Trukai Industries Limited, in partnership with key stakeholders including the PNG University of Technology, SunRice Group, and the PNG Government, celebrated the graduation of batches three and four of the Smart Farmer Program on Thursday, April 24, 2025. The event marks a major milestone in the country’s ambition to grow local rice production and transform agriculture into a key economic driver. Trukai CEO, Alan Preston, expressed his gratitude during the event. “It’s been a joy to be part of this journey.” “Each year the program grows, and we find new ways to enrich it, share intellectual property, and help people grow rice for both personal benefit and commercial purposes.” “So far, it’s been quite successful, but there’s more work to be done to secure a better future for PNG.” He also mentioned Trukai’s work in Papua New Guinea since pre-independence. “Trukai has been part of the fabric of PNG since 1973.” “We have been here for a long time and maybe be here for another 50, years even 100 years—because we are truly committed.” “Today is an example of that commitment, supported by wonderful partners from the PNG Government, our partner universities, the Government of Australia and SunRice Group.” Vice Chancellor of the PNG University of Technology, Professor Dr Ora Renagi, commended the partnership and emphasized the university’s role in national development. “The success of a university is measured by the success of its graduates. Seeing young men and women equipped with skills to participate in economic growth is satisfying.” “Our goal is to become a world-class institution and programs like these are key drivers of growth.” Smart Farmer graduate Cathy Wanpis from Eastern Highlands Province spoke highly of the program. “We’ve learnt so much and I believe it will help us become better farmers.” “I hope this program reaches more people, especially in rural areas.” Secretary for the Department of Agriculture and Livestock (DAL) Dr Sergi Bang, outlined how the program aligns with PNG’s Medium-Term Development Plan IV. Key targets include: Growing the agriculture sector’s GDP from PGK20 billion to PGK40 billion by 2033. Creating 2 million jobs in the sector. Fostering agriculture entrepreneurs to scale from small to medium and large businesses. Improving the Human Development Index and reducing malnutrition by 40%. “The government has set clear goals, and training programs like this help us get there. Trukai’s role is vital, and DAL stands ready to support this initiative through mechanisms like removing import duties on farming equipment,” the Secretary said. Mr. Brenton Kanowski, from the Australian High Commission, reinforced Australia’s continued support. “PNG is blessed with rich soil. Through strong partnerships we can help smallholder farmers improve skills and productivity.” The Smart Farmer Program continues to empower local farmers, particularly those in rural areas who make up 80% of PNG’s population. Rice is fast becoming a staple, and Trukai is leading the charge in building a sustainable, locally driven industry. A ground-breaking ceremony commemorating Trukai Industries' expansion of its commercial rice cultivation was held after the Smart Farmer Program Graduation. The foundation of Trukai's agricultural activities has long been the company's farm in Erap, Morobe Province. Trukai anticipates that it will expand its commercial rice growing from 100 hectares in 2024 to 200 hectares in 2025, with each expansion doubling annually. Customers throughout PNG are currently sharing and enjoying Trukai's Roots Rice product, which is made from its first harvest of locally farmed rice. By 2030, the company hopes to significantly contribute to the government's objective of a contemporary and profitable agriculture sector through its commercial rice growing.

When the K15 million phase two Koki Fish Market extension project begins, Port Moresby residents will have another option for dining by the waterfront. The National Fisheries Authority (NFA) and the electorate will share funding for the project, which is a brainchild of the Moresby South District Development Authority. In order to get things started, Moresby South has finished designing the new extension project, which will include building a restaurant with 300 seating areas where patrons can enjoy fish and chips or a refreshing beverage while taking in views of Ela Beach and the cool breeze. Moresby South MP and Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko said the idea is to enable the public to come and buy fresh processed seafood including fish fillets, prawns and lobster and squid, octopus and many more. "This is an exciting new development for the electorate, and we are looking forward to it as K10 million has already been committed in this year's budget by the National Fisheries Authority." "We anticipate NFA to ensure they come good with their commitment as it has been budgeted in this year's appropriation, and we would like to see a groundbreaking ceremony and the funds come across to NCDC before June this year." "We would like to see the construction start immediately for phase 2 of this fantastic and exciting project that will enable Papua New Guineans with their families to come and enjoy the beautiful South Side Breeze.” Minister Tkatchenko said once NFA makes the funding available, the NCDC will tender the construction of the project for interested bidders. "We will finalize all the details for NFA to immediately release the funding towards this project as promised by Fisheries Minister Jelta Wong MP.” The project is expected to take about 12 months to construct and if everything goes well and funding goes through before June, we would have it ready to open in June next year.”

