Access to affordable connectivity plays a huge role in an emerging market like in Papua New Guinea (PNG), leading to improved access to services provided to the people. The Minister for Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Tomothy Masiu stressed this when launching Vodafone’s independence special promotion in Port Moresby city this week. “As a champion of technology change, I believe connectivity is one of the biggest equalizers. Access to affordable connectivity plays a huge role in improving people’s lives and contributing to the country’s growth,” said Minister Masiu. The Minister said affordable connectivity means that rural school students can access the same teaching material as urban students, access online learning, people can use technology to start small and micro businesses, access information and government services. “There are many services, such as mobile money and other value- added services that can be built on the foundation of reliable and affordable connectivity,” the minister added. “With the liberalization of the Telecoms industry, and entry of new players like Vodafone, the game is changing. Cost of connectivity is becoming much more affordable; plans are becoming cheaper; phones are more affordable and there are amazing promotions for customers to choose from.” He also revealed that latest reports indicate that cost of connectivity and data continue to fall, and more people are connected today than ever before.

Access to affordable connectivity goes a long way to improving the lives of people, especially in the rural parts of the country to have access to basic services through communication infrastructures, but for that to happen, there must be low cost of connectivity. Now, this can happen when there are initiatives or players in the communication market who can introduce innovations that can lower the costs in communication and internet. At the start of this year, United States (US) company Starlink was introduced to the country’s communication market with the potential of significantly lowering internet cost. Starlink is a satellite internet system owned by SpaceX that hopes to deliver high- speed internet across the globe. Starlink is being pithed as the internet solution of choice in areas where connectivity has been challenging, such as rural and regional areas. However, their entry into the communication market has been halted due to issues with the approval of the license to operate. This matter was brought up recently by the US Ambassador to Papua New Guinea (PNG), Her Excellency Anne Marie Yastishock in a meeting with the Minister for International Trade and Investments, Richard Maru, where she said it was difficult to attract American companies to invest in PNG if they continue to go through the frustrations of establishing themselves. She used Starlink as a classic example to this matter. She said Starlink was promised a license in January this year and they still have not had their approval. However, it is understood that the delay was due to the PNG Ombudsman Commission stopping the National Information Communication Technology Authority (NICTA) from issuing the license because of some investigations which have taken over eight months. This was also confirmed by the NICTA Board Chairman Mr. Noel Mobiha in a very short statement on August 14th, where he addressed queries on the Starlink license by stating that the matter is now subject to a judicial review proceeding before the National Court of Justice at Waigani. Meantime, the Minister for Information, Communication and Technology (ICT), Timothy Masiu in an interview with PNG HAUSBUNG on Wednesday 28th August, made it clear that initially in January NICTA commenced negotiations with Starlink on the license, and not what people thought then that the license was already approved. “As Minister, I did not say we’re giving them a license because NICTA as the regulator, they have to go through the full process. The regulator is now engaging with Starlink and in the event that the requirements and processes and procedures are completed, a license will be awarded,” said the minister. However, that process has been halted with current Judicial review in place. Nevertheless, until this matter with the license is fully resolved, the possibilities of lower cost of internet in PNG and coverage to most of the rural parts of the county, will have to wait.

Mobile telecommunication provider Vodafone since commencing operating in Papua New Guinea (PNG) not so long ago has expanded its network coverage to almost covering the whole country within a short period of time. This was revealed by Vodafone PNG Regional Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Pradeep Lal when launching Vodafone’s Independence special promotion yesterday, Thursday 29th August at the Vodafone Haus in Port Moresby city. He said in short span of two years Vodafone has built four new Data Centers at key locations and over 800 towers covering all 22 provinces. “We have over a million subscribers on our network and market share of 25 percent and growing,” said the Vodafone Regional CEO. “All our sites are 4G, which means that our customers get a much better and faster data experience, and with 70 percent smartphone penetration on our network, it is a little wonder why we have become the data network choice for customers.” In addition to this span of network coverage, there is also the affordable costs of its products and services. “We have introduced price plans and value never seen in PNG before, we have reduced phone and device prices to make them more accessible and affordable to everyone, and we carry the entire range- Apple, Samsung, Alcatel Xiaomi, Anya, TCL, Huawei, a phone at a price to suit every customer.” “We believe that connectivity is a basic human right that has the power to transform lives, and nothing will stop us from brining technology within reach, creating new opportunities and stimulate growth,” said Mr. Lal. Since Vodafone’s inception into the PNG communication market, the mobile telecommunication provider has invested over K3billion in building a robust and resilient network in PNG.

