The Bougainville Chocolate Festival is set to kick off tomorrow, October 28, 2025, for a three-day celebration of cocoa, culture, and tourism.Running until October 30 at the Hutjena Oval, the seventh annual event promises to be a key economic and cultural highlight for the Autonomous Region of Bougainville. The festival’s origins date back to 2016 when it was launched as the "Cocoa Festival" by the Department of Primary Industry and the Department of Commerce, Trade and Economic Development. A significant shift occurred in 2018 when the name was officially changed. This rebranding strengthened its ties to the PNG-Australia Government’s Bougainville Partnership Program, which now co-funds the event alongside the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) Department of Primary Industry and the Department of Commerce. The Bougainville Arts, Culture and Tourism Authority (BACTA) is central to the festival’s organization. According to BACTA Website and Information Officer Marcia Jeraha, the authority’s primary goal is to use the event to increase visitor arrivals. “BACTA's main role is to promote the chocolate festival as a major tourism attraction here in Bougainville.” “In the future, we will have more visitors coming in, not only for the festival, but also to see the other tourism hotspots in Bougainville as well.” The festival features a confirmed number of 120 stalls, which were fully booked and began setting up today, October 27. The stalls represent a diverse array of corporate entities, SMEs, and agriculture stakeholders. Visitors can look forward to a range of cultural and industry exhibits: • Cultural Demonstrations: The North Bougainville Tourism Association and Bougainville Artisans Association will display traditional Bougainville food and host demonstrations of basket weaving, including the preparation of the traditional dish, tamatama. • Industry Deep Dive: The Department of Primary Industries’ stalls will be "showcasing the cocoa value chain," highlighting the journey from bean to finished product. • Information Hub: BACTA's Information Hub will provide details on all of Bougainville’s tourism attractions and industry co-operators. The festival will officially open on Tuesday morning with welcoming remarks from government leaders and development partners, culminating in a keynote address by President Ishmael Toroama. Festival Highlights include: • Live Demonstrations: Showcases of the cocoa value chain by the ABG Department of Primary Industries. • Farmer Seminars: Information sharing and learning sessions with industry experts. • Competitions: Including the popular Cocoa Budding Competition and Big Pod Competition. • Entertainment: Live music from the local KAWAS Band and a dedicated Kids Corner with games and activities. Meanwhile, an information booth will be located next to the main stage, where festival-goers can visit to receive Festival merchandise.

The Government of Papua New Guinea has embarked on a significant electoral reform journey aimed at transforming its democratic process before the 2027 General Elections. Spearheaded by the Minister for Administrative Services, Richard Masere, the initiative focuses on establishing a credible electronic electoral roll and migrating to biometric and electronic voting (E-Voting) technologies. The reform was initiated through a week-long workshop currently underway at the Hilton Hotel in Port Moresby, gathering key representatives from the Judiciary, the Electoral Commission, the National Statistics Office (NSO), the Civil and Identity Registry (NID), and international partners. This ambitious agenda is a direct response to a directive from Prime Minister James Marape, seeking to establish a “single source of truth” for the electoral roll. It aims to tackle critical issues that have eroded public confidence, such as voter impersonation, duplicate registrations, and delayed counting processes. Minister Masere outlined the reform journey around four critical priorities, which necessitate the reorganization of the NSO, NID, and the PNG Electoral Commission under his portfolio to ensure streamlined progress. The four priority areas are: 1. National Population Census: To establish a reliable population number after a 13-year lapse. The NSO received funding in the 2024 budget to conduct a National Population Count using electronic data collection methods. 2. Reliable Voting Population Data: The goal is to accurately determine the number of citizens aged 18 and older registered with a National Identity (NID) card. With the eligible population estimated at 5.9 million, only 2.8 million NID cards have been issued, leaving a critical shortfall of 3.1 million citizens who must be registered. 3. Credible Electronic Electoral Roll: Data from the NID and the national census will be integrated to create a reliable electronic electoral roll for the PNG Electoral Commission before the 2027 General Elections. 4. Migration to Modern Voting Technology: The final stage involves transitioning from the traditional paper-based system to a combination of biometric and/or electronic voting to restore credibility to the electoral process. Biometric technology, which uses fingerprints, facial recognition, and iris scans, is a powerful tool to protect electoral integrity and combat common problems like inflated electoral rolls. Minister Masere stated that in a country like PNG, where geography and infrastructure present significant challenges, biometric voting introduces “precision and accountability.” “It ensures that every voter’s identity is verified accurately, eliminating impersonations, multiple voting and fraudulent use of another voter's name or voter's identification (ID).” He added that capturing biometric data will also cleanse and strengthen the electoral roll, removing ghost names, duplicate entries and records of deceased residents. “The result is a credible, verified roll of living citizens, a foundation of trust for every election that follows.” Furthermore, Masere highlighted the efficiency and inclusivity benefits. “At polling stations, biometric verification will speed up the process, reducing queues and waiting times compared to manually searching printed lists.” Crucially, for rural citizens who may be unable to read, write, or sign their names, the biometric system will provide greater accessibility and inclusivity. The Minister encouraged broad participation in the workshop, emphasizing the national importance of the reforms. “With biometric and electronic voting technology we can ensure that every vote is protected, every citizen is empowered, and every election upholds the principles of democracy.”