Taurama residents in Port Moresby city can now have water connected to their homes and properties at low cost with the assistance of Water PNG. A funding of K3 million for water pipes was done by the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) and Moresby South Electorate with support from NCD Governor Powes Parkop MP. The water pipes and system were installed when the road was being constructed through Taurama. Now it's for the residents to tap off professionally through Water PNG and apply to get the water connected to be their properties and house. Moresby South MP and Minister for Foreign Affairs Hon. Justin Tkatchenko said Water PNG is the sole custodian of water distribution in Port Moresby. “We were very happy that they finally commissioned that water pipes from Taurama roundabout bypass all the way to Tutu Beach.” “We launched the water commissioning for the residents of Taurama with Water PNG and its now in their hands to ensure they connect the commissioned water system to the people of Taurama. “We made it very clear that this is not free, there will be a small charge from Water PNG to the residents for the connection fee.” Residents of Taurama will have to go to Water PNG and register their interest and pay for the connection fee to get water connected with a water meter to their residents. “I urge all Taurama residents to register their interest to Water PNG and utilize these services.”

Kingsley Philip a youngster from Ipiayu village in Rural Kaintiba, in Gulf province was determined to go to school despite challenges. "Any large town is a long way from my village. It might be difficult for students to pay for their education even after graduating from high school or college. To pay for our school fees, we rely on the generosity of churches and non-profit organizations.” “I therefore applied to Port Moresby Technical School (POM Tech) and asked about scholarships after learning that TotalEnergies was financing students. I was aware that I would have to fend for myself and not rely on my parents or the church to pay for my tuition.” Kingsley was born and raised in the village and has only ever left to go to school – first in Morobe province to complete his High School and Secondary schooling and now as a student at POM Tech studying Mechanical, Fitting, Machining (MFM). “My village is in the bush, surrounded by forest so it’s difficult or takes time to get anywhere.” “Often times, we’ve had people die while making their way down to town during storms, or when the weather gets really bad.” “Parents often face difficulties transporting their garden food to the market to sell, for their children’s school fees.” “In the past, during heavy rains, parents have lost their lives while crossing through the bush with their garden food to sell, from the falling trees.” One of two boys in a family of eight, he attended Kaintiba Primary School, then completed his secondary schooling at Menyamya Secondary School, with dreams of one day being a primary school teacher for his community. “There aren’t a lot of teachers in my community, and I noticed that not a lot of teachers want to travel to these remote areas to teach, which is why I wanted to be able to fill that gap especially for primary school students.” “I applied and was accepted to a teacher’s college at Rabaul but on my way there, I was robbed of my school fees and leaver’s certificate at Eriku town, Lae.” “The thieves stole around K6,000 raised by my parents and the church for my schooling.” He had no choice but to return back to Kaintiba. After saving up enough for the PMV from Kerema town to Port Moresby, he walked for three days from his village adamant on getting his leaver’s certificate re-printed at the Department of Education. “When I got my new certificate, I returned to the village and applied for a space at POM Tech in 2023, after hearing that TotalEnergies were sponsoring children from Gulf.” “It took me three days and three nights, to walk down to Kerema town from my village and then I caught the PMV and went to POM Tech.” “I was told, enrolment was complete but the boys from Gulf re-directed me to the TotalEnergies office downtown, so I walked there from POM Tech.” He met with TotalEnergies Workforce Development Coordinator Peter Konaka and explained his story and how he came to be there. “I empathized with him after listening to his story and saw how determined he was to secure post-secondary education despite the odds presented.” "I negotiated with the school to accept him in place of a student who had left earlier,” he said Mr. Konaka. Young Philip sincerely appreciated this opportunity given to him. “I feel like this opportunity has been completely life changing for me. I am glad to have joined this scholarship program because I know that if I had stayed back in the village, I would not have this chance.” “I wouldn’t be in school or have learnt the trade skills I am learning now, so I want to say thank you to TotalEnergies for putting me through school and for the opportunity you have given me. I am extremely grateful and want to say thank you.” Along with the rest of his batch, he will be graduating next March, hopeful to apply his skills, on one of the resource projects, still with dreams of teaching back in his village. TotalEnergies EP PNG Limited (TotalEnergies), as Operator of the Papua LNG project have to date, sponsored a total of 271 students at Port Moresby Technical School (POM Tech), 60 of whom have been female, through the Papua LNG TVET Scholarship Program and Kingsley is part of the current cohort of National Certificate (NC)3 scholarship recipients.

