Prime Minister James Marape has reaffirmed Papua New Guinea’s dedication to safeguarding its marine resources by ramping up efforts to combat illegal fishing. He said through the Defence Cooperation Agreement (DCA) with the United States, PNG will enhance surveillance and enforcement in its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), ensuring that illegal fishing activities are swiftly detected and dealt with. Prime Minister Marape emphasized the critical economic value of PNG’s fisheries sector, particularly tuna, which accounts for over 55% of the world’s tuna supply. He highlighted that small Pacific Island nations, despite being custodians of vast ocean resources, must not remain economically…
Author: Paula DAVID
The President of the Public Servants Netball Competition, Mary Nauga, has praised the success of the 2024-2025 season, noting that several departments participated in raising awareness about the various services they provide. She said, the grand final showdown on Saturday saw a total of eight divisions with the premier division (top division), where the Bank of Papua New Guinea (BPNG) triumphed over the Internal Revenue Commission (IRC) in a thrilling match. The final score was 30-28, with BPNG clinching victory by a narrow two-point margin in the final quarter. Founded in 1989, the association will celebrate its 35th anniversary on…
In a powerful speech at the Indo-Pacific Forum’s Discussion on Geopolitics and Rugby League, Papua New Guinea’s government extended its gratitude and support to key figures shaping the future of rugby league in the region. On behalf of the Government and people of Papua New Guinea, Minister for Foreign Affairs Justin Tkatchenko expressed profound appreciation to high-profile guests, including Mr. Joe Hockey, Global President of Bondi Partners; Emma Doyle, former Principal Deputy Chief of Staff to President Donald Trump; Richard V. Spencer, former U.S. Navy Secretary; ARLC Chairman Peter V’Landys; and Ambassador Kevin Rudd. “Papua New Guinea is deeply appreciative…
The Vatican has issued a nine-word statement on the condition of Pope Francis, who is critically ill in hospital battling double pneumonia, since Wednesday. The 88-year-old Pope has now spent two weeks at Rome’s Gemelli hospital, marking his longest stay since he began his papacy 12 years ago. “The pope had a tranquil night and is resting,” the Vatican said in a statement. It did not provide any further details. On Thursday, the Vatican said Pope Francis slept well overnight, and that he was once again resting. A Vatican official, who did not wish to be named because he was…
The grand final for the Public Sector’s Netball Competition is currently underway at the Sir John Guise Stadium indoor complex. In the Division 3 match, the Department of Prime Minister and National Executive Council (PMNEC) defeated NCDC 15-8 in a thrilling contest. The first half of the game saw PMNEC gain control of the match by securing their first shoot within the first minutes of the game. While the ladies in yellow tried to gain momentum of the game with a couple of unsuccessful shoots, PMNEC still pushed through to get more rings. While the crowd cheered both sides on,…
Prime Minister James Marape has issued a strong and unambiguous message to all Papua New Guineans, urging them to uphold the rule of law. He emphasized that no justification, no matter the circumstances, can excuse criminal behaviour. He has condemned recent incidents of violence, destruction, and illegal roadblocks, stressing that these actions not only endanger lives but also undermine the country’s economic and social stability. “There is no justification for breaking one law in an attempt to seek justice for another crime.” “Lawlessness does not solve problems—it only deepens them.” He highlighted a recent case in Tari, where police, with…
As Papua New Guinea observes the fourth anniversary of the passing of the Late Grand Chief Sir Michael Thomas Somare, we honour not just the life of one man, but the lasting impact of a leader whose vision led to the nation’s independence, shaped its democracy, and inspired generations. Sir Michael Somare, one of the nation’s founding fathers and its first Prime Minister, played a pivotal role in guiding Papua New Guinea to independence. His unwavering determination, resilience, and deep belief in the potential of his people were the cornerstones of his leadership. His dream of a unified, independent Papua…
Prime Minister James Marape has today called for immediate global action to tackle illegal fishing and the exploitation of Pacific fisheries, stressing that Pacific nations have been the ocean’s stewards for centuries. Speaking at the Honiara Summit on Sustainable Fisheries, he urged major global powers to take responsibility for their role in sea pollution and sea temperature rise and also assist in marine resources management in the Pacific. Under the theme “Iumi Tugeda Delivering on SDG 14.4: Achieving Sustainable Fisheries”, the summit brings together Pacific leaders, global experts, and representatives from 24 – 27 February 2025 to discuss sustainable fisheries…
Senior officials from the National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA) held their second meeting to discuss the draft of the 2025-2030 Strategic Health Service Plan. On Friday, February 21st, 2025, key personnel gathered at the Port Moresby Archdiocese to fine-tune the five-year plan, which will shape the development and delivery of health services in Port Moresby over the next five years. Dr. Robin Oge, Acting CEO of NCDPHA, commended the participants for their efforts in compiling this critical document. “This is a significant milestone for NCDPHA, as it marks the second meeting dedicated to developing our first comprehensive Strategic…
Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) Chairman, Sandis Tsaka, has confirmed the reappointment of Stanley Hondina as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for another three years. Mr. Hondina was initially appointed CEO in 2021, after serving as the acting CEO for three months following the resignation of former CEO, Reatau Rau. His reappointment marks the beginning of his second term as the head of the organization. “The board of the PNGRFL are pleased with the significant milestones and progress of the organization in the last 3 years, Stanley has served as CEO.” “We have seen 3 strategic plans come into…