The Minister for Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has launched Vodafone’s special promotions and cash prizes just in time to mark the country’s 49th Independence celebrations coming up next month. Minister Tomothy Masiu when launching the Independence promotion at the Vodafone Haus in Port Moresby this morning, said he was honoured and excited to launch this promotion for Vodafone that embodies the spirit of the cultures of Papua New Guinea (PNG) that brings everyone together. “This promotion is not just about celebrating our independence, but also about looking forward to the future with optimism and hope,” said Minister Masiu. “It is an opportunity for us to take advantage of the special deals and use connectivity to come together as a community, to use the power of connectivity to improve our lives and make a difference.” To symbolize PNG’s 49th Independence, Vodafone launched 4 special promotions and cash prizes to a value of K490, 000 to be won. Every transaction gets customers an entry, so no one is left out, and the more customers spend, the more entries customers get. The prices include, · 4 major winners of K49, 000 from each region · 10 weekly winners of K4, 900, two each from each of the 4 regions and two nationwide · Prices never seen in PNG before on brands like Apple, Samsung, Alcatel, Xiaomi, Anya and more · An exclusive to Vodafone only customers surprise that will run for two weeks. To participate in the promotion, customers can top up any amount to get a chance to win. Also, customers can subscribe to any prepaid plan to get a chance to participate in the promotion, and customers can also purchase any of Vodafone devices from any of its outlets to enter the promo. The promotion will run for 6 weeks starting today and there is something for everyone to enjoy. Meantime, Vodafone PNG Regional Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Pradeep Lal said there is more to come. “And the great news is that this is not the end. We have an even bigger surprise promotion; something never done in PNG before. This promotion will run for two weeks, a week before, during and after the Independence Day. Stay tuned for this big announcement.”

The quick efforts to restore traffic along the Yalu Bridge outside Lae city after it had been damaged by flood waters caused by torrential rain last week, has drawn commendations from the prime minister. Prime Minister James Marape in a statement issued while attending the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) in Tonga, extended his commendation to all those involved in the successful restoration of traffic along the Yalu Bridge on the Highlands Highway, located just outside Lae. “I commend everyone involved in restoring the flow of traffic over the Yalu Bridge after three days,” Prime Minister Marape stated. He acknowledged the contributions and efforts of key individuals and organisations, including Lae MP and Acting Prime Minister John Rosso, the Department of Works and Highways under the leadership of Acting Secretary Gibson Holemba, Provincial Works Manager Samson Apai and his engineering team, the Morobe Provincial Administration under Provincial Administrator Max Bruten, as well as the Lae and Morobe Police, business houses, and all others who contributed in various ways towards the reopening of the bridge. “I thank everyone for your patience during this challenging time,” added Prime Minister Marape. Meantime, Prime Minister Marape announced that a new four-lane bridge will be constructed over the Yalu River, funded by the National Government. This development is part of the broader infrastructure project covering the Yalu Bridge to Nadzab stretch of the Lae- Nadzab Road. “The construction of a new four-lane bridge over the Yalu River will soon commence. This project is a significant component of the Yalu Bridge to Nadzab stretch of the Lae-Nadzab Road, aimed at improving connectivity and supporting economic growth in the region,” Prime Minister Marape stated

