Within this year, more than fifty accidents were reported in both National Capital District (NCD) and Central province, of which some are more serious while others are minor. The commander of NCD/Central provinces, acting Assistant Commissioner of Police Benjamin Turi, confirmed that most of these accidents are caused by drivers not adhering to their speed limits. He said that most of the vehicles involved in accidents are due to speeding. ACP Turi, who visited some of the accident sites along Maggi Highway this week, confirmed that most of the accident scenes are at corners where vehicles MUST slow down and drive according to traffic rules. He said there were some serious accidents reported along Maggi Highway between the stretch of road from Gaire to Bautama that resulted in deaths and serious injuries this year. He also mentioned that the accidents should be avoided if drivers were not speeding. “Speeding kills, as we all grew up seeing this advertisement on all media platforms, but we do not take it seriously.” “We regret when properties are damaged, and lives are lost; then we think of that advertisement. As the number of vehicles increases on the command roads, they will be very busy, so when you are on the road, you must also think of the other vehicles that will be on the road” “Please drive slowly. Some of the accidents, like the one involving the police vehicle a few weeks back and the recent one, should not happen if the drivers were not speeding.” He said that so far, within the period of five months, more than ten people have died in traffic accidents in the command. Moreover, ACP Turi also mentioned that some of those who died are passengers, while others are drivers, and the rest are hit-and-run victims, all of which leads to one cause, and that is speeding. He further stated that as the independence celebration is just weeks away, people who are driving around the city are asked to respect one another. The roads are made for everyone to use and everyone must respect each other, on the roads.

A weekend night out ended in tragedy for a third-year student from the University of Goroka, in Eastern Highlands province who was killed in a suspected alcohol-fueled confrontation in Eastern Highlands Province. In a recent statement the student, reportedly from Kompiam, had been returning home with friends from a club in Faniufa when their vehicle collided with another near Lahanis. Provincial Police Commander Chief Superintendent John Kale said the other vehicle’s passengers pursued the student’s group to North Goroka and violently confronted them. An object was used to hit the student in the head, causing fatal injuries. Police say the incident occurred between 10PM to 11PM on Saturday the 26th of July 2025 and have so far arrested the main suspect along with five others including three females and two males who remain in custody. Superintendent Kale confirmed that the incident is not linked to tensions at the University of Goroka, but rather a spontaneous act of violence. Minister of Higher Education Research, Science and Technology, Mr. Kinoka Feo issued a heartfelt statement condemning the act and offered condolences to the victim’s family and the UOG student community. He praised the SRC for their restraint and commitment to peace during a difficult time. “Let justice run its course. I thank also the law enforcement for acting swiftly.”

After a rocky start to this year’s season of the 2025 Pepsi Capital Rugby Union, Supreme Industries Harlequins premier team has hit its stride, overcoming significant challenges to build impressive momentum heading into the finals. After their recent win last weekend of round fifteen against the SWG Enterprise Valley Hunters, they now look ahead to maintain the standard that they have accomplished so far this season. Despite a challenging start to the season, an impressive turnaround was also attributed to the successful establishment of new team combinations which now sees the team currently sitting number three on the ladder. The season kicked off with the departure of several key players, including national representatives including brothers Caleb Nipal and Eddie Nipal, as well as others. According to Head Coach of Harlequins premier team, Mr. Billy Rapilla, these players moved on to programs either overseas or joined the Digicel ExxonMobil Rugby League Cup competition, leaving significant voids in the team's line-up and leadership group. “We had to really revamp and try to build confidence in the guys that we replaced within the grades that are below the premier grade and try to bring them up and give them an opportunity to obviously take those roles.” To compensate, the team strategically pulled up talent from younger grades, including A grade, B grade, and the Under 20s. “This influx of new, often younger, players necessitated a period of rebuilding and integration.” “We've had to build up combinations with them and obviously get them a little bit more structured in how we play up at the senior grade.” Despite the initial hurdles, the past two months have been a blessing, with the team responding exceptionally well to training and fostering strong cohesion. Mr. Rapilla said that the current success is built on a foundation of trust and commitment to the club's program, with new players grasping their opportunities and contributing significantly to the team's improved form. Looking ahead, the team has clear and ambitious goals for the remainder of the season. The primary objective is to win all remaining matches and secure a top-two spot on the ladder. “This strategic position would provide a crucial direct path to the grand final, which remains the ultimate aim; ‘Our overall goal is to win the competition.’ However, the team remains realistic about the challenges ahead. They acknowledge that opposing teams are equally hungry for wins and will undoubtedly bring their best. Mr. Rapilla also emphasized the need for continued readiness. “We're obviously not side-tracked by the fact that they're going to come hard at us and try to win their games as well.” The team's focus will be on maintaining confidence in their established processes, sticking to their effective game plan, and managing their performance effectively during matches. Furthermore, Mr. Rapilla extended he and the team’s gratitude to their dedicated supporters who consistently turn out each weekend, and to the loyal sponsors whose backing has helped the club shine both on and off the field. Meanwhile, the team has so far won a total of ten games, with 3 losses and two draw matches with three more games to go before the finals.

