Team PNG athletes and officials came together on Sunday the 25th of May 2025 at the Sir John Guise Indoor Stadium in Port Moresby for a vibrant and spirited team bonding event in preparation for the 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau. The day-long event brought together over 150 athletes and officials in a celebration of unity, national pride, and team culture under the guidance of the Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC). The event featured a range of activities designed to disseminate important Team PNG and Games information, strengthen relationships, reinforce shared values, and prepare Team PNG to represent the nation with pride. The program began with a moving devotion by the Gavuone Urban Fellowship and a powerful rendition of the National Anthem and Pledge by students from Gordons International School. PNGOC President Emma Waiwai, in officially welcoming Team PNG athletes and officials to the Team Bonding event, also congratulated all who earned their place on the team and said that the event was not about competition, but about building real connections, a deeper connection with team members, clear sense of purpose and renewed spirit of unity. Team PNG was privileged to have former athlete and member of the General Management Team, Xenia Peni share her story of her journey as an athlete, to inspire the team representing PNG at the Palau 2025 Pacific Mini Games. Xenia, who represented PNG in Swimming at the Olympic and Pacific Games in Swimming and also Vaá at the 2005 and 2015 Pacific Games, encouraged athletes to know why they train, play and give it their all. Meanwhile, Team PNG’s Chef de Mission for Palau 2025, Kinivanagi Karo, also gave his remarks, emphasizing the importance of unity and shared purpose. “Team PNG is more than just a group of athletes. We are one team, one spirit, and one voice. This bonding experience is about understanding that we each play a part in lifting our country, both on and off the field.” “This is where our journey as a team truly begins.” In addition, athletes were also addressed by the Chair of the Athletes Commission, Andrew Molen and also on the importance of Safeguarding that was addressed by Asiani Vagi. Athletes engaged in interactive sessions grouped by functional areas such as Media, Medical, Performance, Safeguarding and Anti-doping, and the Athletes Commission. These sessions, creatively named after iconic Palau landmarks such as Jellyfish Lake, Rock Islands, and Milky Way Lagoon, which added a fun and thematic layer to the experience. Moreover, the event ended with a lively team walkout practice, a spirited performance of the official Team PNG song, and a team lunch that allowed athletes and officials to connect in a relaxed setting. PNGOC sincerely thanked Coca-Cola Europacific Partners for their generous donation of ten cases of beverages, and the Papua New Guinea Sports Foundation (PNGSF) for providing the venue at Sir John Guise Stadium. Their support played a vital role in the success of this event, in which PNGOC expressed their true appreciation towards. Furthermore, with the countdown to Palau 2025 underway, the Team Bonding Day marked a meaningful step forward in ensuring Team PNG heads into the competition united, motivated, and ready to make the nation proud.

The energy was electric at the Port Moresby edition of the Trukai Fun Run Auction held on Friday evening as the local business community rallied together in a powerful display of support for Team PNG. The event proved to be a resounding success, with an impressive 17, 200 Trukai Fun Run shirts being sold, collectively raising a significant K258, 000 for Team PNG. These highly anticipated auctions serve as a crucial fundraising prelude to the annual Trukai Fun Run, a much-loved national event. This year’s Fun Run carries the inspiring theme, ‘Running Through History,’ an emotional reflection on Papua New Guinea’s remarkable 50-year journey of Independence. The theme shines a spotlight on the unifying power of sport, celebrating its growth and development as a force that brings communities together. All proceeds generated from the auction will be channelled directly towards funding Team PNG’s participation in the upcoming 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau, scheduled from June 29th to July 9th. This financial boost will be instrumental in ensuring our athletes have the resources they need to compete at their best on the international