The Nambawan Super Limited (NSL) branch in Madang has relocated to a new place to give its members and employers a more conducive environment to do business. The NSL branch has relocated to the Ground Floor of the Fenske Aben Building at Modilon Road. The Branch is now open for business, welcoming Members and Employers to enjoy more space, modern facilities, and a comfortable environment. NSL Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Paul Sayer said the relocation is part of improving their services. “This relocation is part of NSL’s larger Branch Relocation and Expansion Project that aims to bring services closer to Members’ doorsteps while also improving on the quality of services and facilities provided.” “All our new and relocated Branches have been upgraded to improve on Members’ experience and ensure our staff have everything they need to deliver the same high-quality services.” “Through this exercise, we want to ensure that we can provide a standard welcoming look and feel across all our 22 Branches nationwide so that our members receive the same level of high-quality service wherever they are.” While the Madang Branch is already serving Members, the official opening ceremony will take place later this year in September as part of NSL’s celebrations of Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary.

Landowners in Simberi in the New Ireland province are a step closer to realizing the benefits from the mine project on their land with the Community Development Agreement (CDA) now ready to be signed. The Simberi Mining Area Landowner Association (SMAA) is poised to sign the long-delayed Community Development Agreement (CDA) tomorrow, Friday August 29th in Port Moresby city, in order to unlock the long-promised benefits and services. Originally approved by the National Executive Council (NEC) in 2013 under the then Prime Minister Peter O’Neill's Government, the CDA could not be signed due to issues. Now, more than a decade later, SMAA executives and 31 of its members have formally requested the Mineral Resources Authority (MRA) to proceed with the signing, eager to unlock long-promised benefits and services. In response, MRA Managing Director Jerry Garry affirmed the Authority’s commitment to facilitating the signing, in line with its mandate. He emphasized that under Prime Minister James Marape’s leadership, the government is determined to ensure landowners receive greater returns from their natural resources. Mr. Garry highlighted MRA’s ongoing efforts to improve the livelihoods of resource landowners, citing the Woodlark housing relocation project as a prime example. He also briefed SMAA members on the future of the Simberi project and broader government plans aimed at enhancing landowner participation and benefit-sharing. Meanwhile, Over the past four weeks, SMAA executives and 30 members have been in Port Moresby undergoing intensive training, now successfully completed. The program was delivered by three institutions: the Somare Institute of Leadership & Governance (SILAG), the PNG Institute of Banking & Business Management (IBBM), and the Center for Excellence in Financial Inclusion (CEFI). SILAG focused on development plan alignment and formulation, IBBM offered courses on influential leadership and governance, while CEFI provided financial literacy training. All sessions were proudly sponsored by the MRA.  

The Enga Provincial Health Authority (EPH) has paid its tax and becomes the first government entity in the Highlands Region to do so. The PHA is the first government entity in the Highlands Region to lodge its Section 65A Goods and Services Tax (GST) withholding payments, totaling K53,049.04 to the Internal Revenue Commission (IRC). This was done under the leadership of PHA Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Vincent Pyakalyia and his Deputy Director Finance & Admin, Mr. Bernard Philipae. During the S65A awareness session held at the Malyam Hotel Conference Room, the IRC team covered key topics with the EPH Accounts Division, including: How Section 65A GST withholding operates in practice, The step-by-step process of remitting withheld GST to IRC, Proper record-keeping and reporting requirements, and Addressing common compliance challenges faced by government entities. CEO Pyakalyia acknowledged the leadership issues that have affected EPH in past years but emphasized his commitment since taking office to establish stronger systems and processes and raise compliance standards across the organization. Mr. Freddy Simon, the newly appointed Manager of the Wabag Tax Office received the cheque payments, witnessed by Highlands Regional Director, Mr. Collin Kuti, and the joint IRC inspection team from Port Moresby. Following this, the IRC presented the Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) Certificate to the EPH, officially recognizing the entity’s compliance efforts. “This is the first of its kind and a significant milestone for EPH,” said Mr. Simon. “It strengthens our partnership and paves the way for improved collaboration and accountability moving forward.” The IRC commended EPH for leading by example, noting that the initiative marks a turning point in transparency, governance, and tax compliance in the Highlands region.

