The National Gaming Control Board (NGCB) has allocated K4.5 million in disaster relief funding to provinces impacted by Category 5 Tropical Cyclone Maila in Papua New Guinea (PNG).The funding will support the worst-affected areas, including the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, Milne Bay, East New Britain, New Ireland, Manus, Morobe, West New Britain and Northern provinces. Announcing the assistance, Acting Prime Minister John Rosso, on behalf of the Government, commended the Board for its swift response, acknowledging the leadership of Minister for Bougainville Affairs and Minister responsible for NGCB, Manasseh Makiba, Board Chairman Jack Lohia and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Registrar, Ms. Imelda Agon. Mr. Rosso said it was encouraging to see national agencies like the NGCB stepping up to support the country’s intensified emergency response and delivering much-needed assistance to affected communities. He described the scale of destruction as devastating, while praising the collective efforts of provincial governments, the PNG Defence Force, humanitarian organizations, international partners, and the NGCB in responding to the crisis. “The Government is moving quickly and strategically to formalize a disaster response plan and address immediate relief needs, ensuring aid reaches those most affected,” he said. Minister Makiba thanked the Prime Minister for his leadership during the crisis, describing the cyclone as one of the most powerful natural disasters to hit Papua New Guinea. He reaffirmed NGCB’s commitment to working alongside the Government and supporting communities during difficult times. “The National Gaming Control Board remains committed to assisting communities in need and will continue to work collaboratively with the Government to ensure timely and effective delivery of support,” he said. The funding was provided through NGCB’s Give Back Program, which focuses on improving the wellbeing of communities across PNG.

YWAM Medical Ships Australia and Papua New Guinea (PNG) recently gathered onboard the MV YWAM PNG to celebrate the successful completion of Phase One of the vessel’s Life Extension Project.This vital investment ensures the ship will remain operational for the next 10 years, continuing its mission to serve remote communities. The event served as an opportunity to acknowledge the collective effort behind this work, including the support of the Australian Government, the Government of Papua New Guinea, and the recently formalized collaboration with the PNG Sustainable Development Program. At the heart of the evening was a simple message: lasting impact is achieved through collaboration and partnership, building on solid foundations to bring hope to communities and shape a stronger Papua New Guinea. After operating extensively along the PNG coastline for many years, the MV YWAM PNG is currently in Western Province. As a registered health facility, the vessel plays a unique role in reaching areas where healthcare access is limited. In one instance, volunteer medical teams supported a local family with clinical techniques to strengthen their child's muscles and develop essential feeding skills, easing a burden they had carried for years. Dr. Miriam Boga, Chief Executive officers (CEO) of the Western Provincial Health Authority, noted that stories like these underscore the importance of partnership. “Access and empowerment are so important,” Dr. Boga said. “On behalf of WPHA, we appreciate the services provided by YWAM Medical Ships in supporting holistic patient care.” As the MV YWAM PNG prepares to sail again, the focus remains on strengthening local capacity and contributing to a national vision where every community is connected and equipped. Australia remains a steadfast partner in ensuring essential healthcare is within reach for every PNG citizen.

Twenty (20) gold bars of varying sizes worth millions of Kina and suspected to be illegally exported overseas, were seized by Aviation Security (AVSEC) Officers of the National Airports Corporation (NAC) at the Jacksons International Airport very recently.The gold bars that were discovered in three separate suitcases on Monday, 27th April, belonged to passengers booked on a flight to Hong Kong. They were identified and seized after AVSEC officers flagged the luggage during routine screening. One passenger was identified and upon inspection of his bag, two gold bars were found; he was unable to provide export documentation and was taken into custody by PNG Customs Services. The remaining two passengers failed to board the flight, leaving their locked luggage behind. The following day, Customs officers opened the suitcases in the presence of AVSEC personnel, discovering 12 gold bars in one and six in the other, bringing the total seizure to 20 bars. Meanwhile, authorities say this recent attempt to illegally export gold is part of a growing trend, with several cases recorded since December 2025 involving gold concealed in clothing, plastic wraps, capsules, and using other methods. The Acting Managing Director of the NAC, Mr. Dominic Kaumu, praised AVSEC officers for their vigilance and integrity and also commended PNG Customs for securing a recent conviction involving a passenger who concealed gold in a custom-made garment. The incident highlights ongoing challenges in curbing illegal gold smuggling through the country’s airports. NAC reaffirmed its commitment to working with relevant agencies and urged the public to report any suspicious activities.

