PNG Haus Bung

The Christian Blind Mission (CBM) has committed to working closely with Rabaul Provincial Hospital (RPH) to strengthen the mobility capacity and training of its physiotherapy unit.Speaking during World Physiotherapy Day celebrations at RPH, CBM Director Michael Lulu highlighted the critical health needs in East New Britain Province (ENBP), noting that 152, 000 people in the province currently require rehabilitation services.Specifically, records indicate that 17, 000 people need walking aids, 5, 000 require wheelchairs, and 2, 200 need prosthetics and orthotics.“These people need support for mobility and assistive devices to safely restore physical movement, build muscle strength and regain independence after a major injury, surgery or illness,” Mr. Lulu stated.Looking ahead, Mr. Lulu explained that CBM is expanding its assistance to include devices such as walking aids, wheeled mobility devices, prosthetic and orthotic devices, and postural and standing supports.“There is now a new partnership with RPH that CBM will now support the Physiotherapy Unit apart from the already established working relationship we have with the eye clinic and that is to conduct trainings.”“The same arrangement is also in a working collaboration with the Vunapope, St Mary’s Hospital in preparation for a new rehabilitation centre to be opened next month.”Welcoming the collaboration, Physiotherapy Unit Coordinator Joseph Tapal noted that cardiovascular diseases and stroke remain among the leading causes of mortality worldwide, emphasizing that stronger partnerships can play a crucial role in prevention and treatment.“Many of these conditions are preventable and manageable through early intervention, lifestyle modifications, knowledge exchange, innovative ideas, and strengthening our collaborations to combat these health challenges effectively.”

Australia is providing three-million kina to support improvements at Kokopo Market in East New Britain.Australian High Commissioner Ewen McDonald, East New Britain Governor Michael Marum and Kokopo MP Ereman ToBaining Junior visited the market to discuss the planned upgrades with vendors and management.The funding will support new solar security lighting, upgraded ablution facilities, repairs to wash stations and improved waste management.It will also provide technical assistance to strengthen the East New Britain Market Authority’s governance and financial management.High Commissioner McDonald says the improvements will benefit vendors, customers and the wider community.The funding is being provided through the PNG-Australia Partnership.The High Commissioner’s visit to East New Britain also included the opening of a new library and early childhood education centre at Sonoma Adventist College, funded through Australia’s Incentive Fund.

Papua New Guinea’s national football teams, the PNG Kapuls and PNG Bilums, have arrived in Fiji ahead of the 2026 MSG Prime Ministers Cup Football Tournament.The tournament will be held in Suva from September 17 to October 3, bringing together Melanesian nations for another regional football contest.The Kapuls will be looking to improve on their runners-up finish in last year’s tournament, which was hosted in Papua New Guinea.The Bilums, meanwhile, return as the defending women’s champions after making history by winning the inaugural women’s MSG Prime Ministers Cup title last year.The Bilums squad includes experienced internationals such as Betty Sam, Ramona Padio, Yvonne Gabong, Marie Kaipu and Meagan Gunemba, alongside a number of emerging players.They will be coached by Ericson Komeng, assisted by Edna Thomas, with David Kaura as goalkeeper coach.The Kapuls will be aiming to go one step further this year after falling short in last year’s final.Head Coach Bob Morris has named a squad featuring experienced internationals and emerging talent, including Ronald Warisan, Tommy Semmy, David Tita, Hossain Kaio, Solomon Rani, Yagi Yasasa and Daniel Joe.The Papua New Guinea Football Association says it remains committed to ensuring the national teams participate in important regional competitions and that players have opportunities to represent the country internationally.PNGFA says there were challenges surrounding participation in this year’s tournament, but it continued to work with relevant stakeholders to ensure both teams could travel to Fiji.The Association says the participation of the Kapuls and Bilums is important for player development and maintaining strong sporting relationships across the Melanesian region.Both teams have now settled in Fiji and will turn their attention to their final preparations.The Kapuls open their campaign against Vanuatu on September 17, while the Bilums begin their title defence against Fiji on September 18.For both teams, the goal is to compete strongly, represent Papua New Guinea with pride and fly the national colours on the regional stage.PNG KAPULS FIXTURESSeptember 17: PNG vs Vanuatu — 2pmSeptember 23: PNG vs New Caledonia — 5pmSeptember 26: PNG vs Fiji — 5pmSeptember 29: PNG vs Solomon Islands — 2pmPNG BILUMS FIXTURESSeptember 18: PNG vs Fiji — 5pmSeptember 21: PNG vs New Caledonia — 2pmSeptember 27: PNG vs Vanuatu — 5pmSeptember 30: PNG vs Solomon IslandsPNG BILUMS SQUADPlayers: Betty Sam, Ramona Padio, Olivia Upaupa, Merolyne Sali, Serah Waida, Raynata Samuel, Anastasia Gunemba, Mavis Singara, Yvonne Gabong, Phylis Pala, Hortance Kimit, Michaelyne Butubu, Marie Kaipu, Karen Kalapai, Ginnimarie Wambi, Meagan Gunemba, Leah Loi, Nenny Elipas, Calista Maneo and Emeliah Toks.Officials: Ericson Komeng – Head Coach; Edna Thomas – Assistant Coach; David Kaura – Goalkeeper Coach; Jenny Witu – Kit Manager.PNG KAPULS SQUADPlayers: Ronald Warisan, Dave Tomare, Jordan Tobem, Langarap Samol, Ezekiel Vela, Bomecge Basananuc, Henry Kurkur, Ferdahlas Namuesh, Daniel Joe, Abraham Allen, Yagi Yasasa, Solomon Rani, Obert Simon, Ati Kepo, Rex Naime, David Tita, Hossain Kaio, Tommy Semmy, Solomon Kamake and Nalau Moses.Officials: Bob Morris – Head Coach; Gari Moka – Team Manager; Andrew Marampau – Kit Manager; Harrison Kamake – Technical Advisor; Martin Alok – National Team Administrator.