A Chinese delegation comprising of thirty (30) people is expected to arrive in Papua New Guinea (PNG) tomorrow on a specific mission to explore more potential investment opportunities in the country. The Chinese delegation will be here in country to attend the three- day 2nd PNG Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Summit 2025 in Port Moresby city, where much will be talked about in terms of business investments in the upcoming SEZ projects in the country. The group is the first international delegation to arrive for the Summit this year. They arrive tomorrow from Hong Kong. “The 30 Chinese delegates led by our Ambassador to China, His Excellency Dr. Thaddeus Kambanei, will arrive at 5am tomorrow. There will be a welcome reception hosted to receive them,” stated the Ministry for International Trade and Investment. The 2nd PNG SEZ Summit will be hosted by the National Government as part of the 50th Independence Celebrations, under the theme: “Reflecting on Our Past 50 Years and Charting our Next 50 Years”. Minister for International Trade and Investment, Richard Maru, highlighted that the main purpose of this Summit is to take a stock take of PNG’s journey in the last 50 years in terms of economic development to know where we are now. The 2nd SEZ Summit will launch on Sunday 31st August and will run from September 1st to September 3rd. All the meetings and dialogues will take place at the APEC Haus.

The Young Minds Savings Campaign (YMSC) is currently being rolled out across six schools in the East New Britain (ENB) province, aimed at financially empower students through financial literacy. Running from August 25th to August 27th, the campaign aims to empower school students with essential financial literacy skills on savings and budget and opening bank accounts. The initiative is part of the National Government’s National Financial Inclusion Strategy (NFIS) 2023–2027 and provincial engagement programmes, coordinated by the Centre for Excellence in Financial Inclusion (CEFI). It’s being delivered in partnership with the East New Britain Provincial Government, with support from the Bank of Papua New Guinea (BPNG) and major financial sector stakeholders, including the Securities Commission of PNG, Treasury, and leading banks, superfunds, and insurance providers. Over the three-day campaign, the YMSC reached six schools within and outside Kokopo town, including: • Kokopo Primary School • Kokopo Secondary School • St Martin Primary School • Malaguna Technical School • Kerevat Primary School • Kerevat National High School Students took part in interactive awareness sessions, discussions with financial experts, and opportunities to open savings accounts on site. Speaking ahead of the campaign, Mr. Peter Samuel, Acting Executive Director of CEFI, said that school children are the leaders and entrepreneurs of the future. “By encouraging a culture of saving at an early age, students would be equipped with the tools to take control of their financial future.” The initiative directly contributes to the NFIS target of opening two million new bank accounts nationwide. Participating institutions in this campaign include Credit Guarantee Corporation (CGC), MiBank, Women’s Micro Bank, BSP Financial Group Limited, Kina Bank, Teachers Savings and Loan Society (TISA), Kada Poroman, Nasfund, Nambawan Super, Credit Bank, East New Britain Savings & Loans, BSP Life, among other licensed financial organizations. Meanwhile, the campaign has already proven effective in two provinces last year, that is Milne Bay and West New Britain.

The recent launching of the National Banking Corporation (NBC) VISA Debit card is just the start of things to come for the newest bank in the country to roll out more modern banking services for its customers across Papua New Guinea (PNG). This was revealed by NBC’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Paul Thornton at the launching on Thursday 21st August at the NBC branch at the Vision City Shopping Mall in Port Moresby city. He said the VISA launch is part of a broader transformation in how they serve customers. “Our vision is clear; we aim to expand access to modern banking across the country by innovating with technology that brings our services closer to the people. We are committed to delivering products that are simple, secure, and designed to meet real needs.” “In the months ahead, we will continue to introduce solutions that empower individuals, strengthen businesses, and support communities, ensuring NBC remains the bank that understands and works for the people of Papua New Guinea.” Meanwhile, the NBC’s VISA Debit card is now available to customers nationwide.