The Papua New Guinea government is taking urgent steps to fix the flawed Organic Law on the Sovereign Wealth Fund (OLSWF), which has prevented the SWF from becoming operational since its enactment in 2015. Minister for Rural and Economic Development, Joseph Lelang, sought and received directions from the National Executive Council (NEC) to revise the law. He stressed that a properly established SWF is vital for macroeconomic stabilization through improved foreign exchange and cashflow management, and for saving funds for future generations. According to Minister Lelang, the current design is critically flawed, particularly regarding the: • Stabilization Fund Withdrawal Formula, which is inconsistent with the government's fiscal consolidation strategy. • Dividend Policy. To address these issues and operationalize the fund, Cabinet has established a Technical Team under Minister Lelang's Ministry. • Lead: The team will be headed by Mr. Ian Tarutia as the Chief Technical Advisor. • Composition: Members include experts from the Department of Treasury, Bank of Papua New Guinea (BPNG), Department of Attorney General, Kumul Consolidated Holdings (KCH), KPMG, and others. • Funding: The NEC approved an initial K3 million to support the team’s work. The Technical Team has been given six months to complete consultations and draft two key legislative documents: 1. Amended Organic Law on SWF (OLSWF): This will be simplified to make it more general and to guide the overall establishment of the fund. 2. SWF Enabling Legislation: This new law will contain the detailed operational policies currently missing or flawed in the OLSWF. Key specifics to be included are: • Agreed dividend payment policy. • Investment and expenditure strategies. • Asset risk management strategies. • Recruitment and appointment processes. • Specific powers and functions of the Minister, Board, and CEO. • A trigger mechanism for releasing funds to stabilize government cashflow under the Stabilization sub-fund. The amendments and the new enabling legislation are scheduled to go before Parliament for approval next year. The government’s goal is to have the SWF commence operations before the 2027 National Elections.

