The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) has officially launched and handed over four custom-built 32-foot passenger vessels to improve transport, safety and access to essential services for Bougainville’s remote atoll communities.The vessels were handed over by ABG Minister for Fisheries and Member for the Atolls, Amanda Masono, under a K2.5 million project funded through the Climate Change and Development Authority’s (CCDA) Building Resilience to Climate Change (BRCC) initiative.The project was developed in response to climate vulnerability assessments conducted in 2021, which identified maritime isolation as a major challenge facing the atoll communities.The vessels will serve the communities of Fead (Nuguria), Carterets (Tuloun), Mortlock (Takuu) and Tasman (Amotu), providing safer and more reliable transport between the islands and mainland Bougainville."For too long, our atoll communities have been on the absolute frontline of the global climate crisis, risking their lives on unpredictable seas," said Minister Masono during her keynote address."Today, we declare that our people are not forgotten, this K2.5 million investment translates climate policy into real-world, life-saving mobility."The vessels are equipped with twin 200-horsepower inboard engines, navigation systems and open-sea safety equipment, enabling them to operate safely in the challenging conditions of Bougainville waters.They will support emergency medical evacuations, student transportation and the movement of fisheries and agricultural products, improving access to services and economic opportunities for atoll residents.To ensure immediate operation of the vessels, Minister Masono also oversaw the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) between the CCDA and the ABG Administration.Under a three-month interim arrangement commencing on 14th June 2026, the ABG Department of Transport and Utilities will serve as the Interim Operating Authority until the finalization of the Bougainville Small Craft Act.Operations will be managed by a team of 16 trained personnel under a rotational system designed to maintain continuous service delivery and reduce crew fatigue.Revenue generated through passenger fares and commercial hires will be managed through dedicated Small Craft Revenue and Expenditure accounts administered by the Department of Finance to support the long-term sustainability of the vessels."Ownership brings a sacred duty of stewardship," Minister Masono emphasized.“These are community assets. We must enforce safety manifests, prioritize routine maintenance, and protect these boats so they can protect our children and grandchildren."Minister Masono also thanked the Climate Change and Development Authority for its partnership and support in delivering the project, describing the investment as a practical example of climate resilience that directly improves the lives of Bougainville’s most vulnerable communities.

The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) has announced the passage this week of the Bougainville Mining (Amendment) Act 2026 by the Bougainville House of Representatives.The amendment Act establishes a special legislative framework for the orderly and accelerated redevelopment of previously operating large-scale mines in circumstances where such redevelopment is determined by the Bougainville Executive Council (BEC) to be in the public interest of Bougainville. The Act also provides for the grant of a Large-Scale Mining Lease to an Eligible Holder in accordance with the provisions of the Act.Importantly, the Act does not remove or weaken the core principles, protections and safeguards contained in the Bougainville Mining Act 2015 and related laws. Landowner participation, environmental approvals, compensation arrangements, consultation processes and other statutory requirements and protections remain mandatory under the law.The legislation also strengthens landowner participation through equity ownership provisions and ensures that responsibility for historical liabilities remains with those responsible for those liabilities.President and Minister for Mining and Petroleum, Ishmael Toroama, said the reform is the culmination of extensive consultation and dialogue undertaken over the past four years, including the Panguna Mine Dialogue process, consultations with landowners and community leaders, and broader ABG economic development consultations."This legislation has not emerged overnight. It is the result of years of consultation, discussion and reflection involving landowners, communities, leaders and stakeholders across Bougainville.""It reflects the aspirations expressed by our people for greater participation in resource development, stronger Bougainville ownership and a more secure economic future that can commence to be realised today.""The passage of this legislation also demonstrates the maturity of our institutions and our ability as Bougainvilleans to develop laws that respond to our own circumstances, priorities and aspirations."A copy of the certified Bougainville Mining (Amendment) Act 2026 can be accessed from the following link: https://abg.gov.pg/.../Bougainville_Mining_%28Amendment.

