The West New Britain (WNB) Provincial Government was just recently recognised for its efforts in improving financial inclusion by the Bank of Papua New Guinea (BPNG) and the Center for Excellence in Financial Inclusion (CEFI). This recognition came in the form of a Provincial Engagement Award, which was presented on Friday 22nd November at the APEC Haus in Port Moresby city in the Financial Inclusion Excellence Award, hosted on the evening following the inaugural Financial Inclusion Forum held during the day. There to receive this prestigious award was Mr. Leo Makmani, the West New Britain Provincial Administrator (PA). “It’s a privilege for us to be recognised for what we are doing in the financial inclusion space in West New Britain,” said Mr. Makmani. The PA went on to thank BPNG and the Executive Director for CEFI for all the support provided to the province to roll out the financial literacy programs that was delivered to communities in all districts and Local Level Governments (LLGs) in West New Britain. Mr. Makmani also extended is gratitude to his team in the province who took lead in driving these programs to bank the unbanked population in West New Britain, and in so doing, improving the economy in the province. “I say thank you to my officers within the district and the LLGs and to CEFI, and we look forward to a prosperous 2025.” Meantime, the Milne Bay Provincial Government was also awarded the Provincial Engagement Award, recognising the provincial government’s great work in the financial inclusion space.

The Papua New Guinea (PNG) AFL national men’s team, the Mosquitoes (Mozzies), will bring home the Pacific Cup after a magnificent performance in the inaugural 2024 AFL Pacific Cup yesterday in the grand final showdown against Nauru at the Sunshine Coast, Australia. The Mozzies were crowned inaugural Pacific Cup Champions after defeating Nauru Chiefs 62 to 19 in the Open Men Grand Final on Saturday 23rd November, wrapping up what has been a tough challenge for the PNG national teams that participated in the Under 17 (U17) and the Open divisions against some of the best countries in the sport of AFL (Australian Football League). The PNG Flames also did exceptionally well, sitting on the fourth place on the Open Women’s ladder and heading into the 3rd and 4th place playoffs against Tonga Storm also on Saturday. The PNG girls too good for the Tongan girls, defeating them 71 to 22, winning the Bronze Medal Playoff and setting a women’s record score in the AFL Pacific Cup. The Mozzies’ victory at the Maroochydore Multisport Complex topped off what has been a great performance by the PNG teams in the 10 days of heated AFL competition. Earlier in the U17 division, the PNG Kurakums also took home the Pacific Cup after defeating Fiji Junior Vonu in the final match on Sunday 17th November with a massive 68 to 9, victory. While the PNG Binatangs boys came runner up in the U17 division. Meantime, this amazing show of talent and skills can be attributed to AFL PNG and AFL Talent Academy teams’ excellent efforts in selecting and preparing these outstanding PNG athletes, bring them onto the international stage and achieving good results in the sport of AFL for Papua New Guinea.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has fired back at the Opposition on claims that the government is withholding funds to districts and provinces represented by Members of Parliament who are in the Opposition, calling it a lie and stating that funds have been fairly distributed. Prime Minister Marape in a statement said that he will prove this once the Finance Department makes available printout of the funding, which he would have it published for public scrutiny the distribution in service development funds of District Services Improvement Program (DSIP) and Provincial Services Improvement Program (PSIP). Marape, in turn, criticised Members of the Opposition who have taken to the media to spread this misinformation for the sake of political mileage, adding that these MPs were covering up their lack of service-delivery in their own districts and provinces under the guise of their public outcries. He also reiterated that his government has no intention of making Opposition MPs suffer and that every MP is treated fairly when it comes to development funds. “This government does not weaponize the budget to discriminate against Members of Parliament,” said the PM. “This Pangu-led Government knows our responsibility to the country. Since 2019, our budget use is clear evidence of how we distribute funding. “All districts and provinces, whether they are in the Opposition or Government, receive their DSIP and PSIP. We support all provinces in their functional grant and monies for all Provincial Health Authorities." “We allocate fairly to all. When cash flow is available, we remit the funds that we collect.” PM Marape said Members in the Opposition take to social media to sensationalize government matters to get out political mileage yet have no courtesy to acknowledge Government when they receive these funds. “Once these funds are delayed slightly, they go mouthing off to rally public sympathy, but hardly will you see them acknowledge Government for the granting of these monies for their districts and provinces,” he said. The Prime Minister said, since 2019, a large amount of funding has been transferred from Waigani under his administration to provinces and districts, yet local MPs and provincial governors are not held accountable for non-delivery of services in their districts and provinces.

