Minister for International Trade and Investment & Yangoru-Saussia Hon. Richard Maru, announced that 2025 will be the most exciting and a defining year for Yangoru-Saussia District in its history since Independence on September 16, 1975. Minister Maru made this announcement during the first Yangoru-Saussia District Development Authority (DDA) Board Meeting when they passed down a whopping budget of K13 million in the Department of Implementation and Rural Development (DSIP) and K41 million in the Development Budget, a total of K54 million budget for 2025. Maru emphasized the development of road, school and health infrastructures in the province as well as the significance of the nation in celebrating 50 years of Independence. “We will be joining the nation in celebrating 50 years of Independence right throughout the year. Our major celebrations include the grand celebration on September 16, 2025, at Yangoru, our District Headquarters, the opening of our new Mobile Barracks, new Tuonumbo Primary School, new Boim Primary School, new Wingei Secondary School, new Yangoru Police Station, new Yangoru Station generator and power station, and more openings.” “In health, we are investing in building new health facilities in Bima, Pomalmal, Jawia, and Waningu, and with the National Government support we want to commence our new Level 4 District Hospital this year.” “In education, our key focus will be on completing the Nagum project, opening two new Junior High Schools, and starting two new Primary Schools. We will also start our two new TVET Colleges in West Yangoru and Numbo LLG, commence Stage 2 of Yangoru-Saussia School of Excellence, and fencing of all our high schools. Our school fee subsidy will continue this year, and our India scholarships will commence this year. We have invested a lot in education, and we will continue to invest in this area as we are now starting to see the fruit of our investment with four of our students from the district now in the universities in China and in the USA under the National Government’s STEM Scholarships.” “In roads, we will be maintaining all the roads in the district this year including the road from Kwahuie to Yangoru District Headquarters to prepare for the independence celebrations. We will complete the roads in the Mobile Barracks, complete the Boinahitim to Boinam Road, connect Haripmo to Bima, and build new roads to connect Munji to Afawia, and Yaliwan Camp to Neimu," said Maru. We will also open the new Bararat Bridge and build two more new bridges at Yangoru and Negrie.” Maru further explained more on the development that will be taking place in the province regarding law and order and economic growth and wealth creation. “On Law and Order, apart from the opening of the Mobile Barracks, we will build and get operational new police stations at Nagum, Haripmo, Womayen and Tangori this year.” “On economic growth and wealth creation, we will continue to invest in cocoa seedling supplies, expand our chicken outgrower program, and commence lending with Mama Bank. We will also work with the National Government to develop the Sepik Plains Special Economic Zone (SEZ) with palm oil and cattle as our major focus. Land mobilization will be driven by the Sepik Plains SEZ office in Wewak, which will be opened in February.” All members of the Yangoru-Saussia DDA Board described the budget as a ‘very fair, balanced, and transformational budget’. Minister Maru further added that they would be looking ahead for the year and the support of the board to celebrate the country 50th anniversary in the province. “We have a very exciting and a defining year ahead of us and I look forward to the support of the DDA Board and our Administration led by the CEO to deliver our exciting 2025 program as we join the country to celebrate the 50th Anniversary.” “We will host a Spiritual Revival Program in August to renew our covenant with God before our Independence celebrations as we cross over from building our foundation over the last 50 years into transforming our district into a better and more prosperous future,” concluded Maru.

Two community schools in New Ireland and Milne Bay provinces have received a water tank and books through Kina Bank’s Strongim Komuniti Grants (SKG) program. The SKG program is a Kina Bank staff grant program where grants of up to K5, 000 are provided to staff to help them implement small-scale projects in their communities. Cape Cena Primary School in Namatanai, New Ireland province, received a new water tank, which will provide clean water for both the school and the community. Kina Bank Collections Manager, Otmin Sianot successfully delivered this project after his application to the SKG Program was selected. School Principal Mr. Warren Augustine expressed his gratitude, noting that the tank will provide safe and clean drinking water for the school and the community. In Milne Bay, Gumilababa Primary School in the Trobriand Islands received much-needed reading materials, thanks to logistics funding from Kina Bank’s SKG program. Kina Bank’s Environmental and Social Management Systems Coordinator, Elliot Tovaboda, helped deliver 18 cartons of library books to the school. The school’s Board Chairman, David Edoni, received the books and extended the school’s gratitude to Elliot and Kina Bank for their generous support. Since the start of this program in 2023, Kina Bank with the support of its staff have been able to fund and support projects such as water tanks, medical supplies, school desks and chairs, solar power, and reading materials throughout communities in Papua New Guinea.