Bougainville President His Excellency (H.E) Ishmael Toroama has reaffirmed Bougainville's commitment to its political aspirations, economic development and continued peacebuilding efforts, while calling for a greater understanding of Bougainville's history and the democratic will of its people.President Toroama delivered his statement to the Bougainville House of Representatives this week and reflected on recent discussions in the National Parliament regarding the 2019 Bougainville Referendum and the findings of the National Government's Bi-partisan Committee on Bougainville Matters.He said the discussions highlighted differing views on Bougainville's history, governance, and political future.“Our history speaks for itself. Our aspirations for self-determination existed well before the idea of an independent Papua New Guinea came into being. For more than a century our people have expressed our aspirations for independence,” Toroama said.President Toroama said Bougainville's aspirations for self-determination are deeply rooted in its history, cultural identity and the experiences of its people over many generations.He emphasized that Bougainville's political aspirations were not driven by convenience or political expediency, but by the sacrifices, resilience and determination of its people to shape their own future.The President also addressed concerns often raised regarding Bougainville's readiness, including economic self-reliance, security and governance.He acknowledged that while Bougainville continues to rely on inter-governmental and development partner support, the ABG is focused on building its own revenue base and creating long-term economic opportunities for its people."The reason for my silence is because I do not want this government to continue to waste time complaining. Instead, we must invest our time and energy into creating our own revenue. We have already embarked on this path, and we will soon reap the benefits of our efforts," President Toroama said.On peace and security, the President reaffirmed the government's commitment to engaging all Bougainvilleans through peaceful means and strengthening unity across the region. He noted that Bougainville remains one of the most peaceful regions in Papua New Guinea and that peacebuilding efforts remain a priority of the government.President Toroama also reiterated that the Bougainville Peace Agreement remains the foundation of the political process and emphasized that autonomy was established as a transitional arrangement to support Bougainville's post-conflict recovery while preparing for a future political settlement.“The most important point that Bougainville and Papua New Guinea must remember is that autonomy was never intended to be our final destination.”“Autonomy was intended to be a transitional arrangement to allow Bougainville to rebuild after the war while preparing for a future political settlement,” he said.“Many of the so-called failures of autonomy stem from the fact that Bougainville has been rebuilding a post-conflict society under an arrangement that was intended to be transitional and not in any way permanent.”He called on leaders and stakeholders to fully understand Bougainville's history, the contributions of its people to nation-building, and the sacrifices made throughout the conflict and peace process."If there is to be a genuine understanding and lasting peace, it must begin with honestly acknowledging our history and respecting the democratic will of our people," he said.In concluding his address, President Toroama urged Bougainvilleans to remain united, resilient and optimistic about the future, noting the accelerated pace of development experienced across Bougainville over the past 12 months."There are many good things happening in Bougainville so we must look forward to them. The last 12 months alone have seen development hit an accelerated pace. This time we are in the driver's seat of development so let us all stand together and stand fast," President Toroama said.

PNG Gardener has donated K90,000 to Pacific Adventist University (PAU) through the PNG Gardener Education Fund, providing much-needed financial assistance to high-performing students struggling to settle their tuition fees.The education fund was established a decade ago through a partnership between PNG Gardener and PAU to support deserving students facing financial challenges. The initiative helps students continue their studies and complete their qualifications without the burden of outstanding school fees.As part of its ongoing commitment to education, PNG Gardener has pledged to contribute K50,000 annually to the scholarship fund. The funding will be managed by PAU's administration and staff, who will oversee the selection and support of eligible students.The program targets hardworking Papua New Guinean students who have demonstrated academic commitment but require financial assistance to complete their certificates, diplomas, and degree programs.A PNG Gardener representative said the company is proud to continue working with PAU to ensure students are not prevented from graduating because of financial hardship."We are very proud to partner with PAU to ensure students who are unable to pay their school fees are given the opportunity to complete their studies and graduate," the representative said.The representative also thanked PAU's Vice-Chancellor, management, and staff for their continued support of the scholarship program."I want to thank the Vice-Chancellor and all the management and staff of PAU for partnering with PNG Gardener on this scholarship fund, which is helping deserving Papua New Guinean students achieve the highest levels of education," the representative added.The annual contribution reinforces PNG Gardener's commitment to investing in education and supporting the next generation of Papua New Guinea's workforce and leaders.

