For the first time, the much anticipated 321 Lotto Wantok Jackpot draw was drawn last night live on national television witnessed by representatives from the National Gaming Control Board, members of the media and people around the country who tuned in. Chief Operations Officer, Allan Egan explained the process of the live draws stating that at each Wantok Jackpot draw, the machine will draw 7 numbered balls in no specific order from a total of 36 balls. "As soon as the numbers are revealed, customers can check their tickets to see if they have the drawn numbers on their tickets, they will then bring their tickets in to the 321 Lotto shop at Range View Plaza for their tickets to be scanned in order to determine the prize division that they may have won under." The lucky 7 numbers drawn have been put up on the 321 Lotto website for those who have registered online and for ticket customers to check if they have the winning numbers. Customers can bring their tickets to the 321 shop at Rangeview plaza to claim their prize if they think they have matched more then 2-7 numbers on their tickets as there are different prize divisions for every number of matches. There are seven divisions altogether determined by the numbers drawn that match with that on the ticket. Check out the 321 Lotto Facebook page or their their website at 321lotto.com.au to check the lucky numbers. Winners will be announced with customers consent. If the customer wishes to remain anonymous, 321 Lotto will respect their wishes. Chief Executive Officer, Todd Emanuelli stated that it was absolutely exciting to finally launch and have he first live draw. He thanked his team and 321 Lotto for ensuring that everything ran smoothly. "I want to thank Post PNG also for the partnership opportunity, for helping us set up and sell tickets and more importantly the NGCB." "I spent a lot of time going through and demonstrating how our products work and the equipment being used, lottery is probably the most regulated game in the industry around it so we're looking forward to opening up more shops." He added that they will be ironing out a few things to iron out in the coming weeks like customer queries and confusions. "Also working towards customers being able to use their visa debit cards to top up and purchase tickets online and working to utilise USSD ticket purchasing, these are options that we would love to explore in the coming weeks." "There are a variety of tickets as well as jackpots with prizes to be won." "With lotteries the enjoyment is in thinking what you can do with the money you win and that's where ye entertainment is so we're looking forward to see the winners turn up to se how much they win." Meanwhile he stated that 321 Lotto is focused on establishing a base here in PNG before expanding into the Pacific as they already have a presence in Vanuatu as well.

The National Census exercise is progressing well into its second week in the Rabaul District of East New Britain province despite the recent law and order issues in Rabaul Town. This was revealed by the District Census Coordinator (DCC) John Matava during a recent brief update at the District Headquarters at Kurakakaul, North Coast Road. Mr. Matava said that the respective Local Level Government (LLG) teams are doing great in terms of coverage of households and added that most teams are now into the process of transferring raw data from the Paper Assisted Personal Interview (PAPI) census method to the Computer Assisted Personal Interview (CAPI) method. Matava said that currently the LLG Managers and Supervisors are attending a refresher workshop on handling the CAPI census method, which will assist them in transferring data from PAPI to the CAPI system using the tablets. He said that with the CAPI system we can be able to report on real time data and population accessed through the web-based server. “Watom LLG is completed and is now into quality check with Rabaul Urban, Balanataman and Kombiu LLG furnishing up their data collection forms.” “Otherwise, most teams are now into the CAPI training and are now transferring data from PAPI to CAPI,” said Matava. The DCC said that though the census tablets arrived late this week, with few team members missing out on other materials, the teams still proceeded with the census exercise. “Apart from the late issue of tablets, we are also faced with the challenge of covering some deserted homes especially in Ward 8 of Rabaul Urban LLG and Malguna No.1 of Balatanaman LLG. These homes were affected in the recent Rabaul Town fights causing families to flee their homes for safety,” said Matava. He further said that the Rabaul Urban and Balanataman LLG census teams are encouraged to carry out at least three attempts in these affected communities to ensure that they are counted. Meanwhile, the Acting District Administrator, Freddy Lemeki has commended the Rabaul district census teams for their tireless efforts in conducting the census exercise despite setbacks. “As we all know, Rabaul district has dual wards in both the origin and resettlement area and some are even scattered out in other districts which has always been a challenge, and I’d like to commend our teams for their commitment and dedication in this very important exercise.” He encouraged families to report to their respective LLGs if they have not been visited by a census team so that they can be counted.