Another significant milestone announced by the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) with the construction of the new two-lane road stretching from Waigani Pitpit street through Wildlife and Kennedy Estate up to Eight Mile and exiting at MacGregor Police Barracks. Right after the launch of the Hohola to Tokarara rehabilitation works last week, the NCDC wasted no time in its transformation of infrastructure development and service delivery to the people as the nation prepares to celebrate its 50 years anniversary of being an independent state. The new (3.3 km) road at the cost of K9 million is fully funded by NCDC and has been awarded to the nationally owned road construction company, Mobile Works Limited. NCD Governor Powes Parkop said that the infrastructure development in the city is vital for the city residents, and he will continue his effort to lift and transform the capital city. “We must continue our journey in securing better life for our people, lift their standard of living and also giving them the best that we can give to them as the mandated leaders,” said Parkop. He said that the city has continued to transform and progress in terms of infrastructure development because the municipal authority under his leadership have set goals and have been working every year to deliver greater outcomes for the city and its people. Governor Parkop said that the new road will not only benefit residents along it but ease traffic and reduce travel time during peak hours along the Hubert Murray Highway. Member for Moresby Northeast John Kaupa commended Governor Parkop for his leadership at the national level in the development of the city during his 4 terms as the Governor for this amazing city. “As mandated leaders of NCD, we have been working together to deliver quality infrastructure and services to our people,” said Kaupa. Kaupa said that the transformation in the city and service delivery to the people are their priorities in making this city a great city in the pacific region. City Manager, Ravu Frank expressed his gratitude to the NCDC Board led by Governor Parkop as the chairman, for the steadfast commitment in the transformation of the city over the years. “This project represents a significant step forward in the collective efforts to develop infrastructure to meet the growing demands of our city,” said Frank. He also added that the new road will not only ease traffic congestion but also provide a convenient alternate route for access to nearby areas, making travel more efficient and less stressful for residents.

The PNG Hunters, Papua New Guinea’s premier rugby league team, are thrilled to announce a dynamic new partnership with Struddys Apparel, an iconic Australian sportswear brand renowned for its commitment to quality and innovation in athletic wear. This collaboration marks a significant step forward for both organizations, bringing together shared values of excellence, resilience, and community engagement. The official apparel partner of the PNG Hunters, Struddys will provide world-class training and match-day gear for the team throughout the upcoming season. This partnership not only underscores Struddys’ dedication to supporting the growth of rugby league in the Pacific region but also highlights the PNG Hunters’ commitment to fostering relationships that enhance their performance on and off the field. PNG Hunters Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Scott Barker expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership. “We are incredibly excited to join forces with Struddys Apparel, a brand that understands and supports our vision. This partnership represents more than just a supply of top-quality apparel; it’s about forging a relationship that empowers our players and resonates with our passionate fans." "Together, we aim to achieve great things both on and off the field," said Barker. Ross Strudwick, Owner of Struddys Apparel, echoed similar sentiments towards their partnership. “At Struddys, we’ve always believed in aligning ourselves with teams and organizations that share our values of determination and community spirit. The PNG Hunters are a phenomenal team with an inspiring story, and we’re honored to partner with them. We look forward to supporting their journey and celebrating their successes together." The partnership also signals exciting opportunities for PNG Hunters fans, as Struddys will launch a range of exclusive team merchandise, making it easier than ever for supporters to showcase their pride. The merchandise will be available both online and in select retail locations, ensuring accessibility for fans across the region. You can order your 2025 merch online through this link provided: https://struddys.com.au/partner-stores/clubs/pngh/

