Christine Wasigui, from Western provinces, is undertaking a mandatory one-year internship with the National Department of Health to gain practical experience before her full registration as a pharmacist. Inspired by her experience providing healthcare in remote villages, the top pharmacy graduate is now focused on returning home to Western Province to support its local health services. She said her ambition is driven by what she saw during her university studies. “As a student, I actively participated in mobile clinics in rural areas in Western Province,” Ms. Wasigui said. “Through these outreach programs, I saw the struggles people face due to limited access to healthcare. I want to return after completing my studies and impart the knowledge and skills I have gained.” Ms. Wasigui’s training involves several practical placements, including a recently completed course with City Pharmacy Limited (CPL) and an upcoming four-month block at the Port Moresby General Hospital. “I am committed to serving my people, particularly in my field as a pharmacist, to support those in Western Province who lack access to basic health services,” she said. Her journey through the demanding Bachelor of Pharmacy program, where she graduated among the top students in her class with a GPA of 4.25, was challenging. Ms. Wasigui said financing her studies was a major hurdle until she secured sponsorship from MRCMCA, a subsidiary of the Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC). “My greatest challenge was finance to get through Medical School,” she said. “The sponsorship motivated students to excel in their studies and provides support to those who need it the most. “It is truly a great blessing to be supported by MRDC, and I am deeply grateful for the assistance it offers.”

PNG Air has closed out its 38th anniversary celebrations with a heartfelt campaign that honored Papua New Guinea’s vibrant cultures, meaningful stories, and awe-inspiring landscapes – while setting its sights on the nation’s Golden Jubilee in September 2025 and a bright new regional aviation future. The Airline stated that during June, PNG Air celebrated its milestone by giving back through free flights and spotlighting diverse voices and the stunning scenery that define PNG. PNG Air said that the campaign highlighted treasured moments that connect people – both within close-knit families and across regions, from the Highlands to the Islands. "As PNG Air reflects on its legacy, it remains a crucial connector – now serving 23 destinations, carrying nearly 500,000 passengers annually (pre-COVID), and flying a fleet of Dash 8-100s and ATR 72-600s, supported by approximately 600 staff." "Looking ahead, PNG Air is seizing the momentum towards PNG’s 50th independence anniversary." PNG Air added that the airline is welcoming new ATR aircraft into its fleet and deepening investments in operational excellence. " With a transition to an all – ATR fleet, PNG Air is strengthening its position as PNG’s trusted national carrier – locally owned, locally operated, and deeply connected to the country’s future." “This anniversary was more than a milestone—it was a reminder of who we serve and why we fly,” said Brian Fraser, CEO of PNG Air. Mr. Fraser said they are proud to be a Papua New Guinean airline, independently owned, and ready to support this country as it steps confidently into its Golden Jubilee and beyond. "These are exciting times for PNG, and we’re honoured to be part of that journey.” "PNG Air’s mission continues to center on providing safe, accessible, heartfelt service – on every flight, to every region, for every generation of Papua New Guineans," he said.

Digicel PNG Foundation is proud to support the groundbreaking of a new women’s cottage at the iCare4U Center in Gereka, Port Moresby city. Digicel PNG Foundation stated that the new women’s cottage is funded through their Community Grants Program, reinforcing their commitment to empowering vulnerable women and children affected by HIV and gender-based violence. “From sanitation facilities to transitional housing, our partnership with iCare4U continues to deliver life changing support. This new facility will offer a safe, nurturing space for women to heal, rebuild, and thrive. Every grant we award is an investment in hope. We are proud to stand with organizations creating real impact on the ground,” said Valda Kereu, Acting CEO. Founder of iCare4U, George Nita said they are so thankful and grateful for this opportunity given to build a cottage dedicated to supporting women and children. Present during the groundbreaking ceremony were Telstra CEO Roary Stasko, Telstra Board members, Digicel CEO Tarik Boudiaf and Digicel Foundation board members who witnessed the ceremony. “Together, we’re building stronger, more compassionate communities across PNG,” the Foundation added.