stage. Both the Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC) and Trukai Industries Limited (TIL), who are the driving forces behind the Trukai Fun Run, expressed their profound gratitude to the Port Moresby business community for their unwavering commitment to Team PNG. Their heartfelt thanks extended to the numerous government entities, business houses, and individuals who demonstrated remarkable generosity by attending and bidding at the auction, all in support of both our national athletes and local schools, who will also benefit significantly from the funds raised. Team PNG Chef de Mission to Palau 2025, Kinivanagi Karo took a moment to recognize and thank the Trukai Fun Run major sponsor, Trukai industries Limited, and the top five bidders at the t-shirt auction including, Sir Brian Bell Foundation, Institute of Business Studies University, Brands Pacific, International Training Institute, and PNG Investment Promotion Authority (IPA), for their invaluable support. “I would like to extend my warmest gratitude towards the major sponsor, Trukai Industries. Limited for their unwavering support.” “Your contributions will play a crucial role in this year’s Pacific Mini Games, we are grateful for your commitment towards Team PNG.” “Your generosity is truly inspiring and gives us the motivation to continue our efforts to provide the best possible Launchpad for our Team PNG athletes.” [caption id="attachment_65930" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Team PNG Chef de Mission to Palau 2025, Kinivanagi Karo Mr. Knivagi Karo Pic Credits: Trukai Industries Limited[/caption] Meanwhile the head of Trukai Industries, Mr. Andrew Grace, also acknowledged the remarkable commitment and support demonstrated by the business community towards Team PNG. He conveyed his sincere gratitude and expressed his optimistic outlook for the upcoming annual Trukai Fun Run. “We are eagerly looking forward to working closely with the PNG Olympic Committee to make this year’s Trukai Fun Run another truly memorable event.” “Mark your calendars for June 22nd, as we anticipate an event that will be bigger, better, and even safer for everyone to participate in.” He further emphasized the enduring strength of the partnership, stating that for 25 years, the partnership between Trukai Industries and the PNG Olympic Committee has stood strong as a powerful symbol of their shared commitment to Team PNG and the incredible unifying power of sports within our nation. The resounding success of the 2025 Port Moresby Trukai T-shirt auctions would not have been possible without the invaluable contributions of dedicated support sponsors. [caption id="attachment_65929" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Head of Trukai Industries Mr. Andrew GracePic Credits: Trukai Industries Limited[/caption] Moreover, the Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee and Trukai Industries have both extended their sincere gratitude and appreciation to Air Niugini, Theodist Limited, IBS University, Coral Sea Hotels, Trophy Haus, and Vodafone PNG for their tireless support and unwavering dedication to the Trukai Fun Run campaign. The commitment of these esteemed sponsors has truly made a significant difference, and both organizations look forward to their continued partnership and support in the years to come. In addition, a unique aspect of the initiative allows participating organizations the option to add their own branding onto the purchased t-shirts before generously donating them to their chosen schools. This thoughtful gesture further strengthens the connection between the business community and the educational institutions they are supporting. Furthermore, in terms of adding a touch of fun and promoting healthy living, the Fun Run t-shirt design also features Trukai Industries’ beloved superheroes of nutrition, Tru and Kai. These vibrant characters are also the stars of two engaging publications produced by Trukai Industries in partnership with Buk bilong Pikinini. These superheroes champion the vital message of healthy eating and active lifestyles, inspiring young Papua New Guineans to embrace a healthy lifestyle. The overwhelming success of the Port Moresby auction sets a positive tone for the second lag of the Trukai Fun Run Auctions which will be in Lae on June 13th and the main Trukai Fun Run event on June 22nd, promising to be a powerful demonstration of national unity, sporting spirit, and community support.

