The East New Britain Provincial Health Authority (ENB PHA) remains committed to strengthening its medical supply chain throughout this year, focusing specifically on the critical functions of procurement, storage, and distribution.This ongoing initiative aims to guarantee that safe, high-quality medicines remain affordable and consistently available to the public. According to the 2025 annual management review presented by Provincial Pharmacist Leo Kume, the current availability of essential and commonly used drugs stands at 60 percent across both the area medical store and local health facilities. To combat existing gaps, the PHA is prepared to intervene financially despite procurement being a centralized responsibility. “Although the procurement of drugs is a national function, the PHA will continue to make adequate funding available to help out with the current situation of shortages of medical supplies.” The review further highlighted a significant shortage of pharmacy assistants and technicians within the province. To address this, the PHA plans to implement a strategic recruitment drive to ensure that all Level 3 to Level 5 facilities are properly staffed with qualified personnel. “PHA will in due course recruit trained pharmacy assistants and technicians to be in all facilities from Level 3 to 5. These personnel will be certified in Basic Pharmacy Management.” Beyond staffing and supply levels, the authority is turning its attention toward the physical infrastructure of the supply chain. While the upgrade of drug storage compartments in all health facilities is a priority, the PHA will first undertake a comprehensive survey and scope of work to ensure the actual renovations are planned and executed effectively.

The prime minister has said that the great performance by the country’s two superannuation funds in the 2025 financial year was a direct reflection of good economic growth the country has been experiencing over the couple of years. Prime Minister James Marape said the strong 2025 financial performance of Nambawan Super and NASFUND—is a positive indication that the Government’s economic strategy is strengthening the national economy. The solid results delivered by the two funds, which together manage more than K22 billion in members’ retirement savings, demonstrate growing confidence in Papua New Guinea’s economy and financial institutions. In its 2025 financial results, Nambawan Super announced that its net asset value had reached K13 billion, while declaring an interest crediting rate of 12 percent, up from 10.5 percent in 2024. The fund’s membership also grew to more than 245,000 members, reflecting continued expansion in the formal workforce. Meanwhile, NASFUND reported a profit after tax of K1.086 billion and net asset value of K9.45 billion in 2025, while declaring a 13 percent interest crediting rate for its 744,213 members. Prime Minister Marape said the strong returns delivered by both superannuation funds in 2025 were encouraging for Papua New Guinea’s workers and the broader economy. “The performance of our two major super funds in 2025 is a strong vote of confidence in our economy,” Prime Minister Marape said. “Nambawan Super and NASFUND delivering strong returns for their members affirms the work our government has been doing to stabilize and grow the economy.” The Prime Minister said the results also reflect the Government’s focus on building a more sustainable and diversified economy. “Our focus on agriculture and other productive sectors is aimed at ensuring that our economy is not overly dependent on mining and petroleum,” he said. “We are now beginning to see the first buds of green growth emerging as a result of these policy directions.” He stressed that the strong performance of the superannuation sector, along with improved returns from banks, financial institutions and other major sectors of the economy, demonstrates that the Government’s economic strategy is producing results. 

The excellent performance to the country’s two superannuation funds in the 2025 financial year has received some great commendations.Managing Director of the Investment Promotion Authority (IPA), Mr. Clarence Hoot, has commended both the Nambawan Super Limited (NSL) and Nasfund on their continued outstanding performances following their recent announcements of annual interests credited to their members’ accounts. Earlier this week NSL credited 12% interest to their members’ accounts while Nasfund paid 13% to their members. In congratulating the Super Funds for declaring profits after their 2025 audited results, Mr. Hoot said that the funds were a secured investment vehicle supported by experienced managers in growing the members’ contributions for their future retirement benefits. “The continued increase in the interest rate by the super funds over the years should give confidence to its members and the general public as a whole. They are an avenue for the public to invest their money instead of investing in money schemes,” he said. The public is encouraged to explore opportunities and consider super funds as a trusted avenue to secure investment for their future sustainability. In a statement by Nasfund Chief Executive Officer Mr. Rajeev Sharma said that for the first time in the history of Nasfund that the profit after tax had surpassed one billion Kina which he attributed to the strength of their investment strategy and disciplined financial management. Similarly, NSL had announced strong 2025 financial results as the Fund assets reached K13 billion which they said reflected continued growth despite a challenging global and domestic economic environment. Mr. Hoot said such performances should give confidence to our local SMEs and the public to invest in the Funds and allow the Funds to grow their investments. The Investment Promotion Authority will also explore ways of working with the super funds on investment opportunities within PNG and abroad. 