Health Minister Elias Kapavore has announced a K1 million financial support for the Laloki Psychiatric hospital as a response to addressing the hospital's critical needs in order to continue its operation this year. Minister Kapavore stressed that the funding must be used appropriately to support the psychiatric hospital. “Based on the report, we have less than K2, 600 in the account for the operational funds for the Laloki Hospital. I want to say thank you to the Secretary for the Department of Health in committing a K1million so that the operation in Laloki continues,” said Kapavore. Meanwhile, the hospital's Drug and Alcohol Officer, Julie Bawa, who has been serving over 10 years at Laloki, represented her colleagues in expressing their gratitude and appreciation towards the outgoing CEO Dr. Daoni Esorom for the discipline he instilled in the health workers. “We say thank you. Even when you came, we were in the red light, and we didn’t have money. It was all down, but when you came, you didn’t bother about how much money. You came and you started work and all of us regardless of our welfare, we kept the service flowing because we knew we were here for a patient,” she said. Minister Kapavore in conclusion further emphasized that Laloki Psychiatric Hospital will be a key performance indicator for the government this year.

Health Minister (MP) Elias Kapavore has appointed Doctor Ludwig Nanawar as the new Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Laloki Psychiatric Hospital located in the Central province. Due to the absence of a hospital board, the appointment of the new acting CEO was made by Minister Kapavore in response to the ongoing challenges faced at the hospital. According to Minister Kapavore, the board will be placed as a matter of priority for the Laloki Mental Health Social Change Directory. But in the absence for now, the minister intervened in the matter to restore trust and confidence in the health workers at the Laloki hospital. New Acting CEO Dr. Nanawar takes over the outgoing CEO Dr. Daoni Esoron after his 3 months appointment term ended at Laloki. During the hand- over- take- over ceremony, Mr. Kapavore appealed to the health staff to work together with the new acting CEO and continue the work the same way as they did with the outgoing CEO. “I appeal to all our staff to respect the appointment and work with the new Acting CEO,” said Kapavore. According to Kapavore, mental health care is in distress and needs critical care in which critical health intervention must be propriety for the patients to recover quickly. “This is part of the recovery process. This is part of the restoration process.” He assured the Laloki hospital staff that the government is in control and the government knows the state and progress of where the hospital is going. “I want to give you assurance today that the government is taking full control of Laloki. We know where we are and we know where we are going and we will make Laloki Psychiatric Hospital one of the most trusted health facilities in our country again,” said Kapavore. Meanwhile, Kapavore acknowledged the outgoing CEO Dr. Daoni Esorom's great work and applauded his 3 months appointment at Laloki Psychiatric Hospital. Kapavore also made a special announcement in addition to the new acting CEO's appointment. He announced that Dr. Nelson Mek has been appointed as the new Acting Director for Mental Health and Social Group, replacing Dr. Uma Ami.

The National Capital District Commission (NCDC) marked a significant milestone with a groundbreaking ceremony at Hohola Sports Oval, launching the rehabilitation of key roads linking Hohola and Tokarara suburbs in Port Moresby city. This initiative is part of NCD Governor, Powes Parkop’s broader commitment to modernizing infrastructure and enhancing connectivity across the city. The project value is over K20 million and will restore the functionality and safety of Kumarere Road (620m), Boragaino Road (1.1km), and Dikagari Road (1.5km). The road links that have deteriorated over time, will be rehabilitated under contracts awarded to Garrett Construction Limited, Goodwill Works Limited, and Niugini Engineering Procurement Services Limited, respectively. Work will commence this month and is expected to be completed by July this year. Governor Parkop assured Hohola and Tokarara residents that NCDC remains committed to delivering quality infrastructure projects, not just for the 50th-anniversary celebrations but as part of a long-term vision for Port Moresby’s future. “The 50th anniversary of Papua New Guinea’s independence is a time to celebrate progress, and what better way to do so than by investing in quality infrastructure for our people? “Hohola was one of the first suburbs developed in our city, and it is only fitting that we start this important work here as a first project for this 50th-anniversary year,” he said. Parkop acknowledged the challenges faced by the communities due to poor road conditions and apologized for the delays, reaffirming NCDC’s dedication to addressing long-standing concerns. He added that the Commission looks forward to completing these road projects efficiently, ensuring they are ready in time for PNG’s golden jubilee celebrations in September. He also confirmed that while the 2025 budget is yet to be finalized, infrastructure remains a top priority, adding that once approved, further announcements will be made on upcoming projects. “The work does not stop here. We are building a city that is not only modern and functional but also reflects the pride and aspirations of our people." We will continue to invest in roads, markets, stadiums, and other essential facilities,” said Parkop. Speaking at the event, City Manager Ravu Frank emphasized the project’s importance, not just in terms of infrastructure but also in improving the daily lives of residents and businesses. “Improved road infrastructure will reduce travel time, enhance economic opportunities, and provide safer and more reliable access for our communities." This is the kind of progress that transforms cities and uplifts the people,” said Frank. Moresby Northwest MP, Lohia Boe Samuel, also expressed his gratitude to the Governor and NCDC for prioritizing the rehabilitation of roads in his electorate. He commended the Governor for working with him to develop plans that will bring tangible improvements to his constituents and thanked him for making that dream come true.