The National Department of Health (NDoH) sworn in a total of nineteen new members of the National Health Board of Papua New Guinea today. The event saw members of the Senior Executive Management of the NDoH as well as representatives from development partners and senior health officials. Minister for Health Elias Kapavore who was present to officially commission the new board, said that this occasion, marked an important milestone in their ongoing efforts to strengthen the governance and policy oversight body in the health sector. “Its establishment functions and powers are derived from the National Health Administration Act 1997, as amended in 2023, which provides the legal framework for effective coordination, accountability, and strategic direction across the national health system.” According to Minister Kapavore, under Section 8 to 10 of the Act, the Board is mandated to advise the Minister for Health on health policy matters, approve the National Health Plan and other sectoral policies/plans, monitor their implementation, and promote collaboration between government, churches, the private sector, civil society, and the provincial health authorities. “The Board plays a central role in shaping the direction of our health system ensuring that every decision taken at the national level contributes to better health outcomes for our people.” In addition, Minister Kapavore also acknowledged the outgoing Board which served with dedication from 2021 to 2024. Under their leadership of former Chairman Dr Osborne Liko, major policy frameworks were endorsed including the National Health Plan 2021-2030, the revised National Health Service Standards 2021-2030 the Health Medium Term Development Plan 2023-2027, the National Maternal and Newborn Health Strategy, and the National Strategic Plan for Tuberculosis 2023-2027, among many others. “Their commitment provided stability and strategic focus during a period marked by significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing health system reforms.” “On behalf of the Government, I extend my sincere appreciation to all members of the outgoing Board for their service to our nation.” The Commissioning of the Board also saw the swearing in of Private Health Representative Dr. Mathias Sapuri as the new Chairman. Other members of the new board included: • Mr. Ken Wai, Acting Secretary for Health (ex officio) • Mr. John Wohiemani, Department of Finance • Mr. E'ava Geita, Department of Justice and Attorney General • Mr. Philip Leo, Department of Provincial & Local Government Affairs • Dr Sergie Bang, Department of Agriculture & Livestock • Mr. Jude Tukuliya, Conservation and Environment Protection Authority • Professor William Pomat, Director, PNG Institute of Medical Research • Mr. Ulch Tapia, CEO, Churches Health Services of PNG • Mr. David Guinn, PNG Chamber of Commerce and Industry • Mrs. Sabeth Yengis, National Council of Women • Ms. Katherine Johnston, Public Hospitals Representative • Dr Paul Sali, PNG Medical Board and Nursing Council • Mr. David Wissink, Provincial Health Authority Representative • Sr Jadwiga Faliszek, Catholic Church Health Services • Ms. Arianne Kassman, Transparency International PNG (Civil Society Representative) Minister Kapavore welcomed all new members and urged that all work in partnership to strengthen the delivery of quality health care services in the country. Furthermore, he stated that the Government expects the new Board to uphold the highest standards of transparency, accountability, and professionalism. “Your leadership will be critical in guiding the implementation of the National Health Plan 2021-2030, driving reforms under the National Health Administration (Amendment) Act 2023, and ensuring alignment with our broader development priorities under the Medium-Term Development Plan IV.” “As Minister, I pledge the full support of my Office and the National Department of Health.” “Let us work in true partnership to strengthen the delivery of quality health services and to ensure that no Papua New Guinean is left behind in accessing essential healthcare.”

Representatives from Papua New Guinea joined over 1, 000 participants at the 5th World Conference of Women’s Shelters (5WCWS) in Sydney, Australia, the world’s largest forum dedicated to ending violence against women and children.The event that took place from the 15th- 18th of September, brought together frontline practitioners, policymakers, and advocates to exchange innovations, evidence-based practices, and strategies for managing shelters and safe houses. Among the PNG delegation was Ms. Diane Kambanei, Director of the National Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Secretariat, accompanied by officials from the Department for Community Development, Religion and Youth. “The conference was an extraordinary opportunity for the National GBV Secretariat and its partners to benchmark PNG’s GBV response against premier global standards.” The event came at a pivotal time, as the Government of PNG, through its Medium-Term Development Plan IV and the National Strategy to Prevent and Respond to GBV (2026–2035). This aims to have eighty registered and operational safe houses nationwide by 2027. However, a recent baseline survey led by the Secretariat found only 51 safe houses currently operational, highlighting service gaps and resourcing constraints. Ms. Kambanei emphasized that improving these systems is “vital to ensure dignity, protection, and equity for GBV survivors.” Participation in the conference enabled PNG representatives to network with international counterparts, learn from leading models, and position PNG’s shelter services within a broader global movement. PNG’s attendance was supported by the PNG Women Lead Program and the Australia- Papua New Guinea Law and Justice Partnership (APLJ), reflecting Australia’s ongoing commitment to gender equality and its partnership with the Government of PNG to combat violence against women and girls. Key frontline stakeholders took part in the conference, including: • Shirley Kaupa and Emily Papa, Magna Carta PNG • Rachel Pinda, RPNGC Family and Sexual Violence Unit, Port Moresby • Sister Techla Gamog, Catholic Safe House Inc. • Major Velena Iga, House of Hope, The Salvation Army Their involvement ensured strong frontline representation and enriched sector wide learning. To extend the impact of the conference, a post-event learning session is planned for Port Moresby, where participants will share key insights and experiences with stakeholders across the justice and community safety sector.