Kokopo based Growers Association Incorporation (GAI) has achieved a milestone, producing chickens locally and selling for affordable prices to the Kokopo communities. The project has been undergoing progress and is a few steps ahead in ensuring that East New Britain province is self-sufficient on food, and that is the consumption of chickens. The GAI poultry venture began with the support of the World Bank funded program through the PACD (Papua New Guinea Agriculture Commercialization and Diversification)-Cocoa project where they are one of the eighteen partnerships in the country assisted with funding to roll out poultry project as well as cocoa in the Duke of York Island of Kokopo District. Under the leadership of Executive Manager, Simon Arnold, they are not only assisting farmers to plant cocoa and farm poultry but also to treat these opportunities as a business or small SME and manage them sustainably to support their immediate families, wards and more widely. GAI has been supported with just over a million kina to roll out their various activities in their outline contract and budget. The poultry project has 100 farmers and 200 farmers in the Duke of York Island in Kokopo District. The process of the poultry project starts with the purchase of the chicks, followed by the supply to the farmers and when the chicks reach the weight requirement, GAI then harvests from them and process or help with the marketing. Mr. Arnold also stated that currently growers' poultry team are harvesting chickens from their farmers, slaughtered, clean, processed, prepare and packed at their small processing plant facility that was purchased with the financial support from PACD-Cocoa PMU. The chickens are currently selling at K22 per kilo as well as packed 500 gram for K10 and 800 grams for K15 plus a variety of price ranger at the GAI office in Kokopo near the Cocoa Board office. This exercise has brought a lot of excitement to the farmers as well as people in the province, as this is actually the first of its kind for an organization helping smallholder farmers is charting a new course for sustainable farming and diversification and commercialization. Moreover, GAI is engaging youths from the surrounding community to do little work in the facility such as cleanliness, security, carpenter work and working inside the slaughterhouse slaughtering and preparing the chickens after they undergone some trainings. The mini slaughterhouse set up at Vimi plantation in Kokopo District was once a hot spot area of social issues such as hold ups, stealing and has also seen many youths turn to social issues to survive. Many of them have lost their lives where they were shot by police. With the hardship faced by the youths, GAI is now engaging a good number of them to work in the mini slaughterhouse. The youths are now raising poultry and plan to replicate what PACD GAI project has started off them with and aim that all families in Vimi will have a poultry house. Mr. Arnold added that they are just waiting for the rightful authorities to give them permission and in which they can then proceed with proper packaging and selling of chickens. Meanwhile, a farmer, Ignasia Ginigil has expressed her gratitude to the World Bank through the PACD Cocoa project for supporting her with her poultry project. She also thanked GAI for their continuous field visits and trainings that have put confidence in them to pursue this project for the first time. “I am a cocoa farmer but now with this new poultry project, I am happy and thankful that this is another income revenue for my family to sustain our livelihood in these challenging times.” Furthermore, the project initiatives aim to increase cocoa production and improve livelihoods and signifies a significant step towards enhancing agricultural sustainability and economics in PNG’s rural communities.

Cook Islands will increase its minimum wage by 50 cents to $10 per hour, a change welcomed by some workers and expats but considered insufficient by others and potentially impactful for small tourism businesses facing rising costs. The Cook Islands' minimum wage will increase by 50 cents, from $9.50 to $10 per hour, effective 1 July 2025. While some welcome the change, others argue it's insufficient given the rising cost of living, including soaring rental and food prices. The Cook Islands Tourism Industry Council notes that smaller businesses may feel the impact of this increase. The Employment Relations (Minimum Rate of Pay) Regulations, signed by the King's Representative on 15 April, approved the proposed increase. The new minimum wage was proposed following the annual review mandated by the Employment Relations Act 2012. Two Cook Islands teenagers, who wished to remain anonymous for job security reasons, believe the minimum wage should be higher to reflect the current cost of living. The 19-year-old worker, who earns $9.50 an hour, has welcomed the 50-cent increase but believes, "personally, I should be getting paid more considering I work part time and they expect us to do the work of a full-time worker". "I personally think we should get paid more than the minimum wage." An 18-year-old, working in a government department, says, "Depending on the living expenses, if prices for cost-of-living increases then minimum wage should also increase." "Pushing to $10, adding $0.50 from the previous $9.50, is okay I guess but it heavily depends on where you are working as well. If it includes heavy labour then it should be more than 10 bucks an hour." Cook Islands Fijians Association vice president operations Ravinesh Swamy said that while the association welcomes the 50-cent increase, its impact as a boost needs to be evaluated in comparison to the cost of living, particularly concerning rental accommodations. Expat worker Waqa Naitini welcomed the increase, stating that it was much needed as "the cost of goods and services has increased too". "Rental homes (rents) have increased too compared to two years ago, the minimum wage increase is welcomed," Naitini said. The