Australian High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea (PNG) Mr. John Feakes reaffirmed Australia’s longstanding partnership with Western Province today by launching the 5-year Development Plan to support for a sustainable and inclusive development in the province. The partnership is guided by the PNG-Australia Western Province Strategy (2022-2030) signed in December 2022. Since its signing, Australia has supported numerous projects as improving water security in South Fly District, upgrade of the Bosset Health Center in Middle Fly, the Daru Port and progress major infrastructure projects, that is under the Strategy of PNG and Australia working together on shared priorities to support human development, economic development, enabling infrastructure, security and stability. Mr. Feakes joined by the Acting Prime Minister Solan Mirisim, Chief Justice Sir Gibuna Gibbs Salika, Defense Minister Dr Billy Joseph, Minister for Energy Thomas Opa, Minister for Mining Wake Goi, Minister for Livestock Sekie Agisa, the Member for Delta Fly Agena Gamai, the Member for North Fly James Donald. Also present was the Western Province Governor, Taboi Awi Yoto and other dignitaries as well at the launch of the province’s new integrated development plan titled "Reviewing and Charting Our Development Pathway", and four district development plans. Mr. Feakes emphasized in his remarks on Australia’s deep historic and cultural ties with the people and communities of Western Province and the flourishing modern partnership. “Australia’s investment in Western Province is at an all-time high extending across health, education, agriculture, law and justice and infrastructure among other sectors. My commitment today is that you can continue to rely on Australia for support. We share your values and aspirations. We are here for the long term in the spirit of genuine partnership.” Speaking at the launch, Governor Yoto said that the launching of the 5-star year Development Plan of the province and the 4 District plan is an important event as it will provide the pathways to where we want to be in the ensuing years. “It is to also strategically align our development aspirations of the province to the greater National Development goals and the vision for the country. Most importantly to provide the directions for our 16 LLGs, the 4 Districts, the Provincial Government, the National Government and all our development partners to subscribe to a plan when prioritizing resource allocation for the development of Western Province,” said the governor. The partnership extends across Australia’s development investment as well as a broad range of Australian Government agencies such as the Australian Federal Police, Australia’s Border Force and Australia Defense Force in collaboration with the provincial and district governments with other donors and partners to capitalize on local knowledge and maximize outcomes for the communities in the province.

