The Port Moresby Nature Park is set to host its charity gala dinner on Saturday, May 24th, 2024, at Kutubu Convention Centre located within the Hilton Port Moresby Hotel & Residences. This gala dinner serves as a crucial fundraising event aimed at supporting their conservation, education, research, and community programs. Through sponsorship towards 'Charity Gala Dinner,' companies can enhance their brand visibility while demonstrating dedication to uplifting the community and safeguarding Papua New Guinea's distinctive flora and fauna for future generations. The park plays a vital role in protecting PNG's natural environment by bridging the gap between people and nature through recreation, conservation, and education. Their mission is sustained by the generous contributions of the public, businesses, government, and development agencies through sponsorships, donations, grants, and visitor admissions. According to Port Moresby Nature Park, maintaining facilities cost a quarter of a million per month. “More than K250,000 is spent each month on its upkeep, which includes caring for wildlife and plants, paying staff, and covering water, electricity, and security expenses.” “The park has faced difficult socio-economic conditions in the country, which have affected the level of sponsorship and support it receives for its annual operations.” “A major focus for the park is to achieve financial stability by creating self-generated income.” “As the top attraction in PNG, it welcomes between 135,000 and 150,000 visitors annually, with 98% being local residents.” “Organizing significant events for the public helps boost admissions and generate funds to maintain the park for everyone to enjoy.” Tickets are K10, 000 for a table of ten individuals and K1,000 per person. As the leading tourist destination in Papua New Guinea, the park is committed to protecting the nation's remarkable wildlife and plant life through engaging experiences.

A new chapter in PNG singer-songwriter Chris Cobb’s life as he has unveiled new music that includes tracks recorded over five years ago but held back until now, as he sought the perfect moment for their release. "I was always waiting for the right moment, the right time, and the right video to accompany the songs... I've had two more children, relocated to Australia, and restarted my music career, realizing that there will never be a perfect time, so I decided to share these songs with the world.” His latest singles, such as "Pasifika Time," "Ta’ahine," "Poroman," and "Runaway Train," are now accessible on all major streaming platforms. These new releases signify a new step for Cobb, providing an authentic glimpse into his life and identity. So far, he has released four new tracks on Spotify, with more to come: Ta’ahine Pasifika Time Poroman Runaway Train. "Ta’ahine" is inspired by the true story of Cobb's first encounter with his partner, Tongan Australian artist Kalolaine Fainu. This romantic, laid-back track narrates the tale of a humble man from Morobe who falls for a mesmerizing Polynesian woman, featuring melodic hooks and a blend of English, Tok Pisin, and Polynesian phrases that radiate sincerity and charm. It serves as a heartfelt homage to island love and connection, resonating on both personal and universal levels. Meanwhile, "Pasifika Time," penned during the COVID pandemic when many were separated from their homes, serves as a poignant reminder that the island rhythm always beckons, no matter where life leads. This tender anthem captures the essence of island life—pulling taro from the fire, sharing laughter late into the night, and reuniting with family. Chris Cobb reveals that he co-wrote this song with Kalo, originally intended as a tribute to his late uncles, Kakas and Tadoi, who both died before reaching 40. “They played a significant role in my upbringing in Bulolo.” “This song honors the memories and love I hold for them, reminding me that one day we will reunite in heaven and stroll along the wara Bulolo, gathering taro by the fire at night.” The track 'Runaway Train' may initially appear to be a UK pop-dance hit, but its essence is deeply rooted in Melanesian culture. Co-produced by Cobb and the esteemed PNG producer Toxic Mahn (Emmanuel Muganaua), the song is inspired by Kaur, a traditional Bougainville sound characterized by bamboo flutes and ancestral chants. Both artists share heritage ties to Bougainville, and their collaboration on this piece became a journey of cultural rediscovery. While viewing a YouTube video of a traditional Kaur chant, they identified a recurring five-note sequence in a series of voice notes. These notes matched the major pentatonic scale, leading them to re-arrange them into the song's captivating melody. The outcome is a genre-defying track that fuses modern pop vibrancy with indigenous Pacific rhythms. Lyrically, 'Runaway Train' captures the tumult of the world and the desire to break free, crafted during the height of the COVID pandemic when uncertainty loomed large. Musically, it offers a trance-like experience designed to transport listeners from the chaos into a realm that is spiritual, ancestral, and profoundly connected. Chris Cobb, hailing from Bulolo in Morobe Province—endearingly referred to as 'cowboy country' in PNG—has returned to the music scene with renewed vigor after a self-imposed break. Now residing on the Sunshine Coast, he is cultivating a dedicated fan base in his new locale while maintaining a strong connection to PNG through his artistry.

