Nature Park Port Moresby is thrilled to announce exciting news of the successful breeding of the Raggiana Bird of Paradise. This incredible achievement is a result of their ongoing breeding program, which has been a top priority for the nature park for several years. This marks the second successful breeding in just 4 years, making it a significant milestone for both Nature Park and Papua New Guinea (PNG), as the Raggiana Bird of Paradise also known as the “Kumul” in Tok Pisin (the pidgin English of PNG) holds the prestigious title of being the national animal of PNG. The Raggiana Birds of Paradise are part of the International Breeding Program for this species. Nature Park dedicated wildlife team has spent the past 3 years tirelessly developing the necessary skills to successfully breed these iconic birds in captivity, this achievement is a rare milestone in their conservation efforts for these unique species. A testament to the dedication and expertise of their wildlife keepers as this showcase their ability to successfully breed the Raggiana Bird of Paradise in captivity. Their unwavering commitment to preserving the wildlife species and educating future generation is exemplified through the Wildlife Conservation Campaign “Lukautim Bilas Bilong Yu”, by which they aim to help improve sustainability by reducing the need for wild harvest of these species for cultural purposes whilst protecting the indigenous traditions. As the country will celebrate the 50th Independence anniversary this year, Nature Park is honored to witness history together with the birth of this new member of the Raggiana species. Leading attraction in PNG and an internationally zoo by the Zoo and Aquarium Association of Australasia, Port Moresby Nature Park now welcomes more than 150,000 visitors annually including 30,000 students participating in their educational and holiday programs. Nature Park is also proud to be the only internationally accredited rescue and conservation facility in PNG, dedicated to preserving the country’s unique flora and fauna through engaging and immersive experiences as their mission relies on the generous support of the public, business community, government, and development agencies. Join Nature Park in celebrating this momentous occasion and the incredible work being done at the Port Moresby Nature Park to preserve and protect precious wildlife species.

Prime Minister (PM) Hon. James Marape has extended his gratitude to senior leaders from ExxonMobil’s headquarters in Houston, Texas, who visited Papua New Guinea (PNG) to reaffirm the company’s long-term leadership and commitment to the country’s energy sector PNG LNG and Papua LNG Projects. 3 senior ExxonMobil corporate executives, led by outgoing Upstream President Liam Mallon, traveled to PNG to personally bid farewell to PM Marape, as Mallon prepares to retire from his role. PM Marape expressed his appreciation for the strong partnership between the company and the Government of PNG. “He has been a strong partner in ensuring the success of PNG LNG and has worked closely with us over the years. His commitment to our country will be remembered, and we wish him well in his retirement.” “I want to thank the ExxonMobil leaders from their Houston head office, especially Liam Mallon, who flew all the way to PNG to say farewell,” said Marape. During the meeting, Mr. Mallon introduced his successor, Dan Ammann, the incoming Upstream President, who will now take over ExxonMobil’s global upstream operations. Marape also congratulated Ms. Tera Shandro, the outgoing Managing Director of ExxonMobil PNG, on her promotion to Vice President of Upstream Business, based at the company’s global headquarters in Houston. “We are proud that Ms. Shandro, after her time in Papua New Guinea, has been elevated to a senior global role within ExxonMobil. This speaks volumes about the importance of PNG in the company’s operations. We wish her all the best in her new role and look forward to continuing a strong relationship with ExxonMobil under the leadership of Dinesh Siwasimboo, the incoming Chairman and Managing Director of ExxonMobil PNG.” The meeting also included Peter Clarke, Senior Vice President for Global LNG, who provided updates on ExxonMobil’s commitment to advancing key projects in PNG, including the ongoing developments at Angore, progress on P’nyang, and efforts to synchronize multiple LNG fields for greater efficiency. PM Marape noted that ExxonMobil is also working closely with TotalEnergies to support the successful delivery of the Papua LNG project, which is expected to play a significant role in PNG’s energy future. “This collaboration between ExxonMobil and TotalEnergies will ensure that Papua LNG is developed efficiently and contributes to the broader synchronization of PNG’s LNG projects, maximizing benefits for our country. They assured me that PNG LNG remains one of the best-performing fields globally and that the company remains committed to ensuring PNG continues to be a major energy producer for at least the next 30 years,” he said. ExxonMobil’s leaders also discussed the importance of positioning Papua New Guinea as a producer of clean and green LNG in which the company recognizes PNG’s negative carbon footprint and the country’s potential to market its LNG as a cleaner, more sustainable energy source in the global market. “We discussed the importance of aligning our LNG production with PNG’s green credentials. Our goal is to brand Papua New Guinea as a green energy nation, producing LNG from a country with a negative carbon footprint. This will make our LNG more attractive to buyers in both spot and long-term contracted markets.” ExxonMobil further highlighted PNG’s strategic location and proximity to major markets, which places the country in a favorable position for energy exports. PM concluded by expressing his confidence in ExxonMobil’s continued leadership in PNG’s energy sector and the Government’s commitment to supporting further LNG developments. “ExxonMobil’s senior leadership has assured me that PNG is a top priority in their global Portfolio. We look forward to continuing our partnership to ensure the success of current and future LNG projects, which will play a significant role in the country’s economic growth for decades to come.”