Trukai Industries announced the commencement of its fifth batch of the Smart Farmer Program (SFP) at the Pacific Adventist University (PAU) just outside Port Moresby city yesterday. SFP is facilitated through a private-public partnership with Trukai Industries Agricultural Department, The PNG University of Technology (PNGUoT) and PAU. It is a 20-week program that consists of 2 weeks on campus training and 18 weeks demonstration to shift off knowledge at the farmer’s own locality. The program provides theory and practical assessment, building a strong knowledge base for farmers to be fully capable of transitioning from dry land farming to irrigation farming. Agricultural field teams from Trukai Industries visit the farmers village to assess their rice plots from the 18 weeks demonstration in which that assessment determines their qualification to graduate with a Certificate in Irrigated Rice Farming from either PNGUoT or PAU. It is one of the Trukai’s extensive agriculture programs that aims to enhance the well-being of the people of Papua New Guinea (PNG) by supporting local rice farmers with skills and knowledge to empower their families and communities. According to Trukai Industries Agriculture Manager, Aina Davis, SFP has now become accessible to all farmers nationwide as it is conducted in the 2 main centers in PNG, Port Moresby and Lae. “We have now seen an increased number of participants because of the accessibility of this training where participants can now choose their institutions of choice depending on their location and transportation accessibility.” “The first week of SFP will cover 3 modules, which are Introduction to Rice, Rice Environment and Irrigation Farming. By the last week of the program, participants should complete 3 modules and 4 on Rice Cultivation Cycle and Rice Farming Business and Management,” she added. More Papua New Guineans recognize the potential of local rice farming as they are taking proactive steps to boost economic prosperity and food security in which SFP is at the forefront of this transformation that equips farmers with the necessary tools and innovative techniques to improve their livelihoods through rice cultivation. Trukai Industries Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Alan Preston described the SFP as a commitment and partnership to support local rice farming and agriculture in PNG as a positive contributing impact back to the community. “Over the years, Trukai has invested millions of kina to develop the agriculture industry through research, our partnership with agriculture institutions, technical staff, training and infrastructure. This program is our contribution towards rice development in PNG and we are looking forward to the positive outcome this will have on the livelihoods of the participants and their communities,” said Preston. Objective of SFP is to be able to train and develop local farmers to grow quality rice under irrigation conditions in which 538 farmers from 20 provinces have been trained so far. [caption id="attachment_60830" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Picture by Stellanie Steman Akop[/caption] A participant farmer, Mr. John Potol, said that he undertook the program at PAU in 2024, and was committed to making a lasting impact in his community with a vision to improve the lives of his people in his Local Level Government (LLG) where he has dedicated a hectare of land to irrigated rice farming, a decision made from gained knowledge through the SFP. Mr. Potol further stressed the knowledge and skills he gained from SFP in agriculture throughout his 2-week program and how it will be a contributing factor back to his community. “Throughout the two-week on campus program, I’ve gained an in-depth understanding of irrigated rice farming and the significant benefits it will bring to our community. This program has given me the tools to diversify my skills beyond cocoa farming and focus on addressing food security, creating jobs and generating wealth through rice farming,” said Potol. More than 150 farmers nationwide have registered to be a part of Trukai’s fifth batch of the SFP this January, after seeing successful impact and stories from former participants such as Mr. Potol. It is a holistic approach towards rice farming, initiated by Trukai Industries as an internship program for 24 model farmers who were selected from previous batches of SFP to undergo hands on training to become commercial farmers in which the training is to be conducted at Erap Farm in Morobe Province.

The Badili Muniogo Community in the Moresby South electorate of Port Moresby, met with the Foreign Affairs Minister and Member (MP) for Moresby South, Justin Tkatchenko this week to reconcile for the misunderstandings during the 2022 National General Elections. The community comprises of families from the various provinces, including the traditional landowners, the Motu Koitabuans, and from the Papuan and Highlands region. The community initiated and came together for the ceremony with pigs and food items as part of the reconciliation and pledged their support for their MP. Minister Tkatchenko emphasized in his message to the community that all citizens were entitled to their own choice and that it was everyone’s democratic right to vote for who they feel is the right person to represent them. “I did not go there to accept their apology, but to make very clear that there was no need to apologize to me," said Tkatchenko. “I basically said to them – if you’re not happy with those community leaders and coordinators that are representing you from your community, get rid of them, and replace them with people who have trust and respect, and that can show true leadership in your community. Appoint new coordinators, new leaders that will represent you with true honesty and dignity and with the trust and loyalty that you need them to have. That’s the most important thing,” said Minister Tkatchenko. Tkatchenko also expressed gratitude and appreciation towards the initiative carried out by the community and their leadership for the good of the people. “I appreciate a level of honesty when it comes to community leaders, who are willing to work together with my office for the good of our community and people. We look forward to now continuing where we left off and for the benefit of the community and the families for the long term," he said. Minister Tkatchenko then asked the community to share the food and drinks that were presented to him as part of the reconciliation, amongst the families present at the ceremony, and pledged his ongoing support to Badili Muniogo.