The much-anticipated inaugural Central Province Investment Conference (CPIC) has now been moved to next year instead of next week as initially scheduled. This was announced by President and interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Central Chamber of Commence and Industry (CCCI), Linda Paru, stating that deferral will also give enough time for the organising committee to finalise things. The investment conference was originally set for November 27- 28, but now it has been rescheduled to February 27- 28, 2025. Central Governor, Rufina Peter also made a statement on the deferral saying that the upcoming parliament session was the reason for the rescheduling. “The rescheduling is due to an oversite on the dates for the November parliament session which commences on November 26th, making it difficult for myself as the Central province Governor and the Minister for International Trade and Investment, Richard Maru to attend and participate in this inaugural event for Central province,” said Governor Peter. Ms. Paru added that the adjusted timing offers the organizing committee and stakeholders additional time to refine and elevate the event’s preparations. “This event is historical,” she noted. “As the first investment conference for Central province and CCCI, it’s essential that we bring it to fruition with careful planning and a robust turnout.” The conference aims to recognise existing businesses in Central province and provide a platform for new investors and business houses interested in the region. It will be a cornerstone event, anticipated to stimulate new business opportunities, enhance provincial revenue, and position Central province as the next major investment destination close to Port Moresby city. “Central province has much to offer investors with rich resources across agriculture, livestock, fisheries, forestry, tourism, real estate, etc.,” Ms. Paru emphasised. She further highlighted the province’s strategic location, sharing a land boundary with Port Moresby, and its potential to become a leading business hub. With anticipated full- capacity attendance, CCI looks forward to welcoming investors from diverse sectors. Updated details regarding the rescheduled conference, including registration, will be provided by the committee in collaboration with the Governor’s office. Registration, which opened on September 20th, remains ongoing and will continue until the conference dates. Further announcements will be made by the CCCI and Central Provincial Government late this year.

Investors looking for information on the various key regulatory policies on doing business in Papua New Guinea will have access to all of that in the upcoming 2024 PNG Investment Week in Sydney, Australia next month. Such information is critical for making informed business decisions, especially if one is choosing to invest in PNG, and with this in mind, PNG’s flagship investment promotion event, the 2024 PNG Investment Week has opted to commence its proceedings with a Regulators Forum first before moving on to other things. To take place on Day 1 of PNG Investment Week - Sunday December 8th, 2024 - at the Sydney International Convention Centre, The PNG Regulators Forum will feature presentations from all key State Agencies, beginning with the Investment Promotion Authority. According to President of PNG Chamber of Resources & Energy (PNG CORE), Anthony Smaré, this decision to have the regulators open PNG Investment Week was strategic, given the need for investors to be aware of regulatory requirements at the outset to provide confidence and assurance for them as they explore investment and trade with PNG. The PNG Regulators Forum will begin with the PNG Investment Promotion Authority (IPA) providing an overview of the requirements to for business registration in PNG. The IPA will also provide an overview of the various sectors of business in PNG that have seen growth in recent years. This will be followed by the Internal Revenue Commission of PNG (IRC) presenting on the tax registration, compliance and incentives for businesses that want to invest in PNG – this will be crucial given the event will be held immediately after the 2025 national budget is passed. PNG Customs Services will then provide an overview of the import and export guidelines, whilst the Independent Consumer Competition Commission (ICCC) will provide an overview of rules around business mergers and acquisitions in PNG, which is critical information for potential investors into PNG. Furthermore, the regulators from mining (Mineral Resources Authority, and Department of Mineral Policy & Geohazard Management), petroleum (Department of Petroleum), energy (National Energy Authority), and environment (Conservational and Environment Protection Authority) will also present on their respective requirements for doing business in PNG, with a specific focus on each sector. Mr. Smaré says this will be the first time as well the event will feature presentations from the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), National Fisheries Authority (NFA), PNG Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA), and PNG Forest Authority (PNGFA), who will speak on regulations within their respective sectors. “The PNG Regulators Forum represents the key state agencies from across a cross-section of PNG’s economy and is a must-attend event for those that are serious in learning more about the dynamic opportunities that exist in PNG and provides an opportunity to hear first-hand from the entities that are directly involved in regulating these sectors," said Mr. Smaré. "We appreciate the support of the Chief Secretary Ambassador Ivan Pomaleu, Deputy Secretary Frank Aisi and the rest of the team at the Prime Minister’s Department for helping us put the Regulators Forum together with such strong participation from our regulators."