Prime Minister (PM) Marape has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to giving priority to Papua New Guinean contractors in awarding public contracts, in line with the Government’s National Content Policy. PM assured the nation that his government is focused on creating an enabling environment for local businesses to thrive, ensuring that Papua New Guinean-owned firms have a central role in the country’s development projects. “This ensures that our people are part of these major projects, and that wealth is shared within the country.” “Ultimately, it’s about giving Papua New Guineans the opportunity to participate meaningfully in the development of our nation. Together, we can achieve sustainable growth by building local capacity and promoting national ownership of key projects. Our government is the first government that sets benchmark for local contracts, and in all contracts, we issued we mandate that international contractors must allocate 40% of their project scope to local contractors,” said PM Marape. PM emphasized the importance of ensuring that local businesses benefit from economic opportunities generated within the country, in response to calls from the President of the Papua New Guinea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PNGCCI). “Our National Content Policy ensures that Papua New Guinean-owned companies are given a fair share of public contracts. It’s about empowering our people to take charge of building our nation. We are determined to make sure that our contractors are not left behind when it comes to infrastructure and development projects.” The PM acknowledged the concerns raised regarding foreign companies being awarded contracts at the expense of local firms and he assured that the government has policies in place to address this imbalance by creating a level playing field for local businesses to compete. “The Government is working to ensure that local companies meet scope of Works Requirements and have the financial and technical capacity to deliver projects. We also encourage foreign contractors to partner with local firms to build capacity and share expertise,” he said. He further noted that addressing challenges such as access to finance, regulatory compliance and capacity building is a priority as the government is actively working to ease the regulatory burden and improve financing options for local contractors through initiatives such as SME funding programmes and credit guarantees. PM Marape also highlighted the importance of local companies raising their standards to compete with foreign firms. “Our contractors must strive for technical competency, good governance and reliable project delivery to remain competitive.”

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has called on government agencies to take immediate action in creating clear, accessible pathways for the country’s youths to benefit from the various programmes already visible to them. The Youth Rally in Port Moresby is just the beginning of a series of youth-focused programme that will roll out across the country in the coming months, ensuring no young Papua New Guinean is left behind. Marape stressed that the future of Papua New Guinea depends on empowering its young people with the tools and opportunities to build prosperous lives. “We have many programmes-in education, skills training, re-education, small business development and labour mobility- but they are not reaching our youths. Government agencies are failing to make these opportunities accessible and understandable to those who need them most”. “This has to change, and it has to change now,” said Marape. The PM highlighted key initiatives such as the Australian Labour Mobility Scheme, and the small and Medium Enterprise (SME) programmes as critical avenues for youths to pursue meaningful careers and livelihoods. However, the PM also pointed out that many youths remain unaware of how to access these programmes due to lack of clarity from government agencies. He said that it is unacceptable that we have these programmes running, but our youths don’t know where to go or how to start. “Our young people are valuable assets to this country, and it is our responsibility as a government to show them the way. We must make the paths clear and visible- whether it's through education, business opportunities or employment abroad-and give them the tools to succeed,” said Marape. The National Youth Mobilization Programme, PM addresses over 10,000 youths at St John Gates Open Stadium in Port Moresby, following the Public Service Dedication ceremony. The rally will run from 1pm to 5pm, a call to action for all youths in the city to come and hear directly from the government about the programmes and opportunities presented to them. The event feature music, entertainment and inspirational speeches, providing a platform for young people to engage with leaders and learn about the paths they can take to secure a brighter future. “I encourage every young man and woman in Port Moresby to come and hear the government. We want to make sure that you know what