The work on the improvements to the Kimbe Port in the West New Britain province is progressing quiet well with the support of the Australian Government. Just recently a barge carrying the critical equipment and materials for the work, arrived at the Kimbe Port. The barge last week delivered heavy machinery, precast concrete elements and specialized materials essential for the next phase of construction. This included a 180-tonne crawler crane, a 180-foot barge for ground stabilization works and over 500 tonnes of precast concrete for the new wharf extension. The Kimbe port upgrade is being delivered as part of the Ports Infrastructure Investment Program. The project is funded by the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP) and delivered in partnership with the Government of Papua New Guinea and PNG Ports Corporation Ltd (PNG PCL) under a Joint Implementation Unit (JIU). Works include the demolition and reconstruction of sections of the existing wharf, with new piles to extend the wharf to 120m in length. Ms. Cate Rogers, the Australian High Commission Minister Counsellor Economics and Infrastructure, said this investment reflects Australia’s long-term commitment to working with Papua New Guinea to strengthen essential infrastructure. “Progress at the port in Kimbe is creating local jobs and helping improve the flow of goods and services, supporting the business and commercial needs of local communities,” she said. PNG PCL Senior Civil Engineer - Major Projects and JIU Lead Mr. Denmark Gimiseve said, “PNG Ports is pleased with the progress as works move beyond the halfway point. The arrival of this equipment supports the next phase of construction, with local contractors and workers continuing to play an important role in delivery.” Construction has now moved beyond the halfway point, with major marine works taking shape on site. Once completed, these improvements will support safer and more reliable port operations and strengthen Kimbe’s role as a key maritime gateway for West New Britain. Allowing the port to accommodate larger vessels, improving berth capacity, and operational efficiencies.

Prime Minister James Marape has issued a powerful call to Papua New Guinean students studying in China, urging them to remain steadfast in their education and prepare to lead the nation into its next half-century of independence. Addressing the student body in Guangzhou on April 29, 2026, the Prime Minister emphasized that the government’s investment in international education is a strategic pillar for the country's future. He framed the presence of students abroad as a deliberate national investment, asserting that the true wealth of Papua New Guinea lies not beneath the soil, but within its people. “For me, you are the most important asset. It is not the oil, gas, gold, or everything else we have. Our human resource is the most important asset,” he stated. He further told the assembly, “You are the reason why we are at work. You represent a cluster of Papua New Guinea’s future that we are trying our best to shape.” The Prime Minister maintained that the country's trajectory toward prosperity is inextricably linked to the development of a disciplined and globally competitive generation. He noted that the decision to prioritize Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects for overseas study is part of a long-term strategy to equip young leaders for roles across government, business, and the global economy. “Our country will not be prosperous if our human resource is not secured for the better,” he added. Reflecting on the social fabric of the nation, Prime Minister Marape described Papua New Guinea’s vast cultural differences as a unique advantage rather than a liability. “We come from over 800 different tribal settings and language groups, yet in the unity of that diversity, we have found a symphony of unity.” He encouraged the students to take pride in their heritage as they represent the nation on the world stage, remarking, “Hold your heads high. You come from the most diverse nation on earth.” “The fact that we stand as one people, one nation, one country 50 years on is a major achievement.” Sharing a personal anecdote about his own upbringing, the Prime Minister recounted how his father prioritized faith and schooling over material wealth. “My father told me: ‘I have no money to pass on to you. I have given you Jesus, and I now put you on the road of education,’” he shared, adding, “Walk the path of education, and education will bring you to places you have never imagined in your life.” Acknowledging the difficulties of living abroad, including homesickness and financial strain, the Prime Minister offered words of encouragement. “Hang on and keep going. Do not be discouraged. Tears are part of life, but get up and keep going,” he urged. “You are not an accident, God created you for a purpose. Find that purpose and pursue it.” In addition, he committed to reviewing and improving the support systems for students through Papua New Guinea’s overseas missions and the Embassy in Beijing. However, he stressed that this support comes with the expectation of academic excellence and personal integrity. “We will look at the policy that supports your studies and see where we can step up support. But my only ask is this: do not take your focus away from your certificates.” “Focus on your studies. Finish your certificate, and if you can, go for the next one.” Beyond academic achievement, he reminded the students to act as ambassadors of their home country by respecting local laws and building international networks. “Do not break the law of the land you are in. Live within the law and you will always be safe,” he advised. He also noted that the friendships formed in China would be vital for the future and stated that the networks that the students build today will grow with them into the future. “We sent you for a purpose- not just to be PNG resources back home, but PNG resources in the world.” Pointing to the rapid modernization of Chinese cities like Shenzhen, he suggested that the students are in an ideal environment to witness the fruits of discipline and innovation. He concluded by urging the students to bring those lessons home. “Study hard, find your place, and prepare yourselves to help build a prosperous country.”

