Author: Martha LOUIS

Wau-Waria MP Marsh Narewec says the critical issue of youth unemployment is a significant problem for Papua New Guinea. The local MP noted that it is especially troubling for the youth. Narewec pointed out that unemployment creates a disability in society. “If you can’t find a job, you can’t contribute to the economy,” he explained, adding that despite having many potential workers, employment rates remain very low, contributing to the nation’s economic struggles. “We have 18,742 unemployed and unskilled youth between the ages of 15 and 35. This is the size of our problem, and we must find a solution.”…

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Lae MP and Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso has praised the inauguration of a new coffee export office in Lae, highlighting the city’s crucial role as Papua New Guinea’s industrial and export hub. Rosso emphasized that the new facility will support the coffee industry by ensuring high-quality exports and improving operational efficiency. During his remarks, Rosso stressed the need for effective management, good facilities, and a conducive environment for the industry to thrive. He acknowledged the importance of collaboration among stakeholders, including the Coffee Industry Corporation (CIC), to address regulatory and infrastructure challenges. The Deputy Prime Minister also highlighted ongoing…

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The Rosso Mountain Bike Race Committee has announced a lineup of 20 sponsors for the 2024 event. Since its inception in 2020, the race, initiated by John Rosso, Member for Lae Open, has garnered significant backing from local businesses, with continued support over the past two years. This year’s sponsorship will support two key events: the Rosso Mountain Bike Race, scheduled for August 17th, 18th, and the finals on August 24th and 25th, and the Lae Festival, an arts and culture event set for September 7th and 8th, 2024. Goodman Fielders International (GFI) has returned as the platinum sponsor for…

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The annual bike race event in Lae, which began in 2020, is set to take place this month, promising a day filled with fun, fitness, and family time. Lae MP and Deputy Prime Minister, John Rosso, highlighted the significance of the event, emphasizing that it is more than just a race but a celebration that brings the community together. “The event has been growing ever since its inception.” “We encourage families, young people, and groups to ride their bikes and enjoy the beautiful city of Lae.” Participants of all ages, from young children to grandparents, are expected to join in…

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In a significant development for Papua New Guinea’s coffee industry, a new coffee export office has been inaugurated in Lae. The state-of-the-art facility, strategically located in the country’s industrial hub, is designed to ensure that PNG’s exportable green coffee beans meet international standards, enhancing the nation’s reputation in global markets. Charles Dambui, CEO of the Coffee Industry Corporation, highlighted the office’s pivotal role in providing comprehensive quality assessment and certification services. “Quality control officers rigorously evaluate unroasted coffee beans to meet specific requirements set by international buyers, fostering trust and reliability in PNG’s coffee exports.” The facility includes a ground-level…

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Prime Minister James Marape has reiterated his administration’s commitment to economic empowerment through the agricultural sector, with a particular focus on coffee as a critical driver of growth. During the opening of the new Lae coffee exports office complex today, Marape emphasized the unique advantage Papua New Guineans have in accessing land, a vital resource for wealth generation and security. With over 80% of the population residing in rural areas, Marape highlighted the untapped potential of these communities to significantly contribute to the nation’s economy. He pointed out that since gaining access to their land in 1975, Papua New Guineans…

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Wau-Waria Member of Parliament Marsh Narewec has condemned the recent attack on a Chinese developer at Kilolo Bridge, Wau, which resulted in the death of a Chinese national and the destruction of two excavators. The incident occurred on a mining site under separate legal jurisdiction, with the Mineral Resources Authority (MRA) responsible for oversight. Narewec called for the MRA to conduct an immediate investigation and assessment of the situation. He also urged the Minister of Police to deploy an independent police investigation team to Wau to ensure a fair investigation for all parties involved, including the leaseholder, developer, and tributors.…

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Digicel Foundation’s “BeLit” (Better Literacy) program, aimed at enhancing education through technology, has expanded to Lae City. Over the past two years, the initiative has included a three-hour educational TV program on TVWAN and the establishment of computer labs in six secondary schools in Port Moresby. In the 2024 fiscal year, Digicel Foundation assessed all four high schools in Lae to determine eligibility for computer lab projects, based on criteria such as existing infrastructure, the presence of ICT teachers, and security measures. Lae Secondary School and Busu Secondary School were selected for the project. Busu Secondary School, one of Lae’s…

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An Asian man was wilfully murdered on Sunday between 11am and 12:30pm midday by a group of aggrieved tributors at Kilolo mine area in Wau Waria District of Morobe province. Tributors is a term that refers to individuals or small groups who are working on mining site under a tribute system, the system allows them to extract minerals from a specific area in exchange for giving a percentage for share of their finds to the mining company or the landowners. Morobe Provincial Police Commander Superintendent Jacob Singura, says the prime suspect, Simon Forfin, led a group of over sixty individuals.…

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Madang province has seen a significant drop in crime rates thanks to the collaborative efforts from community, law enforcement, the justice sector, and the provincial government. During a recent police parade held last Friday, Madang Provincial Police Commander, Acting Superintendent Robert Baim, highlighted the contributions of stakeholders, community leaders, police, and the provincial government in assisting to reduce criminal activities. “Our officers’ hard work and dedication have directly contributed to this decline in crime.” “Their courage and commitment have made a profound impact on our community’s safety.” Baim praised the provincial government for providing essential resources and leadership. He also…

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