Leaders and members of the Bobo'gabi and Ai'naba clans from Apanaipi Village in Ward 15 of the Mekeo Rural Local Level Government met with Minister for Energy and Member for Kairuku, Hon. Peter Namea Isoaimo, in Port Moresby today to discuss concerns surrounding the demarcation of the Apanaipi Constituency.The delegation, represented by Mr. Patrick Aga and Mr. Steven Aidaboe, expressed concerns over the boundary lines between Apanaipi in Kairuku District, Central Province, and Miaru in Gulf Province. They said the issue has caused confusion and uncertainty among communities living along the border areas.The leaders appealed to Minister Isoaimo to assist in facilitating a fair and transparent process to address the dispute and provide clarity on the constituency boundaries.In response, Minister Isoaimo acknowledged the concerns raised and encouraged the community leaders to organize themselves and gather all relevant documents and evidence relating to the matter.He also requested that all parties involved agree on a suitable date for a broader stakeholder meeting where the issues can be formally presented, discussed, and addressed.Minister Isoaimo stressed the importance of constructive dialogue, cooperation, and proper documentation in resolving boundary-related matters peacefully.Participants described the meeting as a positive first step toward finding a resolution to the long-standing concerns over the border demarcation between Apanaipi and Miaru.The proposed stakeholder meeting is expected to provide an opportunity for all affected parties to present their views and work towards a mutually acceptable outcome.

In a significant boost to community healthcare, the National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA) and Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) have joined forces to enhance maternity services across the city.Operating under a current Memorandum of Understanding, this strategic partnership has fully transformed the Labor Ward at the Metoreia Urban Health Centre.The facility is now staffed around the clock by trained midwives from both health organizations and is equipped with new delivery beds to ensure mothers have access to reliable care right in their neighborhood.Additionally, specialist doctors from PMGH visit the clinic every week, bringing expert medical attention directly to the community level and saving families from making long trips to the main hospital.This collaborative framework has already yielded impressive results, dramatically increasing Metoreia's capacity from just a few births a day to an average of nine to eleven babies delivered daily.By managing more localized births, the health center is successfully relieving severe overcrowding at PMGH's main maternity ward.The Deputy Director of Medical Services at PMGH, Dr. Henao Asa, highlighted the broader vision behind this initiative, stating, “Our vision at PMGH is to be the ultimate provider of quality healthcare for Papua New Guinea.”He explained that, “This partnership with NCDPHA allows us to extend specialist services into the community, reducing congestion at PMGH while ensuring mothers can deliver safely at Metoreia.”Dr. Asa further emphasized that, “With weekly specialist support and trained midwives, we are committed to bringing healthcare services closer to families and achieving the national health plan goals of leaving no one behind.”The initiative reflects a shared commitment to upholding the dignity and safety of women during childbirth.Chief Executive Officer of NCDPHA, Dr. Robin Oge, echoed these sentiments, asserting, “Every mother deserves safe, dignified care when giving birth.”He noted that by working closely with the hospital management, they are expanding essential services so that women across Port Moresby have a dependable local alternative for giving birth.“This partnership is about bringing care closer to our people and ensuring no mother is left behind,” Dr. Oge stated, adding, “I sincerely acknowledge PMGH CEO Dr. Paki Molumi and his management team for their strong commitment and continued collaboration with NCDPHA to strengthen health services for our communities.”With the 24-hour service now fully operational, expectant mothers in the capital are highly encouraged to utilize the Metoreia Urban Health Centre Labor Ward for safe deliveries, comprehensive postnatal care, and ongoing medical support for their newborns.

