For Papua New Guinea (PNG) to achieve a balanced economic growth in the next decade, the advancing of the current natural resource projects is now more important than ever.Prime Minister James Marape, speaking on the margins of the 2026 World Economic Forum in Davos in Switzerland, said advancing both LNG and mining projects would ensure balanced economic growth across the country. “Papua LNG and P’nyang LNG anchor development in the south, while Wafi-Golpu and the Frieda River Project anchor mining development in the north,” he said. “This balance ensures that economic activity over the next decade is fairly distributed across Papua New Guinea.” In terms of offshore projects, the prime minister also confirmed that offshore petroleum exploration remains active. He said offshore oil and gas investments continue, with TotalEnergies confirming ongoing exploration in the Mailu area of Central Province, while the Twinza–MRDC joint venture progresses development of the Pasca A Project in the Gulf of Papua. He said investors involved in the Pasca A and Pasca B gas projects, operated by Twinza Oil Limited, have confirmed that offshore exploration activities in the Gulf of Papua and Central Province waters are continuing at full pace. Exploration programmes include assessment for potential oil and condensate resources.

The Madang Provincial Education Director, Mr. Alphonse Igag, has welcomed students, teachers and education stakeholders to the 2026 academic year, calling for full compliance with national education directives as schools prepare to reopen.Speaking ahead of the new school year, Mr. Igag said all schools in the province must follow instructions issued by Education Secretary Dr. Uke Kombra to ensure a smooth and well-organized start to classes.He clarified the process regarding project fees, stating that schools must first identify either a short-term or long-term project, carry out proper costings, and determine the difference between the total project cost and the government-funded project fee.“That difference can then be shared equally among students,” Mr. Igag said. “However, the amount per student must first be submitted to the Madang Provincial Education Board (PEB) for endorsement before schools can charge it as the parents’ component.”He stressed that no additional project fee charges should be imposed without official approval from the Provincial Education Board.Mr. Igag also announced that school administrations, Boards of Governors (BoG), and Boards of Management (BoM) are now required to accept electronic bank deposit receipts issued by banks as proof of school fee payments.“Only a few schools that are not yet captured by the banking system will continue using manual deposit receipts,” he said.To assist parents, Mr. Igag noted that Bank South Pacific (BSP) will be open on Saturdays for one month mainly for school fee deposits, making it easier for families to complete payments before classes begin.As schools prepare to welcome back continuing students and receive new intakes, Mr. Igag expressed optimism for a positive and organized start to the academic year.“We are anticipating a better start from Monday, 26 January 2026 onwards,” he said. “Let us work together to support education in our province.”On the issue of 2025 Grade 8, 10 and 12 certificates, Mr. Igag informed schools and parents that the Measurement Services Division will only begin printing certificates starting Monday, 26 January 2026.In the meantime, he advised students enrolling in new schools for the first time to obtain some form of identification or official document from the schools they attended in 2025 to help with registration at their new schools.“This will help make the enrollment process smoother while students wait for their official certificates,” he said.Mr. Igag also took time to acknowledge the passing of four serving teachers in January.Three of the teachers were from Raikos District, while one was serving in Bogia District. He said the Madang education community is deeply saddened by the loss, especially as schools prepare to resume the academic year.“I have known some of them at a personal level, and one was even my former student at Papitalai Secondary School in Manus Province in 2002,” Mr. Igag said.He reflected on the continued loss of educators in recent years.“We farewelled some in 2025, and now at the start of 2026, some are leaving us for eternity. We will sadly miss their services and the lives they shared with us in the Madang Province education sector.”Mr. Igag paid tribute to the late teachers by name: Allan, Bill, Carlos and Timothy, thanking them for their dedication and service to education in the province.“May they rest in peace,” he said.He ended his message with words of encouragement and blessing for the year ahead, calling on all education stakeholders to work in unity for the benefit of students across Madang Province.