The National Capital District Commission (NCDC), in partnership with the Active City Development Program and Amazing Port Moresby, is proud to announce the 2025 PINKtober Walk, a flagship city-wide event dedicated to raising awareness and support for breast cancer.The walk will be held on Sunday, October 19, 2025, from 5AM to 2PM, starting at Murray Barracks and concluding at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium. This year’s event carries a strong message of collective responsibility and community leadership, with a call for corporate organizations, government departments, non-government organizations (NGOs), healthcare professionals, hospitals, schools, and community groups to take part and show solidarity in the fight against breast cancer. Speaking ahead of the event, NCD Governor Powes Parkop said that a united response is needed for all to take part for a good cause. “Breast cancer is not just a women’s health issue, it is a societal challenge that touches families, workplaces, and our city as a whole.” The PINKtober Walk is a powerful platform to raise awareness, encourage early detection, and support those affected. “I call on every business, organization, government agency, and healthcare institution to mobilize your teams and join us.”  “Together, we can save lives and show that Port Moresby stands united in hope and action.” The 2025 PINKtober Walk will feature a range of activities including: • Awareness Walk alongside breast cancer survivors and advocates • Exhibitions and educational sessions on cancer prevention and early detection • Community and SME stalls promoting health services and local initiatives • Live entertainment and performances celebrating strength, resilience, and hope Organizers encourage participants to wear pink attire to visually represent their commitment to the cause. The event is free and open to all.

The casket of the late Morobe Governor Luther Akis Wenge, was kept overnight at the Sir Ignatius Kilage Indoor Stadium in Lae, allowing the people of Morobe Province to pay their final respects to their beloved leader.The overnight vigil gave thousands of Morobeans the opportunity to gather, mourn, and bid farewell to the late Governor, whose leadership and legacy have left a lasting mark on the province and the nation. The main State Funeral is scheduled to take place today, Wednesday 08/10/2025, at the Sir Ignatius Kilage Stadium, where national and provincial leaders, dignitaries, and citizens are expected to attend. As of this morning, the casket remains at the Indoor Stadium, awaiting the arrival of Prime Minister James Marape and his delegation before the official funeral program begins. Due to the delay in the Prime Minister’s arrival, the State Funeral proceedings are expected to commence around midday. Further updates will be provided as the program continues throughout the day.

Prime Minister James Marape has praised Western Governor Taboi Awi Yoto and the people of Western Province for their unified effort in successfully completing and signing the 12th Ok Tedi Community Mine Continuation Agreement (CMCA) Review.Witnessing the signing, Prime Minister Marape hailed the event as a significant milestone for Papua New Guinea’s resource sector. The agreement, he stated, ensures that communities impacted by mining operations are not just consulted, but meaningfully engaged and empowered. The Prime Minister specifically commended Governor Yoto and the leaders of both the CMCA and non-CMCA communities for their "true leadership and cooperation," acknowledging the people as the "rightful custodians" of the land. He emphasized that the directly affected CMCA communities provide the crucial “social license” that allows the Ok Tedi mine to operate responsibly. “These people are the heart of the project. They give the license for the mine to continue to operate despite environmental sensitivities.” “Without their consent and participation, we could not move forward.” Prime Minister Marape clarified that the 12th CMCA Review Agreement is not a rigid or final document, but a "living framework" designed to evolve with the people's changing needs and aspirations. “This agreement is not set in stone; it is not the ten Commandments.” He assured that the framework will be revisited and realigned annually to ensure it continuously improves people's lives. The transition to the 13th Review, he added, must guarantee tangible benefits flow directly to the people of Western Province. Under the 12th Review, the Prime Minister highlighted a monumental increase in the value of benefits for landowners and affected communities, which have more than doubled compared to previous arrangements. “We have delivered over a 100 per cent increase in the value of benefits.” However, he coupled this good news with an appeal for greater responsibility, urging the people to use the funds wisely, investing in better homes, supporting their children's education, and developing their communities. Reaffirming his government’s commitment, Prime Minister Marape pledged to support Western Province and other resource-rich regions through fair benefit-sharing, sustainable development, and transparent management of mining revenues. “Our goal is simple, to make sure that the wealth from the ground transforms into real improvements on the ground.” His vision is for Western Province to be known not only for its resources, but for its “thriving, healthy, and empowered communities.”