The Catholic Bishops Conference of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands is calling on the country to remain united in order to continue building the nation this 51st Independence Anniversary.In an Independence message, CBC General Secretary Father Lawrence Arockiaraj said September 16 marks the beginning of Papua New Guinea’s journey towards its centenary of independence.He said what the country will look like when it reaches 100 years of independence will depend on the choices made by citizens today.“Our journey has not been without its struggles. We continue to face the challenge of ensuring that national progress and development is not only reserved for a few, but reaches every corner of our society, especially the vulnerable and marginalized.”He said Papua New Guinea’s diversity and resilience remain important strengths as the nation progresses.The General Secretary called on citizens to stand together as one nation under God, saying faith and love for one another can help preserve national unity.He also urged Catholic faithful to work with others to build a nation founded on peace, honesty, respect and integrity, while recognising the dignity of every person.“Let us recommit ourselves to building a nation where God is at the Centre of everything we do, where peace and justice prevail, and where every citizen is valued.”Father Arockiaraj said citizens and Christians have a responsibility to guard the nation’s independence, which he described as a gift from God.He concluded by wishing Papua New Guinea a blessed, peaceful and grace-filled Independence Day and called for God’s blessing on the nation.

St Francis Vocational Technical College at West Taraka, Morobe Province recently received K100,000 from the Huon Gulf District Development Authority towards the construction of a new double classroom.The funding was provided through the Huon Gulf District Development Authority under the leadership of Huon Gulf MP and Minister for Community Development, Youths and Religion, Jason Peter.The cheque was presented by Huon Gulf District CEO and Administrator Andrew Namuesh and received by the college’s Manager, Thomas Indi.This was part of the District’s assurance on improving education infrastructure and providing better learning facilities for students at the vocational college.During the same occasion, a new Memorandum of Agreement was also signed to facilitate the completion of the outstanding West Taraka Market Project.Indi also signed the agreement, which is expected to allow work on the incomplete market project to progress.Minister Peter said the Huon Gulf District Development Authority remains committed to completing important community infrastructure and supporting investments in education, economic opportunities and community development.The authority said it will continue working with institutions, communities and stakeholders to deliver sustainable development projects across the district.