opportunities available to you and how you can access them. We want to show you that there are clear paths in life that can lead to prosperity, employment and personal growth,” said PM Marape. PM emphasized that as Papua New Guinea prepares for its 50th Independence Anniversary celebration, it must focus in preparing the nation’s youth for the next 50 years. “If our efforts this year do not feature our youths, then we are in vain. The progress of our nation depends on how well we empower our young people. This is not just about celebrating the past 50 years-it is about showing our youths a path forward for the next 50 years. He directed the Office of the Chief Secretary and the entire public service to prioritize youth programmes and ensure that government services are youth focused and accessible. “Our youth must not be left to wander aimlessly. Government agencies must step up and create clear visible pathways for them to access education, employment, entrepreneurship and other opportunities. This is not just a directive-it's a mission that will define the future of Papua New Guinea.” PM stated that his government’s commitment to support young people, calling on public servants, churches and private sector partners to play a role in mobilizing and empowering the nation’s youth. He expressed optimism that this movement will bring a renewed sense of hope and purpose to PNG’s young population. “This is a new dawn for our country’s youth. We want you to know that your government sees you, hears you and is ready to walk with you on your journey. Let us work together to create a Papua New Guinea where every young person has the chance to achieve their dreams and contribute to our nation's prosperity.”

The Blood Bank Donor Centre at Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) is now appealing to the public to volunteer for blood donations at the hospital. The vision of this volunteer donor initiative is to create a sustainable blood supply because of the high demand of blood in the hospital and less supply. An awareness will be done to educate the public on what to do and what not to do prior to visiting the blood bank to donate blood. The awareness done will also educate the younger population and create a culture of volunteer blood donation. Chairman of PMGH Blood Transfusion Committee, Dr. Carl Kingston said that the PMGH Blood Donor carried out 52 awareness campaigns last year 2024 in which 3, 620 people were educated through the awareness drives. They have worked with 32 different organizations including Brian Bell Group and ExxonMobil in which the staff were needed to spend a few days on site at the location where they collected their blood. According to Dr. Kingston, the festive season and going into the new year has always been a challenge for services at the hospital in terms of the influx of people needing blood on top of the usual cases in the hospital. “Apart from cancer and mothers in labor, children needing blood, kidney failure, complications of diabetes and hypertension (High blood pressure) and all of those require blood.” “The blood transfusion center serves not only PMGH but also NCD and all the clinics, health centers and private facilities in NCD, Central Province and Gulf Province.” Meanwhile, he also stated the reasons why some of the volunteer donors were not able to give their blood when they went through after the pre-screening process due to low hemoglobin, lack of sleep and alcohol consumption. “We have about 9, 656 people who couldn’t donate at the first attempt when they came because they were deemed not ready to donate. The highest reason was low hemoglobin which in terms means short blood supply. Our community generally has low blood hemoglobin.” “In terms of lack of sleep, people are generally not prepared well and so we recommend eight hours of sleep before they come so they are better prepared to donate.” Donor Centre Assistant Nurse Unit Manager (NUM), Sister Julieth Ohuesahu, stated that the donor recruitment criteria are adapted from the World Health Organization (WHO) Donor selection criteria as well as questionnaires that are given out to donors followed by a mini health screening. “The mini health screening will be done to decide from the questions answered whether the blood donation will be taking place from that donor or not based on their answers on the rejection criteria. “As for last year, we have seen a total of 22, 000 donors from which we have collected 12, 000 blood bags from.” Moreover, both medical equipment and manpower is needed more at the Blood Bank Donor Centre with appeals being made to private sectors to assist the center with. “We would like to appeal to the private sector to assist us with a bus that will enable us to bring our staff and equipment as well as other consumables to the sites that we go to collect blood from during our mobile drive.” “We also need more staff in helping to conduct educational awarenesses whilst others focus on collecting blood and screening blood.” “Support from the private sector would be welcomed and most needed,” said Dr Kingston.

