country including Bubia, Kerevat, Laloki, Aiyura, and Tambul, contributed regional insights to the discussions, highlighting the diverse challenges faced in different parts of PNG. The outcomes of the workshop are expected to shape national policy and planning on invasive species and could position PNG as a leader in the Pacific for using biological control to promote sustainable agriculture and protect ecosystems.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) was proudly represented by eight talented athletes and officials at the Oceania Gather, Adjust, Prepare, Sustain (GAPS) Camp held on the Gold Coast from 14–20 September 2025. The GAPS Program is a high-performance initiative designed to develop emerging athletes and coaches across the Pacific, offering access to expertise and training facilities not readily available in their home countries. The program is proudly supported by the Australian Government through the PacificAus Sports initiative and delivered by Commonwealth Sport in partnership with Griffith University. This year’s camp brought together approximately 70 athletes and coaches from 10 Commonwealth nations and territories across the Oceania region, fostering regional sporting excellence ahead of major international events such as the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games and the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Representing Papua New Guinea in athletics and para-athletics were: - Lakona Gerega – Athlete - Patricia Kuku – Athlete - Joy Tibea – Athlete - Steven Abraham – Para Athlete - Jerome Bunge – Para Athlete - Regina Edward – Para Athlete - Mike Smith – Official - Jackie Travertz – Para Athletics Official With a strong focus on inclusion, diversity, and gender equity, the GAPS Program is also committed to creating opportunities for women and athletes with disabilities to thrive in elite sport. The PNG delegation embodied this spirit, showcasing determination, skill, and a drive to grow within the global sporting arena. Para-athlete Regina Edward spoke reflecting the team’s forward-looking mindset. “I’m looking forward to the competitions at the end of the camp to see our performance and what we need to work on for our qualifying competition for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow 2026.” Australian support for the program has been pivotal in its success. Deputy Australian High Commissioner to PNG, Adrian Lochrin, highlighted the broader value of the initiative. “Australia is proud to support the elite development of PNG and Pacific athletes. The GAPS program is a great initiative in providing world-class high-performance training for the athletes.” “The program also fosters stronger people-to-people connections across PNG and the Pacific with Australia.” “GAPS plays a vital role in preparing athletes and coaches, both able-bodied and those in para sport, for elite competition, strengthening pathways for Pacific participants in the lead-up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.”

Papua New Guinea Swimming Inc. (PNGSI) has announced that the 2025 FedEx National Short Course Swimming Championships will be held on 4–5 October at the Lae International School, Senior Campus, known as the Coronation School Pool, located on Coronation Drive. The event will feature 40 swimmers from top local clubs including the Lae Amateur Swimming Club (LASC), Boroko Amateur Swimming Club, and PNG Masters Swimming, competing in what promises to be an exciting and competitive weekend. Athletes will showcase some of the nation's brightest swimming talent. PNGSI has expressed appreciation to the Lae Amateur Swimming Club and its executives for hosting the important event, which brings together athletes and officials to deliver a memorable competition. The FedEx National Short Course Swimming Championships also serve as a key selection event for the Train-On-Squads for several major international competitions in 2026, including: - Oceania Aquatics Swimming Championships (50m) – Suva, Fiji (11-17 May 2026) - Commonwealth Games (50m) – Glasgow, Scotland (24-29 July 2026) - Summer Youth Olympic Games (50m) – Dakar, Senegal (31 October – 13 November 2026) - World Aquatics Swimming Championships (25m) – Beijing, China (1-6 December 2026) The event’s success is made possible thanks to the cooperation and support of numerous individuals and organizations. PNGSI commended the technical officials, led by World Aquatics Swimming Officials Albert Vigil and Gilbert Camillus, as well as the LASC executives and members, for ensuring the competition meets international standards. PNGSI also expressed its thanks to PNG Air Freight through their FedEx brand for their sponsorship and in-kind support, which provides vital resources for both officials and athletes to ensure the successful delivery of the championship. On behalf of the PNGSI executives, President Ryan Pini, MBE, extended his best wishes to all participants and stakeholders, looking forward to a successful event and continued development of swimming talent in the country.