East New Britain Governor Michael Marum recently challenged young people to take an active role in preserving the province’s culture and traditions.Speaking at the opening of the second Papa Graun Cultural Show at Malapau Beach Resort in Kokopo on September 10, Governor Marum said young people have an important responsibility to carry their cultural heritage into the future.He encouraged youths to learn from their elders, respect their traditions and take pride in where they come from.“Our culture is our inheritance. It is what our ancestors left for us, and it is our responsibility to make sure that inheritance does not disappear.”The four-day cultural show brought communities together to showcase traditional dances, masks, music and customs, while giving younger generations an opportunity to learn and participate.Governor Marum said East New Britain can embrace modern development and technology without losing its cultural identity.He acknowledged the Member for Kokopo Open and Chairman of the Kokopo City Authority, Ereman Tobaining Jnr, MP, for his leadership and support, and also commended the Kokopo City Authority for working with communities and stakeholders to promote cultural, tourism and economic activities.He also acknowledged the Papa Graun organizing committee, traditional leaders, participating wards and communities, churches, sponsors, volunteers, performers and all partners who have contributed to the successful staging of the second annual event.Governor Marum also emphasized the potential of cultural festivals to create opportunities for young people, artists and small businesses while promoting tourism in the province.He urged communities to use the celebration to strengthen unity and keep their culture alive.“When our communities come together, our culture becomes stronger; and when our culture becomes stronger, East New Britain becomes stronger.”

The Papua New Guinea (PNG) Prime Minister has appealed for calm in Panguna and in Bougainville following the unfortunate incident that occurred over the weekend.Prime Minister James Marape appealed for calm and restraint in Bougainville amid tensions surrounding Panguna, urging landowners and communities with grievances to reject violence and work through the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) and established processes to resolve their differences.On Sunday 13th September, it was alleged that a group of men went on a rampage at the Panguna Mine and setting properties, mostly heavy earth moving vehicles belonging to the company Lloyds Metals and Energy Limited, on fire.Marape said Bougainville had already paid an enormous price through conflict and must never allow disagreements over Panguna or other issues to drag its people back into violence.“Whatever issues there may be in Bougainville, including matters relating to Panguna. There is absolutely no need to resort to violence,” Prime Minister Marape said.“Bougainville has experienced enough pain in its history. We do not want history to repeat itself.  “If you have grievances, bring them forward. If there are disagreements, put them on the table. The Autonomous Bougainville Government, under President Ishmael Toroama is there to listen to you, work with you and find solutions.“Violence does no good to anyone. It hurts our people, divides communities and drives away the investment Bougainville needs to grow its economy.”Panguna remains one of the most sensitive issues in Bougainville because of its central place in the events preceding the Bougainville conflict and the mine closure in 1989. Recent moves towards its possible redevelopment have again generated debate among landowners and other stakeholders.He said his discussions with President Toroama had given him confidence that the ABG understood the sensitivity surrounding Panguna, including landowner rights, environmental concerns and unresolved legacy issues.“The President understands that Panguna cannot simply be treated as another mining project. There are historical and legacy issues. There are environmental issues. There are landowner issues. These must be treated with great sensitivity.”Prime Minister Marape said the National Government respected the ABG’s authority and Bougainville’s processes in determining the future of Panguna.

Ryan Garcia sealed a stunning second-round TKO win over Conor Benn in Las Vegas on Saturday night, retaining his WBC welterweight title in the process.Benn ran blindly to the slaughter - in a fight which was always a lunge too far - and was left groveling on hands and knees at the feet of the new face of American and Mexican boxing.Garcia took just four minutes and 25 seconds to devastate and humiliate the upstart son of Nigel the great.Benn’s predictable sally forth from the first bell was as pointless, desperate and doomed to disaster as The Charge of the Light Brigade.He was stopped in his tracks by the barrage of left hooks which have taken Garcia to the welterweight championship of the world, over which he will reign for as long as he likes.The first round was but a prelude to the carnage to come in the 85 seconds which the first round lasted. A punishment doubled by the dynamite which also explodes from Garcia's right fist.Conor was reduced to crawling on the canvas by a two-fisted assault to which he had no answer. When he staggered drunkenly to his feet referee Thomas Taylor looked long and hard into his glazed eyes before letting him carry on.The kill was mercifully swift. A combination of lefts and rights which the third man in the ring could no longer ignore.This is a warning which his handlers must not forget. This was fight too much, too soon. As Garcia had warned he done nothing to deserve the tilt at the WBC belt his father had worn with such pride. Nor his elevation the top of a bill in the T-Mobile arena nor in this Mecca of boxing Whether he will ever be ready to mix with the company of prize-ring loyalty is doubtful.He was not only outclassed, out-sped an out-thought but was treated to punching of almighty power with which his dad could not gift him.The last 24 hours before the first bell had been consumed by doom-casts about Benn’s drastic weight draining to reach the welter limit of 147 lbs. Followed by extraordinary claims that he had put on more than two stones following Friday’s weigh-in which, if authentic, would have catapulted him into the ring three divisions even heavier than the super-middleweights.The truth would out as his robe slipped off. But if he had gorged himself between stepping on the scales and the first bell that might done him much good. Such drastic shifts in poundage are as debilitating as dehydration.If this was another of the mind games played by Benn and Garcia throughout the wind up and build up it seemed doubtful that any of that would have a material effect on the fight itself. Would anyone in this hardest of all games risk being beaten by indigestion.The substantive issue was Garcia’s boxing class and knock out power versus Benn’s frenzy and punch resistance.For the high-paying fans – Benn’s long-haulers from the old country and Garcia’s Gen Z armies of groups from his two nations of identification the US and Mexico – what mattered most was that both delivered the barn-burner of a fight they promised.The substantive issue was Garcia’s boxing class and knock out power versus Benn’s frenzy and punch resistance.For the high-paying fans – Benn’s long-haulers from the old country and Garcia’s Gen Z armies of groups from his two nations of identification the US and Mexico – what mattered most was that both delivered the barn-burner of a fight they promised.Quite beautifully those three congregations fell silent together in commemoration of one boxer who never gave in, never gave up, never delivered a disappointing fight, never offended anyone, never betrayed a friend.The giant screens in the 02 went into black and white mode for a nostalgic picture of Ricky Hatton who died too young as the previous British fighter to top the bill in what was until recently the fight capital of the world. Over to you Master Benn.Garcia came to the ring to the strains of a patriotic Mexican song, wrapped in that country’s flag and to rapturous acclaim from the baying Amex majority in the house. Unabashed and as expected Benn went instantly on the offensive only to be met by barrage of Garcia’s trademark left hooks. Less than three minutes later it was all over. Source: Daily Mails