Title: P Diddy: The Rise and Fall (2025) Director: Eddie Hutton-Mills Producer(s): Eddie Hutton-Mills • Amelia Ellis Presenter: Yinka Bokinni Genre(s): Documentary Run Time: 59 mins Interviewees: Shayna Marie • Roger Bonds • Gene Deal • Amy Debois • Melvin Coleman • Precious Muir P Diddy: The Rise and Fall is an unsettling documentary by BBC which follows Yinki Bokinni on her mission to explore the rise behind one of the USA’s biggest pioneering hip-hop mogul and cultural force as well as his fall from grace, Sean Combs a.k.a P Diddy, Diddy and Puff Daddy. While the ongoing case of P Diddy battling allegations of racketeering and sex trafficking is disturbing enough as well as previously facing accusations of various acts of violence and sexual misconduct ranging from grooming to rape, Bokinni takes it even further, interviewing individuals who were close and part of Diddy’s inner circle. First interviewee, former model, Precious Muir, paints a vivid picture of P Diddy’s white parties. Recounting the time, she was invited and encouraged to attend Diddy’s parties in exchange for better opportunities for networking. A brief but disturbing account. Obviously Precious knows more but is afraid to speak out due to safety concerns. Amy Debois, former editor of Honey magazine, discusses hip-hop culture and the treatment of women in the industry during the 90s, sharing her own experiences of sexual abuse by powerful individuals and using humor as a coping mechanism. Music producer Melvin Coleman a.k.a Mel Love, tells his harrowing account of being potentially drugged as a teen and later molested by an older employee of Diddy’s while he worked as an intern for Diddy. But the most interesting and ironic part comes when Bokinni speaks to Gene Deal, former Head of Security of Bad Boy Entertainment, Diddy’s music company and Roger Bonds, Diddy’s former bodyguard. Both men recognized the unique chances working with Diddy offered, yet they also saw his dark characteristics. Deal noted Diddy’s decline due to drug use but denied involvement in inappropriate behavior or seeing abuse footage. Bonds admired Diddy for hiring him despite his record until he witnessed the abuse of Diddy’s ex, Cassie Ventura. The documentary gives off an urban-centric vibe coupled with the seriousness of its rotten underbelly. In a way it feels like a hip-hop music video but it’s a film. Old footage and images from the 90s to the early 2000s bring authenticity to a documentary about hip-hop, also emphasizing a time when hip-hop culture was at its peak. The film falls short where interviewees refuse to go into details about their experiences. Although participants were willing, they were still recovering from the damage they received many years ago at the hands of Diddy and Bad Boy Entertainment as well as the shock some had when hearing about the allegations against him. On the other hand, we discover the drive behind Diddy, his goals, his ambitions and the type of man he is behind the cameras. I’d say the film had a lot of aesthetic appeal but not so much information to reel in a viewer, partly because the Diddy case is ongoing. It leaves you in an unsatisfied position.

IBS University and Kassman Taekwondo Club recently signed an MoU at IBSU campus at 11 Mile, an agreement to promote sportsmanship, discipline and to support two taekwondo Olympians, Gibson Mara and Kevin Kassman for the next Olympic Games. Present at the signing was PNGOC Secretary General, Mr. Desmond Kaviagu, Founder of IBSU, Sir Mick Nades, Edward Kassman from Kassman Taekwondo Club as well as PNG's Taekwondo Olympians, Gibson Mara and Kevin Kassman. Sir Mick Nades was confident in the athletes’ abilities to perform in upcoming competitions. “IBS University plans to support them – it’s a calculated challenge or dream." “By providing adequate training to these two Olympians, they will be prepared to compete in the Olympics.” “Last time they qualified through a wild card, but I believe that in the upcoming 2028 Olympic Games, they should be rightfully selected as eligible athletes.” “I am confident they will achieve this.” Secretary General of of the PNG Olympic Committee, Mr. Desmond Kaviagu emphasize on the importance of support not just for popular sports, but for others that are often neglected. “These athletes are the next generation of inspiration for PNG." "We have always seen companies in PNG just sponsor team sports.” “Everyone’s supporting rugby league, but there are more sports in Papua New Guinea; karate, sailing, surfing – these are amazing sports and avenues out there for us to take advantage of.” “At the National Olympic Committee, we get funding from the government, from corporate sponsors, from great donors, which we're grateful for.” “But we spend that funding across all the different sports, hence that limits how much investment and opportunity we can put towards enhancing our preparations and medal participations." “Now, this time, it's a targeted approach.” Meanwhile Edward Kassman from Kassman Taekwondo Club, echoed similar sentiments and thanked IBS University for their support. He also expressed his determination to see taekwondo bag a medal for PNG.