Filipino community president Grace Scheel says if the government has considered 0.50 cents increase then we do accept and respect this new law. "However, if you go shopping and the cost of commodities is spiralling up, the $20 extra income on their weekly pay is not enough to cover these extra costs. The workers should tighten their belts in spending here to enable them to send money to their family back home at the same time," Scheel said. She added that the minimum rate of $12 was a suggested amount, and business owners or employers would then have to increase the prices of their products and services to cover the wage increase. "So, it's kind of a relative increase in price/commodities." Cook Islands Tourism Industry Council president Tere Carr said the new minimum wage rate would have little impact on most large private sector operators, who she expects are already paying $10 or more per hour. "However, some of our smaller local businesses may feel the impact which comes on the heels of increased cost of goods into the country and therefore making their products more expensive to sell," Carr said. Carr said that most smaller businesses, particularly those in the food industry, would feel this increased cost, especially when combined with other rising expenses and government-imposed costs like water tariffs. "The tourism industry relies on supply and demand. If we price ourselves out of the market through increased costs which are passed on to the consumer, then we risk seeing tourists choose other cheaper destinations. It really depends on the business and whether the increased costs can be absorbed without price increases," she said. "We are already a high-priced destination and are fortunate that tourists still choose to come, mainly because of our Cook Islands people and the incredible service they deliver in making all our tourists feel valued and welcomed." When asked what support the government should provide to the tourism sector to help navigate this change, Carr said the government could address the additional costs being placed on businesses such as water, "which the Select Committee recommended be brought back under appropriation by government through taxes already paid to government". "Double taxing businesses for services is not good governance," she said. The Minimum Wage Review Public Consultations for 2025 were held in March this year to allow the community to engage in meaningful discussions with the panel on the minimum wage and contribute to shaping fair and balanced recommendations for the Minister of Internal Affairs. The panel members include Maru Mariri-Tepou - Ministry of Internal Affairs, Tristan Metcalfe - Ministry of Finance and Economic Management, Steve Anderson - Chamber of Commerce (employers representative), Ina Kamana - Cook Islands Workers Association (employees representative) and Simona Aumetua Nicholas - community representative. Cook Islands Chamber of Commerce vice chair Eve Hayden said that the minimum wage recommendation from the warranted panel, of which the Chamber is a member, was subject to a non-disclosure agreement (NDA), and therefore, "we are not in a position to comment yet on the recommendation put forward". "Once it is in the public area, more than happy to provide you with some comments," Hayden said. The Cook Islands Workers Association (CIWA) similarly said that it has signed an agreement with the Ministry of Internal Affairs (INTAFF). Workers Association's Helen Maunga said, "CIWA has signed an agreement with the Ministry of Internal Affairs not to release anything on the 'as you requested below' until they make a public statement then we can make a release comments of our own view to the new rate." In New Zealand, the latest minimum wage increase came into effect on 1 April 2025. The increases are: adult minimum wage has gone up from $23.15 to $23.50 per hour starting-out and training minimum wage has gone up from $18.52 to $18.80 per hour. Cook Islands has the second highest minimum wage rate in the South Pacific, behind French Polynesia which pays its workers 1100 XPF (NZ$17.50) per hour. Additional reporting from Teitimoana Tairi -This article was first published by Cook Islands News. Source: https://www.rnz.co.nz/

Australia has announced that it will make an immediate contribution of $5 million (K12, 742, 500) to support Papua New Guinea to respond to the detection of vaccine-derived poliovirus. This funding, delivered through the World Health Organization (WHO), will support the integration of polio vaccines with other routine childhood immunizations. This will help protect an estimated three million children nationwide and reduce the risk of future polio outbreaks. Australia is also supporting a Technical Advisory Group, including two Australian experts in polio and child health. This will provide independent recommendations to guide PNG’s response. Australia is also a key contributor to the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, WHO and UNICEF, who are playing important technical roles in supporting the response. In addition, the country acknowledged the swift and proactive measures taken by the Government of PNG to respond to the evolving situation, including stepping up surveillance, testing and advice to clinicians, as well as a catch-up immunization campaign. Australia's Minister for Pacific Island Affairs, Pat Conroy, said that vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the spread of polio. “That’s why we are working closely with the Government of Papua New Guinea to step up vaccination efforts to protect children and ensure a healthy region.” Meanwhile, Minister for International Development, Doctor Ane Aly also stated that they are now working in partnership with governments across the region to respond to the priorities of their Pacific neighbors, including improved access to health care and better immunization coverage. “A polio-free world is possible; Australia’s investments play a vital role in helping our region eradicate this devastating disease.”