Lae and Charleston, South Carolina have formally initiated a Sister Cities relationship at a historic signing of an intent to partner held in Lae. The Lae City Authority Chief Executive Officer, Robin Calistus signed on behalf of Lae and Neita Wiese, President and Chief Executive Officer of Charleston Sister Cities International signed earlier in Charleston. Carlo Capua, the Chair-elect of Sister Cities International and Chief of Strategy and Innovation for the City of Fort Worth, Texas, facilitated the signing. Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso, and Dr. Suely Saro, a city council member from Long Beach, California, officiated the event with the signing intended to partner and mark a significant step towards fostering deeper economic, cultural, and educational ties between the two cities. Capua, who last visited Lae 21 years ago, expressed his excitement about this connection, emphasizing the transformative potential of these city-to-city partnerships. "These mayor-to-mayor partnerships are a two-way exchange of ideas and culture, and present an exciting opportunity for economic development, education, and cultural exchange.” “Returning to Lae and seeing the enthusiasm for engagement is truly inspiring." At the event, Calistus stated, “The signing of this partnership is a blessing for the people of Lae city and the people of PNG.” “It’s a great opportunity for us to learn from one another and help one another.” Deputy Prime Minister Rosso noted that this Sister Cities relationship is an integral part of the development of the city and sharing of culture, and the expansion of education, health, business ties. Dr. Suely Saro, a city council member from Long Beach, California, and a key advocate for Sister Cities partnerships, also attended the ceremony and spoke about the power of Sister Cities to improve the lives of everyday people by linking communities directly with one another across the globe. Dr. Saro is an advocate for Sister Cities partnerships between Long Beach and nine other cities and expressed her hopes to sign a letter of intent to partner on Sister Cities with Port Moresby Governor, Powes Pakop on Friday. “These non-binding agreements are a testament to the commitment and willingness of both parties to engage in detailed discussions about the future of their partnerships.” “I have seen firsthand how these partnerships facilitate discussions, exchanges, and trade, by providing each city a mechanism to identity and engage with their peers in their sister city.” “The letter of intent will spur the formation of Sister Cities committees who will work over the next months to define the relationship and hopefully lead to a visit of our mayor and other mayors to Papua New Guinea.” Meanwhile representatives from Sister Cities and Long Beach, California, attended FestPac Cultural Festival in Hawai'i this June, where Carlo, Neita, and Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell met with the PNG delegation led by Steven Kilanda. These new partnerships are an initiative called 7 for 70, which commits to creating seven new Sister City relationships in the Pacific Islands by 2026 in celebration of the 70th Anniversary of Sister Cities International. 7 for 70 is a partnership between Sister Cities International and the White House and was first announced at U.S.-Pacific Islands Forum Summit meeting at the White House on September 25, 2023. The goal is to strengthen ties between the United States and Pacific Islands nations through new partnerships and promoting cultural understanding. Sister Cities International began in 1956, initiated by President Dwight D. Eisenhower's vision of fostering global friendships and cultural understanding through municipality-to-municipality partnerships. Today, Sister Cities International encompasses more than 400 U.S. cities with relationships in 2,100 communities across 145 countries, including this historic new connection with Papua New Guinea.