What began in a modest home kitchen just five years ago grew into one of Lae’s most inspiring business success stories.Violet Bukon, founder of The Eatery Catering and Cakes, has been named the 2025 Entrepreneur Award winner at the prestigious Westpac Outstanding Women Awards (WOWA). From preparing meals for family and friends, Bukon now runs a thriving catering business that provides boardroom lunches to some of Papua New Guinea’s top companies. Her client list includes corporate heavyweights such as Paradise Foods Limited, Credit Corporation, and the Bank of Papua New Guinea. But for Violet, it’s about more than just business. “This journey was never just about me.” “I built this business not just to rise, but to raise others with me.” “When women are equipped with life skills, they find the power to live meaningful lives and contribute with purpose to their families, society and nation.” Indeed, The Eatery Catering and Cakes has become a platform for empowerment. Violet has trained over 20 young people in cooking and customer service, many of whom have gone on to start their own food businesses or found steady employment in the hospitality sector. Walk into her kitchen today and you’ll find a space filled with learning, growth, and transformation — a place where confidence is built and futures are shaped. Tamzin Wardley, Chairwoman of Westpac PNG, praised Violet’s impact, saying her story is a testament to the power of entrepreneurship as a tool for social change. “Violet’s approach reminds us that business can be a platform for growth, not only for the entrepreneur, but also the people around them.” “It’s not just about building a successful business; it’s about building futures, and that is the kind of impact Westpac PNG is proud to support across the country.” Emma Low, Managing Director for Westpac Pacific, highlighted the significance of the WOW Awards in recognising leaders like Violet. “The WOW Awards are more than a moment of recognition — they celebrate the outstanding contributions of women, act as a catalyst for opportunity, and serve as an inspiration for the next generation of female leaders in PNG.” “I’m especially proud of finalists like Violet Bukon, whose dedication and impact exemplify the spirit of the awards.” Westpac PNG Chief Executive, Andrew Cairns, echoed these sentiments. “Violet’s victory in the Entrepreneur category reflects Westpac’s values of supporting businesses that create positive community impact.” “She embodies the spirit of enterprise that builds stronger communities.” Violet’s business serves as a powerful example of how entrepreneurship can uplift individuals, families, and communities.

Prime Minister James Marape returned from New York after attending the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), where he delivered a national statement coinciding with PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary and 50 years of UN membership.Speaking before world leaders, Marape anchored his message on three pillars: peace through dialogue, urgent climate action, and trade-driven development. In his UN address, the Prime Minister urged warring nations to embrace dialogue, citing Papua New Guinea’s own history. “After ten years of civil conflict in Bougainville, we chose dialogue over bullets.” “Under the United Nations’ oversight, we reached the 2001 Bougainville Peace Agreement. Twenty-four years on, not a single bullet has been fired.” Turning to the Middle East, he called on both Israel and Hamas to commit to negotiations. “To Hamas and to Israel, you have the opportunity to give your people peace.” “If you want peace, sit at the table together. Peace is always possible if we give it a chance.” On climate change, Marape issued one of the strongest appeals of the General Debate. “Our planet is boiling. Unless you have a second planet to run to, we must save the one we have.” Reaffirming his longstanding stance, Marape told world leaders that PNG seeks partnerships rooted in trade and investment, not aid dependency. “It is trade, not aid, that will build our economy to sustain 10 million people.” Marape closed his address by reaffirming faith in multilateralism. “Some think the United Nations is irrelevant. Papua New Guinea, says the Charter is still relevant.” “This Assembly remains humanity’s meeting place. It is here that unity in diversity is possible. “It is here that we preserve peace through dialogue, and it is here that we must save this one planet for all generations.”