Utu Secondary School in New Ireland province, has suspended five grade nine students including four females and one male following a widespread circulation of a video on Facebook depicting these students, smoking marijuana and posting it online. The school administration was promptly alerted to the matter and conducted a thorough investigation. The school board in a recent statement, stated that the investigation identified these students as being responsible for their actions, including the creation of the video. These students were then immediately suspended and the School Disciplinary Committee convened on Friday May 16th to address the issue. The Disciplinary Committee unanimously recommended the expulsion of all five students based on the evidence provided. As of Tuesday 20th May, the School Board of Governors met to specifically consider this serious matter and went ahead to vote to uphold the recommendation of the School Disciplinary Committee resulting in the expulsion of the five students, making it effective. In addition, the board stated that drugs and alcohol have no place within its institution and students found to be involved in the use, possession or distribution of illegal substances will face the strictest disciplinary measures, including termination. The school notes with concern that the majority of serious disciplinary cases this year have involved female students. In light of this trend, Utu Secondary is kindly appealing to parents to prioritize the proper upbringing of their daughters, emphasizing the importance of ladylike conduct, decency, and respect both within and outside the school environment. Moreover, the school also reiterates the importance of respecting the school uniform and encourages all students to wear it with pride. As New Ireland’s premier secondary institution, the board stated that the school’s reputation and standing must be upheld by every member of the community including, students, teachers, the Board of Governors, the administration and parents and citizens. The school also understands that this incident may cause concern within the community and has appealed for the continued support and pride that the people of New Ireland have historically shown towards the institution. "This isolated incident should not diminish the significant contributions Utu Secondary has made and will continue to make in shaping the future leaders of the province and the nation," the school stated. Finally, Utu Secondary school remains firmly committed to providing a safe, disciplined, and conducive learning environment. The board has stated that they will continue to serve as a vital steppingstone, empowering current and future generations of students to achieve their dreams and aspirations and to be New Ireland’s leaders of tomorrow.

The Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC) is proud to announce the appointment of Mrs. Iammo Gapi Launa, OBE, MBE, BEM, OLY as the Chef de Mission for Team PNG to the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games (YOG) in Senegal. A celebrated sporting icon, first PNG female Olympian, and long-time sports administrator and advocate for youth and women in sports, Mrs. Launa brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and passion to her new role. Her appointment marks a significant milestone for Team PNG as it prepares for its first Youth Olympic Games in the African continent. PNGOC President Emma Waiwai, said that PNGOC is honored to have Mrs. Launa lead their young athletes to Dakar. “She has been a pioneer and role model in Papua New Guinea’s sporting history, and her appointment reflects her enduring commitment to sports development at all levels.” “Dakar 2026 is a key lead up event to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, our home Games, and we are confident that under her leadership, our athletes will be well prepared for the journey ahead.” Mrs. Launa made history as Papua New Guinea’s first female Olympian, representing the country in athletics at the 1984 and 1988 Olympic Games. Her ongoing involvement in sports administration, combined with her extensive knowledge of the Olympic Movements and values makes her ideally suited to guide and inspire the next generation of PNG athletes. As Chef de Mission, Mrs. Launa will be responsible for overseeing the preparation, management, and welfare of Team PNG’s delegation to Dakar, ensuring that athletes and officials are well-supported throughout the journey. In accepting the role, Mrs. Launa expressed her gratitude and commitment, stating that it is a privilege to once again serve Papua New Guinea in this capacity. “I look forward to supporting and mentoring our youth as they take on this exciting challenge and represent our country with pride on the world stage.” The Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, scheduled for October 31st to November 14th, 2026, with 38 sports on the program, will host thousands of young athletes from around the globe. Moreover, Team PNG’s participation reflects PNGOC’s continued investment in youth sports and its strategic focus on athlete development for future Olympic success. The PNGOC will begin its formal preparations and athlete selection pathway in the coming months, working closely with National Federations, coaches, and stakeholders to identify and nurture top-performing youth athletes.