Five staff members from the Physiotherapy Department have successfully completed the inaugural Basic Acupuncture Training Program recently, marking a significant stride in advancing patient care and fostering long-term skill development.This achievement is a direct result of the ongoing partnership between the Government of Papua New Guinea and the Government of China, facilitated by the 14th Chinese Medical Team. Ruth Kemga, Coordinator of the Physiotherapy Department, highlighted the necessity of this collaboration stating that the primary purpose of the training was to impart basic acupuncture skills to national staff, ensuring the continuity and sustainability of these valuable services. She explained the clinical motivation that the drive for this training arose from the clinical realization that acupuncture serves as a powerful complement to physiotherapy management. “Integrating these skills allows for a more holistic and effective approach to treating patients.” The six-month program provided comprehensive instruction, covering foundational to practical elements, including: • Introduction to Acupuncture • Descriptions of Needles (sizes and usage) • Location of Acupoints • Insertion Techniques for common conditions seen in physiotherapy • Detailed review of Indications and Contraindications for treatment The Physiotherapy Department has extended its heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Hou Bonana, Acupuncturist, and the entire Chinese Medical Team for their generous and impactful contribution to skill-sharing. This successful training is expected to significantly enhance the quality of patient care across the department. Furthermore, the team eagerly anticipates continued collaboration and future training opportunities, laying the foundation for a lasting legacy of integrated healthcare for the people of Papua New Guinea.

The Commander of the National Capital District (NCD) and Central Province, Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police Benjamin Turi, has condemned the destruction of property and the displacement of residents in the Horse Camp area of Moresby South.This condemnation follows an incident where alleged Engan men burned down houses belonging to residents from Gulf province. Commander Turi led a police delegation to the area yesterday (Monday, October 7, 2025) after reports surfaced that nearly all Gulf residents had fled in fear. While at the scene, Commander Turi and his officers confirmed that approximately seventeen houses were razed to the ground three weeks ago. The arson was reportedly a retaliatory act following the murder of an Engan man by a man from Gulf Province. Police confirmed that the murder suspect has since been arrested and is in police custody. ACP Turi stressed that the Engan men had no right to burn the houses or to establish a "mourning house" in a public area that other innocent Gulf people frequent. He noted something out of the ordinary that he learned during the visit that the Engans chased the Gulf people out of their houses, and then they got power from one of the houses and connected it to their mourning house in which they were hosting at Sabama. Commander Turi was forceful in his message against tribal retaliation and land-grabbing. “This is Port Moresby City, and we do not want to see people bringing their village mentality to the city.” “Burning down houses and then trying to claim the land is not right and is unlawful.” “We will investigate the matter and have those who burned down the houses arrested and charged, just like we did to the person who murdered the Engan man.” He specifically called on those supporting the mourning house and demanding K200, 000 in compensation to cease their actions. “I am calling on the Engans who are supporting their tribesmen to set up the mourning house and demand K200, 000 compensation to stop." “We have names of people who are doing that. They will be arrested and charged soon.” Commander Turi urged the owners of the burnt homes and those who fled Horse Camp to work closely with Badili Police. He stated that victims must provide statements to allow police to "fast-track the case." He concluded that police will implement regular patrols in the area to ensure that non-residents do not create new problems and that those who left their homes can safely return. The Commander and officers from Badili as well as other police units visited the arson sites and advised the victims on the necessary legal procedures.