On Monday, 28th of July 2025 at approximately 12 noon, a mass casualty incident occurred along the Magi Highway near Bautama in Central province involving a head-on collision between a 15-seater Public Motor Vehicle (PMV) bus and an oncoming Isuzu pickup truck. Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) in a recent statement has responded to multiples casualties resulting from the accident. As of 5PM on Monday afternoon, the Emergency Department has provided the following summary: 1. Fatalities • Three (3) confirmed deaths • All three were adult males who sustained polytrauma, including severe traumatic brain injury, chest injuries and hemorrhagic shock. 2. Injuries Currently Managed at PMGH Emergency Department • A total of thirteen (13) patients are receiving medical care with the following injury breakdown: - Three (3) patients with Severe Traumatic Brain injury and polytrauma (all intubated) - Five (5) patients with compound limb fractures - Two (2) patients with rib fractures - One (1) patient with a mandible (jaw) fracture - Two (2) patients with soft tissues injuries The clinical team at PMGH continue to provide urgent and comprehensive care to all those affected. Further updates will be issued once additional information has been verified and confirmed.

A proper water supply system is crucial for the redevelopment of Rabaul town says a senior official in Rabaul District of East New Britain province. Rabaul town Manager, Joshua Wowo highlighted this during the commissioning of the new 940 kiloliter Reservoir Tank on July 16 in Rabaul town. Mr. Wowo said this vital infrastructure which complements the National Government’s plan to rebuild Rabaul town, will help to ensure the well-being of residents. “In order for Rabaul to be rebuilt, we would like to have proper water supply that is safe, affordable and enough to serve the whole town.” The town manager gave his assurance to continue to do awareness to the people of Rabaul town of the importance of water supply as this service is greatly needed to rebuild back Rabaul town. At the same time, Deputy District Administrator for Administration, Mr. John Matava said the Rabaul District will continue to assist Water PNG to improve the water supply system at Nonga and Tavui including other identified programs under the District Wash Program. He commended Water PNG for efficiently upgrading the water system in a timely manner to meet the increasing demands by residents and business houses. Meantime Business Centre Manager, Mr. Emos Michael said initial discussions began in 2022 to replace the old tank because it was subject to rust and leakage and did not properly serve the people of Rabaul town and surrounding areas. Mr. Michael whilst commending the decision by the Water PNG Board of Management highlighted that the old tank (720 kiloliters) was eventually decommissioned in May this year to pave way for the new and improved reservoir, which took six weeks to complete. He appealed to the people of Rabaul town to look after this tank as it will serve them. Moreover, he commended contractor, Fimali Limited for successfully completing the project and water is now ready for consumption by users.