The price inspection on the thirteen (13) household items exempted from the ten percent (10%) Goods and Services Tax (GST) under the government’s zero-rating policy, has found multiple breaches to this policy in the Highlands Region. The operation, led by the Internal Revenue Commission (IRC) in strategic collaboration with the Independent Consumer and Competitions Commission (ICCC) and the Papua New Guinea (PNG) Customs Services, was launched recently in Goroka in Eastern Highlands province with inspections targeting retail outlets selling the 13 designated zero-rated items. Preliminary findings from this inspection revealed multiple breaches. Several retailers (shops) were found to be charging GST on items officially listed as zero-rated. In response, formal warning notices were issued, instructing immediate rectification of pricing and the Point of Sale (POS) configurations, and non-compliance will attract escalated enforcement measures, including financial penalties and potential prosecution. IRC Commissioner General Mr. Sam Koim said these beaches are unacceptable as these retail shops are continuing to charge high prices to customers on those basic household items that their government has exempted tax from already. “We will not tolerate deliberate profiteering at the expense of households. Businesses who fail to comply will face the full force of the law, including financial penalties and prosecution,” Mr. Koim strongly stated. As per the campaign, inspection teams conducted rigorous checks on: - Retail pricing structures, to verify that GST was not erroneously applied - POS systems, to ensure correct tax coding and transaction accuracy Meanwhile, this inspection campaign will extend to other Highlands provinces in the coming weeks. The IRC and its partner agencies remain resolute that retailers who persist in undermining the zero-rating policy will face decisive action. The zero-rating of essential goods is a deliberate government intervention to ease cost-of-living pressures. Its integrity must be upheld. The IRC calls on all retailers to comply fully and ensure their systems reflect the correct GST status of affected goods.

Tomorrow, Tuesday 26th August, is National Repentance Day and the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea (PNG) is urging everyone to use the day to reflect and reset as the country marks its 50th Independence Anniversary. Prime Minister James Marape said National Repentance Day is a time of reflection, forgiveness, renewal, and a reset of true Christian character before God and each other. He reminded citizens that since 1975, Papua New Guinea has always declared its identity as a Christian nation, recognizing the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the Almighty Creator. “Our forefathers placed this nation under the guidance of God when they raised the flag on Independence Hill in 1975,” he said. “As a Christian people, we are accountable to God in the way we live, in the way we govern, and in the way, we treat each other. Repentance Day is therefore not just a public holiday, but a sacred day for us to humble ourselves, to say sorry for our wrongs, and to commit ourselves to a new way of living.” Repentance Day was first declared in 2008 by the Founding Father, Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare. Prime Minister Marape, then a minister, was present to witness its inauguration. Meanwhile, with the nation’s golden jubilee only three weeks away, Prime Minister Marape said this year’s Repentance Day carries even greater significance. “In just three weeks, Papua New Guinea will turn 50. We must ask ourselves: What have we done with the gift of independence entrusted to us by our forefathers? Have we honoured God? Have we honoured one another?” “As we prepare to celebrate 50 years of independence on 16 September 2025, let us use this Repentance Day to say sorry for the wrongs of the last 49 years, to forgive each other, and to make a firm resolution to enter the next 50 years with clean hearts and renewed minds.” He further reflected: “The Scripture in Leviticus 25:8–10 speaks of a national reset after 49 years, a time of restoration and renewal. As we now step into our 50th year, let us follow this divine instruction — to reflect deeply, renew our characters, and commit ourselves to a fresh beginning for Papua New Guinea.” The Prime Minister concluded with a strong call for unity, forgiveness, and the renewal of national character: “If every citizen of this nation honours God and respects their neighbour, there will be no corruption, no gender-based violence, no tribal fighting, no abuse of law, and no destruction of property. Instead, there will be peace, unity, prosperity, and the blessing of God over our country." “I urge all Papua New Guineans — leaders and citizens alike — to take this Repentance Day seriously. Let us reflect, forgive, and recommit ourselves to God, to each other, and to our nation.”