Kina Bank was delighted to collaborate with RISE on "I Build My Pathway" Careers and Entrepreneurship workshop on Saturday 10th May 2025 to teach young girls entrepreneurial skills and offer them valuable opportunities to learn and serve. As part of its sponsorship, Kina Bank presented a business loan (with no interest) to schoolgirls from Tokarara Secondary School in NCD. Envelopes containing cash were given to five groups of girls to start their own business project. RISE Founder and Director, Michelle Pillay expressed her gratitude to Kina Bank for the support. “The inclusion of Kina Bank in the entrepreneurship project, particularly through the presentation of the business loan concept, offered a critical, real-world dimension to our students’ learning.” “This opportunity not only enhanced their understanding of financial literacy and business fundamentals but also encouraged innovative thinking and leadership.” “The mentees were inspired by the idea that a major national institution believes in their ideas and is willing to support them.” “As the lender for our young women’s business projects, Kina Bank is not only helping to launch entrepreneurial ventures but is also actively shaping the next generation of PNG’s business and community leaders,” she said. Kina Bank Executive General Manager Business - Retail Banking and Guest Speaker Rayeleene Elston shared her inspiring personal journey to motivate both mentees and mentors. She urged the girls to step out of their comfort zones and break the cycle of generational hardships, stating, "No matter what you go through in life, choose to be different. Choose your path and make the decision to be somebody." Kina Bank Chairman Ian Clough also applauded the partnership between the bank and the RISE Program saying, “It was great to see our team involved in this fantastic program which is helping to further empower and engage women in PNG.” Kina Bank is also pleased to have two staff members, Grace Eli - Senior Legal Officer and Margarette Maggio - Asset Recoveries Officer, serving as mentors in the program, providing their expertise and guidance to these young girls. The RISE Program is a youth empowerment initiative aimed at fostering personal growth, education, and employment opportunities through structured mentoring. The program aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly focusing on quality education and gender equality.

Three Chinese nationals residing in Madang have been arrested and charged by Madang police in relation to the incident that occurred on May 9th at the Yaho Supermarket, where a 45-year-old mother and her daughter were physically assaulted after being accused of theft. Madang Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Chief Inspector, Robert Baim confirmed that the Yaho Supermarket Manager, the Supreme Investment Cooperative Service Manager, and one other Chinese national were arrested and charged yesterday (Monday, the 19th) with two charges each of grievous bodily harm and deprivation of liberty concerning the mother and daughter. He said the three were allowed on K12, 000 police bail and will appear in court when their court documents are ready. He mentioned that this now brings the total number of arrests to six, of which the other three are Papua New Guineans. He stated that the investigation into the incident of May 9th is still ongoing, and more arrests are expected to take place. PPC Baim also stated that according to the police investigation, on May 9th the victim, 45-year-old mother Josephine Kadiknam and her daughter were doing their shopping at Yaho Supermarket in Madang town when they were confronted by the shop employees, and security guards from Pacific Cooperative Services. It was alleged that the guards and the shop employees claimed that the mother and daughter had stolen items from the shop. The guards and the employees then escorted the mother and daughter to the shop's storage area and started assaulting them. After assaulting them, they took the mother to the police station and detained her while allowing the daughter to go home. He then added that after the mother was detained, the police officers requested that both parties come forward and provide their statements. During the investigation at that time, a video of the assault of the mother and daughter went viral on social media that stirred up public condemnation of the actions of the shop employees doing the beating. “I then instructed my officers to quickly obtain statements from the mother, the child, and the guards, and to have those responsible for committing any offenses related to that matter arrested and charged.” “On the next day, the two shop employees were apprehended by my officers, who were alleged to be involved in assaulting the mother and daughter.” “The following day, another individual was picked up and charged, and yesterday, three Chinese men were charged, bringing the total to six people charged in connection with the Yaho incident in Madang.” Furthermore, PPC Baim stated that the investigation continues, and thanked the public and his police officers for working together to assist in investigating the matter.