The much-anticipated full investigation into the East New Britain Palm Oil Limited (ENBPOL) dealings and alleged price fixing is finally set commence next week in Kokopo city, East New Britain (ENB) province. The Minister for International Trade and Investment, Richard Maru, announced this following the arrival of the Chairman, Mr. David Mather to Papua New Guinea from London on Tuesday, who will lead the investigation team. He will be in the beautiful city of Kokopo next week for the investigation to commence from November 24th to 30th, 2024. They will be meeting with the oil palm farmers, the provincial government and all stakeholders including the company concerned (ENBPOL). The Members of the Investigation Team include: 1. Mr. David Mather- Chairman 2. Mr. David Towe- Chief Commissioner for Papua New Guinea Customs Service 3. Mr. Daniel Koiam- Chartered Accountant/Economist 4. Mr. Tony Waisi- Lawyer 5. Mr. Andy Ambulu- Lawyer 6. Ms. Michelle Auamoromoro- Secretary to the Investigation Team This investigation was approved by the National Executive Council (NEC) following a petition by the local oil palm growers and landowners of Gazelle Peninsula and Wider Bay Area of ENB province calling for an investigation into the alleged exploitation of an unfair trade practices by the ENBPOL for illegal price fixing of K10 per metric ton for Fresh Fruits Bunch (FFB) payments from November 2014 to 2022, and K15 per metric ton from 2023-2024. Minister Maru also emphasized the importance of this investigation. “The complaints from the Gazelle farmers may just be the tip of an iceberg on the rot in the industry when it comes to landowner benefits from the development on their land, their sweat, and labour,” Minister Maru said. “The Marape-Rosso Government will have to act so we can get a far better package to encourage our people to free up land for oil palm development.” The minister also looks forward to the outcome of this investigation. “We look forward to the findings and recommendations of the investigation team which will be important to all key stakeholders, the growers and landowners, the oil palm developers, this Government, and key Government agencies who may need to take hold of the report and implement changes.” He added that the investigation will also guide the Government to reform the oil palm industry to ensure that such alleged rip offs do not happen again. “This is a very important investigation for the Government and it is the first time in the country’s history that the Government is investigating the price of oil palm upon receiving complaints from over 15, 000 village oil palm farmers who have requested the Government’s intervention to help them and their families see 500-600% increase in the oil palm prices, similar to farmers in West New Britain Province.” Minister Maru then thanked the ENB Governor, Michael Marum, and his Provincial Administrator for fully supporting this investigation with financial assistance to meet critical on-ground expenses for this investigation.

BSP Financial Group Limited has successfully opened its new Telefomin Branch, offering customers better access to all banking services, including ATM services after almost 40 years of limited banking options. BSP Telefomin Branch opened yesterday, Monday 18th November 2024. Housed in the Telefomin District Administration office complex, this new facility will offer full banking services to customers – giving them opportunity to open accounts, over the counter cash transactions, access to lending as well as other products. To support the community after hours, ATMs are available for use by customers. BSP Group General Manager Retail, Ronesh Dayal attended the opening and shared that BSP is proud to service customers in this remote part of the country. “It is not only a reflection of BSP's commitment to this community but also a demonstration of our ongoing commitment to change and growth.” “This year, we are taking bold steps to enhance our services and make banking more accessible for all Papua New Guineans.” “Previously, local residents were challenged by travelling to Vanimo, Kiunga and Tabubil for their banking needs.” “The new branch is in a larger modern building and will have more staff to serve customers.” “ATM services is a new inclusion at the Telefomin branch, providing a vital service to more than fifty thousand people living in the Telefomin, Yapsi and Oksapmin LLGs of the district. It is our hope that through these services, we can empower individuals and businesses to thrive and achieve their financial aspirations,” Mr Dayal added. BSP’s contribution to Telefomin extends beyond banking services. BSP has invested in community projects across the West Sepik Province, with a total contribution of K670, 000 since 2009 supporting 28 projects in areas such as education and infrastructure. Two Community projects were delivered in Telefomin and Oksapmin. The BSP team was welcomed by the MP for Telefomin and Minister for Works and Highway Honourable Solan Mirisim. He expressed his gratitude reiterating that his people will now be able to access banking services without having to travel to Tabubil, Kiunga or Vanimo to do banking. BSP remains committed to serving customers, support their growth, and look forward to building an enduring relationship with the people of Telefomin.

