Kennedy Erinuka is the only health worker serving remote communities on the border of Markham and Yus in Morobe Province. Since 2011, Kennedy has treated hundreds from a small aid post he built himself in Kikiapa Village. He serves people who walk for hours—some a whole day—for basic medical help. He left the Lutheran Health Services in 2013 to work under public health. His aid post has no electricity, no staff, and limited supplies, yet he treats children, assists in births using a phone light, gives out medicine, and runs vaccine programs. When outbreaks occur, Kennedy hikes to remote villages with medicine and stays for days to help. But drug shortages are constant. “The supply I get each month is not enough,” he said. “I’ve raised the issue, but nothing changes.” Vaccination rates are low, and many children remain at risk. In 2018, Kennedy helped save a mother’s life by arranging a medevac through the Markham MP. He works alone with no ambulance, no backup, and no support from the Yus Local Level Government (LLG). Despite this, he continues. “I promised to serve my people,” he says. “Maybe one day, the right people will help.” Kennedy hopes to upgrade his aid post to a proper Community Health Post with basic supplies, lighting, and a team. Until then, he remains the only health worker for miles—keeping his doors open, day and night.

Four (4) students from Naweab Lutheran Secondary School in Morobe province are expected to be formally charged following a break-in at the girls’ dormitory last week, police say. The Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Superintendent Jacob Singura said eight (8 people, including outsiders, entered the dormitory’s common area during night study hours. The group reportedly stole mobile phones that the female students had left charging. “There were about eight of them. Four students have been apprehended and will be processed today,” Supt Singura confirmed. The remaining suspects are still being tracked as police continue patrols and investigations at the school.

Students at Ragiampun SDA Primary School in Morobe’s Markham District have turned classroom lessons into real-life solutions by building a small market to support their families and community. Led by assistant teacher Mr. Jacob Sani, the Grade 7 class took on the project as part of their “Making a Living” subject under Basic Technology. They learned practical skills like measuring, planning, and basic construction—working as a team to bring the idea to life. “For years, mothers sold food on the ground without proper hygiene,” Mr. Sani said. “We wanted to change that.” With support from the school, students helped design and build a mini market on campus. It now provides a clean, safe space for parents—especially mothers—to sell fruits, vegetables, and snacks. Many students rely on the market for lunch, as the nearest one is far from school. Now, fresh food is available on-site, saving time and keeping kids fed during classes. Since February, the school has collected small fees from sellers to help maintain the market and install sinks, taps, and lunch huts. Local produce like bananas, cocoa, peanuts, sugarcane, watermelon, and cucumbers are now available. “The kids are not only eating better but also learning about budgeting, planning, and teamwork,” Mr. Sani said. “It’s helping teachers too—now we can get fresh food without leaving school.” The income from the market helps fund school improvements and fundraising activities. The school hopes the market will continue to support students and the wider village. This project shows how hands-on learning builds real-world skills while strengthening the community.

A group of armed men attacked Nawaeb Lutheran Secondary School on Thursday night. They entered the female dormitory and held the students at gunpoint. A Grade 10 student said the girls had just finished their exam and were inside the dormitory. She said the men stole their phones and started beating them with sticks and knives. The attackers locked the dormitory doors, and the girls screamed for help after after which male students and staff responded and chased the men away. Eight injured female students were taken to Angau Hospital and a male student was also hurt while trying to help. Dr. Kipas Binga from the Morobe Provincial Health Authority said one girl had wounds to her back and shoulder. Another had a cut to her ear. Others had injuries to their arms and legs. One girl had a skull fracture but is now stable and waiting for surgery. Nawaeb MP Theo Pelgen condemned the attack and said those responsible will be punished. Morobe Police Commander Jacob Singura said the incident happened between 7pm and 8pm. Police are investigating and trying to identify the suspects. Singura called on communities to respect schools and students. He said such attacks are not acceptable. Two police vehicles visited the school on Friday to collect statements. This is the first time such an incident has happened at the school.