FinCorp Limited today announced the appointment of Mr Mark Ellul GAICD and Mr. Loi Martin Bakani CMG, to its Board of Directors. Both bring a wealth of experience and expertise that will undoubtedly contribute to FinCorp’s growth and strategic direction. Mr Ellul joins FinCorp’s Board with extensive experience in the banking and financial sector, having held senior executive roles at ANZ Bank and Halifax Bank of Scotland (HBOS)/Bankwest. Mr. Ellul’s notable achievements include driving and managing complex business turnarounds and operations, implementing strategic policies and risk profiles, and leading sustainability transitions. His experience in engaging with a wide range of stakeholders and executing complex organizational structures across diverse regions, including PNG and the Pacific, will be invaluable to FinCorp. Mr Ellul’s previous roles include: • Head of Community Sustainability/Senior Advisor Sustainability Transition at ANZ • Executive Director Institutional Banking at ANZ Papua New Guinea • Board Member/Non-Executive Director at ANZ Vanuatu Limited • Chief Risk Officer for Fiji and Deputy Chief Risk Officer for the Pacific; and • Head of Credit Fiji & Pacific and Chief Risk Officer Samoa, Tonga & Cook Islands Mr Ellul’s leadership, including within sustainability and ESG matters, risk and governance, as well as, his strategic mindset, will support FinCorp's mission to optimize resources, increase efficiency, and maximize profit while maintaining quality and workplace morale. Mr Loi Martin Bakani CMG, the former Governor of the Bank of Papua New Guinea (BPNG), brings over a decade of experience in central banking and financial sector reform. During his tenure, Mr. Bakani led significant reforms in microfinance, financial inclusion, and the modernization of payment systems. His efforts in establishing the Centre for Excellence in Financial Inclusion (CEFI) and implementing the Kina Automated Transfer System (KATS) have been pivotal in advancing the financial landscape of Papua New Guinea. Mr. Bakani’s previous roles include: • Governor and Chairman of the Bank of Papua New Guinea (2009-2021) • Deputy Governor - Policy and Regulations at BPNG (2005-2009) • Deputy Chairman of the State team on the establishment of the Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF); and • Chairman of the BPNG Board Committee for reviewing the Central Banking Act 2000 His extensive involvement in international and regional financial institutions and groups, commitment to policy advocacy, and dedication to transparency and accountability make him a valuable addition to the Board. Goiye Gileng, FinCorp’s Board Chairman commented that, "FinCorp is thrilled to welcome Mr Mark Ellul and Mr Loi Martin Bakani CMG to its Board of Directors.” “Their vast experience and exceptional leadership qualities will be instrumental in guiding FinCorp towards achieving its strategic objectives and reinforcing its commitment to excellence in the financial services sector." Andre Bester, FinCorp’s Acting Chief Executive Officer also stated that, "The addition of Mr. Ellul and Mr. Bakani to it's Board comes at a pivotal time for FinCorp.” “Their insights and expertise will be crucial as the brand continue to innovate and expand its offerings. FinCorp is confident that their contributions will significantly enhance the brands' ability to serve its customers and stakeholders effectively." The Board and Management of FinCorp Limited is confident that the expertise and leadership of Mr. Mark Ellul and Mr. Loi Martin Bakani CMG will drive the FinCorp’ brand forward, ensuring continued growth and success.

In light of the current inflation experienced in the country, the Papua New Guinea (PNG) National Research Institute (NRI) has issued its recent Spotlight edition highlighting some fiscal policy options that the government should consider going forward in addressing inflation. PNG is currently experiencing imported inflation which directly affects the welfare of people and cost of businesses. The inflation pressure has been caused mainly by high taxes on imports and inflation in the exporting countries because of the COVID-19 pandemic and the war between Russia and Ukraine, and the weakening Kina that emanates from the domestic exchange rate reform. The National Research Institute Spotlight Volume 17, Issue 15 titled: “Can macroeconomic policies address the current inflation situation in Papua New Guinea?” states that, of the three macroeconomic policies, monetary and exchange rate policy instruments, cannot effectively address the current inflation, but fiscal policy tools can but at a cost to the government. This latest edition, which was authored by Dr Thomas Wangi, listed some fiscal policy options that can be considered to address the current inflation situation in PNG. They are as follows: · Provide tax relief measures on imports, · Reduce goods and services tax (GST), · Reintroduce fuel subsidy, · Reduce personal income tax, and · Substitute imports, mainly through the agriculture sector. Inflation, which is a general increase in the price of goods and services in an economy over a period is generally bad for the economy, especially when the inflation rates rise rapidly. This is because it reduces the demand for goods and services, increases the cost of living, increases the cost of doing business, and discourages new investments and expansion of existing businesses. Meantime, the Report can be accessed on the PNG NRI website https://www.pngnri.org.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has met with Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka on the margins of the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) in Tonga where both Melanesian leaders talked on furthering trade and security cooperation. The meeting, which took place on Monday 26th August, discussed mutual areas of concern between Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Fiji, where the two leaders continued to explore and strengthen the bilateral cooperation between the two countries. The agenda covered progress of the PNG-Fiji Defence Cooperation, engagement of Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) in peace-keeping operations, trade and investment, land availability in both countries for respective missions, education, and the continuation of the Sir Mara and Sir Michael legacy. Marape informed PM Rabuka that the defence cooperation between the two countries will be progressed, and also highlighted to his counterpart the great potential for trade and investment existing between the two nations, urging bureaucracies of the two nations to work together through the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) avenue to progress trade and investment further. He informed PM Rabuka that PNG is now focusing on commerce, business, trade and investment, and exploring further markets in Asia and the Pacific. The Prime Minister highlighted the East New Britain Initiative (ENBi) in PNG as a regional fisheries commercialisation concept for the fishing and processing of the region's marine resources for export. He stressed that the ENBi provides the opportunity to Pacific Island countries to invest in the project for better returns than what Pacific countries are currently getting from raw tuna export. Marape also made known the availability of land to Prime Minister Rabuka for the construction of the Fiji mission building in Port Moresby city, committing K25 million to start the construction. He then thanked Mr Rabuka for the land the Fiji government is making available to PNG to build its mission office in Suva. Regarding PNG students in Fiji at the University of South Pacific, Prime Minister Marape said PNG would sign up as a member of University of South Pacific, and that the PNG government is looking at scholarship options for Pacific Islands students studying at Pacific Adventist University in PNG.