Theodist Limited was thrilled to renew and continue their annual support of K25, 000 sponsorship, presented to Life PNG Care Director, Collin Pake, who received the sponsorship cheque from Theodist Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Kumar Baliah and Corporate Development Manager (CDM), Ryan Pini. Mr Pini stated that Theodist was happy to be making an impact in the lives of children in PNG and helping them to achieve their dreams. “I am honoured to be here today to celebrate the renewal of our partnership with Life PNG Care, a remarkable charity that is making a difference in the lives of so many children in our country.” “I am proud to say that we have been supporting Life PNG Care for over five years, and we are committed to continue our sponsorship for another year.” “We believe in their vision of providing quality education, health care and life skills to disadvantaged children, who are the future of our nation.” He stated that we are living in challenging times, as our country faces economic difficulties and recovers from the post pandemic challenges. “We know that these hardships have affected many families and communities, especially the most vulnerable ones.” “We also know that these challenges have not stopped Life PNG Care from carrying out their mission, with courage and compassion.” “That is why we are here today, to show our solidarity and support to this noble cause. We are here to celebrate the human spirit, the resilience, and the hope that Life PNG Care embodies and inspires,” he continued. He stated that we [the people] are here to recognize the opportunities that education can create, for the children and for the country. “We are here to affirm our shared values of respect, dignity and equality for all people regardless of their background, status or beliefs.” “I would like to thank Life PNG Care for their dedication and their partnership. I would also like to thank the media for your presence here today, together we can make a positive impact and help the children of PNG achieve their dreams.” Founder and Director of Life PNG Care, Collin Pake Yakio thanked the Ryan Pini, the CEO, Kumar Baliah and the management of Theodist Limited for its tremendous support provided to Life PNG Care in its community work, impacting vulnerable children and youths of PNG for the last six years. “It’s a very challenging job and can’t be done alone, but through the continuous support and partnership with Theodist Ltd and other supporters we have created a Hope and a Better tomorrow for our children.” “At this time of the year, we greatly acknowledge and appreciate this donation of K25, 000 for the 2024 Children’s Education.” Furthermore, Pake said this is significant and timely donation for life PNG Care to continue its underprivileged children to school. “Through such donations and partnerships, we have been successful to have two of our students graduate from university in 2021 and 2024.” “This particular donation will go towards our Strongim Pikinini Education Program, assisting over 700 unfortunate children currently attending school this year,” Pake announced. Meanwhile he highlighted that our country’s development and future growth is entirely depending on an educated population. “Access to education is fundamental but unfortunately, our government’s negligence and unfair treatment of this group continues to widen the gap between children who are in and out of school.” “Together with Theodist Ltd and other Life PNG Care partnerships and supporters, we can shape and change the future we desire, let us work together to build a stronger community!”

Eighteen (18) participants from the Autonomous Region of Bougainville recently attended a training workshop to equip them to provide accessible ear and hearing services throughout the region. The workshop, provided by EARs Inc., aims to fill the gap in this medical service provided to the people. This is because the service is provided by both the Buka hospital, and Callan Services National Unit (CSNU) through Callan Connect, a two- year project that is delivering disability screening and diagnosis assessment services in Western province, the Kokoda Track and Bougainville; however, there is still need for additional support in this area. Speaking at the recent workshop, Dr. Tommy Wotsia, Senior Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist and Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Buka Hospital, expressed support for Callan Services in Bougainville. He informed the workshop that about 60% of patients at the ENT clinic have ear or hearing issues and both the hospital and Callan Services work together to assist these patients. “The hospital does not have special equipment to test ears. We have been referring patients to CSNU for testing, and CSNU has been referring patients back to the hospital for specialist care,” he added. Dr. Wotsia also said that he looks forward to establishing a referral pathway and accompanying agreement for ear and hearing care services in the region. Australia supports projects like Callan Connect to ensure that people with disabilities have access to health opportunities that will enhance their quality of life and ensure their participation in community life. The training, conducted by Ear Training Facilitator Donna Carkeet from EARs Inc., covered the following topics: •     Conduct rapid screenings: Identify individuals who may have hearing loss. •     Perform detailed diagnostic assessments: Confirm the presence and extent of hearing loss. •     Prescribe hearing aids: Provide appropriate treatment for mild to moderate hearing loss. •     Refer to medical centres: Guide individuals with severe hearing loss to specialists. •     Treatment for common ear injuries: Equip participants to address basic ear health concerns. •     Community awareness: Empower participants to educate communities about hearing protection and prevention strategies. Meanwhile, the participants who attended the one-week EAR health training in Buka included three recruits, a technician, and two clinicians who will be based at the Buka Inclusive Education Resource Centre (IERC) and its sub-centre in Arawa. These trained staff will provide full-time screening and diagnostic services at the IERC in Buka and Arawa. The other 12 participants trained are volunteers from the Buka IERC, Bougainville Disabled People’s Organization, Arawa, and Wakunai, who will accompany the Callan Connect Team on their outreach services to the community in Bougainville.