The Kina Bank team in Lae took part in the Rosso Lae Community Cleanathon in early May, a project aimed at enhancing the cleanliness and appearance of Lae City. Rayeleene Elston, Executive General Manager of Business and Retail Banking at Kina Bank, expressed her pride in the team's engagement. "We are pleased with our team’s participation in this community program to beautify and keep our second-largest city clean." She also thanked Mr. Michael Earley, Deputy Chairperson of the Lae District Peace and Good Order Committee, and John Rosso, Deputy Prime Minister and Lae Open MP, for their efforts in organizing the event. The staff, along with their families, focused on cleaning various locations including Lae Market, Dunlop, Top Town, the Post Office, the Bank of Papua New Guinea branch, and the Lae City Council. "At Kina Bank, we are committed to various staff-led community initiatives and actively engage in community programs.” “This event marks one of the largest participations by our staff, reflecting our values of unity, making a difference, and contributing to the development of stronger, safer communities.”

The Censorship team is actively raising awareness in selected primary and secondary schools across Imbonggu District in the Southern Highlands province. After arriving on May 11th, their efforts focused on educating students and staff about the essential roles and responsibilities of the Office, facilitated through their Desk at the Imbonggu District Community Development Centre (DCDC). Recently, the team has engaged with several schools, including Sumia Primary School, which has 507 students and 20 teachers; Mendi Day Secondary School with 1,870 students and 64 teachers; Kumin Primary School, hosting 1,200 students and 35 teachers; Pape Primary School, with 300 students and 13 teachers; and Iombi Primary School, which has 655 students and 28 teachers. Participating schools expressed gratitude for the Censorship Office's initiative to provide education at the district level. The awareness campaign is set to extend to Perepa Primary School, Iliabu Secondary School, and Kaupena High School in the near future. The Office's responsibilities encompass monitoring, classifying, and regulating information content across various communication mediums, while also promoting responsible usage of mobile phones and social media platforms among users. The Censorship team also plans to continue its outreach until a sustainable arrangement for the office desk in the district is established, and they are also revisiting the Desk to ensure it is adequately equipped for its operations. The Imbonggu District Community Development Centre (DCDC) serves as a facility offering a range of services and programs to the residents of Imbonggu District. The Desk was launched in September 2023, following the DCDC's opening in 2021, with support from the Ministry for Community Development, Youth and Religion. This initiative was financed by the National Government, the Department for Community Development and Religion, the Southern Highlands Provincial Government, and the Imbonggu District Development Authority.

“Be eager to learn and always put your hand up to try something new.” Twenty-eight-year-old Verbena Rema from Kou Village in Ialibu, Southern Highlands Province, shares her inspiring thoughts as she gets ready to start a new chapter with HEINEKEN Global Shared Services (HGSS) in Kraków, Poland. Verbena, who attended both primary and secondary school in her hometown, graduated from Sogeri National High School in 2014 and earned her degree from the University of Papua New Guinea in 2018. Looking back on her experiences, she feels thankful for the hard work and discipline her parents instilled in her, which have played a crucial role in her journey to success. These principles have been instrumental in shaping her path to success. "My parents taught us to work for something if we wanted it.” “Back in the days, when we wanted a new pair of shoes or trousers, we had to work for it.” “My siblings and I made cabbage or broccoli gardens, sold our harvest, and with the money we made, we bought what we wanted.” “Growing up was a lesson in self-reliance, as Verbena explains, "It was, and still is, literally like, you work, you eat; if you do not work, you do not eat." “As the famous proverb goes, 'Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.'" Fueled by her passion for learning and growth, in July, she reached out to a colleague in HGSS hoping for a short-term assignment placement, however, the STA role was already filled. Despite facing this challenge, her determination earned her a role as a Global Process Management (GPM) Business Consultant in Business Intelligence (BI). "This will be a completely new adventure for me since it's my first time traveling abroad, and I am thrilled." When asked about her biggest anticipation, she mentioned: Gaining deeper insights into the cutting-edge financial technologies and commercial tools that HEINEKEN provides. "I am eager to learn from all the brilliant individuals, exchange ideas, and apply what I learn." Verbena became part of SP Brewery in 2019 through its Graduate Development Program and worked as a Commercial Analyst before transitioning to the position of Marketing Controller. “SP Brewery is the first Company I have worked at. The daily support I receive from colleagues, and the environment is amazing because I work alongside managers (both local and expatriate) who share their knowledge and help support young Papua New Guineans like me, to further develop our careers.” She further made special mention to former SPB Finance Director Archer Ning, and Adnane Islam Chekirine, the current SPB Finance Director, for their unwavering support and guidance in reaching this milestone. As she prepares for her departure, Verbena offers the following advice to young Papua New Guineans. “Work with a company that you believe will develop your skills and knowledge as an individual.” “The package may not meet your expectations but if the Company has a great reputation in developing its staff, take that leap of faith because you will not regret learning the skills on the job.” In congratulating Verbena, SP Brewery Managing Director Ed Weggemans explained that SP Brewery was committed to developing Papua New Guineans to compete on the world stage.