The East New Britain Provincial Government (ENBPG) recently launched a major initiative to distribute approximately one million cocoa hybrids and clones this year as part of the Cocoa Rehabilitation Program. This large-scale effort is being carried out in partnership with the PNG Cocoa Board and Agmark Group Limited. As part of the rollout, payments for the initial 700, 000 cocoa seedlings, covering the districts of Pomio, Rabaul, and Gazelle, have been made to the PNG Cocoa Board and Agmark Group Limited. The PNG Cocoa Board received a total of K350, 000 to support seedling distribution, while Agmark Group was granted a total of K282, 622 to supply equipment for nurseries and cocoa fermentaries. Meanwhile, payments for the remaining 300, 000 seedlings for the Kokopo district are currently being finalized under similar distribution arrangements. The presentation of cheques to the two organizations took place at the ENB Provincial Administrator’s Office in Kokopo earlier this month. Provincial Administrator Mr. Levi Mano, while presenting the cheques, stated that the provincial government is now partnering with experts who can support agricultural extension work in the province. Mr. Mano confirmed there are currently nineteen certified cocoa nurseries in operation engaged through Service Level Agreements (SLA). These nurseries are part of a proposed forty that will supply cocoa seedlings to more than 2, 333 cocoa farmers across the province. “If we wish to produce quality cocoa, the Cocoa Board and Agmark are the right partners for us to carry on this initiative.” “Therefore, we are calling on all farmers to access materials provided by these two organizations.” He emphasized that people often talk about grand initiatives but overlook practical, impactful efforts that can support communities and bring money back into local economies. Meanwhile, Advisor of the Division of Agriculture and Livestock (DAL), Mr. Dominic Huranaka, said that the province currently produces 6, 000 metric tonnes of cocoa annually. The provincial government aims to increase production to 10, 000 metric tonnes by the year, 2027. Mr. Huranaka stated that once the Kokopo district component is in place and other service providers such as Farmset Limited will be engaged. He also confirmed that a few cocoa nurseries have already begun distributing seedlings in the province. “We now have a set of guidelines for farmers who wish to participate in the program. You must have your field ready, with proper lining and marking, and our officers will need to physically inspect the site.” “We have previously supplied cocoa seedlings without seeing the expected return on investment.” Additionally, Mr. Huranaka said that some farmers collect seedlings only to store them improperly, leading to damage and also noted that some farmers are simply negligent. On the other hand, PNG Cocoa Board Chief Executive Officer, Jessie Anjen, has commended the initiative of the ENB Provincial Government to partner with service providers who have the capacity to supply and meet the demands of the population. He added that the Cocoa Board has seen a rise in farmers cultivating open-pollinated seeds. “This can really affect the production and quality of our cocoa in the province as well as the country.” “The best approach is to source seedlings from certified budwood gardens, which are then distributed to cocoa nurseries province wide.” Moreover, he added that the Provincial Cocoa Rehabilitation Program aligns with the Cocoa Board’s annual targets and that this partnership is a great way to alleviate poverty in communities.