Director: Tyler PerryCast: Tyler Perry, Xavier Smalls, Diamond White, Cassi Davis, Tamela Mann, David Mann Rating: PG-13│ Genre(s): Comedy, Drama│ Run Time: 1h 44mins SLIGHTLY RAUNCHY, DISRESPECTFUL AND TRIES TO COVER UP WITH A HEARTWARMING LESSON – AS USUAL “Same old raunchy jokes, family toxicity and Madea delivering life lessons.” Madea (Tyler Perry) and the rest of the Simmons family travel to the Bahamas after their grandniece, Tiffany (Diamond White) unexpectedly announces her engagement to her boyfriend. Madea’s Destination Wedding offers almost nothing new from the usual abuse disguised as humor. The Simmons family is nothing short of toxic and manipulative. Fifty percent of the film’s dialogue is the supporting cast insulting Brian Simmons for his parenting style, his disrespectful children, his career and basically his entire existence only then to turn around and show support once they get what they want from the other party – in this case Brian Simmons’ ex-wife sponsoring their luxury trip. Although Madea is known for delivering hard lessons about life, much of those lessons, realistically would’ve been ignored and overshadowed by her toxic behavior. In spite of this, Tyler Perry knows how to deliver a good message amidst the raunchiness. Madea’s Destination Wedding highlight’s the growth of Tiffany Simmons (Diamond White). The early installments of Madea, depict Tiffany as rebellious, disrespectful and immature. In this film however, Tiffany is taking a big step in her life, getting married and is more open to receiving her father’s rebukes and advice. When her engagement meets a setback, instead of blaming her father, she simply retreats into the company and wisdom of her elders. That said, Tyler Perry’s Madea hardly brings anything fresh to audiences, except capitalizing on black American’s social issues and villainizing black communities. Final Verdict: Anyone looking for cheap laughs will definitely enjoy Madea’s Destination Wedding. Rating: ★★★⯪ (7/10) Best enjoyed during moments of boredom.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) has recently joined the global community in celebrating World Contraception Day 2025, under the theme, “A Choice for All – Agency, Intention, Access.”The day highlighted the importance of contraceptives in saving lives, strengthening families, and empowering women, men, and young people to plan their futures with dignity and confidence. Advocates say preventing unintended pregnancies also expands educational and economic opportunities for families across generations. “Everyone deserves accurate, unbiased information about contraception, along with access to a variety of quality methods that meet their individual needs.” “Every person has the right to reproductive agency; the freedom to decide if, when, and with whom to have a child, without coercion, fear, or judgment.” The Australian Government continues to support PNG through strategic investments in sexual and reproductive health, gender equality, and youth empowerment. In addition, One flagship initiative is the Partnering for Strong Families (PSF) program, implemented by Marie Stopes Papua New Guinea (MSPNG). The program delivers high-quality sexual and reproductive health and family planning services to women, men, adolescents, people with disabilities, and survivors of sexual and gender-based violence across nine provinces. Its goal is to increase both coverage and uptake of essential services. Together, these efforts aim to build a healthier and more equitable future for PNG, ensuring every person has the agency, intention, and access to make informed reproductive choices.

East New Britain Governor Michael Marum, recently handed over two new school trucks to Raluana Primary School in Kokopo District and George Brown High School in Gazelle District, reinforcing the provincial government’s ongoing investment in education.Each vehicle, valued at K165, 000 and fully funded by the provincial government, was presented as part of efforts to support schools across the province. The Governor was joined by member for Gazelle Jelta Wong, as well as local government representatives, school boards, community leaders, members of the United Church, parents, teachers, and students. He described the trucks as a gift from the people of East New Britain to strengthen education services. Governor Marum also highlighted the alignment of the initiative with the Marape-Rosso government’s policy focus on education, acknowledging the national government’s continued commitment to the sector. He called on school boards, parents, teachers, and the wider community to take ownership of the vehicles, ensuring they are properly maintained for the long-term benefit of students. In appreciation, the Principal of George Brown High School and the Head Teacher of Raluana Primary School described the trucks as the “best Independence gift” for their schools, saying the vehicles would greatly support learning programs and school activities. Governor Marum reiterated that education as a top priority for the provincial government. “These trucks are not just vehicles; they are tools to support the learning and growth of our children. May God bless our children, our schools, and our province.”

 Educators from nursing and community health worker programs across Papua New Guinea (PNG) have taken part in the second national Fast Track workshop, aimed at strengthening the country’s health workforce through improved teaching and learning practices.he five-day workshop, held in Port Moresby, is part of the Strengthening Health Workforce Education (SHWE) Program, funded by the Australian Government and delivered in partnership with the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG), the National Department of Health (NDoH), and the World Health Organisation Collaborating Centre for Nursing, Midwifery and Health Development at the University of Technology Sydney.A total of 48 educators including 32 women and 16 men, representing 32 nursing and community health worker schools across PNG, participated in the program.Through dynamic sessions and hands-on activities, participants engaged with modern teaching strategies, updated study plans, and contemporary assessment methods designed to better prepare students for the realities of healthcare in the country.Lead Trainer Professor Di Brown, Professor of Nursing at the University of Technology Sydney, said the dedication of participants was both inspiring and impactful.“It’s inspiring to witness the enthusiasm and commitment of these health educators. By embracing student-centred learning and modern assessment practices, they are not only elevating their own teaching but also shaping a more skilled and confident health workforce for the future.”Meanwhile, Technical Advisor for HR Training at the National Department of Health, Mary Kililo, mentioned the long-term benefits of the program.“This program is a vital step in strengthening the teaching capacity of our health workforce educators.”“By empowering nursing and community health worker instructors with the right tools and confidence, we are laying a solid foundation for a stronger, more resilient health workforce in Papua New Guinea.”The SHWE Program focuses on building capacity within health education, improving access to quality care, and equipping nurses and community health workers with the skills needed to address the evolving health challenges in PNG communities.