The Board of Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL) recently toured the Cancer Service Unit at ANGAU Memorial Hospital, where the company has invested over K20 million to improve cancer treatment.Between 2020 and 2025, under a tripartite agreement with the Morobe Provincial Health Authority and ANGAU, KPHL helped re-establish the hospital’s radiotherapy and brachytherapy units. Funding supported the hiring of a resident oncologist, training of radiotherapists, and procurement of equipment, including a Cobalt-60 source that enabled the resumption of radiotherapy in Papua New Guinea.Kumul Petroleum Chairman Mr. Gerea Aopi said the visit gave the Board a first-hand view of how improved medical equipment benefits patients. “Cancer remains a major health challenge in PNG. Supporting initiatives that improve access to diagnosis and treatment reflects our role as a national company,” he said.The visit, facilitated by ANGAU Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Kipas Binga, coincided with KPHL’s annual charity golf event in Lae on 6th March, which raised K150,000 for essential chemotherapy medications for patients at the Cancer Service Unit.

The World Kyokushin Kaikan Oceania & PNG recently announced that The Oceania Knockdown Tournament originally scheduled for June 27th, 2026, has been postponed to 14 November 2026 due to unanticipated local and international developments.This announcement posted via social media, explained that due to political developments within the country, combined with global travel and logistics interruptions arising from tensions in the Middle East, the event was rescheduled towards the end of the year, as current conditions would affect the safety and high-quality delivery of this international competition. Senpai Bernard Soari, Branch Chief – Papua New Guinea, explained that this decision was made after careful consideration across regional leadership. “As an organization committed to excellence, safety, and the spirit of Kyokushin, we believe it is in the best interest of all participants and supporters to reschedule the tournament to a more stable and predictable period.” “This ensures that every athlete and delegation can travel, prepare, and compete under the best possible circumstances.” WWK Oceania & PNG sincerely apologizes for any inconvenience caused by the postponement to clubs, competitors and families who had already begun planning for the event and expressed appreciation for the understanding, patience and continued support from all stakeholders as efforts continue to maintain the high standards expected of an Oceania-level championship. Further updates on registration, logistics and other event arrangements will be communicated in the coming weeks.

The prime minister is looking to make the Papua New Guinea (PNG) culture of polygamy illegal with potential jail time in an effort to protect the women folk in the country.Prime Minister (PM) James Marape announced his intention to pursue Legislation that will outlaw Polygamy in Papua New Guinea in the future, describing the move as part of a broader national effort to protect Women, strengthen families, and restore respect for Mothers and Daughters across the country.Marape emphasized that while Papua New Guinea’s rich cultural traditions must be respected, certain practices that undermine the dignity and security of Women must be addressed through National Reform. “Some good aspects of our culture must be preserved, but other practices that harm our families must be left behind,” Prime Minister Marape said. “Polygamy is one such issue that has contributed to many broken homes, children being left without proper support, and Women being treated unfairly.” PM Marape said he intends to present a Policy Paper to the National Executive Council (NEC) to begin the process of introducing Legislation that would outlaw Polygamy in the future, with the proposed Law expected to take effect from around 2030 onward. Under the proposed approach, existing arrangements would not be automatically invalidated, but the Law would prohibit new polygamous arrangements in the future. “This is a Reform that we must consider carefully, but it is necessary if we are to protect the mothers and daughters of our country,” he said. “The Law we propose will ensure that going forward, Polygamy will no longer be practiced in our country.” The Prime Minister said the proposal reflects the Government’s commitment to addressing deeper social causes of Gender-Based Violence and inequality. He emphasized that Women must no longer be viewed as property or commodities within society. Prime Minister Marape noted that the proposed Law would also reinforce protections for Women within families, particularly in ensuring that Wives and Children are not abandoned or left without proper support. 

