Kina Bank joins the rest of Papua New Guinea (PNG) mourn the passing of the late Morobe Governor, Luther Akisawa Wenge, who passed away on the 13th of September in Port Moresby city. Kina Bank Chairman Ian Clough said, “Governor Wenge was a man of principle and purpose. His legacy of service and advocacy for justice will be remembered not only in Morobe but across Papua New Guinea. “On behalf of Kina Bank, we extend our deepest sympathies to his family, the people of Morobe Province, and all who were touched by his life and leadership. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.” Governor Wenge was a distinguished leader, lawyer, and advocate for justice whose decades of public service left a lasting mark on Morobe and the nation. His leadership, spanning from 1997 to 2012 and again from 2022, was defined by his commitment to equity, development, and the rule of law. Morobe Province holds a special place in Kina Bank’s operations, being home to its second-biggest branch network. Governor Wenge’s vision and dedication to his people have contributed significantly to the growth and stability of the region. Meanwhile, the late governor will Lie- In- State at the Grand Hall of the National Parliament in a State Funeral to take place on Thursday 2nd October in Port Moresby city before the casket is flown back to his family and his people in the Morobe province.

Prime Minster James Marape has reaffirmed his government’s focus on growing the country’s economy to over a hundred-billion-kina economy in the years to come after noting an additional K50 billion injected into Papua New Guinea’s economy. Prime Minister Marape said since coming into office on the 30th of May 2019, growing the economy remains the cornerstone of his vision for the country’s long-term prosperity and independence. “From my first speech as Prime Minister in 2019, I made it clear that the focus of my leadership would be to grow the economy so that we have more resources to sustain our people,” Prime Minister Marape said. “I spoke about our journey toward becoming the richest black Christian nation, which is in line with the ambitions first laid out by Prime Minister Somare for a happy, wealthy, wise, and top 50 nation by 2050. I chose a more aggressive approach to ensure every ministry, department, and public servant prioritizes economic growth.” The Prime Minister said the rationale was simple: a bigger economy provides the resources to fund education, healthcare, infrastructure, welfare, and national development. “When I took office, the economy stood at K79 billion. Today, six years on, we are at K130 billion — a growth of over K50 billion. This has happened despite many challenges,” he noted. “Our growth rate is now consistently above 4% — higher than many other economies. Independent observers such as the IMF, World Bank, and ADB have all forecast PNG’s growth at over 4% this year.” Looking ahead, Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed his ambitious growth targets: • K200 billion economy by 2030 • K300 billion economy by 2035 • K500 billion economy by 2045 The Prime Minister outlined that growth would come from across all sectors — forestry, fisheries, agriculture, mining, petroleum, and, critically, through local content, SMEs, and wider participation of Papua New Guineans in business. He said major projects such as Wafi-Golpu, Papua LNG, P’nyang, Pasca, Frieda, and others will underpin future expansion, alongside continued emphasis on agriculture and downstream processing.

The Constitutional and Law Reform Commission (CLRC) recently launched a publication telling the story of its history and its work in the country since independence, to mark the country's 50th Independence Anniversary. The CLRC Secretary Dr. Mange Matui speaking at the CLRC Independence Ball Night on eve of Independence Day celebrations at the Holiday Inn in Port Moresby city, said the publication illustrates the story of the CLRC in the development of the country’s constitution and its work in the country since independence in 1975. “Tonight, we reflect on what independence mean to us over the past five decades and we also reflect on the role of the Constitutional and Law Reform Commission played,” said Dr. Matui. “From all its years from the Select Committee and Constitutional Planning Committee (CPC) to the Law Reform Commission, and the Constitutional Development Commission and now the Constitutional and Law Reform Commission, how the Commission has played and continues to play its role in shaping our nation.” The CLRC Secretary said the publication is not just at picture book of a collection of photographs. “It’s a mirror showing us where we have been and where we are today and where we will be going.” “It traces our lineage from the CPC to the present; it shows our constitution across the twenty- two provinces.” “It captures the faces of men and women and children whose voices have shaped our work. It records the challenges we faced and the determination with which we press on.” As PNG celebrates 50 years of independence, Dr. Matui said it is also time to look to the next 50 years and what kind of a country will the generations to come inherit. “The challenges ahead are immense, globalization, climate change, digital transformation, population growth and cultural changes that we have to face collectively as a people.” “The CLRC will continue to safeguard the vision of our founding fathers and mothers, by ensuring our laws remain relevant, just and people centered.” Dr. Matui also extended his gratitude and appreciation to those who have gone ahead to lead the work of the CLRC and making it what it is today. “As we celebrate 50 years of independence, let us not forget those who have paved the way for us. To our former commissioners, chairmen, secretaries, management team and staff, we honour you.” “We honour the CPC, the Law Reform Commission, the Constitutional Development Commission and all this who carried the torch before us. We thank the government, our partners and most importantly, the people of Papua New Guinea for walking with us. “To our current staff, I say thank you for carrying the torch with dedication and pride,” Dr. Matui passionately stated.