Port Moresby Racquets Club congratulated their club members, Coach Omega Ivuyo, Junior Club Members Colita Hakena and Andrew Aisi on their selection into the Pacific Oceania Team to Tour and participate in the 2024 Australian Team Championship in Gold Coast from the 19th of June to 26th June 2024. Tennis Director at the Pom Racquets Club, William Aisi, in a statement, said that club coach Omega has been selected as the assistant Pacific Oceania U11 Girls Coach and will receive ongoing training as she continues to work towards obtaining her Level One coaching certification. “Club Juniors Colita Hakena (U15 Girls) and Andrew Aisi (U11 Boys) were invited to tour after a strong performance at the Western Pacific Regional Championship in Lautoka, Fiji in April of this year.” “Colita won her age group and continues her dominance as the number one (1) ranked U14 player in Oceania.” He stated that Andrew’s selection came off of a strong performance, leading his Under 12 Boys team to gaining the second (2) placing spot, qualifying for the Pacific Oceania Junior Championship in July 2024. “Their participation in the Tour was made possible through International Tennis Federation (ITF) and Oceania Tennis Federation under the Grand Slam Player Development Programme.” Furthermore, on completion of the Australian Team Championship they will continue to Fiji to tour in the Pacific Oceania Junior Championship 2024 representing Papua New Guinea. “Port Moresby Racquets Club is proud to be associated with Colita Hakena and Andrew Aisi in representing our club, country and region.” “We look forward to assisting more junior Papua New Guineans through our Junior Development program to emulate their success.”

The Australasian Marine Pilots Institute (AMPI) is hosting its first overseas Regional Pilotage and Ports Conference in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea at the Stanley Hotel and Suites that began on Monday June 24th and will end on Thursday June 26th, 2024. The 2024 Regional Pilotage and Ports conference is a workshop focused on training, technology, towage and regulation for seafarers, the Ports and Pilots of the Maritime community. The event is sponsored by the PNG Ports Corporation Limited and Niugini Pilots along with other Maritime companies and partners. One of the pioneers of the AMPI Regional Pilotage and Ports Conference, Managing Director of Niugini Pilots, Captain Max Stoessel, welcomed the delegates to PNG and in a moment of silence paid tribute to those who have been a part and parcel of the inception of this conference ten years ago. "It is only fitting that they commemorate International Seafarers Day with this training workshop as we remember pilots and seafarers who have gone before us, we salute them and thank them for what they have done." Meanwhile, AMPI President, Captain Josephine Clark stated that it was a great privilege to welcome everyone to this professional workshop event as that was the first ever to be outside of Australia with an attendance of 98 delegates representing 7 countries. "Australia Marine Pilots Institute and relaunched in 2009 with a new name update to recognize educational programs and growing ties with PNG." She spoke of the history of AMPI and the important role that the Pilots play in the saw berthing of ships and delivery of goods. "Pilots play an indispensable role in keeping vessels safe.” “People want their goods to come on time without damaging reefs or infrastructure hence the collaboration to ensure there is zero harm done." "Risk navigation is the work of the pilot as well as training to deal with foreseeable risks hence we aim to focus on training, towage, technology and regulation in order to know how to best tackle common issues they all face on the job." Furthermore, Captain Simon Pelletier, talked about the value of maritime pilotage and ports as well as the consequences it has to add value for the public. "Our profession is truly a global one.” “Pilots spread out all around the world and each have expertise deeply rooted in local circumstances." "Safe navigation is the key role in protecting the environment whilst keeping the movement of supply chains flowing." "People don't often know who the pilots are. They are the invisible end that contributes to the wealth of millions," Captain Pelletier said. International Maritime Pilots Association connects pilots globally and have reaffirmed their position in recent years. He stated that without growth, corporations end up going nowhere fast and the Public suffers consequences in only a matter of time. Pelletier highlighted the importance of rules and regulations and following them to avoid huge environmental impacts. "The stakes are just too high. A few crucial conditions must be implied. Pilots make decisions with safety as the first objective." He further said that the relationship between pilotage and safety is straightforward just as regulated pilotage. "Efficient operations minimize delays hence with well-regulated systems we can develop new techniques to ensure smooth operations."