Students from the Divine Word University Madang Students Association (DWUMSA) kicked off a provincial outreach program on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, by donating books and conducting an educational awareness session at Transgogol Secondary School.The initiative aimed to provide Grade 11 and 12 students with clear information on how to navigate the tertiary application process and secure places at universities and colleges across Papua New Guinea. The DWUMSA team detailed the entry requirements and academic programs available at the DWU Madang Campus, while offering practical advice on how to correctly fill out school leaver forms.To provide the high schoolers with even broader post-secondary options, the team was joined by Advent, a former Madang Technical College student and current leader of the Madang Tertiary Students Union, who shared insights into technical training pathways.The outreach also drew support from university students representing various other provinces, fostering a strong sense of national camaraderie.Organizers expressed deep appreciation for this diverse student involvement, noting that the collaboration reflects a growing spirit of unity. “This is the time we must unite as Papua New Guineans and stand for change."This little collaboration can lead to bigger things later,” one DWUMSA student remarked.Beyond academic guidance, the initiative heavily focused on literacy, made possible by a donation of reading materials from the Friendship Library. Transgogol Secondary's administration, including Principal Mr. Iven and Deputy Administration Mr. Marib warmly welcomed the visiting group and thanked the library and the university students for providing resources that will directly support student learning and literacy.Following the academic presentations, the university students led an interactive discussion on critical social issues facing today's youth, such as drug and alcohol abuse, peer pressure, and the cultural importance of Gutpela Sindaun.The Transgogol students engaged enthusiastically, asking questions and participating in group discussions about their futures. Transgogol Secondary's Deputy Academic teacher, Mr. Teisua praised the visit as timely and highly relevant to the needs of the student body.“Our students need this kind of guidance. Many are unsure about what course offered in the Divine Word University and life after Grade 12. This helps them see what is possibly make the right choices when it comes to apply to secure a space in universities or colleges,” Mr. Teisua noted.The successful event at Transgogol Secondary marks the official launch of a wider community campaign by DWUMSA, which plans to visit several other secondary schools throughout Madang Province to conduct similar information sessions.The organizers extended their formal gratitude to the Transgogol teaching staff and student body for their hospitality and for making the program a success.The day concluded with group photographs and words of encouragement, with both institutions committing to a lasting partnership aimed at fostering student development and academic success in the region.

Commemorating World Oceans Day on June 8, 2026, Oro Province Governor Gary Juffa issued a passionate call to protect Papua New Guinea's vast maritime territory, emphasizing that the health of the marine environment dictates the prosperity of the nation. "For countless coastal and island communities, the sea is their garden, highway, marketplace, and source of sustenance," Juffa stated, noting that marine resources provide food security and cultural continuity for hundreds of thousands of Papua New Guineans. However, he warned that these delicate ecosystems face severe threats from climate change, pollution, illegal fishing, and the dangerous pressures of commercial resource extraction.Chief among these threats is the international push for deep-sea mining, driven by foreign entities the Governor described as "profit and greed merchants." Reminding the nation of the Solwara One project, a costly failure that stripped PNG taxpayers of over K300 million, Juffa strongly cautioned against future seabed exploitation."Humanity's knowledge of deep ocean ecosystems remains extremely limited," Juffa warned, stressing that the consequences could result in irreversible habitat destruction and the extinction of undiscovered species. He urged the government to strictly apply the precautionary principle, insisting that the burden of environmental proof must rest entirely on those pushing to exploit the ocean rather than those trying to protect it.Compounding these environmental dangers is a severe lack of sovereign control over the country's waters, which has transformed the Pacific into a haven for transnational criminal syndicates engaged in trafficking and illegal fishing. Juffa expressed deep concern that foreign investors, whom he likened to "modern-day pirates", plunder hundreds of millions of dollars' worthof marine resources, while not a single operating fishing vessel is owned by a Papua New Guinean. "Conservation without enforcement is merely an aspiration," Juffa declared, criticizing the nation's outdated surveillance technology for failing to track the "dark ships" that illegally raid PNG's tuna breeding grounds. To reverse this trend, the Governor called for urgent investments in satellite tracking, modern patrol vessels, stronger legislation, and tougher maritime penalties.Governor Juffa concluded his address by championing the traditional knowledge systems and customary marine stewardship that have successfully protected PNG's waters for generations. He urged all elected leaders to fulfil their duty to safeguard coastal communities across regions like Milne Bay, Manus, New Ireland, East Sepik, Bougainville, and West New Britain. "Future generations will not judge us by how many tons of minerals we extracted from the seabed," Juffa stated. "They will judge us by whether we protected the oceans that sustain life itself."To secure a lasting legacy, he requested that all future conservation commitments be backed by strict national sovereignty, robust scientific integrity, and practical enforcement.