All Cabinet Ministers and departmental heads have been issued a directive from the prime minister to intensify their work programs as the country enters a crucial period in 2026. Speaking ahead of the mid-year mark, the Prime Minister emphasized that the month of May signals a turning point for Government, with limited parliamentary sittings remaining before the next national election and growing global and domestic challenges requiring urgent attention. “It is now May, and I expect all ministers and department heads to be fully at work, progressing their responsibilities with urgency and discipline,” Prime Minister Marape said. The Prime Minister highlighted mounting pressures from global economic conditions, including rising energy costs linked to international oil prices, as well as ongoing recovery efforts from recent natural disasters. “These challenges are not new to us. We have faced COVID-19, major natural disasters, and political turbulence in the past. We will get through this as we always have — with resilience and determination,” he said. Drawing from his recent official visit to China, Prime Minister Marape reflected on the work ethic and discipline observed within one of the world’s largest economies. “I shared with my ministers and Members of Parliament that in China — now the world’s second-largest economy — public servants and leaders are not paid higher than those in Papua New Guinea. That was surprising,” he said. “Yet the level of commitment, the discipline, and the sheer volume of work they put into building their country speaks volumes. From a developing nation in the 1970s and 1980s, they have risen to become a global economic powerhouse, driven by research, innovation, and hard work.” The Prime Minister said Papua New Guinea must reflect on this example and lift its own performance. This is a moment for all of us — ministers, department heads, and public servants, including myself — to step up our game and work tirelessly for our country. We cannot afford to lag behind,” he stressed. Prime Minister Marape has instructed all Government agencies to submit progress reports outlining achievements and implementation status as Papua New Guinea approaches the halfway point of the year.

In response to a request from the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF), the Western Provincial Health Authority (WPHA) has facilitated the delivery of essential medical supplies to the remote border outpost at Weam. The supplies were handed over today by WPHA representative Noah Tolasa to a team en route to Weam, ensuring personnel stationed in the isolated area receive urgently needed medical support. The request highlights the persistent logistical challenges faced by PNGDF officers at Weam, where the station’s remoteness often delays access to basic supplies. With most provisions dispatched from Port Moresby, delivery can take considerable time, increasing the risk of shortages in critical medicines and health supplies. WPHA says it hopes the initiative will pave the way for stronger collaboration with PNGDF, aimed at improving the consistent supply of medicines and strengthening overall health support for personnel deployed in remote locations. The effort also underscores the importance of inter-agency cooperation in addressing service delivery challenges in isolated regions such as Weam, where both health workers and security forces operate under difficult conditions. Weam Station, located along the Papua New Guinea–Indonesia border in the South Fly District of Western Province, is among the most remote postings for PNGDF personnel. The area is characterized by vast savanna plains, floodplains, and seasonal swamps, where heavy rainfall can quickly render the terrain impassable, further isolating those stationed there. For PNGDF personnel, the posting carries both strategic significance and daily hardship. While the station plays a critical role in monitoring cross-border movement and safeguarding national sovereignty, its isolation presents ongoing challenges. There are no direct road links connecting Weam to Daru or other major centres, leaving air transport or long river and sea journeys as the only means of access for supplies, reinforcements, and personnel movement.