The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA), in partnership with the Pacific Trade Invest (PTI) Australia, successfully delivered the ADT PNG Digital Tourism Workshop to strengthen digital strategies for PNG’s online tourism presence on Tuesday 24th June at the Lamana Conference Centre in Port Moresby city. The full-day event brought together key tourism stakeholders and operators to explore innovative digital ideas. Trade Commissioner for PTI Australia, Tim Martin, spoke about PTI Australia’s Digital Tourism Program, a long-running initiative supporting Pacific tourism operators with tools and training to improve their digital capabilities. Mr. Martin introduced the Digital Tourism Program as well as highlighting the importance of strengthening online visibility and bookings for PNG tourism businesses. "Digital transformation is not a luxury—it's a necessity. PTI Australia is proud to walk alongside PNG’s tourism operators as they embrace digital tools that connect them directly to the global traveller," said Martin. The core of the day’s program was delivered by Craig Smith from Counterpoint, PTI Australia’s digital service provider, who led the technical training. Smith emphasized the importance of utilizing digital tools such as SEO, social media, Online Travel Agents (OTA), and secure payment systems. "The goal is to turn your websites into your most powerful sales agents. With the right strategies, even small operators in PNG can reach international markets and increase direct bookings significantly," said Smith. The workshop covered essential topics such as strategies to increase direct bookings via websites, leveraging search engine marketing (SEM), balancing OTA partnerships, and creating cost-effective social media campaigns. Attendees also explored how to effectively use Google's digital tools, including Google My Business and Hotel Ads. Further sessions focused on secure, automated payment processing for accommodation and tour operators, introducing solutions such as Hotel Link Pay and Nabooki. These tools are part of a broader push to streamline the booking experience and boost customer confidence across the Pacific’s tourism industry. The afternoon sessions included a review of key learnings, steps for ongoing support and onboarding, and a vote of thanks from the PTI Australia team.  One-on-one meetings between facilitators and participants followed, offering tailored advice to help operators begin their digital transformation journey. Managing Director for VilLink and the Chairlady for Milne Bay Tourism Association, Maleta Martha Tokwakwasi thanked TPA and PTI for the insightful workshop. "One of the most valuable takeaways from the workshop was understanding online booking and cancellation policies. As tourism operators, we need to be prepared when a client changes their mind or cancels, and this session gave us real clarity on how to manage those situations professionally. The one-on-one consultation with Craig Smith was also incredibly useful—it gave us tailored insights into improving our website and online presence, which is crucial for a business like ours," said Tokwakwasi. She also added that the training should be conducted at a grassroot level for local tour operators to understand digital tools. "PTI and PNGTPA have taken a great step forward with this digital workshop. But we strongly encourage that these programs be extended beyond the major centres. Our remote communities and grassroots operators also deserve access to digital tools and training to help grow their small tourism businesses," said Tokwakwasi. PTI Australia’s Digital Tourism Program, established in 2012, has supported over 300 websites across the Pacific region, generating more than AUD 10 million annually in online bookings. By equipping local tourism operators with user-friendly websites, booking tools, and digital marketing strategies, the program continues to elevate the region’s visibility and competitiveness in the global tourism market. TPA’s Executive Manager for Marketing & Promotions, Joel Keimelo, highlighted TPA’s role in developing and marketing the country’s unique tourism experiences. "Papua New Guinea’s tourism sector holds immense potential. Through partnerships like this with PTI Australia, we’re equipping our operators with digital capabilities that can unlock new markets and drive sustainable tourism development across the country," said Keimelo.

The Special Parliamentary Committee on Communication, chaired by Marsh Narawec and supported by Committee Members Robert Naguri, Casmiro Aia and Wai Rapa, recently completed regional consultations in Madang Province (17–19 June) and Jiwaka Province (22–24 June) 2025, as part of its ongoing inquiry into cyber safety, digital media standards and the role of communication in community development. The regional visits are an integral part of the Committee’s nationwide public inquiry aimed at understanding the effects of cybercrime, misinformation and digital media abuse, while exploring ways to enhance public awareness, media responsibility and cyber safety. In Madang Province, the Committee held consultations from 17th–19th June, starting with a team briefing upon arrival, followed by an informal dinner with key representatives from the Provincial Government, Police Force and the Vice Chancellor of Madang’s Divine Word University. This engagement served to brief provincial leaders on the objectives of the inquiry and coordinate security support for public hearings. The Committee heard from a wide range of stakeholders including the Provincial Administrator, Police Cybercrime Unit, Divine Word University Journalism School, local media representatives (Post-Courier, NBC Madang, The National), independent journalists, churches, youth organizations and victims of cybercrime. The Madang consultation ended with a site visit to the School of Journalism at Divine Word University, where the Committee toured media facilities and engaged with students before returning to Port Moresby. In the Highlands Region, the Committee visited Jiwaka Province where the Committee once again engaged with provincial leadership, cybercrime officers, the academic sector, civil society, youth representatives and individuals affected by online abuse. The regional consultations provided a platform for the Committee to collect firsthand accounts and institutional perspectives on cyber issues facing Papua New Guineans. Regional consultations for the New Guinea Islands Region will be held from the 29th of June to the 1st of July in Kokopo, East New Britain Province with the Southern Region consultation to be held in Alotau, Milne Bay Province for the 2nd-4th July.