A group of provincial administration members from East Sepik Province (ESP) were on a fact- finding mission just recently with the assistance of Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) to gain insights on mining operations to prepare for the upcoming Frieda River Project in the Sepik region. The delegation from the Provincial Administration Mining Desk Team, visited from the 11th – 16th August, to understand the various aspects of the mine operations to address some of their concerns with the upcoming Frieda River Copper-Gold Project. The Frieda River Project is located in a region shared by both East and West Sepik Provinces, and has garnered significant attention from local communities due to its potential impact on the environment, particularly concerning the Sepik River and its floodplain system. The delegation visited the Mine, Mill, Ok Menga Hydro Power Station, Bige and Kiunga Operations, and had the opportunity to witness the second stage of regional meetings for the current Community Mine Continuation Agreement (CMCA) Review. They observed the management of mine waste, pyrite concentrate plant, environment monitoring, community relations activities, national and local content business structure, and community development programs, particularly through the Ok Tedi Development Foundation (OTDF). Team Lead Mr. Martin Torovi said Ok Tedi is of a similar physical setting to the proposed Frieda River Mine and the legacy issues of Ok Tedi are the very concerns and anxiety of the Sepik River People. “If Environmental Permit is granted, East Sepik Provincial Administration will be tasked with managing a large mine’s environmental “impact” and benefit sharing agreements and negotiations. We Sepiks do not have the experience to manage these issues. As such we reached out to Ok Tedi for the learning experience,” said Mr. Torovi. “Some of the key takeaways from the visit include: The Development of Engineered Waste Rock Dumps; pyrite treatment plant; Bige Dredging; sustainable development projects; and understanding the Equity, Royalty, Trusts and Development Funds structure.” Mr. Torovi added, “We also could not have asked for a better time to conduct this visit. We had the opportunity to observe the CMCA meetings that is very appropriate to the concerns we have.” Provincial Mine and Lands Minister and President of Gaui Local Level Goverrnment, Mr. Leo Singut said he was appreciative of the opportunity to visit and learn from Ok Tedi. Meantime, OTML Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Kedi Ilimbit, said OTML was happy to provide the delegation valuable insight into the multifaceted activities of their operation. “We believe the visit has provided them valuable information as they prepare for the upcoming Frieda River Project and its impacts in their respective region and province,” said Mr. Ilimbit.