Market Force a community empowerment initiative founded by Sylvia Pascoe under Pom City Markets and Pascoe Events & Marketing, earlier this month, donated cleaning supplies valued at K1,240.09 to the Paule Erima Youth group in the Northeast electorate aiming to support their youth led cleanup.This clean-up will not only benefit the environment but also encourage young people to take pride in their community. David Balbe, a resident of Paule Erima for over 20 years, received the supplies on behalf of the youths. After seeing the Market Force initiative on Facebook, he reached out with a plan to organize a youth clean-up program in Paule Erima. Market Force partnered with Mr. Balbe to gather the materials needed to launch the program. Sylvia Pascoe said the initiative echoes a leadership philosophy focused on empowering communities to lead their own solutions. “Across Port Moresby there are already incredible people in every neighbourhood trying to improve their communities.” “I like to recognize the leaders already stepping up and give them the support and visibility they deserve, we are a better community when we are better neighbours, helping each other where we can.” Pascoe said that Market Force was set up to spot, support, and celebrate local community champions, offering small yet impactful assistance to help their initiatives thrive. Market Force Project Coordinator Yvonne Morgan, who collaborates with communities through Pom City Markets, added that the program keeps discovering inspiring grassroots leaders.  “We see people like Mr. Balbe all over the city, individuals who care deeply about their neighbourhoods and want to make things better.” “Market Force exists to support those leaders and give them the tools to bring their communities together.” Market Force is part of the wider Pom City Markets network, which brings together SMEs, youth groups, and community leaders through regular market events across Port Moresby. Anyone interested in joining the initiative can connect with Yvonne Morgan and the Market Force team at upcoming Pom City Markets, held monthly at the Harbourside Night Market, New Chinatown Market, and the National Museum & Art Gallery. Community members are encouraged to share their own local projects and ideas with the team. For the latest updates on market dates and locations, follow the Pom City Markets Facebook page. Guided by the motto, “A Force of Good in Every Neighbourhood,” Market Force also welcomes supporters, donors, and sponsors who want to work through the network, because together, the impact is greater.

Bank South Pacific (BSP) has donated medical supplies valued at K120,000 to the Metoreia Urban Health Centre in the National Capital District as part of its 2025 community project program. The donation was made possible through the combined efforts of four BSP business units, each contributing K30,000 from their community project funds to procure essential medical items. The supplies include needles, disposable syringes, emergency pharmaceuticals, and specialized equipment for dental, optometry and maternity wards. The donation also includes labour ward kits and other medical consumables aimed at strengthening the clinic’s capacity to deliver essential healthcare services to the community. BSP Group General Manager for Corporate Affairs and Community, Ms. Hari Rabura, said the bank recognizes the challenges many people face in accessing reliable and affordable healthcare. “By strengthening the clinic’s inventory, BSP is helping to ensure that these vital services remain within reach for the many residents who depend on the Metoreia Clinic,” Ms. Rabura said. Clinic Manager for Metoreia Urban Health Centre, HEO Regina Wuri, also acknowledged the impact of the donation. “These supplies will greatly enhance our ability to serve patients more effectively, especially in critical areas such as maternity, dental, and emergency care. We are deeply grateful to BSP for recognizing our needs and supporting the clinic in its mission to provide quality healthcare to the community,” Ms. Wuri said. Chief Executive Officer of the National Capital District Provincial Health Authority, Dr Robin Oge, expressed appreciation for the support. “This generous donation from BSP comes at a critical time for the Metoreia Urban Health Centre. It not only replenishes essential supplies but also reinforces our shared commitment to ensuring that every resident has access to quality healthcare. On behalf of NCDPHA, I extend our sincere gratitude to BSP for standing with us in service to the people of Port Moresby,” Dr Oge said.