To celebrate St John Day on June 24th, the National St John Ambulance Services (NStJA) PNG proudly announced the launch of the Green Angel Appeal, a fundraising drive initiative by Nambawan Trophy Limited (NWTL) Group with the aim of raising K1 million by the end of this year to support NStJA. To kick off the fundraising drive, Nambawan Trophy Limited (NWTL) Group Chief Operating Officer, Gavin Thompson presented a cheque of K150, 000 to NStJA as the initial donation before rolling out the fundraising drive in their retail shops all across the nation. Chief Executive Officer of St John Ambulance, Matt Cannon expressed profound gratitude to the NWTL Group, emphasizing the critical timing of their support. “To keep doing what we do, we need your help." "That’s why with the amazing support of NWTL Group, we are launching the Green Angel Appeal to drive donations from businesses and individuals.” The funds will be used to purchase additional ambulances, equipment and sustain operations. The ambulance service frequently encounters scenarios where all available units are engaged in other emergencies, resulting in delays for individuals urgently requiring medical attention. “People rely on the National ST John Ambulance Green Angels." "Everyday, they bring order out of chaos, stabilizing casualties and transporting them to the hospital,” said Cannon. “Over 35, 000 People in PNG will call for help from the National St John Ambulance Service this year." "When that phone rings, a person’s life is at stake: a young boy fighting for life after a snakebite, a mother struggling to give birth, or an elderly unable to breathe.” Cannon further stated that this collective effort will help put more ambulances on the road, fund essential equipment, lighten the load on the NStJA team and ultimately save more lives. “By donating, you’ll gain your own set of digital wings to show the impact your organization is making." "National St John Ambulance is a PNG state entity that provides the emergency ambulance service, and we are grateful for the government funding and support, but we still function as a charity needing to generate approximately 30% of our operating revenue to fund our life saving ambulance service.” Additionally, Cannon stated that every year the Green Angel’s workload increases as more people gain access to these vital services. “When your business, your employees, or your family need help, we’ll be there, but to do that, we’ll need your support.” COO of the NWTL Group, Gavin Thompson echoed Matt Cannon’s comments and added that NWTL Group was committed to supporting the National St John Ambulance Service and the Green Angels Appeal, which is the key vehicle to engage with the community and out business partners for this support. “The National St John Ambulance Service is a critical part of the support system that all PNG citizens should be able to access in a time of need.” “We commend the work they do, and we look forward to rolling out the Green Angels Appeal to help raise much needed funding for this worthy cause.” In addition to their initial donation, Thompson stated that they are aiming to do this fundraising drive through selling two packages- a retail pack in which the average citizen will be able to donate towards the cause and a business pack in which business and partners will be able to also donate towards the fundraising drive. Meanwhile dedicated to supporting community initiatives and contributing to the welfare of the nation through philanthropic efforts, Nambawan Trophy Limited (NTWL) Group is a leading business conglomerate in PNG that have been in operation for over 35 years. The Group have employed more than 1, 100 team members in some of the country’s leading retail and wholesale businesses which include household names such as Phone Haus and Trophy Haus, among many others.