With the passing of Pope Francis, members of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Solomon Islands (SI) expressed their condolences and sorrow the Melanesian way at the Vatican Embassy on Thursday, bringing in garden food, store goods, a pig as well as conducting traditional sing-sing. Present at the event was His Lordship, Bishop Otto Separy, President of the CBC of PNG & SI, His Lordship Bishop Rozario Menezes SMM, Vice President of CBC the CBC of PNG & SI, Reverend, Fr Lawrence Arockiaraj, General Secretary of the CBC of PNG & SI and MSGR Federico Boni. His Lordship, Bishop Otto Separy, expressed both deep sorrow about the late Pope’s passing and deep gratitude towards Pope Francis and his recent visit to the country. “Pope Francis was here a few months ago and his presence is still fresh in our minds and hearts.” “We came to pass our condolences and at the same time we are very thankful that he came. It means a lot to us that he visited Papua New Guinea.” “He brought a message of peace and hope.” Leaders of the Catholic church then signed the Book of Condolences, a document which contains all the condolences messages around the world, which will be sent to Rome. Additionally, copy of memorabilia containing photos of Pope Francis’ visit to Papua New Guinea will be brought to the Vatican. In regard to the canonization of Blessed Peter ToRot, His Lordship, Bishop Separy, stated that Pope Francis signed the document for canonization confirming Peter ToRot’s status as a saint. “Everything is prepared; it is just that the ceremony is needed. Documents have been signed confirming his sainthood. We are only waiting for the announcement of the date, and then the ceremony, which will be confirmed by the next pope.”

World Earth Day is an occasion that is marked annually on April 22nd to demonstrate support for the protection of our environment. This year’s theme is “Our Power, Our Planet,” which emphasizes harnessing of renewable energy to build a healthy and resilient future for communities. In Papua New Guinea, organizations such as Sir Brian Bell Foundation (SBBF), Buk Bilong Pikinini (BBP) and Port Moresby Nature Park marked this day, calling for action in protecting and preserving the environment. Sir Brian Bell Foundation CEO, Bronwyn Wright, expressed the importance of taking care of our planet for the sake of future generations. "We must safeguard our sole home, Earth.” “Small actions can make a difference—whether it's organizing a clean-up, responsibly disposing of waste, conserving water, or rethinking and reusing items whenever we can.” “It's essential to treat our planet with the care and respect it deserves for the sake of future generations." Meanwhile, students of BBP took the time to learn about the importance of Earth, and the responsibility individuals have to protect it for their own well-being. They learned about practical methods to care for the Earth, such as disposing of waste properly, conserving electricity and water, planting trees, respecting wildlife, and recycling materials.

Title: Two & Two (2011) Director: Babak Anvari Genre(s): Short, Drama Run Time: 8mins Cast: Bijan Daneshmand, Ravi Karimi, Pouyan Lotfi A student gets silenced after giving the correct answer to his teacher’s written equation. The short film Two & Two covers themes of politics and possibly the realities of living under dictatorship rule. In the film, the teacher writes the equation 2 + 2 = 5, clearly an incorrect answer. The teacher immediately silences the students and calls for order when they protest. When a lone student finally refuses to change his answer to 5 despite the teacher’s numerous attempts, he gets killed. Two & Two can mean many things for different people. Personally, I see it as portraying the risks of standing up for the truth. Ignorance is a tool used to keep people subjugated and under control, once the truth gets revealed people may demand justice and change. However, if society is convinced that the lie is a truth, they will maintain the status quo. Any individual who wishes to say otherwise is either ostracized or killed.

Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP) has marked its 18th anniversary of providing empowering early childhood education to the youngest learners in Papua New Guinea. Since its inception in 2007, the organization has supported thousands of children in developing essential skills in literacy, numeracy, and life, laying the groundwork for their future success. What began as a single Library Learning Centre has evolved into a nationwide initiative, extending its services to communities throughout PNG. BbP now offers innovative and inclusive programs that incorporate digital and nutritional literacy alongside its foundational early learning curriculum. Central to BbP’s mission are the inspiring narratives of former students whose solid educational groundwork continues to influence their achievements. One notable example is Ms. Alucia Alusi, currently a Grade 9 student at Bumayong Lutheran Secondary School in Lae, Morobe province. Alucia embarked on her educational path with BbP at the age of three at the UPNG library learning centre, later transitioning to the Unitech library learning centre in Lae at five. She attributes her early literacy skills to her success in primary school and aspires to study Computer Science at university in the future. Her mother, Pamela Alusi confirmed her daughter’s progress in her studies and spoke highly of BBP’s program. “I’m so proud of how far Alucia has come.” “Buk bilong Pikinini gave her the tools to succeed." "I highly recommend it to other parents—it truly makes a difference.” Alucia recounted her experiences at the inauguration of BbP’s new Library Learning Centre located at St. Steven, 3 Mile in Lae, and also during a recent live radio interview on FM100 celebrating BbP’s 18th anniversary. She joins a growing number of empowered young individuals who are making a significant impact. Other alumni from BbP, such as Baru Vagi, Hellen Dai Haraga, Baia Baigago Gagoa, and Rao Ben from Badihagwa Secondary School, along with Delilah Uro from Port Moresby International School, have also come forward to highlight how the foundational literacy skills they acquired through BbP have enabled them to achieve top academic honors, excel in various subjects, and even advance a grade. Their successes underscore the lasting benefits of quality early education. As BbP celebrates this significant milestone, the organization extends its sincere gratitude to its donors, partners, and dedicated team whose contributions have made this journey possible. Their support has positively impacted thousands of children and fostered a movement towards a more literate and equitable Papua New Guinea. BbP Founder and Chairperson, Anne-Sophie Hermann, stated that eighteen years is not just a celebration of time—it’s a celebration of transformation. “We’re so proud of our children and excited for what the future holds.” With continued support, BbP looks forward to reaching even more children in the years ahead continuing to spark a love of learning and shaping the next generation of Papua New Guinean leaders.

The United Church of Papua New Guinea (UCPNG) left an Easter message to its members in the country and abroad. Reverend Garo Kilagi, UCPNG’s Moderator, encouraged members of the church to see this Easter period as a time of transition. Rev. Kilagi stated that Easter is more than just a remembrance of Christ's resurrection, it is an invitation to experience revival in our own lives. “Just as Christ rose from the tomb, breaking the chains of our of our death, he calls us to step out of the graves of sin despair and brokenness into his glorious light.” “The reading from Luke Chapter 24:6 [He is not here; he has risen!..]; this scripture tells us that the tomb represents pain struggles and lost hope the tomb was a was meant to be the final resting place of Jesus sealed by the expectations of men, yet even in the darkest moments God was working behind the scenes.” He explained that many find themselves in their own tombs of spiritual dryness, emotional wounds or battles, or even sickness and financial struggles, but the story of Easter is a reminder that the tomb is not the end. “The tomb is not just a place of death; it is a place of transition.” “The tomb represents a moment between sorrow and victory; between endings and new beginnings the tomb is a place of transformation.” “Jesus entered the tomb as the crucified savior but emerged as the risen king.” “The tomb is where struggles turn into testimonies, where despair meets hope and brokenness leads to renewal.” He added that the power of resurrection is a call to renewal and revival. “When Christ rose, the power of sin and death was shattered, and new life became possible for all who believed.” He stated that revival begins when we surrender our burdens and trust in the victory of Jesus. “Christ's resurrection assures us that no grave be it fear, failure or hopelessness can hold us or stop us.” “The same same power that raised Jesus is available to revive our faith our church and our families and our futures.” He encouraged the church to embrace restoration. “It is a call to rise up to walk in the purpose and power of God which he has given us we're no longer bound by our past the stone has been rolled away, and revival has begun.” “Easter is a celebration of new life, new faith and unstoppable hope just as Christ walked out of the tomb so we must walk out of our own tombs in faith knowing that resurrection power is at work within us.”