Australia has established the Alpers Award for Excellence in Health Research to honor the late Professor Michael Alpers and his lifelong dedication to fighting infectious diseases in Papua New Guinea (PNG). The award is open to outstanding PNG citizens working in a field relevant to Professor Alpers' research, such as graduate students, technical officers, public health policymakers, or early career researchers and clinicians. The winner will receive funding to travel to Canberra and attend the Annual Scientific Meeting of the Australasian Society of Infectious Disease (ASID). Professor Alpers was a leading expert on infectious diseases in PNG and played a pivotal role in the discovery of prions, a new class of infectious agent, through his groundbreaking research on kuru. Australian High Commissioner, His Excellency John Feakes said that Australia is delighted to continue the late Professor’s legacy by supporting a Papua New Guinean to deepen their knowledge of infectious disease and further strengthen the two countries’ commitment to the health of the Papua New Guinean people. To be eligible, applicants must be PNG citizens with a demonstrated record of work and publication in a field related to Professor Alpers' research. More information are provided on this site https://lnkd.in/gSzhitBn. Applications close on February 2nd at 3pm.

Bougainville Copper Limited (BCL) has appointed Mr. Johnny Patterson Auna as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Mr. Auna is a highly regarded executive with more than thirty years' experience in finance and accounting, strategic planning, senior management and cooperate operations in both private and public sectors in Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Australia. Auna, who hails from Laguai Village, Buin in South Bougainville, also served on several boards as both a director and chairman and is a certified practicing accountant who holds several qualifications, including a Bachelor of Business in Accountancy from Deakin University in Australia. His appointment follows a proud family legacy with his late father Joseph Lawrence Auna, serving as BCL’s first General Manager in PNG and in Bougainville, heading up to its Personnel Service Division in 1989. Auna said that he was honored and privileged to be given the opportunity to lead the new BCL management team as CEO and thanked the board for having confidence in him. He also expressed gratitude and appreciation towards BCL management team and board, expressing this role as a once in a lifetime opportunity. “I consider this to be a once in a lifetime opportunity given the significance of where things sit with BCL as a Bougainvillean company and the ABG’s plans and negotiations for independence with the National Government.” “The redevelopment of the Panguna mine is a key impact project that Bougainville needs to ramp up its economy and act as a catalyst for further economic development for Bougainville, its people and all stakeholders.” Prior to joining BCL, Auna served as Secretary of the Department of Treasury and Finance with the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG). During his career, he also served as a Managing Director, General Manager, CEO, accountant, business consultant and a commodity trader. In February 2024, the company was granted a five-year extension of its EL01 exploration license in the Panguna mine project area and with that, Auna takes on the CEO role at a pivotal time for BCL as the company moves to a more active operational phase. “The granting of EL01 by the ABG and signing of a Land Access and Compensation Agreement with landowners in 2024 lays the groundwork for the redevelopment of the Panguna mine to commence.” As a brownfield project, work will be completed this year on landowner identification studies and social mapping as well as modelling and pre- feasibility studies, using existing intellectual property resource data. Lines of communication are also being opened with potential project development partners and operational structures and funding arrangements will also be explored. “I look forward to working with all BCL stakeholders as the new CEO to ensure that Panguna’s redevelopment is implemented in an environment, social and commercially responsible and viable manner.” Auna joined BCL in March 2024 as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Company Secretary (CS) in which he has also been serving in the role of Acting CEO since July 2024, following the unfortunate resignation of the late David Osikore, due to health reasons. BCL Chairman, Sir Melchior Togolo said that Auna’s local knowledge and connections across government and the broader community, will be invaluable to project advancement as he will also continue to act as CFO and CS until a new appointment for these positions are made.