A total of 243 police reservists in East New Britain Province are set to pass out at the end of this month October, marking a major step in strengthening law and order across the province. This was confirmed by Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) for Islands Command Vanua Varu, during the official launch of the ENB Police Reservist Training Program at the Gunan Na Niuvia Training Facility in Kokopo that took place on October 3. The event was attended by senior officers including Chief Inspector Luvi Florian, Director of Community Policing with the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC), Senior Inspector Elizabeth Tibam from the National Centre of Excellence in Port Moresby, and representatives of the East New Britain Provincial Government. The training program is currently in its sixth week, with several more weeks remaining before the official pass-out ceremony later this month. In his address, ACP Varu reminded the recruits to uphold discipline, honesty, and respect in their duties. “You will pass out as policemen and policewomen. Your role is similar to that of regular officers, so respect the uniform and perform your duties with integrity.” ACP Varu also thanked the East New Britain Provincial Government (ENBPG) for its continued support in ensuring the success of the program. Meanwhile, Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Chief Inspector Felix Nabanat praised the recruits for their commitment and discipline throughout the training program. “With more than 200 new reservists, we will have the additional manpower needed to support police work throughout the province.” He urged the trainees to remain focused and disciplined to complete their training successfully and serve their communities with pride. On the other hand, Deputy Provincial Administrator for District and Local Level Government (LLG) Services, Mr. Danley Puapena, reaffirmed the provincial government’s ongoing support for the initiative. “The provincial government is here to assist with infrastructure, allowances, uniforms, and other requirements during and after training.” Mr. Puapena also noted that the province currently has about 240 regular police officers serving a population of more than 400, 000 people, and with the inclusion of the reservists, this will greatly improve community policing and public safety across the province. Furthermore, he also commended the trainers and police leadership for their effort and dedication in implementing the program. The reservists are expected to complete their training and officially pass out before the end of the October.

A World War II bomb discovered at the Gelagela resettlement area in Rabaul, East New Britain (ENB) province, has been safely removed and transported to a secured site for disposal. At exactly 2:55PM on October 2, the United States AN-M66 general-purpose bomb, weighing more than 900 kilograms, was successfully lifted and relocated under tight security. The operation was a joint effort by the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit, ENB Division of Disaster Management, Kokopo Fire Service, Police, Kabiu Local Level Government (LLG) officers, local contractor Kokopo Plant Hire, and community volunteers. East New Britain Governor Michael Marum, who is also a local from the Gelagela–Matalau area, supported the operation. The bomb had been accidentally unearthed on September 25 by a group of youths digging a pit toilet, sparking fear throughout the surrounding villages. It was later confirmed to be a U.S. 2,000-pound AN-M66 bomb, a type widely used by Allied forces during World War II. Rabaul was one of Japan’s major military bases during the war. To neutralize it, the U.S. carried out massive bombing campaigns, leaving behind hundreds of unexploded ordnances (UXO) still being found across East New Britain today. Retired PNGDF bomb specialist Phillip Makoan, now attached to the ENB Provincial Disaster Office, praised the joint operation. “I wish to commend everyone involved in today’s work. The bomb is now secured at a safe location and will await the arrival of EOD equipment for its final disposal.” Makoan also thanked residents for cooperating with the evacuation and adhering to safety notices issued earlier in the day. Meanwhile, Cornelia Kalimet, Safety and Mitigation Officer with the ENB Division of Disaster Management, said the operation was vital, as the bomb was located only a few meters from the Kabiu LLG chamber, a junior high school, and nearby homes. “It was a serious threat to the people here, so it was wise to remove it before any risk of detonation.” She also acknowledged Kokopo Plant Hire for swiftly providing machinery and manpower to move the heavy explosive. On the other hand, Chief Warrant Officer Rex Niangirua, who led the EOD operation, said this was the second bomb of that size to be removed in East New Britain. “The PNGDF Naval Boat will assist in transporting EOD equipment from Port Moresby to Kokopo, where the bomb will be safely detonated.” Furthermore, the successful removal has brought relief to the Gelagela community and serves as a reminder of the lingering dangers of wartime relics still buried beneath East New Britain’s soil.