A total of twenty People Living with Disabilities (PLWDs) within the Rabaul Urban LLG (RULLG) of Rabaul District have successfully completed a 4-day financial literacy training with the aim of enhancing their capacities. The training was recently conducted early this month (July) at the Rabaul Urban conference room which was facilitated by the RULLG Community Development office and coordinated through the district social sector. When giving a brief update of the program, the RULLG Community Development Officer Rum Minicus said that the financial literacy training was piloted last year by RULLG and is focused on essential skills such as basic bookkeeping; budgeting and saving. “Most of these PLWDs living in town have their own roadside markets or are sometimes engaged in fishing, gardening, assisting with errands and other economic activities that they are capable of doing, however managing their little income is still a challenge.” She said most of the time they feel left out of such vital programs and other developments and such trainings will help to empower them with necessary skills. Meantime, Long Uradok a participant and Chairman of the Rabaul Town Disability Association when giving his response during the closing of the training expressed his gratitude for the training. “I have been on this wheelchair all my life, and it’s my means of transport. I do my errands and do mobile sales whenever I can.” “When cruise ships visit Rabaul, I usually volunteer to help with tour guides in exchange for a few dollars.” He said that such trainings will better help to better manage whatever little they make and foster a more inclusive community for all. Furthermore, the financial literacy training for PLWDs will also be carried out in the other LLGs in the next month.

Rabaul District is looking now to re-establish Rabaul High School, a former leading provider of quality education in East New Britain Province. The school was destroyed by the 1994 volcanic eruptions, and its re-establishment is a vision of the Member for Rabaul, Dr. Allan Marat in response to current education reform aimed at meeting better education standards in Rabaul District. According to Rabaul District Administrator, Mr. Freddy Lemeki, the project will address overcrowding currently experienced at Boisen Secondary School and Malaguna Technical Secondary School in Rabaul and provide improved facilities for better learning outcomes. A funding of K700, 000 has been allocated from District Services Improvement Program (DSIP) Former Years for awareness and phase one works including land survey, site clearance and grubbing to take place. Mr. Lemeki said there is a need to re-establish Rabaul High School to address the growing number of students traveling to other districts, such as Kokopo and Gazelle, to attend institutions, which is time-consuming and risky. He said this has also contributed to the evident number of unemployed youths in Rabaul who lack education and cannot secure employment, leading to law-and-order problems. Early this month, an awareness team comprising officers from various government sectors, including Community Development, infrastructure, lands, information, police, and environmental health, conducted awareness activities at the old site outside Rabaul town. The awareness will pave the way for grubbing and clearance to follow. “We must involve locals in the re-development exercise to ensure that their needs and concerns are addressed.” He also highlighted the need to preserve the cultural heritage and history of Rabaul High School, which has produced many elites and leaders in the province, district, and country. Furthermore, he said as one of the nine Strategic Result Areas, Rabaul District Administration through its Education Sector, is committed to improving educational facilities to enhance learning. Meanwhile, the Rabaul District Administration is looking forward to working with the local community and stakeholders to ensure the successful re-establishment of Rabaul Provincial High School.

The 2025 Westpac Outstanding Women (WOW) Awards is a prestigious initiative in Papua New Guinea that celebrates the remarkable achievements of women driving progress and transformation throughout the country. The event which took place on the 26th of July 2025 at the Stanley Hotel in Port Moresby, honors the vision, dedication and achievements of women who are making extraordinary contributions to the country. With that, the awards have been relaunched this year after five years coinciding with the country’s 50th Independence Anniversary set to take place on the 16th of September. Managing Director of Westpac Pacific, Emma Low, stated that this the event was all about recognition, inspiration and celebration. She also said that it is an opportunity to spotlight the incredible contributions women are making in every corner of the community or society. “As we celebrate leadership, resilience, innovation and impact, I invite you to take this not just a moment of recognition, but as a reminder of the power of lifting others.” “We are creating space for women to lead, thrive and shine.” The 2025 WOW Awards featured a total of seven categories with 21 finalists and a winner each from announced on the night of the event. A judging process took place before a decision was made to appoint a winner each. All 21 remarkable finalists, drawn from diverse sectors, have demonstrated outstanding commitment to excellence and community advancement. Their achievements not only shaping their respective fields but also inspiring future generations to dream boldly and drive positive change. The categories and winners are: 1. Entrepreneurship- Violet Bukon 2. Not for Profit- Delsie Casper Nick 3. Private Sector- Raka Numa Raula 4. Public Sector- Dr. Pamela Toliman 5. Sports and Arts- Ruth Meu Omenefa 6. Sustainability- Anne Shirley Korave 7. Young Achiever- Julie Rereve Apart from these award categories, there was also another category for Overall Winning Award in which Sustainability Award winner, Anne Shirley Korave received. Furthermore, Low thanked all finalists for their powerful work they do and for the example that they have set.