Raikos Secondary School in Rai Coast District of Madang province is facing growing pressure as more students enroll each year. Deputy Principal for Administration, Bangan Siwo, says the school has more than 1,000 students from Grade 9 to Grade 12 this year. But there are only 30 teachers — three short of the number needed. This means one teacher is looking after around 56 students. Subjects like IT, Visual Arts, Performing Arts, and Music are not taught. Mr. Siwo says this is because the school does not have the right classrooms or facilities. He said the general classrooms are enough, thanks to former Rai Coast MP, the late James Gau. But the dormitories are old and need fixing. So do the toilets and the school mess. The mess needs an extension and basic items like tables. There’s no hall for gatherings and no special buildings for arts or music. Mr. Siwo said desks and chairs are always in short supply due to rising enrollment. However, there are enough learning materials. Teachers use books, internet, and the Standard-Based Curriculum to prepare lessons. The school runs on a 95 KVA diesel generator. But it's now struggling to meet the school's growing power needs. Water comes from a mountain spring and is stored in tanks. This system was built with help from the European Union in the late 1990s. Most students are boarders and live in school dormitories. Only a few live close enough to walk to school. Transport remains a big challenge. The school depends on outboard motors to bring in food, fuel, and school supplies. It costs about K120 to bring in a 20kg bag of rice. Mr. Siwo said the school is generally safe. There is no fence, but there are casual security guards. He also thanked the local community for helping to keep the school safe and clean. Bad weather, especially rough seas during heavy rain, can stop supplies from arriving on time. Mr. Siwo said most students know why they are in school and are focused on learning. But some lose focus. The school enforces strict rules and works closely with parents to deal with discipline. There are no new support programs. The last big help came from the late James Gau under a Public Private Partnership program. That support built two 4-in-1 dormitories and classrooms. The nearby Ramu Nickel Mine has not provided much support. It only donated a tractor more than 10 years ago, which no longer works, and two rusty containers. Mr. Siwo is calling on district and provincial leaders to visit the school. He says urgent needs include staff housing, a computer lab, a proper hall, new dormitories, and a school vehicle to replace the broken-down truck. Despite all the challenges, Mr. Siwo says Raikos Secondary is lucky to have some of the best infrastructure in the province. This includes a science lab and a Wi-Fi system, both funded by the National Department of Education. He wants the school to be upgraded to a School of Excellence. He believes this change will attract more government attention and funding. “This change in status will open the eyes of the authorities and speed up development,” Mr. Siwo said.

The official search for a missing boat off the coast of Madang has been called off after 72 hours, according to the PNG Marine Rescue Coordination Centre (PNGMRCC). Captain Tony Dibul, Madang Rapid Response Network Coordinator, confirmed that the formal operation ended after the standard three-day period. However, local families are still searching with their own resources. “We’re doing everything we can to help organize fuel to support their local effort,” Dibul said. He added that notices have been issued for coastal communities and vessels at sea to remain alert for any signs. Meanwhile, John Newton Ariku, founder of the Madang Rapid Response Network (MRRN), has publicly challenged the government and private companies to support the Madang Water Police. “Our officers are patrolling vast waters using small dinghies meant for fishing,” Ariku said. “This is unacceptable. We need proper boats for rescue and patrol work.” He called on the Madang Provincial Government, district leaders, national MPs, major companies, and donor partners to urgently step in to help. “This is not just about safety, it’s about leadership,” Ariku said.

The struggling Madang Provincial Hospital has received new medical equipment and essential supplies to improve patient care thanks to the kind generosity of business houses. The first being the BSP Financial Group Limited (BSP) where the bank's Madang Branch Manager, Mary Koi presented the equipment during a small ceremony. The items included a brand-new ECG machine, an electric suction machine, and an electric hospital bed. The medical equipment is estimated to cost K50,000. Acting CEO of the Madang Provincial Health Authority (PHA), Dr Sammy Thomas, accepted the donation on behalf of the hospital. The donation was specifically made for the medical ward. Doctors and nurses in the ward had been using old ECG and suction machines. The new ECG machine will help diagnose cardiovascular diseases. The electric suction machine will help remove mucus from patients' lungs to improve breathing. The hospital's Executive Manager, the BSP Regional Manager, the Manager for Nursing Services, and the medical ward team attended the event. Brian Bell Group was the other business house that also donated essential hygiene and electrical supplies. Madang Branch Manager Newman Tom handed over the items to Acting Executive Manager of the Hospital, Mr. Johnmark Jeremiah. The donation included infection control chemicals, hand sanitizers, toilet tissues, hand towels, fluorescent light bulbs, starters, light frames, and floodlights. Ela Enterprise was another one that provided a quote for the maintenance of the patient ablution block for Wards 1 and 2. The quote has been submitted to Madang Open MP Brian Kramer. The hospital is now waiting for his response.