Nine climate-resilient bridges —three in East Sepik Province and six in Madang Province which were financed by a $50 million investment in Papua New Guinea’s infrastructure by the European Investment Bank (EIB) Global’s — have all been completed within budget, meeting high standards through-out the country. The bridges provide safer and more efficient access to markets and social services, thereby improving the lives of thousands of Papua New Guineans. Improving the road and bridge infrastructure along the country’s few arterial roads is crucial in Papua New Guinea. These roads serve as vital lifelines for populations in remote areas and face challenging geographic conditions, including rugged terrain and extreme weather. The replacement of the nine outdated and unsafe bridges along the Sepik and Ramu Highways represents a significant upgrade to the national infrastructure. This enhancement makes the infrastructure more sustainable and resilient to climate change, thereby improving safety, reliability and accessibility for all types of road users in two provinces. EIB Vice-President Ambroise Fayolle, who is in charge of EIB operations in the Pacific stated that the transformation from old, deteriorating bridges and hazardous river crossings to nine new high-quality and climate-resilient bridges marks a significant milestone in enhancing rural connectivity and safety. “I am proud of this tangible result and cooperation between the EIB Global, the Asian Development Bank, and the Government of Papua New Guinea.” Additionally, Secretary of the PNG Department of Works and Highways, David Ruma Wereh said the Bridge Replacement for Improved Rural Access Project (BRIRAP) has brought about transformational social and economic livelihood of rural communities by providing reliable and safer access and connectivity to markets. “It is impacting the livelihood of thousands of Papua New Guineans. BRIRAP has substantially enhanced our knowledge and skills base in bridge engineering and has increased our bridge asset numbers. We progressively continue to embark on high quality, climate resilient bridge structures and road connectivity right across PNG into the future with an outlook for further cooperation.” Secretary of the PNG Department of Treasury Andrew Oaeke said that the Government is sincerely grateful for the continued support of the Asian Development Bank and the European Investment Bank for the quality bridges which are now in use and have improved the lives of the citizens of the country in the targeted provinces. The government looks forward to future support in the similar projects. Furthermore, the Bridge Replacement for Improved Rural Access project represents a successful collaboration between EIB Global, the Asian Development Bank (ADB), and the Government of Papua New Guinea. Together, they facilitated the construction of 27 new bridges, with a combined investment of about $90 million from the ADB, $10 million from the PNG Government, and about $50 million from EIB Global. This strategic partnership underscores the commitment of both international banks and the local government to substantially upgrade and improve the resilience and functionality of Papua New Guinea’s road and bridge network. Ambassador of the European Union to Papua New Guinea Jacques Fradin said that he was pleased that the European Union, through its bank, is contributing to the implementation of the Government’s ambitious ‘Connect PNG’ programme that will help to connect and unlock different parts of the country and facilitate social and economic development. “Improving transport and connectivity is at the centre of the European Union’s Global Gateway Strategy. I am particularly happy that the completed bridges will benefit the livelihood of rural communities.” “In East Sepik the improved rural access will complement the work of the EU-STREIT programme in enabling access to markets for cacao and vanilla farmers.” As the ADB Country Director for PNG Said Zaidansyah also expressed his satisfaction that the Bridge Replacement for Improved Rural Access sector project supported by ADB, EIB Global and the Government of Papua New Guinea is able to boost rural access to urban centres. “I also wish to add that the project has a strong focus on road safety, and that the relocation of existing bridges under the project involved consultation with affected people including women regarding connectivity to markets, health facilities and schools.” Meanwhile EIB Global has invested about $50 million to construct bridges, enhancing connectivity and safety across the rural road networks of East Sepik and Madang provinces. As well as a €3 million technical assistance grant from the Cotonou Investment Facility supported implementation Part of the broader Bridge Replacement for Improved Rural Access project, cofinanced by the Asian Development Bank and the PNG Government. The project has improved the livelihoods of approximately 400 000 residents by easing access to markets and social services.