BSP has reaffirmed its commitment to the GoGreen Campaign, aimed at increasing awareness about plastic pollution, by presenting K40,000 to the Port Moresby Nature Park. The amount was present by BSP General Manager Corporate Affairs & Community, Hari Rabura in support of the 2025 festival. “We have a responsibility to care for the environment and to support initiatives that help our communities thrive.” “The Trash to Treasure Festival is a powerful platform that turns waste into wonder—transforming discarded plastics into meaningful, large-scale sculptures that inspire action.” “This partnership with the Port Moresby Nature Park aligns with our values of care and growth.” “From annual school clean-up campaigns to tree planting on World Environment Day, BSP is proud to be a part of these collective efforts.” As the naming sponsor, BSP encourages the public to explore these impressive sculptures—made from solid waste and inspired by marine creatures, reptiles, and birds—on display from June 5 to July 5, 2025, at the Port Moresby Nature Park. The festival will include school trips during the week and offsite banking events on weekends, providing students with the chance to open bank accounts while participating in environmental education. Johnpaul Houston, the Chief Executive Officer of Port Moresby Nature Park, expressed gratitude for BSP’s support, stating their pride in continuing this collaboration for the Trash to Treasure Sculpture Festival. “This is an initiative that transforms waste into powerful environmental art.” “BSP’s support enables us to engage schools, businesses, and families in meaningful conversations about reducing plastic waste while showcasing the creative potential of recycling. “We look forward to welcoming the public to experience these sculptures and be part of a movement towards a cleaner, greener PNG." The Trash to Treasure festival is a yearly event aimed at encouraging recycling, creativity, and environmental consciousness. As the foremost bank in the South Pacific, BSP acknowledges that its duties go beyond traditional banking. By collaborating with partners to promote innovation and community growth, BSP is dedicated to creating a more sustainable and eco-friendly future. BSP is unwavering in its commitment to the environment and anticipates the ongoing influence of the Trash to Treasure Sculpture Festival in motivating a cleaner, greener Papua New Guinea.

The World Health Organization in collaboration with the Papua New Guinea National Department of Health (NDoH), hosted the Stage 2 Consultation Workshop on the National Health Research Agenda (NHRA) 2025–2030, which started today and will end on Wednesday May 14th, 2025. This event, held at the Airways Hotel in Port Moresby, brought together key stakeholders from across the country’s health sector, including representatives from provincial health authorities, research institutions, government agencies, development partners, and academia. After the successful Stage 1 Consultation in November 2024, which identified over 60 research questions, this second stage aims to refine and prioritize those topics while establishing a foundation for implementing the agenda. Over two days, participants will take part in collaborative sessions to finalize the research priorities, discuss implementation strategies, and provide feedback on the draft NHRA document. The consultation also highlights the significance of sustainable domestic funding and cross-sector partnerships to transform the Agenda into a dynamic strategy that fosters genuine improvements in health outcomes. The NHRA serves as a key initiative within the National Health Plan 2021–2030, designed to ensure that health research in the country is locally driven, evidence-based, and addresses the most urgent health challenges. The NDoH expresses heartfelt gratitude to all participants for their dedication and input, as well as to WHO for its ongoing assistance. Together, they are developing a research agenda aimed at enhancing PNG’s healthcare system and bettering the lives of all citizens of Papua New Guinea.