The Divine Word University Communication Arts (Journalism) Department marked World Media Freedom Day on Friday, 1st May 2026, by delivering a coordinated awareness program across seven schools in Madang town, focusing on the importance of press freedom, human rights, development, and security. Guided by this year’s theme, “Shaping a Future at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development, and Security,” the department extended its outreach beyond the university campus, taking the message directly into primary and secondary schools to engage young students and raise awareness of the role of media in society. The initiative was a student-led activity, spearheaded by the third-year Communication Arts (Journalism) students, with all year levels participating in the program, supported by lecturers and tutors from the department. This outreach saw students visit seven schools in Madang’s urban area including Kusbau Primary School, Tusbab Secondary School, Madang Christian Academy, Mercy Learning Academy, Madang International School, Lutheran Day School, and Holy Spirit Primary School. The students had the opportunity to deliver sessions designed to simplify the concept of media freedom and its importance, encouraging participants to understand how responsible journalism supports peaceful and informed communities. The program’s core objective was to make media literacy accessible and engaging, through team-based activities, interactive games, and student-performed skits. These activities helped to translate complex ideas about press freedom into relatable scenarios. Morning sessions began at 9:30AM at the participating schools along with activities which included team icebreakers, an introduction to the theme, and discussions on the role of media in society. Students actively engaged in the program, while schools that opted for afternoon sessions concluded at 3:30PM.

The Board of the Bank of Papua New Guinea (BPNG) has endorsed an Emergency Liquidity Assistance (ELA) Policy Framework to strengthen its capacity to respond in the event of extreme short-term liquidity pressures in the banking system.The Bank stressed that this is part of normal contingency planning undertaken by central banks and is not related to any concerns about the current health of the financial system. It noted that, at present, its assessment is that the banking system remains well-capitalized, with high levels of liquid assets held across all institutions. The ELA Policy Framework formalizes the Bank’s approach to providing temporary liquidity support to eligible commercial banks facing severe but short-term funding constraints, in line with its role under the Central Banking Act as lender of last resort. The framework is designed to support financial system stability while ensuring that assistance is provided in a prudent, controlled, and transparent manner. It will only apply to institutions that are solvent and viable, with emphasis placed on the stability of the financial system as a whole rather than the survival of any individual institution. It also outlines the eligibility criteria, governance arrangements, and operational conditions under which ELA may be provided. Access to such assistance will be subject to strict requirements, including solvency checks, acceptable collateral, and credible recovery measures from the recipient institution. The ELA Policy Framework complements the Bank’s broader financial stability and prudential oversight functions and strengthens its ability to respond to emerging liquidity pressures within the financial system. The Bank said it will continue engaging with stakeholders and develop supporting guidelines to ensure proper implementation and consistent understanding of the framework. It reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a stable and resilient financial system that supports sustainable economic development in Papua New Guinea.