The Australian High Commission partnered with the East Sepik Provincial (ESP) Administration to install water tanks and construct safer rural markets at 15 identified sites in the province. Maur Market is the first of 15 markets to be built across ESP under the Water Security and Rural Markets Development Project and was officially opened last year on 13th November. East Sepik Deputy Governor David Kausik and Australian High Commission Minister Counsellor Penny Morton were present that day to officially open the ESP Maur Market Turubu Local Level Governments (LLG). The Australian High Commission's objective of the project is to support livelihoods in subsistence agriculture and economic growth in the East Sepik region and is part of Australia’s commitment under the PNG –Australia Comprehensive Strategic and Economic Partnership to strengthen cooperation in PNG’s priority regions and economic growth, enhance stability and improve service delivery. The President Council of Women in the Turubu LLG expressed her gratitude and how her community will benefit from the project. “We are happy with this market in our LLG as it is closer to our homes and communities,” she said. Member of Ward Development Committee and Committee for Market and Social Services, Ferdiand Paimat said that upgrading rural markets is another way of improving the life of the community, and subsistence farmers will now have a proper market to sell from and benefit from it also. “As a leader, I am happy with the benefits this market will bring to the community, the LLG, the province and the country as a whole,” he said. The Australian High Commission is improving access to clean water and safe space for local vendors to sell their fresh produce in their own local communities.

Prime Minister James Marape has called on all citizens to take pride in their country by putting a stop to the bad habits of betelnut spitting and littering in public places as Papua New Guinea prepares to celebrate 50 years of independence. Marape urged everyone to embrace a cleaner, healthier and more respectful environment as a tribute to PNG’s progress over the past 5 decades. “As we prepare to mark this historic milestone, let us reflect on who we are and what kind of country we want to be.” He said that we cannot continue to celebrate our independence while our streets, public places and buildings are covered in betelnut stains and litter. "These are small but significant actions that reflect our respect for our communities and our pride in being a Papua New Guinean.” Marape further emphasized that maintaining cleanness requires transformation of the mindset and a commitment to personal responsibility from every citizen. “Changes starts with each of us. Whether you are a street vendor, public servant, student or a parent -we all have a duty to keep our towns, cities and villages clean. When you chew betelnut, do so responsibly. Dispose of your waste properly. Don’t spit on the streets, walls or public places. These small actions make a big difference in how we present ourselves as a nation.” He added that cleaning up the public spaces is not just the job of local authorities or cleaning crews but a shared responsibility for every citizen. “Don’t wait for someone to clean up after you. Show your pride in PNG by keeping it clean,” said Marape. The Prime Minister also highlighted some of the health risks that are associated with betelnut chewing and littering of betelnut husk and plastic waste. “Betelnut spitting contributes to the spread of diseases such as tuberculosis (TB) and oral cancer. It also makes our public spaces dirty and unpleasant. Littering clogs our drains, pollutes our rivers and harms our environment. These issues impact our health, our economy and our future.” To mark the 50th Independence Anniversary, the government launched a nationwide cleanliness campaign aimed to promote responsible waste management, anti-littering awareness and betelnut free public spaces. Marape is calling on local governments, churches, schools and community leaders to join this effort and work together to clean up the towns and villages, not just for this anniversary but for future generations. Prime Minister Marape reminded the citizens that cleanliness and respect for public spaces are key indications of a nation's progress. “Papua New Guinea is 50 years old. We are no longer a young nation. We have matured, we have grown, and now it is time to show the world that we are proud of who we are and where we come from,” he said. “Let us make our streets, our towns and our villages a reflection of that pride. Let us celebrate our Independence by honoring our land, respecting each other and keeping PNG clean.