Jona Film Production, the crew behind the PNG film ‘Ples Man’ received a K10, 000 cheque generously donated by the National Cultural Commission (NCC), to support the local film industry and encourage the practice of cultural storytelling. Attending the press conference was the Executive Manager for Festival, Marketing, Cultural Development, and Art Industry, David Taim who was present on behalf of the Executive Director of NCC, Steven Enomb Kilanda, MBE, as well as Rama Undiapah, Director of Ples Man and upcoming film ‘Ples Man II’, Executive Producer, Spencer Wangere, cast and crew of Ples Man II, and NCC staff. Uniapah thanked NCC for their support in Ples Man II’s production, acknowledging their importance in enabling this project to be accomplished and explained that Ples Man’s sequel is a film that will address pressing issues in the country as well as honoring the founding fathers of PNG. "Tribal conflict, concerns pertaining to sorcery, women's empowerment, and rural development are the primary themes of the sequel.” “It will be dedicated to PNG's founding fathers.” He expressed his desire to see an end to sorcery related violence, through changing the future generations view on the matter, in spite of the fact that sorcery-related violence it has persisted for fifty years. David Taim acknowledged that filmmakers in the country require support in order for the industry to thrive. “Efforts to develop the film industry in Papua New Guinea are currently hindered by a lack of funding for local filmmakers, hence we are actively engaging with relevant authorities to emphasize the significance of the film sector.” “As the industry begins to take shape, there is an urgent need for increased government support and financial backing to ensure its growth and sustainability.” Meanwhile Spencer Wangere, Executive Producer of Ples Man II, emphasized their intentions of improving from lessons learned from the previous film. He called on businesses across the country to support Ples Man II by placing their products in the film. He highlighted this as a chance for companies to promote their brands while contributing to a significant national project.

Governor General of Papua New Guinea, His Excellency, Grand Chief Sir Bob Bofeng Dadae has passed on his Easter message emphasizing faith with actions. “This week we join fellow Christians throughout the world commemorate the greatest sacrifice ever demonstrated on behalf of all mankind, the death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, 2,000 years ago.” “This is a significant event to observe for the Bible tells us that Jesus Christ “himself bore our sins in his own body on the stake, so that we might die to sins and live to righteousness.” (1Peter 2:24).” “However, more than observance is required on our part as Christians. Of particular importance is how we demonstrate our appreciation for the gift of eternal life that we can look forward to, and which was made possible by the sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ.” “It is one thing to make public declaration that we are Christians, yet another to demonstrate our faith by our actions.” He reminded citizens that according to the Bible, “faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” (James 2:17). Furthermore, when we reflect Christian values in our actions, we can positively change our communities and society for the better. Our homes and communities will be safer, peaceful, and harmonious for all citizens. “Each of us must take personal responsibility for our own actions and play our part in driving positive change in our communities, whether it be at home, at work, school and among friends and family.” “Our salvation in the Lord does not depend on others, family member, relatives, friends, our church elders or pastors, or entities or government and organizations, rather it is up to each of us to answer for our own deeds before God.” He acknowledged the hardships involved in maintaining one’s integrity. “We are faced with economic hardships, high costs of living, lack of employment opportunities, and lack of basic services in urban and rural communities are challenges we face on a daily basis.” “However, resorting to crime, civil strife, violence and dishonest exploitation for personal gain can only get one so far and leads to destruction. “Despite their desires, the lazy will come to ruin, for their hands refuse to work.” (Prov 21:25)” He encouraged parents to teach their children the value of hard work, honesty, respect and kindness towards others and the environment. “How we conduct ourselves and the values we live by can shape our children’s lives and their future either for better or for worse.” “As we celebrate Easter this weekend, let us reflect on ourselves and make changes that show our Christian faith and gratitude for Jesus Christ's sacrifice. This assures us of our salvation and eternal life.”

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) PNG recently conducted its inaugural session of the Great People Managers Program workshop on the 7th and 8th of April 2025, at their headquarters located in Lae city. A total of seventeen senior executives from various sectors of the company participated in the training, which was designed to provide both novice and seasoned managers with the necessary skills and assurance to lead and motivate their teams effectively, thereby enhancing outcomes for CCEP. Mr. Tim Solly, the Sales and Commercial Director at CCEP PNG, kicked off the workshop by motivating attendees and sharing experiences from his personal leadership path. "It's inspiring to see our managers so eager to grow and lead their teams with confidence.” "This program is a fantastic opportunity for us to build a stronger, more capable leadership team." The program is divided into two parts, with the second workshop scheduled for June. Participants found the two-day educational experience highly beneficial and are looking forward to the concluding segment of the training program scheduled for later this year. This marks the inaugural workshop organized by CCEP's Global Training Team, with facilitation provided by Peter A. Smith from Hemsley Fraser, an international learning and development organization. CCEP is dedicated to enhancing the growth and advancement of its employees, making sure they possess the necessary skills and opportunities to excel. As a prominent producer and distributor of locally made soft drink beverages within the nation, CCEP PNG remains committed to investing in its workforce and takes pride in assisting over 19,000 customers throughout the country in expanding their businesses.