Maintenance work at Teptep Health Centre in Rai Coast District in Madang province has been completed. The upgrade improves health services for people in Teptep village and nearby communities. The work was funded by the Rai Coast District Development Authority and finished earlier this year.Health services remain limited in many parts of Rai Coast. Mountainous terrain and poor roads make it difficult for villagers to reach clinics. Many people travel long distances to seek treatment.Rai Coast MP Kessy Sawang said improving rural health facilities remains a priority.“People in remote communities deserve access to basic health services,” Sawang said.“The maintenance of Teptep Health Centre will help families receive treatment closer to home.”The health centre provides primary care for several surrounding villages. Health workers are expected to deliver services in a safer and more reliable facility following the upgrade.The district authority says it will continue supporting health infrastructure projects across Rai Coast.

PNG Tribal Foundation has clarified that it is not responsible for bringing renowned American neurosurgeon Dr. Ben Carson to Papua New Guinea. Foundation President GT Bustin made the clarification following media reports claiming that PNG Tribal Foundation was organizing Dr Carson’s visit to the country in July for a leadership summit. Mr. Bustin said the event will be organized by the PNG Leaders Seminar, which will host Dr . Carson during the leadership summit scheduled for July. “I made the announcement during one Live2Lead Conference using the platform to support the organizing committee that is preparing for the seminar,” Mr. Bustin said. He urged journalists to verify information with PNG Tribal Foundation before publishing such reports relating to the organization. Mr. Bustin added that those interested in attending the leadership seminar in July should contact the PNG Leaders Seminar team for further information.

A wanted suspect was shot and wounded during a police raid in Madang on Tuesday 10th March.Police targeted Marap settlement along North Coast Road after receiving reports of criminal activity. Units from the Tactical Crime Unit and National Criminal Intelligence Unit led the operation.Officers found five men gathered in the area. One of them was a wanted suspect linked to serious crimes in the province.The man resisted arrest and tried to flee. Police shot him during the confrontation. He was captured and taken to Madang Provincial Hospital for treatment.Madang provincial police commander Superintendent Robert Baim said the suspect will be taken into custody once released. “He will be taken to Jomba Police Station for questioning and further investigation,” he said.Police records show the suspect has been linked to armed robberies and a murder case in 2022, and another armed robbery last year.Baim said officers will continue operations in crime hotspots across the province. “We will keep working to stop criminals and keep the community safe,” he said.

U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, Christopher Landau, has met with Papua New Guinea Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso and Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko during the Pacific Agenda: Investment, Security and Shared Prosperity Summit to discuss strengthening economic ties and expanding U.S. support to PNG.The talks build on the Framework for Strategic Cooperation signed between the two countries in Port Moresby in September last year. Papua New Guinea already hosts several major American companies including ExxonMobil, Newmont, Coca-Cola and Hilton. These companies contribute to job creation, technical expertise and long-term investment in the country. Leaders at the summit also highlighted opportunities to increase U.S. investment in sectors such as critical minerals, infrastructure, health, telecommunications and security. During their bilateral meeting, discussions focused on strengthening the long-standing partnership between the two nations and identifying new areas for economic cooperation. U.S. assistance to PNG includes about $87 million (K378 million) in health programs since 2001. In addition, $4.25 million (K18.5 million) has been provided through the HALO Trust to clear unexploded ordnance, allowing land to be safely used for development, agriculture and tourism. The leaders also discussed ongoing defence cooperation under the Defence Cooperation Agreement and the Ship Rider Agreement, as well as the need to strengthen PNG’s ICT sector to attract further investment. Across the Pacific Islands, U.S. economic engagement has totaled more than $53 billion over the past 11 years, with more than 90 percent coming from private investment and trade. The three-day summit, held at the East-West Center in Honolulu, was co-led by Deputy Secretary Landau and U.S. Indo-Pacific Command Commander Admiral Samuel Paparo. It brought together government leaders, investors, businesses and financial institutions from across the Pacific to explore new economic opportunities for the region.