Secretary for the Department of National Planning and Monitoring, Koney Samuel said Development Cooperation is key for the Autonomous Region of Bougainville. He was speaking at the opening of the two-day Bougainville Development Cooperation Conference yesterday in Port Moresby city, where key stakeholders were brought together to strengthen partnerships for sustainable development in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville (AROB). Secretary Samuel commended the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) and President Ishmael Toroama for initiating the historic event and emphasized the importance of impactful and coordinated development cooperation that aligns with national priorities under PNG’s Medium Term Development Plan 2023-2027 (MTDP IV). “This conference provides a valuable platform to deepen our understanding of Bougainville's long-term development aspirations, including Vision 2052, the Bougainville Integrated Strategic Development Plan (BISDP) 2023-2027, and its sectoral priorities. We note that the BISDP is in alignment with the Government of PNG's Medium Term Development Plan IV 2023-2027 and we thank the ABG Team for working closely with my department to ensure that we are working coherently, through our development plans, to achieve the goals of MTDP IV,” Secretary Samuel said. Kenneth Nanei, Chief Secretary from the Autonomous Bougainville Government said a key reason for hosting this conference is to have better dialogue with development partners, forging of stronger partnerships and strategic coordination of development support for AROB. Peter Tsiamalili Jr, Minister for Police and Regional Member for Bougainville, stated that the Bougainville Integrated Strategic Development Plan (BISDP) 2023–2027 is the first integrated strategic plan that aligns both the National Government’s and the Autonomous Bougainville Government’s development priorities, providing a unified and strategic approach to Bougainville’s future development. The conference continues today in Port Moresby city under the theme: “Enhanced collaboration between the Autonomous Bougainville and development partners for effective development cooperation.”

Final preparations are underway for the four Group- A teams ahead of the OFC Women’s Nations Cup 2025, with day one match set to kick off at Lautoka’s Churchill Park tomorrow. This morning, the head coaches and captains of Cook Islands, defending champions Papua New Guinea, Samoa and Tahiti came together at a pre-tournament media conference in Lautoka, sharing their thoughts on the competition and their opening matches. Papua New Guinea’s head coach Ericsson Komeng, who recently led Hekari United Women to the final of the OFC Women’s Champions League in Tahiti, returns to guide the national team as they defend the title they claimed in Fiji in 2022. “It’s going to be tough,” Komeng admitted. “The two friendlies against Fiji (last month) gave us a lot to think about. The girls were a bit down after the second loss, but I have a quality side and I’m confident.” PNG Captain Ramona Padio returns to bolster the side from the ankle injury she suffered in the OFC Women’s Champions League semi-finals and missed the recent Fiji friendlies, bringing experience and leadership back to the squad. But first choice goalkeeper Faith Kasiray has been ruled out with a wrist injury suffered in training before the side departed for Fiji. Komeng is expecting a strong challenge in their opener against Samoa. “They are a quality side, and that first match is very important for us,” he said. Samoa is led by head coach Juan Chang Urrea, who has been instrumental in shaping the country’s women’s football programme, coaching the U-16, U-19, and senior women’s teams. Later this year, he will take Samoa’s U-17 side to their first-ever FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco. “A lot of our girls represent Samoa from outside the country,” said Chang Urrea. “This tournament will be a great learning experience. We know what the goal is, but we’re focusing on taking things day by day.” Samoa brings a well-balanced team with a mix of youth and experience, with their clash with Papua New Guinea an early litmus test for their campaign. Angela Wallbank will lead the Cook Islands, having coached Tupapa Maraerenga at the OFC Women’s Champions League in May. Several players have been recruited from clubs in New Zealand, while one has joined from Perth. “The biggest takeaway from the Champions League was seeing how other teams were structured,” Wallbank said. “Now, with the ability to bring in players from New Zealand and Australia, we’ve added depth and balance across the park. That should help us counter some of the threats we identified in Tahiti.” Tahiti’s squad, coached by Xavier Samin, includes six players from AS Pirae, who made their debut at the OFC Women’s Champions League in May. The team’s build-up has been challenging, with players juggling club commitments up until their departure for Fiji. “With the team we have, we hope to go as far as possible,” said Samin. “The Champions League in Tahiti gave us the chance to observe a lot of the players now in this tournament, so we have a good idea of the level of competition in the Pacific.” Group A action begins on Friday, with the Cook Islands taking on Tahiti in the tournament opener, followed by defending champions Papua New Guinea facing Samoa in the second match of the day. Every match of the OFC Women’s Nations Cup is available to watch LIVE and FREE on FIFA.