The weekend in the city of Port Moresby was a scene of thick black smoke coming from fires burning homes at the 2 Mile Hill settlement, set alight by the authority after police officers were shot at by criminals residing in the illegal settlement.This action by the police received support from the Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Lands, Physical Planning and Urbanization, John Rosso. In a statement put out over the weekend, Rosso described the ongoing eviction of the illegal settlement at 2 Mile Hill as necessary to protect law-abiding citizens, reaffirming that the area is State land and has been unlawfully occupied for many years. He said the settlement has, for far too long, been a major source of law and order problems in the area and the city as a whole. “This eviction is not happening without reason. It is the direct result of repeated criminal activities and serious threats to public safety. The State has a responsibility to protect law-abiding citizens and restore order,” he said. The Acting Prime Minister expressed sympathy for hardworking and law-abiding residents who have been living at 2 Mile Hill and acknowledged that not everyone in the area has been involved in criminal activity. “These individuals will be identified by the National Capital District Commission (NCDC), and with the support of Governor Powes Parkop and NCDC, arrangements will be made to assist with resettlement where appropriate,” Rosso said. However, he made it clear that those who are unemployed or have no lawful basis to remain in the city should seriously consider returning to their villages, where opportunities for family and community support exist. Rosso stressed that the eviction must serve as a strong warning and lesson to others who are illegally occupying State land or land that does not belong to them. “Illegal settlements which causes continuous illegal activities will not be tolerated. The rule of law must prevail, and land ownership and use must be respected,” he said. The Acting Prime Minister reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to working with relevant authorities to ensure orderly urban development, improved public safety, and fair outcomes for law-abiding citizens. Meanwhile, the eviction of the illegal settlers at 2 Mile Hill was carried out after criminals that reside in the settlement shot at police whilst they were doing routine patrol along the main road, doing their job to deter any crimes from being committed against the public along that stretch of road that is notorious for vehicle armed hold ups and robberies, usually committed by youths from this particular settlement.

On Wednesday, January 21, 2026, the Rabaul District LLG Induction Program continued with a series of important and insightful presentations from various provincial sectors and stakeholders.A key highlight of the morning session was the presentation on ‘Leadership in Disaster Risk Management’ by the Provincial Disaster Services, which complemented further discussions led by the Provincial Environment Services Team. Cornelia Kalimet, the Safety and Mitigation Officer of the Provincial Disaster Services, led the session by emphasizing the critical necessity of local disaster risk management plans. During her address, she reminded the gathered leaders of their fundamental responsibilities toward their constituents. “As leaders it is our obligation to understand Disaster Risks Management concepts and look out for our people in ensuring that communities are well informed and coordinated to reduce risks and be prepared to respond accordingly to whatever that may arise,” Kalimet said. She further noted that as a disaster-prone province, leaders must prioritize building community resilience by weaving disaster strategies directly into their formal plans. “Identify risks in your communities and report them as soon as possible to relevant authorities.” “Do not wait for a disaster to happen, act quickly and decisively, see for early warning signs as it can save lives,” Kalimet iterated. She said that having a Disaster Risk Management Plan is vital as it instils trust between the people and their leaders and added that having leaders that are prepared will build communities to be resilient. In closing, Kalimet cautioned the participants of the current strong winds and rainy conditions experienced in the province and to take preventive measures in keeping their respective families and communities safe. Meanwhile, Acting Advisor for the Human Resource Management Ms. Rose August, also stressed on the importance of Ward Minimum Standards; Governance set of standards or machinery for promoting bottom-up planning based on the priorities and needs of communities. She pointed out that Ward Minimum Standard No.4 includes establishing Community Driven Development Committees. For this Strategic Result Area (SRA)- Disaster, it is important that wards have their own sub-Committee which is advisory to the Ward Development Committee for disaster preparedness.