Captain Beverly Pakii, Air Niugini’s female pilot continues to make history, this time by becoming the first Papua New Guinean to be certified as an Airbus A220 Captain. She achieved this milestone after successfully completing her type rating with distinction in Montreal, Canada on Monday 18th November. Captain Pakii is among three Air Niugini pilots who started on the Initial A220 Pilot training in Canada as part of the aircraft’s Entry Into Service (EIS). Air Niugini will welcome its first brand new A220 aircraft in September next year, coinciding with Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence anniversary celebrations. Captain Pakii is a trailblazer, whose continuous historical achievements are exciting news not only for Air Niugini but the country and the region. Air Niugini Board Chairman, Mr. Karl Yalo congratulated Captain Pakii for a stellar achievement. “The Board of Directors are very proud of Captain Pakii on this achievement.” One of the two female Board Directors, Lady Aivu Tauvasa in congratulating Captain Pakii said, “Captain Pakii brings pride to our women and Papua New Guinea.” Director, Dame Monica Salter, echoed with similar sentiments,” Congratulations Captain Pakii, you have made Air Niugini and the women of Papua New Guinea very proud.” Captain Pakii is also PNG’s first female jet captain and Dash 8 captain, progressing through Air Niugini’s pilot cadet program. She is also the first Air Niugini female captain to command an all-female crew on Dash 8 earlier on during her career. Captain Pakii is still in Canada with the other pilots, who are part of the Air Niugini project team for the A220 and will work closely with other departments within the organization for a smooth introduction for the A220. The team is led by Air Niugini’s Executive Manager, Flight Training and Standards, Captain Timothy (Tico) Narara whose is responsible for inducting Air Niugini pilots into the A220 flight team. A proud Captain Narara was the first to congratulate Captain Pakii after her check yesterday. He said, “The 4-week course in Montreal is an Airbus course and as such has strict prerequisites and conditions. It comprises of 5 days of ground school, 5 Fixed training device (FTD) sessions and 8 Full Flight Simulator (FFS) sessions, which includes the check ride. “Captain Pakii passed her check with distinction on Monday the 18th of November, making her the first Papua New Guinean to receive a type rating on the A220,” he said. Air Niugini Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Gary Seddon, also congratulated Captain Pakii and the Air Niugini team in Canada. “This is a wonderful day for Air Niugini and for aviation in Papua New Guinea. This is testament to the work that is going on behind the scenes and around the clock, to bring these new aircraft to the people of PNG.” Under Air Niugini’s re-fleeting program, the airline is acquiring 11 brand new Airbus A220 regional jets. The A220s are recognised for their versatility, operating efficiency, and passenger comfort. The A220 is capable of operating across PNG and will replace all current Fokker operations as well as undertake several international sectors.

Kina Bank is urging its customers to fully utilize its Digital Hubs for convenience in banking after the bank launched a series of them in Port Moresby city just recently. Kina Bank Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Roppe Uyassi, said they opened their third digital hub in Port Moresby at the Rangeview Plaza on Tuesday 12th November. “These hubs are an extension of our branches and although they are cashless, they provide our customers with a convenient means to access almost all the services you would expect from a branch and help our customers to transition into greater usage of digital banking services,” Mr. Uyassi said. The services these hubs provide include opening of Kina Bank accounts, issuing of Visa Debit cards, attending to customer enquiries, registration on internet and WhatsApp banking, conducting education and awareness of Kina Bank products & services. "Our customers will also be able to apply for personal loans directly from the Hubs," he further said. "The Digital Hubs are making banking accessible and bringing it closer to where our communities live, work and shop, we are paving the way for a more inclusive banking experience.” Kina Bank currently has two existing digital hubs located at the Eliseo Rainbow Shopping Mall and the Boroko Post PNG which have been operating since October last year. The bank also officially opened its fourth digital hub at the Eliseo Waigani Supermarket on Thursday, 14th November, bringing the total number of hubs in Port Moresby to four. There are also plans to open a Digital Hub in Lae city before the end of this year and further expand into more locations nationwide.