George “Fiji” Veikoso, a Fijian icon whose soulful voice and timeless music touched hearts across the Pacific and beyond has passed away. Polynesian Music has announced this on its social media page. “The Greatest of All Time. Rest in Love, Fiji.” “It is with heavy hearts and deep sadness that we share the news that @f1j1 has passed away. A beautiful soul has been called home." “A life so full, so meaningful. Fiji was more than an artist. He was a movement, a voice for the people, a light in the dark. There was, and always will be, only one Fiji.” “His music wasn’t just something we listened to. It was something we lived through. It was the soundtrack to our childhoods, our family parties, our car rides, our quiet nights, our celebrations, and our heartbreaks.” “There is a Fiji song in every playlist. He was the artist the entire household listened to. The one who brought generations together. A waymaker, a storyteller, a pillar of island music. His voice carried the weight of our stories, our culture, and our emotions, and his impact stretched far beyond the islands.” “Fiji inspired artists across the world. He opened doors and set a standard for what it meant to be timeless, soulful, and real. His presence was larger than life, but his spirit was always grounded in love, truth, and connection.” “Thank you, Fiji, for your gift. For your music, your heart, and your legacy. You gave us so much, and we will carry it with us forever.” “Rest in love...George “Fiji” Veikoso, your song will never end.”

National Banking Corporation (NBC) launched its first-ever SME Roadshow at the Unity Mall, Waigani, on Friday 18th July 2025 in Port Moresby. Under the theme “Grow Your Business with Us, Your Local Banking Partner,” the event marks a milestone in NBC’s ongoing efforts to empower Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) across Papua New Guinea (PNG). According to Head of Retail Banking, Kili Tambua, NBC roadshows are aimed at bringing banking services directly to the people, promote financial inclusion and support the growth and sustainability of local businesses. “This initiative reflects the bank’s commitment to being a partner in the progress for Papua New Guinean entrepreneurs.” “This roadshow is about meeting our customers where they are, where their business operations are and in the heart of their communities.” “SMEs are the backbone of our economy, and we’re proud to be a catalyst for their growth.” Mr. Tambua added that they are already getting requests from SME customers in other parts of the country and would like to inform everyone that this Port Moresby event is the first of a series of road shows planned across key centers in the country. “Our goal is to reach more Papua New Guineans and help turn their business ideas into success stories with NBC right by their side.” The event featured: • On-the-spot account opening for business owners, • Business advisory sessions with NBC SME specialists, • Information on NBC’s range of SME loans and savings products, and • Account Opening and channel registrations for personal customers. In addition, the bank encourages all small business owners, sole traders, and aspiring entrepreneurs to visit future roadshows and discover how they can grow with NBC, their truly local banking partner. For more information on the SME products, customers can visit the bank's website www.nbcpng.com.pg.