Auckland FC continued their strong start to the OFC Pro League with a third consecutive victory, edging past Bula FC 1–0 at North Harbour Stadium on Thursday night.An early strike from midfielder Daniel Normann proved decisive, as the Black Knights were forced to defend resolutely for much of the second half after being reduced to ten men. Normann opened the scoring in the 12th minute, finishing confidently into the bottom-right corner after Reid Drake delivered a low corner into the box. The goal, the result of a well-worked set piece, was enough to secure all three points for Luke Casserly’s side. Auckland FC fielded the same starting eleven that defeated South Island United in their season opener, with Normann and Drake the only players to start all three matches of the Pro League’s opening round. Meanwhile, Bula FC made two changes following their opening draw with Vanuatu United FC, with Yuta Konagaya and Nabil Begg coming into the lineup. Bula FC had chances to level the match before halftime, most notably when Fergus Gillion volleyed over from close range after a strong run down the left by Kaile Auvray. Auckland thought they had doubled their lead shortly after, but Everton O’Leary’s finish was ruled out for offside following a VAR review. VAR also denied Bula FC early in the second half, with Begg’s apparent equalizer disallowed due to an offside in the build-up. Wet conditions returned after a week of heavy rain across Auckland, and the slippery surface played a role in a key turning point when O’Leary received a second yellow card for a sliding challenge on Auvray, leaving Auckland FC to play out the remainder of the match with ten men. Despite enjoying a numerical advantage, Bula FC struggled to break down Auckland’s defence. Auvray went close with a half-volley, while Roy Krishna was kept quiet by close attention from Auckland captain Tass Mourdoukoutas. Late substitutions from Bula FC coach Stéphane Auvray failed to shift the momentum, as Auckland FC held firm to secure a hard-fought win. Frustrations boiled over in the closing stages, with several cautions issued as tensions rose. The result leaves Auckland FC top of the OFC Pro League standings after the first round with a perfect nine points, while Bula FC sit on one point from their opening two matches. Auckland will now travel to Papua New Guinea for the second round of the competition.

The Papua LNG and Wafi- Golpu Gold and Copper projects are not abandoned, instead they are progressing toward their next critical development stages.That is the assurance from Prime Minister James Marape to the people of Papua New Guinea (PNG) of these two largest resource projects. “It is no secret that my government is working very hard to ensure Papua LNG and Wafi-Golpu move into their next phases — agreements to be signed, licenses to be issued and FIDs to be announced,” Prime Minister Marape said. Prime Minister Marape confirmed he held discussions with Mr. Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of TotalEnergies, who provided firm assurance that the Papua LNG project remains active. “The project is not abandoned,” Prime Minister Marape said. “I was pleased to receive Mr. Pouyanné’s full assurance that Papua LNG is continuing to move forward.” He explained that following the first round of Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) tenders, estimated project costs had increased to approximately US$18 billion, reflecting global inflation, supply-chain pressures and higher financing costs. However, he said TotalEnergies has since undertaken a comprehensive cost-reduction exercise. “They have worked extremely hard and managed to reduce close to US$4 billion in projected cost increases,” he said. The Prime Minister said the project remains economically viable at an estimated construction cost of around US$14 billion, ensuring acceptable investor returns while preserving national value. On the Wafi-Golpu Gold and Copper Project, Prime Minister Marape said he met with Mr. Patrice Motsepe, Chairman of Harmony Gold Mining Company. He confirmed that the independent peer review process addressing outstanding technical matters is nearing completion. On the Wafi-Golpu Gold and Copper Project, Prime Minister Marape said he met with Mr. Patrice Motsepe, Chairman of Harmony Gold Mining Company. He confirmed that the independent peer review process addressing outstanding technical matters is nearing completion. “The peer review team is expected to return its findings before the end of this month,” he said. The Prime Minister reaffirmed the State’s commitment to participate meaningfully in the project. “The State intends to participate at 30 per cent equity in Wafi-Golpu,” he said. “The State must not be questioned about its ability to finance its equity. The State does not go broke — it refinances over time.” He said the Government stands ready to bring Harmony Gold and Newmont Corporation together to conclude remaining issues and progress the project toward development approval. 