The newly completed Kudukudu 8-in-1 classroom building at Dr. George Brown Primary School in Ward 1 of Matalai LLG was officially opened this week, marking a significant milestone for education development in the district.Funded by the Namatanai District Development Authority (NDDA) and through the Lihir royalty component, the modern two-storey classroom facility is expected to greatly improve learning conditions for students and teachers while supporting future growth in student enrolment.The official opening will be conducted by the Member for Namatanai, Walter D. Schnaubelt, the Chairman of the New Ireland District Development Authority (NDDA) and Member for Namatanai, who has championed major investments in education infrastructure across the district.Speaking previously on the project, Mr. Schnaubelt said the facility was designed with the future in mind.“This school is destined to become our next Junior High School. The construction of this massive facility anticipates the expected increase in student enrolment when the transition takes place. We are planning ahead and ensuring our education infrastructure is ready to meet future demands.”The new classroom complex represents another major investment in education by the NDDA, reflecting its commitment to providing quality learning environments and expanding access to education throughout the district.Community leaders, education officials, parents, and students are expected to attend the opening ceremony as they celebrate the completion of one of the district's most significant school infrastructure projects. The Kudukudu 8-in-1 classroom project stands as a testament to NDDA's ongoing commitment to strengthening education and creating opportunities for future generations in Namatanai District.

Prime Minister and Pangu Pati Parliamentary Leader James Marape opened the Pangu Pati Convention today in Port Moresby city where he emphasised their commitment to strong internal democracy, leadership succession, policy development and national service.Speaking at a press conference following the opening session of the convention, Prime Minister Marape said the gathering was not about candidate selection for the 2027 National General Election, but about reviewing the party's performance, policies and structures while preparing the next generation of leaders. “Pangu Pati must be bigger than James Marape,” the Prime Minister said, stating further that the party leadership does not belong to one person. “We owe it to the memories and the work of those who came before us to get it right and to pass on our party so it remains viable and usable by generations of Papua New Guineans who will come after us.” Prime Minister Marape said Pangu Pati, formed on June 13, 1967, by eminent sons and daughters of Papua New Guinea, including Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, Sir Paul Lapun, Sir Albert Maori Kiki, Ebia Olewale, Sir John Guise, Tony Voutas, Tony Ila, Cecil Abel and many others, had played a central role in shaping the nation. He also recalled the role of the famous “Bully Beef Club”, whose members met in the kitchen of Sir Albert Maori Kiki’s home in Hohola to discuss the future of the country and the vision of a united Papua New Guinea. “Over bully beef and rice, they talked about the country’s future and the birth of Papua New Guinea, uniting this diverse nation into one sovereignty,” he said. Prime Minister Marape said the party's contribution to nation-building was reflected in the creation of Papua New Guinea's constitutional and democratic institutions. “It birthed our country. Our Constitution was crafted, our three arms of government were created, and many constitutional offices were born through the work of Pangu Pati.” The Prime Minister said the convention was being held in accordance with the party constitution and the Organic Law on the Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates, with party representatives from all 21 provinces and Bougainville attending. He said ministers would report to party members on the Government's achievements over the last seven years in office.The Pangu Pati Convention is taking place at the Hilton Port Moresby and will conclude on Friday 12th June, followed by a gala dinner event on Saturday 13th June, to mark the Pangu Pati’s 59th Anniversary.

The National Capital District Commission (NCDC), in collaboration with the Bomana Correctional Service (CS), undertook a community clean-up initiative in Port Moresby last week.Thomas Marinae, the detainee rehabilitation and reform officer for sports, youth, and civic engagement, stated that the purpose of the initiative is to foster environmental responsibility and facilitate detainee rehabilitation.“Programs of this nature not only help maintain the cleanliness and safety of Port Moresby but also enable detainees to make a positive contribution and reintegrate with society,” he commented.Mr. Marinae expressed gratitude to the Papua New Guinea Correctional Service (CS) and Bomana Correctional Service for their continued partnership.The clean-up effort included 30 detainees from the minimum-security unit, eight correctional service officers, as well as NCDC staff members from the sports, youth, and civic engagement, along with waste management divisions.The clean-up commenced at Croton Street, Waigani, and concluded at City Hall.The waste management division provided garbage bags, personal protective equipment, and rubbish removal services.This clean-up follows a recent food donation from NCDC's sports, youth, and civic engagement division to Bomana Correctional Service.