President of Bougainville H.E Ishmael Toroama, has condemned the recent damage to mining properties and says Bougainville will not be intimidated by individuals or factions seeking to undermine the efforts to redevelop the Panguna Mine.“I strongly condemn the actions of those who assaulted personnel and destroyed equipment at the Lloyds Metals camp in Panguna this morning. While the majority of Bougainvilleans look forward to this development, certain elements have chosen to undermine the authority of the government and the collective efforts of our people,” said the President.He said the actions of these individuals are selfish and serve only their own greedy intent. “They do not have the best interests of our government or our people at heart. This type of behavior has no place in Bougainville and will not be tolerated.”He further said that those responsible for this incident will face the full force of the law through the Bougainville Police Service. A coordinated community effort is also underway to apprehend the suspects and prevent any further incidents of this nature.“I want to reassure our people that this morning's incident does not weaken us; it only strengthens our resolve. We will take all necessary steps to enforce the government’s mandate to reopen the Panguna Mine.”“Let me be very clear: this government is of the people and by the people. We will not cower to terroristic acts of violence designed to cause disunity and distract us from our agenda of creating a socio-politically and economically viable Bougainville,” said President Toroama.

Residents of Tagana Village in Rigo District now have access to a new water supply system following the successful drilling of a bore water well, installation of a solar-powered pump and construction of a 9,000-litre water catchment tank.The project was delivered under the leadership of Minister for National Planning and Rigo MP, Sir Ano Pala, as Papua New Guinea continues to face the impacts of the El Niño-induced drought.The new facility is expected to provide a reliable source of water for households, gardens and other community needs, helping ease the pressure on families affected by water shortages.The project forms part of Sir Ano Pala’s earlier commitment of one million kina towards strengthening drought resilience across Rigo District.Several community-focused interventions are being supported under the commitment, with the aim of helping villages better prepare for and withstand harsh conditions linked to drought and climate change.Local leaders and families have expressed gratitude towards the Tagana water project, saying the equipment will help address immediate water needs while supporting the health and livelihoods of the community later on.Sir Ano Pala said access to water was essential, particularly during times of drought.“Water is life. In times of drought, it is our duty to ensure that every family has access to this most basic need. This project in Tagana is a step toward securing that future.”