Papua New Guinea’s National Department of Health hosted the official handover-takeover ceremony, which saw Deputy Secretary for Public Health, Mr. Ken Wai, become the new Acting Health Secretary, taking over from outgoing Health Secretary Dr. Osborne Liko. Dr. Liko described the ceremony as not just a transition in leadership but an opportunity to reflect on the challenges that have been overcome. He expressed his sincere gratitude towards the hardworking staff of the health sector as well as acknowledging the support received from political leaders. Newly appointed Acting Secretary for Health, Mr. Wai, acknowledged Dr. Liko’s achievements during his time as Acting Health Secretary. “Dr. Liko's leadership has been nothing short of transformational. From the reorganization of the Department of Health to the legislative reforms that have strengthened our healthcare framework, his vision has paved the way for a healthier future for Papua New Guinea.” “As we reflect on his achievement, we recognize that Dr. Liko has not only led us through the transformative reforms, but he has also laid a strong foundation for the health sector's continued development.” “His leadership has been instrumental in reshaping the narratives of the health system we see today.” Wai promised to continued Dr. Liko’s work but also introduce new reforms to benefit the health sector. He added that health is a critical aspect of our lives, and any decision must be made carefully. “Health is an essential and vital sector; therefore, any decision about the health sector should be done with great care when it comes to appointment of the secretary, the CEOs of the provincial health authorities too.” “And then when it comes to budget, when it comes to procurement decisions, when it comes to human resource allocation, we need special consideration.” “There is no second chance when it comes to life. Therefore, decisions must be best to benefit the mothers and the children; for those who cannot speak for themselves – we are here for them and not for ourselves," he said.

After it was introduced to PNG in 2024 by Kendo expert, Yuki Nishimaki Sensei, Kendo or Japanese Fencing, is now taking a step further with the support of All Japan Kendo Federation through the Japanese Embassy in Port Moresby. The sport was trialed at the East Gate Karate Academy with the support of Karate instructor, Julius Piku Sensei. Two years have passed since those Karate students tried their hand in Kendo. The Ambassador of Japan to PNG, His Excellency Hisanobu Mochizuki presented Kendo equipment to Sensei Julius on Thursday 8th May 2025. The equipment included 20 uniforms with armour and masks, and 40 bamboo swords or “Shinai,” which will be used for training and mini bouts among the students. Ambassador Mochizuki expressed that Papua New Guinea and Japan have shared historical and cultural interests, and he is delighted to witness the adoption of Japanese sports such as Kendo and Karate in PNG. He noted that as PNG approaches its 50th independence anniversary, Japan is also celebrating 50 years of diplomatic ties with the nation. The introduction of a new sport and martial art is particularly significant as PNG prepares for its silver jubilee. Julius Sensei expressed gratitude to Ambassador Mochizuki and the Japanese people for their support, emphasizing that celebrating and recognizing traditional culture fosters a connection between the two countries. According to him, Kendo is a relatively new sport that shares its traditional martial arts heritage with Karate, and he believes that over time, more individuals will adopt its philosophies and principles in both competitive settings and community growth. Julius Sensei thanked to Nishimaki Sensei for imparting his Kendo knowledge and urged all martial arts enthusiasts and sports fans to give it a try. Accompanying Julius Sensei was Mr. Andrew Molen, a senior student from the East Gate Karate club, who has expressed interest in pursuing Kendo. Mr. Molen, an avid follower of martial arts and sports, was thrilled to be able to witness the small ceremony. Kendo, which translates to 'Way of the Sword,' is a combat sport that has its origins in Kenjutsu, the 'Art of the Sword,' historically practiced by the Japanese warriors known as Samurai. For those interested in learning more about the Kendo program in Papua New Guinea, they can reach out to Sensei Julius, follow the East Gate Karate Academy on Facebook, or visit their gym located at Savannah Heights in Port Moresby.

Senior officers from the Department for Community Development and Religion (DFCDR) recently visited Kundu International Academy to engage with and inform students about the department's roles, policies, and initiatives. David Nugi, the Provincial Coordinator for Southern Highlands and Simbu, emphasized that DFCDR operates within the social sector, focusing on protective and empowering programs aimed at vulnerable groups, including children, youth, individuals with disabilities, the elderly, and victims of gender-based violence and sexual assault. As PNG approaches its 50th Independence anniversary, Nugi highlighted the department's efforts to advance the Disability Service Bill and the Community Development Bill. Additionally, Assistant Director of Informal Economy, Cecelia Wrondimi, clarified the differences between Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and the informal economy. Research indicates that approximately K12bill remains unbanked in the informal sector, prompting the department to actively engage and empower those involved to ensure they pursue legitimate pathways. She also agreed to offer financial literacy training for 28 grade 12 students, preparing them for potential business opportunities should they not gain admission to tertiary institutions. The students actively participated in the session, posing questions that were met with informative answers. School Principal Emmanuel Yawiapui expressed gratitude to DFCDR for their visit and expressed eagerness for future awareness and training going forward.