A human rights lawyer has vowed to fight for justice after a mother and her young daughter were allegedly assaulted and unlawfully detained by employees of a foreign-owned retail business in Madang over a disputed bag of rice. Laken Lepatu Aigilo, the lawyer representing the victims, confirmed that six individuals—including three Chinese nationals and three employees —have been criminally charged with Serious Assault and Unlawful Deprivation of Liberty. The accused made their first appearance at the Madang Committal Court on Monday, with police confirming that investigations have been completed. “This was a case of gross injustice,” Aigilo said. “The mother and daughter did not steal anything. They had a valid receipt for a 5kg bag of rice, but were still accused, assaulted, and unlawfully locked up. The evidence is clear—from medical reports to video footage.” Aigilo said that if convicted, the accused could each face up to six years in prison. While police are pursuing the criminal case, Aigilo is preparing to file a human rights suit in the Waigani National Court on behalf of the victims. The case will be brought against the six individuals and their employers—Yaho Investment Ltd. “Our Constitution protects all citizens from inhuman and degrading treatment. What happened to this mother and child was not only unlawful—it was unconstitutional,” said Aigilo. The human rights application will rely on several provisions of the Constitution, including: Section 42 – Protection from unlawful deprivation of liberty Section 41 – Protection from harsh, oppressive, or unwarranted acts Section 36 – Protection from inhuman treatment According to Aigilo, the Human Rights Track in the National Court allows individuals to enforce these rights directly, and he is confident the civil case will result in a significant compensation order. “Based on precedent, we expect compensation to exceed K100,000. The companies involved must be held accountable through the principle of vicarious liability—when employees act unlawfully in the course of their duties, the employer is liable.” The lawyer also confirmed that his firm has formally taken on the case and is providing both legal and financial support to the victims. The young girl is now in a safe house, and K1,000 has been given to the mother to assist with basic needs while the legal process unfolds. “We are committed to pursuing this case professionally and without fear,” said Aigilo. "Our goal is not just justice for our clients, but a legal precedent that sends a clear message—violations of human rights will not go unpunished.” He further called on the court to impose strict bail conditions on the accused to prevent interference with state witnesses and said he trusts the police will ensure the victims’ ongoing safety. “This is a test of our justice system’s integrity,” Aigilo added. "Let us not forget: the rule of law protects the weak from the powerful. And in this case, the law will speak.”

A remote primary school in Morobe Province is facing closure after its only reliable transport route — the Imane Airstrip — was shut down due to safety concerns. According to Head Teacher Mrs. Nosalyn Yalambing Agula of Imane Primary School, SIL Aviation has suspended its flights after pilots flagged serious safety risks. The airstrip lacks enough cone markers needed for safe landings, leaving the community stranded. “SIL says we need 18 cone markers, but we only have three. Without those, pilots can’t land safely. This means no more flights, and no more supplies,” Mrs. Agula explained. For years, Imane Primary has depended on air transport for school materials, food, and medical items. The process is expensive — trucks must be hired to move supplies to Ayura in the Eastern Highlands, followed by a K5,900 charter flight to Imane. Now, that lifeline has been cut. “Our school receives only basic materials from the Supply Office. We have to buy everything else — markers, pens, pencils — with help from students’ contributions,” she said. The school recently reached Level 6 status and has 10 approved teaching positions, eight of which are currently filled. Despite limited funding through the Tuition Fee Free (TFF) program, Mrs. Agula oversaw the construction of four staff houses, which were set to be officially opened on July 4, with the Deputy Prime Minister expected to attend. But with the airstrip out of use, the event may be cancelled — and the school could soon shut down due to lack of supplies. Communication is another major barrier. Imane has no mobile network coverage. The school uses radio messages relayed through CRMF in Goroka to communicate with airlines and other support services. During the rainy season, even radio signals become unreliable. “The only way in, now is a two-day walk-through mountains and rivers. It’s not safe, and it’s not realistic for carrying school materials,” Mrs. Agula said. The head teacher has made repeated appeals to authorities for help but says she has not received any clear direction. She is now calling on government departments, especially in Works and Education, to urgently restore air access to the school. “Right now, I’m the only government worker they see out there. The community depends on me. I’m doing everything I can, but I can’t do this alone,” she said. The people of Imane are pleading for national attention to ensure their children’s education does not come to a standstill.