The Australian Government has donated a fleet of vehicles to the Catholic Church Health Services (CCHS) to boost HIV outreach and treatment across Papua New Guinea, further strengthening the PNG–Australia Partnership.The vehicles will support community-based HIV testing, prevention of mother-to-child transmission, adherence to antiretroviral therapy, and referrals to other clinics and social services.They come at a critical time, following the Government of Papua New Guinea’s declaration of a national HIV emergency on 26 June 2025.The fleet includes:-15-seater buses for St Therese Clinic and St Paul’s Clinic in Hohola-A 15-seater bus for the KPAC Sunset Hub-A 4-door Land Cruiser pick-up for Veifa Clinic in Central Province-A Toyota Hilux for the CCHS National OfficeOf particular importance is the allocation of a vehicle to Veifa Clinic, which will help overcome geographic isolation and enable healthcare workers to reach people living with HIV in remote areas.Health Minister Elias Kapavore emphasized the urgency of the response.“HIV is a disease of inequality. We need to support and empower those most impacted. It is time for all of us to step up.”“I personally commit to raising this issue with my fellow ministers and parliamentarians and ensuring the urgent allocation of resources to protect our people – especially the next generation of Papua New Guineans.”Australian High Commissioner Ewen McDonald said the vehicles would strengthen frontline capacity.“These vehicles will help frontline health workers reach communities that often face barriers to access, ensuring that no one is left behind in the fight against HIV. Australia is proud to support CCHS in delivering inclusive and responsive healthcare.”Cardinal Sir John Ribat described the donation as transformative for CCHS.“Reliable transport is a game-changer for our clinics. These vehicles will help our teams expand testing, improve treatment adherence, and reach communities that otherwise remain cut off from vital services.”The donation builds on Australia’s long-standing support for HIV services in PNG and underscores both nations shared commitment to compassion, equity, and universal access to healthcare.

The Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) Board and Management has congratulated the Papua New Guinea National Rugby League Competition (PNGNRLC) for a successful 2025 season, which included the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup, Santos Cup, and the inaugural National Youth Competition. The Grand Final matches held on the eve of PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary became more than just a culmination of sporting excellence; they served as a celebration of PNG’s rich culture and sporting heritage. In partnership with the PNG government, the final event showed the rich variety and vibrancy of PNG's cultures. Traditional dances from Manus province started the event, honouring their cultural traditions. The festivities went on with amazing performances by local musicians such as Chris Cobb, Mal Meninga Kuri, Didi Maru, and Wan Squad. Prominent figures present for the event included Prime Minister James Marape, Sports Minister Kinoka Feo, ExxonMobil PNG's Chairman and Managing Director Dinesh Sivasamboo, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Santos Kevin Gallagher, CEO of Telstra Vicki Brady, PNG NRL Club Chairman Ray Bid, outgoing CEO Andrew Hill from PNG NRL Club, SP PNG Hunters Chairman Stan Joyce, SP PNG Hunters CEO Scott Barker, and Queensland Rugby League CEO Ben Ikin. Both cups and match balls were brought in by PNG Defence Force Helicopters. The Santos Cup was accompanied by PNG Orchids number one Cathy Neap, PNG Weightlifting legend and Commonwealth Games Silver Medalist Dika Toua, PNG Veteran Powerlifter Linda Pulsan, PNG Track star Rellie Kaputin, PNG Lakatoi Captain Ramona Padua and Santos PNG Orchids Chairlady Celestine Ove. The Digicel ExxonMobil Cup was brought in by PNG Veteran Swimmer and Commonwealth Games Gold Medallist Ryan Pini, Former PNG Kumuls and Super League star Stanley Gene, Former Kumuls and NRL players Justin Olam and David Mead, PNG Veteran Sprinter Takale Tuna and Digicel PNG Chief Executive Officer Tariq Boudiaf. PNGRFL Chairman Sandis Tsaka, congratulated everyone, recognized the amazing advancements that the PNGNRLC achieved during the 2025 season. Even though there were some difficulties, the season showed a lot of progress in PNG rugby league, thanks to the effort to make the game more professional. During this time, there were new training programs for game officials, more coaching help available for clubs, and a fully functioning judiciary system to keep things fair and disciplined. The PNGRFL Board sent special thanks to chairman Adrian Chow and the PNGNRLC Board and management team for another successful season. “We are immensely proud that the PNGNRLC 2025 Season Grand Final for the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup and Santos Cup was used to honour our sporting legends across all codes for PNG’s 50th.” “Sport is a unifying factor for PNG and that is always on showcase for any sporting event, including rugby league.” “PNG turns fifty and PNGRFL stays committed to the growth of rugby league that ensures pathways and growth of the game, as PNG National Sport, is felt across the country for the next fifty years and onwards.” “To the Grand Finalist winners, a congratulation and a job well done for coming out on top as the 2025 Grand Finalist Champions.” “The Lae Snax Tigers turning the tables and beating the Minor Premiers, PRK Mendi Muruks, showcasing the clubs’ overall capabilities of motivating their 18 men team to come out as champions.” “For the Santos Cup, a true rivalry in the making as the same teams from the 2024 season met again, with the Gas Resources Central Dabari taking the win against the 2024 season champions Bintangor Goroka Lahanis.” “What a great class of rugby league witnessed not only in PNG but telecasted into Australia by NRL. I congratulated both clubs again on their win for the 2025 Season.” “For PNGRFL, the development and growth of PNGNRLC to be able to deliver the NRL standard of rugby league has been key for us in the last 5 years.” In addition, PNGRFL Chairman Tsaka also said that the 2025 season has showcased that growth for PNGNRLC with a robust and rigorous judiciary system delivering charges after each round, the consistent development of the PNG Referees with Queensland Rugby League providing training throughout the season, the improvements to the social media pages to allow their followers to be informed and engaged with the competitions and their ongoing partnerships with each franchise to ensure their growth alongside PNGNRLC. The Digicel ExxonMobil Cup is a competition that takes place over 22 rounds, which includes 18 regular rounds and four final rounds. There are 12 teams involved, and the 2025 season marks the 36th time this event has happened. Meanwhile, the Santos Cup is the national tournament for women's rugby league, and it runs over seven rounds with two final rounds. This is only the second year for this competition, and there are six teams taking part. Moreover, the National Youth Competition occurred halfway through the season in May 2025. It included seven rounds of games and two final rounds, with six teams participating in total.

Theodist Limited and Women’s Micro Bank Limited (Mama Bank) have entered into a strategic partnership aimed at promoting financial inclusion and expanding access to affordable goods and services for women, families, and small businesses across the country. The partnership was formalized with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at Mama Bank’s Head Office in Port Moresby city, witnessed by senior representatives from both organizations. Under the agreement, Mama Bank customers will gain access to the Mama Bank Loyalty Card, which offers exclusive discounts of up to 10 percent on purchases at Theodist outlets nationwide. The initiative is designed to ease access to essential products that support education, livelihoods, and daily living, particularly for women and rural communities. Theodist Limited CEO Kumar Baliah said the partnership reflects the company’s long-standing commitment to inclusive community development. “For over 50 years, Theodist has proudly served the people of Papua New Guinea with quality and affordable products.” “This partnership with Mama Bank reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting families and communities while creating real value for women and small businesses through innovative programs like the Loyalty Card.” Mama Bank CEO, Gunanidhi Das said the collaboration directly supports the bank’s mission to empower women and foster financial inclusion. “Mama Bank exists to provide opportunities for women and rural communities to be part of the mainstream economy.” “Through this partnership with Theodist, our customers will not only enjoy discounts but also gain improved access to products that help them build stronger futures for themselves and their families.” The collaboration will also extend to joint marketing campaigns, community events, and co-branding initiatives to increase awareness and encourage participation in the Loyalty Card Program. Additionally, Mama Bank has named Theodist as its preferred supplier for office supplies, equipment, and technology solutions. The MoU will remain in place for three years, with an option for renewal. Both organizations say the agreement demonstrates their shared vision of empowering women, strengthening communities, and contributing to the sustainable development of Papua New Guinea.