The recent visit by the new President- elect for Indonesia, H.E Prabowo Subianto to the country, has drawn condemnation from the Media Council of Papua New Guinea (MCPNG) after a local female journalist was prevented from attending the arrival and bilateral meetings on Wednesday 21st August in Port Moresby city. Ms. Harlyne Joku, an experienced Journalist writing for Online news platform, Benar News, was denied entry to a joint Press Conference between Papua New Guinea (PNG) Prime Minister (PM) James Marape, and the Indonesian President, despite having all required accreditation to cover the event. Ms. Joku was initially denied entry by Indonesian Officials at the APEC Terminal to cover President Subianto’s arrival, and only gained entry after appealing to a senior PNG Government Minister. She was later told by a local PNG Ministerial Officer that she was not allowed to attend the joint press conference at the direction of Indonesian officials. While she was later advised by an Indonesian Government Official that it was a case of miscommunication, she was still denied access to the joint leaders press conference. Council President Neville Choi condemned the restrictions against Ms. Joku, describing it as an attack on PNG’s independent media sector, and an affront on PNG’s political sovereignty. “This is not the first time for visiting foreign delegations to impose restrictions on PNG journalists covering their events. It is also not the first time that PNG government officials have acquiesced to such requests against coverage of events made accessible to all accredited PNG media,” said Mr. Choi. He said it is even more abhorrent that these restrictions were made because of the origin and professional work of the journalist concerned. “The atrocities inflicted on the people of West Papua by the Indonesian government are not a taboo subject for the media in PNG. Any level of atrocities and humiliation of the worst kind must be reported on. Regardless of how it portrays the Indonesian government’s management of its national issues.” “It is also shameful that the PNG government officials involved in this international visit allowed this to happen to a PNG journalist,” Mr. Choi said. Ms. Joku, now based in Port Moresby, was born in West Papua and has recently been covering stories of human rights abuses and the ongoing push for Independence of the people in the Indonesian-controlled West Papua region. Speaking on behalf of the Council, Mr. Choi said the media in PNG, and its coverage of national news and events, must be allowed to freely practice their craft without fear or intimidation. “The human rights abuses against the people of West Papua have been widely reported on. The restrictions against Ms. Joku portrays a dismal picture of how this issue will be dealt with under President Subianto’s tenure.” Mr. Choi said the Council is concerned that these actions reflect the lack of respect for the rights and freedom of the press. He called on all PNG government to do its part in protecting the rights of journalists in PNG.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Indonesia will further their bilateral relationship by expanding and improving on the people- to- people and business- to business relationships going forward. That was the announcement by Prime Minister James Marape following the bilateral meeting this afternoon with the President elect for Indonesia, H.E Prabowo Subianto at the Stanley Hotel in Port Moresby city. “The government- to- government relationship has never been better,” Prime Minister Marape expressed. “We’ve maintained good dialogue in relationship since 1975 when we became independent, but in this relationship, we are fine tuning more in as far as people- to- people and business- to- business, to grow out of this relationship.” Both leaders also agreed to continue the respect of the sovereignty of both nations as PNG and Indonesia share a common land border and common people to people ties. Also agreed was the continuation of the three leaders dialogue, which Marape initiated with the outgoing Indonesian President, Joko Widodo. Marape also acknowledged Indonesia’s ascendance to becoming a developed nation and its market and economy size in the region, stating that in this context it is an opportune time for PNG to further enhance this bilateral relationship with Indonesia. President Subianto also acknowledged PM Marape’s experience in politics, stating that Marape has a lot to give to PNG and the relationship with Indonesia. “Your experience, your geopolitical outlook, your economic ideas, I think is very important and once again I look forward to working with you. Your vision of closeness, the fact is we are very close neighbours, so let us work together and be real brothers." The President elects also affirmed that Indonesia would support PNG's aspirations of becoming a member of ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations). President Subianto also requested PM Marape to share ideas and views, and support on cultural exchanges, conflict resolutions, and economic benefits for the people in the region by working together. Meantime, President Subianto extended his invitation to PM Marape to attend his inauguration coming soon in Jakarta, Indonesia. The PM gladly accepted his invitation. PM Marape then extended his invitation to President Subianto to attend PNG’s 50 Independence Anniversary next year of which he also gladly accepted. The Indonesian present elect left the country this afternoon headed back to his home.

The establishment of a Dialogue Cooperation Committee for Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Indonesia should go a long way in providing policy coordination and guidance between the two countries. The Minister for International Trade and Investment, Richard Maru made this remark after the Indonesian Government proposed that Indonesia and PNG establish a high-level Dialogue Cooperation Committee to meet every six months to drive the agenda of growing trade and investment, and all cooperation between the two countries. "This committee will provide policy coordination and guidance for the practical cooperation between our two countries,” said Minister Maru. This is important because Maru explained that Indonesia has a similar arrangement with China which has seen significant growth in trade and investment between the two countries. “According to China Customs, total trade value of the two countries as of October 2022 reached US$122.47 billion, an increase of around 26.12% from the previous year. This shows the very close condition of the trade relations between the two countries riding on the back of this arrangement." It is proposed that the committee will be co-chaired by PNG’s Deputy Prime Minister, John Rosso and the Indonesian Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investments, Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan. "We are finalizing the Terms of Reference and Deputy Prime Minister Rosso will be taking a submission to the Cabinet upon returning from our high-level trade and investment mission in Indonesia to have the committee established as soon as possible," said Minister Maru. "This high-level Dialogue and Cooperation Committee will consolidate the relationship between our two countries on a government-to-government level and we will have business-to-business, and people-to-people relationships developed on the back of this arrangement. “It has taken us 50 years to reach this point, and I am very excited about this proposal by the Indonesian Government to establish this high-level committee," added Minister Maru.