Mr. Luke Liriha is now the acting Managing Director of the Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL) after the company’s Board of Directors suspended the Mr. Wapu Sonk as the Managing Director. Chairman Gerea Aopi said that this unanimous board resolution passed was necessary to protect the integrity of the KPHL Board and management. Mr. Aopi stated,” The Board is aware of internal issues involving the Trustee/Shareholder, former Chairman and Directors, the managing director and the new Board, activities which have ended up in the National and Supreme Courts and affected the activities and operations of the KPHL Board and management.” He noted that the new Board had taken the view that in the interest of good governance and ethics it was in the best interest of the KPHL to suspend Mr. Sonk, to bring stability and integrity to the relationship between the new board and management of KPHL. “This transparent and responsible approach protects the integrity of this flagship PNG petroleum company and also allows the managing director to address his personal issues,” said Mr. Aopi. This resolution is the most significant made by the new KPHL Board after the Supreme Court’s ruling confirming their appointment by Prime Minister James Marape, as sole shareholder of KPHL on behalf of the State. The Prime Minister’s appointment of the new KPHL Board had been challenged in the National Court by outgoing Chairman Dr Benedict Yaru on behalf of his board members. The National Court, presided by Justice Pauline Bre, on 13th August 2025, ruled that Dr Yaru had no standing as his term had expired on 2nd September 2023 – over two years ago. Dr Yaru had appealed to the Supreme Court, presided by Justice David Cannings, who on 25th August 2025 affirmed the National Court ruling of 13th August 2025. “Changes in boards when directors’ tenures expire is a standard practice in line with the Companies Act and specific KPHL legislation. This has been tested – and confirmed in both the National Court and Supreme Court in the case of the new KPHL Board,” Chairman Aopi said. “The new Board assures all stakeholder groups such as the impacted PNG LNG Project landowners with an interest in the Kroton Equity Option managed by KPHL, that we will review these arrangements and other project activities to ensure they are being carried out in line with legislation and signed agreements,” said Mr. Aopi.

An orphanage and early childhood learning center in Port Moresby city recently received learning materials all thanks the Kina Bank. Kina Bank’s Banking Assurance team brought smiles to students of Glynn’s Orphan and Early Childhood Learning Centre with school materials and stationery supplies recently. Glynn’s Orphan and Early Childhood Learning Centre, is located at Morata 2 with a student population of 157 from kindergarten to prep. School Principal Fred Solomon was truly grateful for Kina Bank’s generous support towards educating the young people and making a difference in their lives. “Your contribution not only empowers our students academically but also inspires hope and confidence in their future. Partnership like this help us create a nurturing environment where every child has the opportunity to thrive,” he said. Barbara Simeon, Senior Manager Banking Assurance at Kina Bank shared that the contribution is part of the team’s effort of giving back to the communities. She stated, “This isn’t just a Corporate Social Responsibility exercise. It is about showing real care. We are proud to support our communities in any way we can, because even the smallest act of kindness can create meaningful change. “These children are the future leaders of our country, and we’re honoured to be part of their learning journey,” she added. Seeing the joy on the children’s faces was a powerful moment for the team. “It truly warms our hearts to see them happy. It is a reminder of how much impact a simple gesture can have. We’ll continue to carry the spirit of giving—one community at a time.”