Prime Minister James Marape paid tribute to the enduring partnership between Papua New Guinea (PNG) and the United States of America (USA) at a reception that was hosted by the U.S. Embassy in Port Moresby on Friday 18th July to mark the 249th anniversary of American independence. In his remarks, Prime Minister Marape extended warm congratulations to President Donald Trump, the government, and the people of the United States, noting the global leadership role the U.S. has played in promoting democracy, Christian values, and free market principles. “On behalf of every Papua New Guinean, our children, daughters, sons, women and men, I offer our heartfelt congratulations to the United States of America.” “The values declared by Thomas Jefferson 249 years ago, that all people are created equal by their Creator, continue to shape your nation and inspire others.” Reflecting on his recent official visit to Washington D.C., the Prime Minister highlighted a historic milestone in US-PNG relations; Papua New Guinea’s first-ever bilateral meeting at the White House, hosted by the Office of the U.S. Vice President. “That meeting marked a new chapter in our relationship and set the foundation for future engagements at the presidential level.” “Our ties are stronger today than ever before, and they are built on shared values; freedom, equality, and opportunity for all.” He also acknowledged the long-standing contribution of American missionaries in shaping PNG’s Christian foundation, thanking generations of U.S. church members who supported mission work across the country for over a century. Prime Minister Marape also applauded American companies that have invested in PNG, naming major players in hospitality, mining, and oil and gas. “We thank companies like ExxonMobil, Newmont, Hilton, Marriott, Holiday Inn, Coca-Cola, and others for their continued confidence in Papua New Guinea.” “Their presence demonstrates the strength of our commercial and economic partnership.” He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to maintaining a rules-based democracy and a free-market economy as PNG celebrates fifty years of independence this September. “Papua New Guinea is still a young democracy, but we draw strength and inspiration from partners like the United States.” “We will continue to contribute to global peace, prosperity, and democratic governance, standing shoulder to shoulder with the U.S. and other likeminded nations.” Furthermore, Prime Minister Marape concluded by recognizing the shared value of diversity that both nations uphold. “America is a beacon of unity amidst diversity, and in Papua New Guinea, we echo that in our own way, over 830 languages united as one people, one nation, one country.” “We look forward to celebrating the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence together next year.”

The United States (U.S) Embassy in Port Moresby hosted a vibrant celebration on Friday 18th July, marking the 249th birthday of United States of America and underscoring the enduring partnership between the U.S. and Papua New Guinea (PNG). The event brought together a distinguished array of guests, including Prime Minister James Marape as well as Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko and other government dignitaries. U.S Ambassador to PNG, Ann Marie Yastishock, expressed gratitude for the strong turnout, acknowledging it as a ‘testament to the strong and enduring relationship between the United States and Papua New Guinea'. She spoke more on the celebration in which serves as a moment to reflect on the core values that ignited America's independence 249 years ago which includes freedom, democracy, and opportunity. She also expressed that the ties between the U.S and PNG are celebrated through shared values, a shared history, and shared goals for the future. “Both nations believe in the power of dreams; the dream of a better life, the dream of a brighter future, and the dream of a world where everyone has the chance to succeed.” This shared optimism and faith in their collective ability to shape the future define the U.S. foreign policy and its partnership with PNG, working together towards security and mutual prosperity. In addition, the U.S. has been a steadfast partner to PNG since its independence nearly 50 years ago. On September 16, 1975, the United States was one of eight countries to formally recognize PNG's sovereignty, simultaneously elevating its Port Moresby Consulate to an embassy. She also stated that the strong foundation laid by Mary Olmstead who was the first U.S. Ambassador to PNG, has since been built upon with numerous agreements. “Over the past five decades, strong economic ties have flourished, with significant American companies investing in PNG.” Furthermore, whilst highlighting more on the history between both countries and the strength in partnership, Ambassador Yastishock said that the future of diplomatic relations between the two nations appears bright, reinforced by shared values and history. This includes the recent high-level engagements, including Prime Minister Marape’s visit to the United States and meetings with Vice President and other U.S. officials, which underscore the strength and maturity of the relationship. She concluded by stating that the possibilities are endless, and when both countries work together, one thing is certain, and that is the future will be bright. The celebration served as a powerful reminder of the enduring ideals of freedom, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness that have held the United States together for 249 years, forming the foundation of its steadfast partnership with PNG for the past five decades. “The commitment remains to continue dreaming, building, and creating a future that reflects the best of their shared values, history, and destiny.”