Air Niugini has for the first-time transported live fish export out of Port Moresby and Papua New Guinea (PNG) on a direct flight to Hong Kong last Wednesday 25th June, marking a significant achievement in Papua New Guinea’s seafood export capabilities. The National Airline stated that the four specialized fish bins or containers, collectively weighing four tonnes were loaded onto Air Niugini’s Boeing 767 aircraft for a six-hour, forty minutes flight which departed Port Moresby at 4pm. “The containers are specifically designed for live-fish transport, ensuring water quality, oxygen and temperature control. While Air Niugini has previously facilitated the export of live marine products to Hong Kong, those shipments originated from Australia and transited through Port Moresby. This recent operation represents the first-time live fish by a locally based sea food exporter have been exported directly from Papua New Guinea, enhancing the country’s position in the international seafood market,” the National Airline said. Air Niugini’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Gary Seddon emphasized the importance of this development and stated that air transport ensures that perishable exports, including live fish, reach global markets swiftly and in optimal condition, minimizing mortality and preserving quality. “It also enables exporters to access high-value international markets, enhancing profitability and supporting the country’s economy. There are specific handling protocols and regulatory compliances involved in the transportation of live marine products. Exporters interested in similar ventures should coordinate with Air Niugini Cargo well in advance to ensure all arrangements meet the necessary standards,” Mr. Seddon highlighted the specialized requirements for transporting live marine products. He added that this achievement underscores Air Niugini’s commitment to supporting Papua New Guinea’s export industries and expanding Papua New Guinea’s reach in global markets.

Air Niugini has announce the successful completion of the Airbus A220 cabin crew program at the Airbus Training Centre in Switzerland. The National Airline stated that this specialized program equips Air Niugini’s lead cabin crew instructors with the skills and certification required to deliver A220 training to the wider cabin crew team, supporting the airline’s long-term training capability and operational readiness. “The program focused on safety procedures, aircraft-specific systems, service standards, and emergency protocols tailored to the A220. Ten members of Air Niugini cabin crew attended the training, and they all successfully passed the program, with flying colours. Additional Air Niugini cabin crew will now proceed to Melbourne, Australia, for further A220 training over the coming weeks as part of the airline’s comprehensive Entry Into Service (EIS) program. The first A220 aircraft is now progressing to the paint shop stage, with delivery preparations underway. The journey to Papua New Guinea is currently being coordinated in parallel with efforts to ensure full regulatory compliance,” Air Niugini stated. Air Niugini said they are working in close partnership with the Civil Aviation Safety Authority of PNG (CASAPNG) to meet all safety and certification requirements for entry into service. “This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to safety, regulatory adherence, and the successful introduction of the aircraft into PNG’s commercial aviation system. Flight crew training is also progressing at the Airbus facility in Mirabel, Canada, where pilots are undergoing A220 type-rating and simulator training to support operations from day one,” the airline said. Air Niugini CEO Gary Seddon said the successful completion of the Train-the-Trainer program in Zurich is a critical step toward building their internal training capability and delivering a world-class onboard experience. “We are grateful for the strong cooperation of our regulator, CASAPNG, as we work together to safely introduce this game-changing aircraft to PNG skies. Air Niugini’s Airbus A220 fleet will begin entering service in September 2025, ushering in a new era of comfort, efficiency, and reliability for passengers across Papua New Guinea and the region,” Mr. Seddon said.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) took a significant step forward in its digital transformation journey last month at the Asia Pacific Biometrics Institute Conference held in Sydney, Australia. Representing PNG Immigration and Citizenship Service Authority (ICSA) Deputy Chief Migration Officer Clarence Parisau delivered a well-received presentation on the country’s progress towards implementing an ePassport system. Mr. Parisau’s presentation highlighted the milestones achieved so far, the challenges overcome, and the roadmap ahead for PNG’s biometric and digital identity infrastructure. The session drew interest from regional stakeholders, particularly in the context of enhancing border security and streamlining immigration processes through advanced biometric technologies. Chief Migration Officer, Wellington Navasivu, said it had been encouraging to see the keen interest of international partners in the progress ICSA is making in the ePassport implementation process. “The progress we are making is contingent on the continued hard work of our dedicated officers together with sustained funding and strong partnerships. We are committed to ensuring PNG remains at the forefront of digital identity innovation in the Pacific. I commend the hard work and dedication of ICSA officers working together alongside our partners to improve systems to ensure a seamless journey for travelers,” CMO Navasivu said. He said ICSA’s ongoing progress on ePassport and biometrics complements the National Government’s project on digital identity and border security improvements. “PNG ICSA will host members of the Pacific Immigration Development Community (PIDC) at a multi-day Biometrics and Passport event in Port Moresby later this year designed specifically for the Pacific in partnership with the Australian Government,” he added.