The Olympic Values Education Programme (OVEP) is a fun and engaging way to teach young people about the Olympic values of Excellence, Respect, and Friendship. The program uses sport and physical activity to promote positive life skills, healthy living, and strong values that can help shape individuals and build better communities. It encourages young people to carry these values not only in sports but also in their daily lives. The Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC) is rolling out the OVEP program to inspire and educate children and communities across the country. Through this initiative, PNGOC aims to instill the values of honesty, excellence, respect, and openness (known as the PNGOC HERO values) in the hearts of the next generation. This year, the OVEP activities also form part of the lead-up to Olympic Day which will be on June 23rd, a day celebrated globally to promote participation in sport, unity, and living a healthy, active life. On the 10th of this month (May), the PNGOC team visited Gabagaba Village in Central Province to launch the OVEP campaign. It was a lively and meaningful event that brought together children, youth, and community members. The highlight of the day was a series of inspirational talks by Team PNG HERO athletes, who shared powerful messages based on the PNGOC HERO values including Honesty, Excellence, Respect, and Openness. Their stories encouraged the children and villagers to live by these values, whether in sport, school, or everyday life. In addition, the program in Gabagaba included fun sporting activities that allowed the children to practice the HERO values through teamwork, fair play, and participation. There were also creative art sessions where children and villagers wrote heartfelt well wishes to Team PNG athletes who will be representing the country at the 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau next month. The day was filled with laughter, learning, and community spirit, as everyone came together to celebrate the power of sport and values-based education. Following the successful launch in Gabagaba, the OVEP campaign will continue in Gaire, Barakau, Tubusereia, Papa Village, the Lealea, as part of the countdown to Olympic Day. Furthermore, through these village visits, PNGOC hopes to keep spreading awareness, pride, and positivity, while supporting Team PNG and encouraging everyone to embrace the Olympic spirit.

Prime Minister James Marape congratulated the European Union (EU) on the occasion of Europe Day, recognizing the EU’s long-standing and expanding partnership with Papua New Guinea during a formal reception that was held last Friday the 9th of May at the APEC Haus, Port Moresby city. Speaking before a distinguished audience of diplomats, ministers, and development partners, PM Marape underscored the EU’s critical role in PNG’s development needs. “On behalf of my government and the people of Papua New Guinea, I congratulate the European Union on your Europe Day and acknowledge the deep and significant partnership we continue to share.” “Your programmes across the country, especially in provinces like East Sepik that are directly improving the lives of our people.” He also highlighted the extensive support PNG receives from the EU in sectors including education, energy, gender equality, agriculture, climate resilience, and public financial management. “The European Union has been a steadfast partner. Your investment in education, energy access, agriculture, and governance are transforming communities. From climate change resilience programmes to supporting us during COVID-19, you have stood by us in good times and in moments of hardship.” He also emphasized the EU’s financial contributions at the provincial level with millions of kina being invested by the EU in provinces such as East Sepik. These funds he stated, are building infrastructure, boosting agriculture, and enhancing public services in our rural areas. He reiterated PNG’s commitment to shared values such as democracy, equality, and inclusive development. “Papua New Guinea is a robust democracy with a free-market economy. We believe that everyone deserves equal opportunity for progress and prosperity, no matter where they live.” In addition, whilst referring to the broader geopolitical context, PM Marape added that PNG is positioned as a critical link between the Pacific and Southeast Asia, calling for stronger global cooperation. “We are a proud member of the Pacific family, with deep ties to ASEAN and Asia. As the world shifts towards a more multipolar future, we welcome the EU’s continued presence in our region.” “Our foreign policy remains clear; friends to all, enemies to none.” Meanwhile, PM Marape also announced during the event that PNG is expanding its diplomatic footprint in Europe. He was pleased to confirm that their nominee for Consul in Switzerland has been accepted, and plans are underway to open an embassy in France. “These efforts mark our growing engagement with Europe.” Moreover, in reflecting on the EU’s origin, PM Marape paid tribute to French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman, whose 1950 vision laid the foundation for the European Union. “Schuman’s vision reminds us that even one person’s idea, grounded in peace and partnership, can shape global history. That same spirit of unity is what we celebrate today.” The Prime Minister concluded by thanking the EU for ‘finding a home in the Pacific.’ “Though 12, 000 kilometers may separate us, in every sense you are close to us. The EU has a home here in Papua New Guinea, and we thank you for being part of our journey toward peace, development, and shared prosperity.”