BSP Financial Group has made its Wantok Wallet more accessible, allowing new users to register using only their mobile phones, even without a bank account or formal identification.The move is aimed at opening the door to digital banking for more Papua New Guineans. Now with the new feature, customers can simply dial *131# on their mobile phone to create a Wantok Wallet account within minutes. The process removes the need to visit a BSP branch or agent, making it easier for people in rural and remote areas to get started. BSP Retail Bank Financial Inclusion Manager, Penelope Aisi, said the initiative is part of the bank’s wider push to expand financial access across the country. “Self-registration through *131# is a major step in making banking more accessible, especially for those in remote communities. It allows more people to safely join the digital economy using just a mobile phone,” she said. The registration process is simple. Users enter their first and last name, set up a secure PIN, and gain instant access to their wallet. New users can receive up to K500 and carry out up to 20 transactions before upgrading their account for higher limits and additional features. To unlock full services, customers can later visit a BSP branch or agent with valid identification. This allows them to increase transaction limits and access more advanced banking features. BSP is also expanding how the Wantok Wallet can be used. Customers in Port Moresby can now make payments at Waterfront Foodworld using BSP EFTPoS by generating a six-digit code on their phone. This allows for card less payments, offering more convenience for everyday shopping, with plans to roll out the service to more locations. Since its launch a year ago, more than 230,400 Wantok Wallet accounts have been created, giving many Papua New Guineans access to affordable and simple banking services for the first time. Users can carry out a wide range of transactions, including card less ATM withdrawals, deposits through BSP agents, money transfers, mobile top ups, bill payments, school fee payments, and even ticket purchases. As BSP continues to expand the platform, the focus remains clear; break down barriers, reach more people, and make banking part of everyday life for all Papua New Guineans.

City Pharmacy Limited (CPL) has taken its first major step in a new partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) by launching a joint training workshop on Wednesday, April 29 in Port Moresby.The session follows an agreement signed in March and marks the beginning of a long-term plan to strengthen healthcare services across the country. The workshop brought together CPL’s senior leaders and teams from across the business, working alongside IFC’s international advisors. Staff from finance, human resources, IT, and project teams all took part, showing that improving healthcare will involve the entire organization. This partnership focuses on three key areas: expanding primary healthcare services, improving the quality of care in clinics and pharmacies, and introducing digital systems to make services more efficient and accessible. The goal is to build a healthcare model that can grow across Papua New Guinea while still working within local conditions. The first workshop focused on setting clear goals, sharing global best practices, and shaping ideas that can work on the ground in PNG.  Discussions centred on building systems that are practical, reliable, and able to meet the country’s growing healthcare needs. CPL Chief Operating Officer Pradeep Panda said the partnership is about learning and building together. “This workshop is about working closely with IFC to build a strong model for our clinics and pharmacies, and to improve healthcare outcomes for our communities,” he said. CPL Group Founder Sir Mahesh Patel also stressed the importance of making sure plans can be delivered in real conditions. “This collaboration is focused on solutions that can work here in PNG and create real impact,” he said. The partnership comes at a time when CPL is sharpening its focus on healthcare, following the sale of its Stop and Shop supermarket business. The company is now putting more effort into strengthening its clinics, pharmacies, and overall healthcare services. IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, will continue to support CPL through advisory work throughout 2026. More workshops are planned to help improve systems, guide expansion, and support digital transformation across the business. As both organizations move forward, the aim is clear. Improve patient care, strengthen local capability, and build a healthcare system that can grow with the needs of Papua New Guinea.

Kina Bank has donated K7,000 to support the Salvation Army’s Houses of Hope program during the PNG Solomon Islands Red Shield Appeal Charity Golf Day, held on Friday, April 17 at the Port Moresby Golf Club.The event brought together more than 30 teams, including two from Kina Bank, turning a day on the course into a collective effort to support vulnerable communities across the country. Funds raised from the charity drive will go directly to the Houses of Hope, safe homes that provide shelter, counselling, gender-based violence support, food assistance, and accommodation. These services operate in key locations including Ela Beach, Kainantu, and Lae, and rely on ongoing support to cover essential boarding and staffing costs. Kina Bank’s General Manager Treasury Sales – Treasury and Wholesale Banking, Simon Kepui, said the bank remains committed to initiatives that create real impact. “Kina Bank is humbled to support such initiatives, which directly benefit vulnerable communities. These funds contribute to essential services that provide safety, dignity and hope,” he said. The Salvation Army PNG and Solomon Islands also acknowledged the contribution, with Lieutenant Colonel Suzanne Stevenson highlighting the importance of the support. “The generosity shown through this charity golf event will make a real difference to the lives of people who rely on our Houses of Hope,” she said. As the day wrapped up, the purpose behind it remained clear beyond the fairways and scorecards, the focus was on standing with those in need and helping keep vital services running.