IT is with most profound sorrow that the Media Council of Papua New Guinea announces the passing of its Treasurer, Trainer, Friend, and Colleague, Genesis Ketan. Ms. Ketan passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with Rheumatic Heart Disease and Mitral Valve Stenosis.President of the MCPNG, Neville Choi, speaking on behalf of the Executives and Management Council, said the media fraternity in the country was in shock at the news of Ms. Ketan’s passing. “We are in mourning. We have lost one of our best and brightest. Gen was an inspiration to many in the industry today. Her role as one of our first local Media Trainers was outmatched only by her determination to build and encourage young journalists and colleagues whenever she saw there was a need to.” ‘Stepping Up to the plate’Ms. Ketan was elected by the MCPNG Membership to the Executive Board Position of Treasurer in 2023 while representing PNGFM as News Manager. As Treasurer Ms. Ketan successfully led the process of establishing the Council’s finances just in time for the staging the Inaugural MCPNG Media Summit in 2025 to commemorate World Press Freedom Day, and the return of the PNG Media Awards event of the same evening.‘Training & Mentoring’Ms. Ketan was also the Council’s Nomination alongside Post-Courier Digital Director, Mathew Vari to be the first two senior journalists representing the Council to receive Training of Trainers skills on Social Media Best Practices, facilitated by BBC Media Action in 2025. Out of the first cohort of TOT participants from across the Pacific, Ms. Ketan and Mr. Vari were the first to roll out a series of training for mainstream media digital officers Lae, Mt. Hagen, Kokopo and Port Moresby. A second Training of Trainers by BBC Media Action saw the pair return to build on their skills – now with Verification and Fact-Checking Skills. New skillsets they were to impart via another set of training workshops for mainstream media. Immediately on her return, Ms. Ketan sent a message saying she and Mr. Vari had learnt so much new information and content that she was excited to share with the rest of the digital teams in the media. The first of this second round of training was recently held in Buka. It was the first training which she would not be able to be part of.‘Impact’Ms. Ketan’s exuberance and forthright attitude drew many to her, and she impacted the lives of many young media friends and colleagues – not just in PNG, but across the region.Ms. Ketan’s first regional media experience came in September of 2024 when she attended the Pacific Islands News Association (PINA) Summit in Niue as a representative of the MCPNG.“Gen attended the 2024 PINA Summit in Niue representing the Media Council. It was also her first PINA Summit, so she had many questions. Afterward she expressed how she had learned so much about regional media and its personalities.”This first positive experience helped her build her confidence in speaking on behalf of PNG Media, on any stage.Her last formal representation of PNG Media came as part of an official MCPNG Delegation to the Global Investigative Journalism Conference in Kuala Lumpur last year. This conference exposed her to ways to improve investigative journalism and media training in PNG.‘An Inspiration’Ms. Ketan’s work in media training gave her the opportunity to work with and encourage many young journalists across the country.In her most recent role as a producer of a panel discussion at the 2026 Media Summit, her individual mentoring and encouraging of her panellists (mostly editors) displayed her passion to build younger colleagues.“Gen inspired us all. If it wasn’t a critical analysis of something you had done, it would be through words of encouragement for you to be better, and not to apologise for being where you are because of your own hard work.“To her staff, she was firm. To her friends, she was loyal to a fault. To those whom she pulled aside to impart words of wisdom to, she will never be forgotten.“To her colleague executives of the MCPNG, Gen was hope. Hope that the future of PNG media rested in one of what could turn into many sets of hands that would hold the line of truth and integrity. The Media in PNG has lost one of its best.”On behalf of the Members of the Media Council of Papua New Guinea, our thoughts and prayers will be with Gen’s husband Ray, and her beautiful young family, her extended family, and her tribe.