A bulb onion farming project in the Markham District is helping villagers improve their livelihoods and farming knowledge through a unique collaboration. Led by the Papua New Guinea University of Technology (PNG UoT), the Fresh Produce Development Agency (FPDA), and the Markham Smart Farmers group, the initiative is training locals in bulb onion cultivation — a crop that has high market value and strong potential in rural areas. Local leader and farmer Charles Edward Narjo has been at the forefront of this effort, working closely with development partners to get the project off the ground. “Our aim is simple — to help families earn income and become self-reliant through agriculture,” said Narjo. Since the start of the program, more than 30 farmers have signed up, including young people, women, and older community members. The farmers are being trained in every stage of the crop cycle, from preparing the land to harvesting and post-harvest care. Field training is led by FPDA coordinator Jacob Koroa, who emphasized the importance of technical knowledge in ensuring successful harvests. “We’re guiding farmers on how to grow healthy crops and manage their farms effectively,” said Koroa. Participants say the program is already making a difference. Villagers who had never farmed before are now actively planting and maintaining their onion plots. Seasoned farmers are also learning new techniques and taking a more commercial approach to agriculture. Farmer Simon Fred has become a role model by helping clear land and encouraging others to get involved. Challenges remain — especially with water access during dry spells — but farmers are being taught simple irrigation methods to reduce risk. Narjo said that while the training has been effective, farmers still need better road access and connections to buyers to turn their harvests into cash. “This is a good start, but we must go further. People are motivated, and with support for markets and equipment, we can build a strong local farming industry,” he said. The partners hope to expand the project to other parts of Markham and surrounding districts, helping more rural communities take control of their economic futures. “The potential is huge,” Narjo added. “We’ve planted more than just onions — we’ve planted hope.”

After evading police for nearly three years, a man wanted for multiple armed robberies in Madang has voluntarily surrendered to the authorities just recently. Ethrel Mathew, also known as Scott Bradley Duh, gave himself up at Jomba Police Station on Thursday, May 22. Originally from Numboku Village in Kubalia, East Sepik Province, the 24-year-old was accompanied by family members and community policing officers from Zone 03 under the Madang Urban Local Level Government (MULLG). Madang Provincial Police Commander Acting Superintendent Robert Baim confirmed the arrest and commended those involved in facilitating the surrender. “Mathew has long been identified as a member of the Sisiak 3-based Scorpions 58 gang, which has been linked to several major crimes in town,” said PPC Baim. His arrest follows ongoing dialogue and negotiations between the National Criminal Intelligence Unit (NCIU), the Transnational Crimes Unit, and Mathew’s relatives and community leaders. “This peaceful outcome was only possible because of the cooperation and support of his family and the wider community,” Baim added. Police have formally charged Mathew with two counts of armed robbery in connection to hold-ups at Happy Mart and Double Lion Investment stores last year. The charges fall under Section 386 of the Papua New Guinea Criminal Code Act. He has been released on police bail and is scheduled to appear before the court. According to police, Mathew has no previous criminal convictions. He was residing in the Wabam/Sisiak 3 area with his wife and two children during his time on the run. PPC Baim used the occasion to applaud the example set by Mathew’s family and urged others to consider similar steps for the good of their communities. “With Papua New Guinea nearing its 50th Independence anniversary, this kind of attitude change gives hope for a better future,” he said. “I encourage other families to take the same responsible approach and assist in handing over those who are wanted by police.” The police commander reaffirmed that strong partnerships between law enforcement and local communities are vital in addressing crime and building safer towns.

Community advocate Michael Earley is contesting the Ward 2 council seat in the upcoming Ahi Local Level Government (LLG) elections in the Morobe province, with a commitment to drive impactful change and amplify the voices of the people of Ahi. Earley, a resident of Butibam village, was officially nominated on April 25 at 10am at the Ahi LLG council chamber. His nomination was received by Assistant Returning Officer Rhode Ahi and witnessed by his wife. Running under the campaign theme “I Can Help You. Yes, I Can!”, Earley’s platform focuses on key development priorities including education, youth employment, landowner recognition, SME growth, and inclusive partnerships. Central to his agenda is improving access to education for the Ahi students. He has proposed a program to support students aiming to study abroad, particularly in Australia. According to Earley, he has initiated a potential arrangement with AusAID, where he would sponsor the first year of studies and AusAID would support the remaining years—provided the students maintain good discipline and performance. He also plans to assist young people interested in short-term training and skills development courses, which he believes are vital for increasing employability and self-sufficiency. If elected, Earley intends to work closely with the Lae City Authority and private sector partners to develop sustainable solutions to the issue of youth unemployment and to encourage broader economic participation in Ward 2. A long-time community volunteer, Earley recently coordinated the Rosso Lae Community Clean-a-thon on May 3rd and 4th. The event brought together schools, churches, businesses, and government agencies in a collaborative effort to clean the city and promote civic pride. Earley says his campaign is about giving back and creating opportunities for others. He believes strong, accountable leadership can open new doors for the people of Ward 2 and beyond.