The United Nations Secretary General, Mr. His Excellency António Guterres will be visiting Papua New Guinea (PNG) in the first week of September, coinciding with the country’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations’ lead up events. His visit was confirmed by Prime Minister James Marape, who had sent out an invitation earlier for the head of the UN to come over, where he will be in the country from Tuesday September 2nd to Friday, September 5th. The Prime Minister said this will be the first time a UN Secretary-General will spend four consecutive days in Papua New Guinea, underscoring the importance of the country’s 50- year journey of democracy, peace, and development. “Fifty years on, this is the first time ever that a United Nations Secretary-General has come to our country. And it is not just a fly-in, fly-out visit, but a four-day stay – something quite unprecedented for the Secretary-General in any single location globally,” Prime Minister Marape said. “This visit is a profound honour for our people. The Secretary-General’s presence demonstrates recognition of Papua New Guinea’s consistent respect for democracy, individual freedoms, human rights, and peacebuilding since Independence.” He highlighted that the visit will also acknowledge the Bougainville Peace Agreement of 30th August 2001, a landmark in peace and reconciliation, and PNG’s role in maintaining peace and unity within its diverse communities. During his stay, Secretary-General Guterres will: • Call on the Governor-General, the Head of State, and meet with Prime Minister Marape. • Address the National Parliament on Wednesday, 3 September. • Travel to Mt Hagen in the Highlands on Thursday to witness community peace initiatives and visit forest areas that showcase Papua New Guinea’s rich biodiversity. • Return to Port Moresby on Friday before departing that afternoon. Prime Minister Marape said the Secretary-General is expected to speak on Papua New Guinea’s global significance as one of the world’s great biodiversity hubs, and to recognize the nation’s leadership in environmental stewardship and sustainable development. “This September will be a momentous month. As we celebrate 50 years of Independence, we are humbled that global leaders, including the UN Secretary-General and His Royal Highness Prince Edward will join us. Their presence affirms that Papua New Guinea is not isolated, but a respected member of the international community,” said PM Marape. He urged Papua New Guineans to unite in dignity and respect as the country welcomes international guests during this historic golden jubilee.

The new National Banking Corporation (NBC) launched its latest product aimed at enabling ease in banking service for its customers. On Thursday 21st August at the NBC branch located at the Vision City mall in Port Moresby city, the bank launched its VISA Debit Card. NBC Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Paul Thornton said the launch reflects their strong commitment to transforming banking in Papua New Guinea (PNG). “We aim to create a system that is not only user-friendly but also seamlessly connected, ensuring that it meets the diverse needs of our community.” “As the people’s bank, our role is to make banking simpler, more relevant, and more accessible for Papua New Guineans and our residents.” “The introduction of our VISA Debit Card is another step in delivering on that promise. It puts the world within reach, enabling customers a secure smart and seamless payment option whether they’re here at home in PNG, abroad or for online purchases.” “It’s more than just convenience. It’s about access, opportunity, and giving our people the same level of financial freedom enjoyed anywhere in the world.” In the months ahead, NBC will continue to introduce solutions that empower individuals, strengthen businesses, and support communities, ensuring NBC remains the bank that understands and works for the people of PNG.

The Wapenamanda Airport in Enga province remains closed for an indefinite period after the National Airport Corporation (NAC) made the decision to shut down operations there due to the civil unrest that is extremely getting out of hand. According to the NAC, a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) was issued, confirming the closure of the airport, effective as of Thursday, 21st August 2025. This decision follows escalating civil unrest within the vicinity of the airport, involving the use of firearms and other offensive weapons. In light of these developments, the NAC had to take proactive steps to safeguard passengers, airport staff, and aircraft operations by temporarily closing the airport, until such time as the situation stabilizes and normalcy is restored. NAC regrets any inconvenience caused and says they are closely monitoring the situation. “We will continue to monitor the security situation closely and work with relevant authorities to ensure a safe operating environment before resuming services,” said the NAC. “The situation remains under close monitoring, and operations will resume once normalcy is restored and safety is assured.” Meanwhile, the MP for Wapenamanda Miki Kaeok has fallen victim as well to the civil disorder in his electorate when his house was burnt down allegedly by the Yakuman people.

The Prime Minister of Solomon Islands Jeremiah Manele is in country on his two-day visit to Papua New Guinea (PNG) and following his arrival, paid a Courtesy Call on the Governor General Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae at Government House this afternoon in Port Moresby city, where they held talks on the relations between the two countries. PNG and Solomon Islands established diplomatic relations in 1978 and are the closest Melanesian countries in the Pacific geographically, apart from Vanuatu and Fiji.  There is a significant number of PNG owned and operated businesses in Solomon Islands providing employment opportunities to some 6,000 locals. Prime Minister Manele thanked the Government and people of PNG for the ongoing support and assistance provided to Solomon Islands through education, business and investment in Solomon Islands as well as security and policing through police training and border surveillance and security. Prime Minister Manele was accompanied by Solomon Islands’ former Governor General Sir Frank Kabui and former Prime Minister Rick Houenipwela to the Government House to meet the Governor General. Prime Minister Manele and his delegation arrived in Port Moresby this afternoon. His visit is at the invitation of PNG Prime Minister James Marape to participate in the inaugural WanSol charity golf tournament set for tomorrow at the Royal Port Moresby Golf Club.