Air Niugini is undertaking its most significant transformation in five decades, with a new fleet on order and major reform across operations, finance, people, and commercial functions. “Over the next 12 months, our priority is disciplined delivery of the 2025–2027 Corporate Plan, ensuring aircraft arrive on time, financing is secured, and operational efficiencies are realized. This will be underpinned by investment in our people, in our systems and technical fleet readiness.” This was highlighted by Air Niugini Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Gary Seddon at the 40th Australia PNG Business Forum & Trade Expo which took place last week from the 23rd to 25 June at the Stanley Hotel in Port Moresby. The CEO participated in a roundtable on State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) sharing updates on Air Niugini's operations, performance, and strategic initiatives with a particular mention on the airline’s re-fleet program. “Our focus on staff development and technological innovation, such as digital tools for performance analysis, supports our goal of delivering world-class service while managing rising fuel costs and other industry challenges. We recognize our vital role in connecting communities, supporting trade, and fostering tourism. Our investments in fleet modernization and operational efficiencies are designed to elevate PNG’s position as a regional hub and improve the lives of our people,” Mr. Seddon said. He said by September 2025, the airline will introduce the first of eleven Airbus A220 aircraft, marking a significant milestone in its US$700 million re-fleeting transformation program. “This initiative aims to replace 65% of the current fleet within four years, ensuring more efficient, reliable and environmentally friendly service. The new A220s are capable of landing at the domestic airports currently serviced by the Fokker and Boeing fleet. The A220 can also service international destinations and will support the widebody fleet. “Our pilot, engineering teams and cabin crew are progressing well with comprehensive training to ensure a seamless transition to A220 operations. The first aircraft is currently in the final assembly phase and will soon enter the painting process, with operational readiness targeted for September 2025. This upgrade could catalyze economic activity and social development across the country. Sale of tickets on the new aircraft will commence imminently,” the CEO added. Mr. Seddon said there remains a need for critical airport infrastructure upgrades, recognizing the continued efforts of NAC, ADB and the PNG Government. He said these enhancements include extended runways, runway lighting, navigation aids, approach navigation and rescue firefighting equipment; key to enabling safe, reliable and around the clock operations. The CEO made reference to the Lae route which now benefits from fit for purpose infrastructure and reliable Boeing aircraft, allowing multiple daily flights that support affordable fares and dependable schedules. “Expanded runway and taxiway infrastructure in the future will expand opportunities for international routes from Nadzab Tomodachi airport. With new aircraft arriving in September and ongoing infrastructure improvements, Air Niugini is committed to continue to provide safe, affordable, and reliable air services that meet the needs of our nation and its people. The airline remains dedicated to executing strategic initiatives effectively, ensuring PNG’s continued progress in the aviation industry and beyond,” he said.

City Pharmacy Limited (CPL) through its CPL Wellness Clinic at Vision City has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Life Insurance Corporation (PNG) Ltd (LICL) to improve healthcare access for LICL clients across Papua New Guinea (PNG). The agreement, signed today 30th June 2025, enables LICL clients to access a wide range of medical services offered at the CPL Wellness Clinic, including general practitioner consultations, specialist appointments, laboratory tests, x-rays, ultrasounds, and more. Referred clients will be able to pay upfront and claim reimbursements through LICL, streamlining the process and improving access to quality health care. Mr. Pradeep Panda, Head of Pharmacy at CPL, stated, “This partnership reflects our ongoing commitment to make healthcare more accessible and efficient for all Papua New Guineans. By working with LICL, we are giving more alternative to their patients that will remove barriers and ensuring clients receive timely and professional care at our Wellness Clinic.” He said their clinic at vision city is open 7 days a week from 8am-8pm, that gives time flexibility to patient to come at their own convenience after work hours or on weekend. LICL CEO Mr. DE Dipayan added, “We are proud to collaborate with CPL in delivering greater value to our members. This MOU not only strengthens our service delivery model but also enhances the overall well-being of our policyholders.” The MOU outlines responsibilities for both parties, ensuring smooth coordination, client confidentiality, and quality service delivery. It will remain in effect for one year with potential for renewal. This initiative is part of CPL’s broader mission to promote integrated health services and build meaningful partnerships that drive positive community outcomes.