The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) has stepped up consultations with key stakeholders following the Joint Supervisory Body (JSB) meeting in August this year, as preparations continue towards Bougainville’s planned assumption of self-government responsibilities on 1 September 2027. Vice President and Minister for Bougainville Independence Mission, Hon. Ezekiel Masatt, and Secretary for the Department of Bougainville Independence Mission, Ms. Stephanie Elijah, together with departmental officers, have been engaging stakeholders to raise awareness of the JSB resolution, the Melanesian Framework (MF) and the Joint Consultation Report (JCR) and planning strategies for strengthening Bougainville’s readiness for self-government.The consultations build on the KVR Communique, which was the agreement reached between Bougainville’s National Members of Parliament and the ABG leadership in June this year on endorsing Bougainville’s Final Position for Self-Government in 2027 and Independence in 2030. The Ministry, backed by the Department, has facilitated a series of internal Bougainville stakeholders dialogue on Independence, each producing resolutions that will contribute to the Government’s priorities and inform appropriations for the 2027 Budget. The dialogue process has so far included:• Bougainville Independence Leaders Consultation Forum (BILCF);• Tonsu Great Council of Chiefs.• Southern Regional Parliamentary Committee.• Central Regional Parliamentary Committee.• Northern Regional Parliamentary Committee; and• Bougainville Women Leaders’ Independence Consultation and Dialogue.Secretary Elijah says, in collaboration with the Department of Community Development, dialogue will continue this process through upcoming engagements with youth leaders, veterans, and church leaders. "Running parallel to these dialogues, the Ministry and Department are working closely with the Bougainville Independence Ready Committees on progressing the Independence Ready declarations ahead of the September 1, 2027, Bougainville declaration for Self- Government whilst working closely with the Department of President & BEC on the Bougainville Public Service readiness repositioning strategies towards Self Government."Meantime, preparations are underway for the Bougainville Constituent Assembly meeting from 22 to 24 September 2026 to progress deliberations on the draft Republic of North Solomon Constitution. Photo: Vice President Hon. Ezekiel Masatt with Bougainville Women Leaders following consultations on Bougainville’s independence readiness held on Monday this week in Chabai, North Bougainville.

The heartbeat of Central Province resonated through Bereina on Friday 11th September 2026, as a big crowd gathered for Day One of the Central Music Arts and Culture Festival (CMACF). The opening day delivered a vibrant fusion of traditional dance, modern sounds, local SME displays, and vital community outreach, setting up a celebration of heritage in motion.Beyond the cultural showcases, the festival ground featured an array of Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) stalls and key government and commodity boards.Representatives from the Papua New Guinea Cocoa Board, the National Fisheries Authority, and the Internal Revenue Commission (IRC) were present, carrying out public awareness campaigns and engaging directly with community members throughout the event.​Welcoming visitors and dignitaries, Kairuku District Administrator Henry Oa expressed gratitude to Central Governor Rufina Peter and the Provincial Administration for selecting Kairuku to host the landmark festival. Mr. Oa also conveyed apologies on behalf of Kairuku MP and Minister for Energy, Hon. Peter Namea Isoaimo, who was unable to attend due to official duties at the APEC meeting in China.​"This festival is not just about music and dancing; it is about our heritage and showing PNG and the world our beauty and talent," Mr. Oa stated. "Unity is what binds us together."Echoing these thoughts, Acting Provincial Administrator Bala Kapa delivered a poignant challenge to both the older and younger generations, stressing the importance of cultural preservation in a changing world."To the older generation, our elders: please do not take your knowledge to the grave," Mr. Kapa urged."Teach our children the songs, teach them the meaning of the tattoos, teach them how to make tapa, how to carve canoes, and how to speak our Motu, Roro, and Mekeo languages. You are our library, if you close, we lose everything."Addressing the youth, Mr. Kapa encouraged them to draw strength from their heritage. He urged them to stand with confidence and never feel ashamed of their identity, noting that despite rapid technological advancements, real power lies in celebrating culture and learning through music and the arts.​Formally declaring the festival open, Central Governor Rufina Peter commended the youth, local leaders, and the organizing committee for bringing the vision to life.​"This festival exists because of you," Governor Peter told the crowd. "It is your color, your song, and your strength that makes Central Province shine. The festival is more than an event—it is memory. It is the drumbeat of our ancestors speaking to us today."She called on everyone to honor the past while celebrating the present before officially launching the festivities.​The opening day concluded with high-energy musical performances that had the audience dancing late into the afternoon. Legendary Gaire musician Hitsy Golu headlined the lineup, captivating the audience alongside popular acts including Martin Rawali, Igo Otto of Rearea, the Kanakas of Erima, the Rapids of Sogeri, and Bereina’s own Iva Ovia and the Vmates, who closed out an unforgettable day one.​The Central Music Arts and Culture Festival continues through the weekend in Bereina.