It was a spectacular closing to the Independence Day celebrations on Tuesday 16 September with the PNG50 Concert, the highlight of the day’s events of celebrations in Port Moresby city. The public were treated to concert performances from artist showcasing the evolution of local music marking the decades leading up to the present. Artists like George Telek MBE, the Rex band, Samguma band, Tambaran Culture, Pati Pots and more graced the stage. The laser and light show were also a sight to behold lighting up the night sky with their magnificent colours. The evening was topped off with a spectacular sky show of fireworks and displays with the use of drones to portray the stories of the ancient trades, and the story of PNG’s progress towards achieving independence, all displayed by drones with lights and flames, programed to create amazing formations in the sky. But perhaps the main highlight of the evening that took place was the 50th Independence Anniversary Message from King Charles III, who had his message recorded and played at the event for all Papua New Guineans to hear, with some parts of his message spoken in Tok Pisin. The King recalled witnessing the raising of the PNG flag on Independence Hill in Port Moresby city for the first time on September 16th, 1975, saying it was a moment of pride and joy for the people of Papua New Guinea as the country gained political independence. King Charles III said the celebration of PNG’s Golden Jubilee is also a time to look back on the challenges and the achievements the country has made in the last 50 years, as an independent and democratic country. “Though the journey has not always been an easy one, modern Papua New Guinea stands as a proud symbol of its citizens perseverance, resilience and commitment to democracy and unity,” said the King. “Together you have made great strides and advances in development in public health, infrastructure and diplomacy. “As a mature and an established voice in the pacific and on the word stage, I am immensely proud. Papua New Guinea is such a deeply valued and respected member of our commonwealth realm." The King also apologized for not attending in person but said he and his family are celebrating PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary in the United Kingdom. He said he instead sent his brother, the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward, to represent him at the 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations. Meanwhile, the PNG50 Concert continued into the night with performances from the big-name local artists like Tarvin Touni, Sprigga Mek and Mereani Masani, rocking the night away celebrating PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary.

Ok Tedi Mining Limited (Ok Tedi) joined the rest of the country today in marking Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary. For over four decades, Ok Tedi has been a steadfast partner in the country’s development journey creating opportunities, empowering communities, and contributing to national progress. Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Kedi Ilimbit, says this year marks a momentous occasion in the history of PNG. “Fifty years of independence is a milestone achievement and is a fitting time to reflect on the courage and vision of our founding leaders, who gifted us the freedom to chart our own course as a sovereign nation and their legacy lives on in the strength, resilience, and unity of our people, said Mr. Ilimbit” He said Ok Tedi’s story is deeply intertwined with that of PNG. As a 100% PNG-owned company, Ok Tedi is a symbol of national pride and a driver of transformation and believes in the power of local ownership and remains committed to investing in the people and future of this great nation. "For more than 40 of those years, Ok Tedi has stood proudly with our nation—delivering jobs, building communities, driving development, and sharing in the dreams of our people. As a 100% PNG-owned company, we are not just a mine, we are a nation builder, and your company,” he said. He added that looking ahead, Ok Tedi reaffirms its dedication to supporting Papua New Guinea’s aspirations. "As we look to the next 50 years, our commitment remains the same: to grow with PNG, to invest in our people, and to build a future that every Papua New Guinean can be proud of," he said. “On this historic occasion, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to the Government and people of PNG. May this Golden Jubilee inspire renewed hope, unity, and ambition for the next chapter of our national journey.” “Happy 50th Independence Anniversary, Papua New Guinea!”

For the 50th time, the national flag of Papua New Guinea (PNG) was raised on Independence Hill at Waigani, Port Moresby city as the country marks its 50th Independence Anniversary. Prime Minister (PM) James Marape in his independence speech said PNG in the past 5 decades saw both challenges and achievements. The achievements have progressed the country forward this far while the challenges were lessons taught and learnt. “The last 50 years has not been easy, it has been a journey of struggle and survival, but also resilience and progress,” said the PM. “The first 27 years of our life, it has been short term, politics and instability. In between, there have been many challenges, fragility and exposure to instability shook our nation to the core, but thank goodness to our resilience, our country persevered.” In the last 23 years, Prime Minister Marape said Papua New Guinea stabilized a little bit. “Our democracy produced stability, and we began to see growth in our country,” said the PM. “More schools and hospitals were built, roads were opened, airports were constructed. We invested in infrastructure, also, we sent more children to study overseas as well as in our country.” “I want to say, whilst we have not achieved much, 50 years on we’re standing on a firm ground of democracy today, more stable, more confident and ready to transform our country the next 50 years.” He said the future now holds so many opportunities and as a people and as a country, it is time everyone works together to journey into the future. The prime minister at the end of his speech acknowledged the partner countries in the pacific and in the world, who have stood by and supported PNG through its 50 years of nationhood. “To all our development partners, let me say a big thank you on behalf of all my citizens of my country.” Dignitaries in attendance at the flag raising include the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward representing King Charles III, the Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele. Other pacific leaders also attended including a big delegation from China. Japan government representatives also were present as well as the US Secretary of State, and the Deputy President of Indonesia.