The PNG Mosquitoes (Mozzies) kicked off their campaign in the inaugural 2024 AFL Pacific Cup on a high note after an excellent performance against Fiji Tribe at the Maroochydore Multi Sports Complex on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, Australia. The PNG boys played extremely well, defeating the Fiji boys with a massive 91- 10 victory in the Open division of the competition yesterday, Monday 18th November. The next match for the Mozzies is expected to take place on Thursday November 21st where they will play against the Nauru Chiefs at 4:30pm in the afternoon. Meantime, the PNG Under- 17 (U17) Binatang boys finished a very close runner up in the 2024 AFL Pacific Cup in the U17 division of the competition. It was indeed a successful week for the AFL PNG Talent Academy teams, topping off with the PNG Kurakums crowned 2024 AFL Pacific Cup Champions, taking home the Cup where they were given a hero’s welcome by their families at the Jackson International Airport in Port Moresby city yesterday. Meanwhile, looking the PNG Flames campaign in the Pacific Cup, the girls have about three matches lined up for them. The PNG women’s national team will take on Tonga Storm this afternoon at 2pm. They will then meet New Zealand Kahu tomorrow and then take on Nauru Aroeni on Thursday 21st November.

Kina Bank customers can soon expect better services with the bank set to open more of its state-of-the-art Digital Hubs in 2025. Kina Bank Head of Banking Distribution Hylton Levi said this following the recent opening the bank’s fourth Digital Hub in Port Moresby city at the Eliseo Waigani Supermarket on Thursday 14th November 2024. Kina Bank aims to provide convenient banking options to customers through this initiative and more. “These hubs are an extension of our branches and although they are cashless, they provide our customers with a convenient way to access almost all the services you would expect from a branch and help our customers to transition into greater usage of digital banking services,” Mr. Levi said. The services these hubs provide include opening of Kina Bank accounts, issuing of Visa Debit cards, attending to customer enquiries, registration on internet and WhatsApp banking, conducting education and awareness of Kina Bank products and services. “Our customers will also be able to apply for personal loans directly from the Hubs. The Digital Hubs are making banking accessible and bringing it closer to where our communities live, work and shop, we are paving the way for a more inclusive banking experience.” Director of Eliseo Group Jacky Chow expressed gratitude towards Kina Bank for partnering with Eliseo to provide customers a convenient way to access banking services easily. “We appreciate Kina Bank’s commitment to customer needs by partnering with us to establish this Digital Hub here, which is the second one for Eliseo after the one at our Rainbow supermarket. It’s great to see that customers can handle their banking and shopping needs in one convenient location,” he stated. Kina Bank currently has three existing Digital Hubs located at the Eliseo Rainbow Shopping Mall, Boroko Post Office and Rangeview Plaza, and plans are underway to open one in Lae before the end of this year and more to be opened, nationwide, in 2025.

The PNG Kurakums have been crowned champions in the inaugural 2024 AFL Pacific Cup after performing extremely well in the Under 17 division. It was a memorable moment and a wonderful achievement for the PNG girls, having won all their matches in the females’ competition and defeating Fiji Junior Vonu in the final match on Sunday with a massive 68 to 9. PNG Kurakums Coach, Dominic Worio said they are bringing home the Pacific Cup. Also, a huge congratulation to Mackelyn Hendingao who was voted the Best & Fairest player in the U17 Youth Female division. The PNG girls’ performance in the Pacific Cup was just excellent with a victory over Tonga Storm 39- 15 on Thursday 14th November, followed by another victory over the Nauru Angels 47- 13, on Friday 15th November. Following their victory, the PNG girls expressed their gratitude for the support they received from their friends, families and partners who supported the AFL PNG Talent Academy to ensure they participated in the 2024 AFL Pacific Cup. Meanwhile, the 2024 AFL Pacific Cup Open Men’s and Women’s division competitions start today, Monday 18th November. The senior PNG National Teams, the Mozzies and the Flames have games this afternoon. The Flames will meet Tonga Storm in the female’s competition at 2pm, while the Mozzies will take on Tonga Thunder in the men’s competition at 4:15pm. All matches will be played at the Maroochydore Multi Sports Complex on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, Australia.