The annual NCD Governor’s Rugby League Cup 2024-2025 concluded successfully at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium over the weekend, ending two (2) weeks of intense yet harmonious competition. Thousands of city residents, including supporters, fans and family members of the players of the teams that participated at the 2-week event, gathered to witness the Plate and the Cup grand finale play offs. National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop graced everyone with his presence as he presents to be part of the finale, making the day extra special for everyone. Governor Powes expressed his heartfelt gratitude and pride at the tournament’s grand finale, commanding everyone for their dedication, sportsmanship and unity. “Congratulations to all who participated, from players to coaches, supporters and the organizing team. You’ve demonstrated the power of sports as a platform to bring people together,” said Governor Parkop. “It was inspiring to see over 80 teams competing at such a high standard, without any trouble on or off the field in both sporting codes of soccer and rugby league.” The governor emphasized how the tournament transcended tribal and regional divides, uniting the city as “one people, one city, belonging to one nation.” He Noted that this year’s competition was particularly significant as the nation prepares its 50th Independence Anniversary in September. “Sports like rugby and soccer are providing to be powerful tools for nation-building, fostering a spirit of unity and positivity. This is the spirit we need to carry forward as we celebrate 50 years of Independence.” Governor Parkop praised the Tournament Coordinator Mr. Billy Yaki and his management team for their exceptional organization, noting the impressive turnout and smooth operation. He also highlighted the success of the soccer tournament held earlier, which was peaceful and professionally executed, despite the fact that it was the first time to host it under the Governor’s Cup Competition. “The success of both tournaments reflects the spirit of our people. I salute everyone involved for your contribution to this remarkable event,” he said. As Port Moresby city and the country look forward to its golden Jubilee, the Governor called on the city’s residents to continue embracing the spirit of unity and resilience shown during the tournaments. “We’ve faced challenges together and overcame them and are still growing stronger. Let this same spirit guide us as we celebrate 50 years of our nation.” The governor congratulated the winers and all participants, emphasizing that the true victory lies in the sense of community and unity achieved through the games. Meanwhile, the 2023 NCD Governor’s Cup Plate Champions, 8 Mile Settlers proved too strong and fast for the Mountain Bulls and claimed the 2024-2025 NCD Governor’s Cup title with a 22-12 victory, while the women’s title was claimed by Tobalu Women Rugby League Club after beating 6 Mile Tigers 12-0.

Trukai industries spread holiday cheer this month by donating 3,610 kilograms (kg) of rice to charity and visiting children’s ward at 3 major hospitals across the country. The company brought Christmas joy to young patients and their families. The objective of this donation drive is to give back to the members of the community who were unable to be a part of the Christmas festivities. This program is carried out annually by Trukai industries for 10 years. 1500 kg of rice were donated to the hospitals and correctional institutions nationwide under its Tru Care Brand. Trukai Industries Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Alan Preston thanked all partners involved in making the December Charity Drive a success. CEO Alan Preston emphasized that the company, through its Tru Care brand, had an extensive Corporate Social Responsibility Program which assists many companies nationwide all year round. “By working closeky with other corporate organizations, Trukai Industries helps these groups progress the good work they do in their respective communities." "While at the same time, it allows us to expand our reach to the less fortunate members of our communities,” said Preston. The staff of Trukai industries visited children’s wards at the Mt. Hagen General Hospital, ANGAU Memorial Provincial Hospital and the Port Moresby General Hospital. Each patient is given a Christmas gift and the ward staff are given electrical kitchen appliances such as rice cookers, electrical fryers and blenders for their use when preparing the patient's meal. Sister in charge of the ANGAU Children’s malnutrition ward Sr. Norman said that the donation of electrical appliances is very timely as they desperately needed the items. Trukai Industries also donated 2,110 kg of rice in December to the 13 charities it supports each month. Which includes City Missions in Port Moresby, Lae, Madang, Links of Hope in Port Moresby and Mt.Hagen, Lae Cancer Foundation, Welkam na Bel Isi Centre, St John Ambulance, Cheshire Disability Services, Samaritan Aviation and Mt Sion Centre for the Blind.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has expressed deep sorrows and extended his heartfelt condolences to the families and the loved ones of those who lost their lives in the tragic North Coast Aviation Britten Norman Islander crash on 22nd Sunday December in the Saruwaged Range of Morobe. PM Marape described the incident as a “heart- wrenching loss for our nation,” noting the important role that aviation plays in connecting Papua New Guinea’s people, especially in remote areas. “This tragedy touches all of us”, said PM Marape. “The individuals we lost were more than just passengers or crew – they were cherished family members and vital parts of our community, whose contributions enriched the fabric of our nation. Our thoughts and prayers remain with their loved ones during this difficult time.” PM commended the bravery and dedication of aviation workers across Papua New Guinea, acknowledging the challenges they face daily to connect some of the most rugged and isolated parts of the country. “As a nation, we are reminded of the fragility of life and the importance of standing together in times of sorrow, he said.” “I urge all Papua New Guineans to come together in unity, offering support to the grieving families and honoring the memory of those we have lost.” “Our strength as a nation lies in our resilience and unity,” the PM stated. “In the face of this tragedy, let us remember the value of compassion and the importance of supporting one another. “The government remains committed to improving aviation safety standards across the country to prevent similar tragedies in the future.” The PM has directed relevant government agencies to provide all necessary assistance to the investigation into the crash, ensuring transparency and accountability. To conclude, the PM wishes all Papua New Guineans a peaceful and reflective Christmas, encouraging families to cherish their time together and honor the memories of those lost in the tragedy.