The arrival of the new Air Niugini Airbus A220- 300 to Port Moresby city today on the eve of Independence Day, marks a milestone achievement for the country as well as the aviation history as Papua New Guinea (PNG) marks 50 years of independence. Prime Minister James Marape was there this morning to receive the “People’s Balus” when it touched down at 10:30am and going through the traditional wash down- the water salute. He said the new airbus is a symbol of national pride and unity. Speaking before a large crowd including Members of Parliament, members of the diplomatic corps, international partners, and Air Niugini staff, Prime Minister Marape said the aircraft’s arrival marked not only a milestone for the national airline but also a defining chapter in the country’s story. “Today, we see not only a new plane, but a symbol of who we are as Papua New Guineans — resilient, determined, and capable of soaring higher,” PM Marape said. He also took the opportunity to commend the State Enterprises Minister William Duma and the Board and management of Kumul Consolidated Holdings, Air Niugini Board Chairman Karl Yalo, the Board, management, and staff for steering the airline through the acquisition, and thanked partners Airbus, Azorra, and financial institutions including the Asian Development Bank for their support. The Prime Minister later praised Captain Beverley Paki and Captain Timothy Narara who made history by flying the A220 into Jacksons International Airport. On the eve of Independence Day, Prime Minister Marape urged Papua New Guineans to see the new A220 as a symbol of the country’s enduring spirit and potential. “This aircraft is not just metal and engines. It is a story of perseverance, a reflection of our journey, and a promise to the next generation. Fifty years on, we remain one people, one nation, one country. Let this plane remind us that Papua New Guinea is ready to fly higher into the next fifty years,” he declared. The Prime Minister also acknowledged the service of generations of pilots, engineers, cabin crew, and ground staff who have kept the airline flying since 1973. “Governments will come and go, but Air Niugini — like Papua New Guinea itself — will live on. May this new aircraft inspire every child in our nation to dream bigger, to reach higher, and to believe that nothing is beyond our reach.”

Touching down at 10:30AM at the Jackson International airport is the new Air Niugini Airbus A220 300 on the eve of PNG's 50th Independence Anniversary, a proud moment for the country. The excitement is in the air as people gathered at the APEC Terminal to welcome and see PNG'S new People's Balus, touch down in Port Moresby city. The aircraft is the first of eleven to come under the re- fleeting of Air Niugini with the new Airbus A220. After touching down it was given a traditional water salute. Present to receive the new aircraft are government delegates including the PM and Air Niugini staff, all in their respective traditional attires to welcome to PNG the new aircraft. The aircraft left Canada, through to Hawaii, Fiji and then onto PNG.

The excitement is in the air as people gathered at the APEC Terminal to welcome and see PNG'S new People's Balus, the Air Niugini A220 touch down in Port Moresby city. The aircraft is the first of more to come under the re- fleeting of Air Niugini with the new Airbus A220. The aircraft is already flying in country as it awaits the go ahead to land at the Jackson International airport. Present to receive the new aircraft are government delegates including the PM and Air Niugini staff, all in their respective traditional attires to welcome to PNG the new aircraft.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape expressed shock over the sudden passing of the governor for Morobe province, Luther Wenge at the Port Moresby General Hospital early this morning after undergoing a surgery. In a statement released after the passing of the late Morobe Governor, Prime Minister Marape announced to the country of the passing and also gave some details of what had transpired, leading to Governor Wenge’s death. “Governor Wenge underwent urgent surgery to stop internal bleeding. Despite the tireless efforts of our best medical professionals, and with arrangements being made for further treatment, complications arose due to underlying diabetic conditions. His vital organs collapsed, and after several hours of resuscitation attempts, he was placed on life support,” said the PM. “At around 4am this morning, doctors confirmed that he had not recovered, and he remained on life support only by machine assistance. After giving time for his family to be present, medical staff have now withdrawn support, and we confirm with sadness that our senior leader has passed on.” “I want to acknowledge the doctors and medical staff who did everything humanly possible, and to thank the Leader of Government Business for coordinating emergency care.” Governor Wenge served the people of Morobe and Papua New Guinea (PNG) with great distinction and courage over many years. His leadership, voice, and service will be sorely missed. “On behalf of the Government and the people of Papua New Guinea, I extend our deepest condolences to his family, the people of Morobe, and all who mourn his passing,” said the Prime Minister. “May his soul rest in eternal peace.”