South Pacific Brewery was pleased to announce its sponsorship of K5, 000 towards the 2024 Tama Festival scheduled for the 07th – 08th August 2024 in Arawa, Autonomous Region of Bougainville. SP Brewery Sponsorship & Events Executive, Marlin Joskin stated that this sponsorship reflects their ongoing commitment to support cultural show initiatives in PNG. “This sponsorship reflects SP Brewery's ongoing commitment to supporting cultural shows throughout Papua New Guinea that showcase local cultures and promote conservation and sustainability.” Accepting the sponsorship cheque on behalf of the festival committee, was Zhon Bosco, Vice President of the Central Bougainville Tourism Association. Mr. Bosco expressed gratitude to SP Brewery for their generous support. "SP Brewery's sponsorship will greatly assist the show committee in ensuring a smooth and successful festival.” Furthermore, SP Brewery will set up a booth at the festival to promote its Responsible Consumption agenda, emphasizing the importance of moderation and responsible drinking practices. Meanwhile the Tama Festival in Arawa promises to be a vibrant celebration of Bougainville’s culture, featuring traditional performances, arts and crafts exhibitions, and culinary delights.

The major rehabilitation of the Malaguna Road in Rabaul town is progressing well and excitement grows amongst residents and commuters in Rabaul town as the rehabilitation works are nearing completion. Accoding to a statement, Rabaul District Civil Works Engineer, Mellie Munulai stated that the project which involved major pavement repairs and drainage improvements, has been progressing smoothly under the supervision of contractor Nivani Ltd. Awarded an allocation of K1.7 million from the Public Services Improvement Program (PSIP), Nivani Ltd has been working to revamp the infrastructure of the Malaguna Road which runs from Tropicana to the Mango Avenue Intersection. Munulai said the rehabilitation efforts aim to enhance road quality, address drainage issues, and ultimately provide a safer and more convenient travel for all users. “In the past, this vital road has been subject to silt and garbage buildup blocking the drainages and resulting in overflow on the road surface.” Furthermore, Munulai thanked the East New Britain Provincial Administration through the respective Divisions of Finance, Planning and Technical Services for supporting Rabaul District to rehabilitate such major infrastructure in Rabaul District. Meanwhile, Acting Rabaul District Administrator, Freddy Lemeki said the nearing completion of the project at 98 percent is a promising development for the local community and business houses. “Rehabilitation work on key trunk roads in town greatly complements the ENB Provincial Government’s efforts to rebuild Rabaul Town.”

The sight of mothers accessing Antenatal Health Care and babies receiving immunisation under a tent outside the Gordons clinic in Port Moresby is now a thing of the past, thanks to BSP Financial Group’s Community Project initiative. BSP’s Retail head office and BSP First teams assisted the Gordons Clinic by extending and building two new consultation rooms, a project valued at K120, 000. The new facility has been described by the NCD Provincial Health Authority as a ‘win-win’ for all. The Gordons Clinic, according to a statement, sees up to 3,000 patients per month - most of whom are from the Moresby North-East area, some even travelling in from the Hiritano Highway to access basic health services. BSP’s Head of Retail Payments, Peter Komon, in handing over the completed facility said, BSP gives back to many communities across Papua New Guinea and the Pacific through its Community Projects initiative. “Projects under this initiative are unique in the sense that they are initiated and led by staff." "They are done it this way to imbue an attitude of civic duty, and strengthen the connection with the communities in the markets we operate in.” “The refurbishment of the Gordons clinic is also recognition of immense contribution made by hospitals, clinics and dedicated health workers in the country.” “The 3,000 plus patients that attend the Gordons Clinic every month, which include the infirm seeking medical attention and babies brought in for screening and immunization, will now benefit from an improved facility.” “This will have a lasting impact on a significant proportion of the local community and we are thankful for the opportunities to work with key government service providers to deliver projects such as this that extend beyond provision of banking services,” Komon added. Chief Executive Officer of NCD Provincial Health Authority, Dr Steven Yennie acknowledged BSP’s continuous assistance in partnering with the authority in the past. “The extension of waiting area at Gerehu Hospital as well as other areas in the city: Lawes Road, 6 Mile and Pari Clinics.” “Surely this relationship goes a long way. We recognise your corporate social responsibility efforts and appreciate it with gratitude and humility.” “Health is everyone’s business and this assistance is part of that line of thinking,” he added. Meanwhile BSP’s annual Community Projects focuses on education, health, sports, environment and other community initiatives. The Gordons Clinic building extension is a testament of BSP’s customers and stakeholders being looked after from a community level up.