The Eastern Highlands Governor, Simon Sia, spread the cheer of Christmas to inmates at the Bihute Correctional Service (CS) facility today by donating food items to them. The good governor said Christmas is a time for cherished moments with loved ones, where we reflect on this year’s mistakes, triumphs, challenges and set of new aspirations and goals for the new year ahead approaching. He further said spending the festive season behind bars can be a difficult time for inmates as it's a reminder of the freedom they've lost and the time they are separated from loved ones. Therefore, he emphasized the importance of learning from previous mistakes during the presentation in his speech. "You may have committed a crime and remanded here but let me remind you all that it's good to learn from the mistakes", said Mr. Sia. CS Senior Inspector Petrus Emma acknowledged the Governor's visit and the donation to the inmates to celebrate the festive season. "This isn't your first time to pay such a visit, you've been doing that for a good number of years before you became the Governor and I stand here to commend your leadership and the decision you've made to visit the prison camp," he said. "Your presence here shows the matured leadership in reaching the unfortunate people who the society has rejected due to their illegal acts in the Community," he added. The Governor donated food ration worth K10,000 that will be equally shared among the inmates serving their term in prison and K2,000 cash for their sports competition. The donated food items will be equally shared among them 223 inmates at Bihute.

The Lae Biscuit Pawa 9s wrapped up on a high over the weekend at the Lae Rugby League grounds with the finals for all the divisions played out on Saturday 21st December. The Kimbe Roosters men's team walked away with the K20,000 cash prize as the champions for the 2024 Lae Biscuit Pawa 9s Cup tournament while the United sisters of Lae were crowned the women's champions with the first-place cash prize of K9,000 out of the 12 women teams that participated in the game. Top 2 teams won the cash prize in the first place and the trophy cup for the grand final out of the 32 men team and the 12 women team that participated in the Lae Biscuit Pawa 9s cup tournament respectively. Kimbe Roosters won by 16 - 14 against 140 Morobe Pride in the men's grand final and the United Sisters of Lae won by 18 – 0 against the Bomai Bullets in the women's grand final. Captain for Kimbe Roosters Dominic Anish Junior said that they have taken part in this tournament since 2020 and had some issues but made it this far. “Team consists of 7 local boys, 3 from Agmark Gurias and 4 PNG reps for 7 unions to take part in the game,” said Captain Anish. A wonderful feeling for the Kimbe Roosters after 3 appearances in the competition. Tournament Coordinator Mr. Dennis Miall thanked the teams and expressed words of appreciation towards Director of Lae Biscuit Company, Mr. Ian Chow. “Big thanks to the Chow family for sharing your blessings with Lae community,” said Mr. Miall. Afterwards was the presentation of the trophy cup and the awards for the team and the players started off with words of gratitude and appreciation towards the sponsors, supporters, players, team members, referees and the people who made it possible for the 5 days tournament to take place. The first game prize for the men's teams went to Kimbe Roosters with K20,000 as the 2024 Lae Biscuit Pawa 9s champions, second place goes to 140 Morobe Pride with K10,000, third place went to Apan Dogs with K6,000, and the fourth place went to Hagen Medics with K4,000 cash prize. For the women's teams, the first place went to United Sisters of Lae with K9,000 as the women champions, second place is Bomai Bullets with K6,000, third place is Waghi Spiders with K3,000, and the fourth team is Membii Tamba Spiders with the cash prize money of K1,000.