The Papua New Guinea (PNG) Women’s National Football Team has begun preparations for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™ Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Qualifiers, scheduled to take place in Fiji from 27th February to 7th March 2026.A 40-member provisional squad has assembled in Lae city and is currently training at the PNG Football Association (PNGFA) Academy at 11-Mile, as part of a structured national team program designed to ensure full readiness for the regional tournament. The squad is being guided by Head Coach Ericson Komeng, assisted by assistant coach Edna Thomas and goalkeeper coach David Kaura, who are overseeing technical preparation, performance standards, and player development throughout the camp. The national program commenced with medical assessments on 18th January 2026, followed by Training Camp One, which runs from 19th January to 14th February 2026 in Lae. This phase of preparation is focused on physical conditioning, tactical systems, and squad evaluation. PNGFA has also engaged PNG High Performance Sport to support the team through specialized high-performance training sessions. The final squad for the qualifiers will be announced on 14th February 2026, after which players will observe a short break from 14th to 17th February. The team will then reconvene in Port Moresby for final medical assessments on 18th February, followed by Training Camp Two from 19th to 23rd February 2026, which will serve as the final stage of preparations before departure. The PNG Women’s National Team is scheduled to depart for Fiji on 24th February 2026, ahead of the official tournament window. Papua New Guinea has been drawn in Group B, alongside Vanuatu, host nation Fiji, and New Caledonia, setting up a highly competitive group-stage campaign. The OFC Women’s World Cup Qualifiers 2026 form part of Oceania’s pathway to the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™, with Papua New Guinea aiming to deliver a strong performance on the regional stage. PNGFA has reaffirmed its commitment to the continued growth of women’s football through elite training environments, consistent national team activity, and long-term development pathways. Further updates, including squad announcements and match schedules, will be released through PNGFA’s official communication channels.

The Kokoda Track Authority (KTA) is supporting students along the Kokoda Track with school fee assistance this year.KTA will meet 100 percent tuition fees for landowner students along the track whose parents cannot afford to meet their children's tuition fees, while 70 percent of the fees will be met by the KTA for working class parents that reside in Port Moresby city. KTA Chairman, Mr. Jack Deia says the school fee assistance program will cater for students attending various tertiary institutions and Universities in the country. He says it is a massive undertaking by the KTA to recognize communities and villages along the track through the school fee assistance program. He said the school fee assistance program was part of the package the new board of the KTA prioritized when it came into office in 2024. " KTA gets government funding of K5 million annually, that gives space for the tracking fees we collect around K1.2million annually. '' That money (tracking fees) was supposed to go back to the communities along the track. However, that has never eventuated since the establishment of KTA. "Last year, the board decided to use the government funding to run the affairs of the KTA and resolved to use the track fees to give back to the people, in the form of school fee assistance program,” Deia said. He said there are no economic benefits on the track and locals find it hard to generate revenues to cater for their children's education. " So, we are giving back to the communities through the school fee assistance program," he said. He said last year KTA rolled out over K200,000 for the school fee assistance program. He said this year, KTA is expected to rollout K300, 000 to K400, 000 with the influx of students coming in for assistance. Meanwhile, he said KTA will do away with overseas sponsorship that is too costly.

A police officer attached to the Northern Mobile Group is using football as a pathway to engage young people in the Wau–Waria district, aiming to reduce youth involvement in crime and encourage constructive lifestyles. Constable Hans Khapa, who is stationed at the Northern Mobile Group headquarters in Lae, is currently deployed in Wau–Waria and has taken the opportunity to join a local football competition to reconnect with young people from his home area. While his primary role in the district is operational, Khapa said participating in sport allows him to interact with youths in a more informal and meaningful way. “Being part of the tournament gives me a chance to engage with young people beyond police duties,” he said. “Sport is a powerful way to unite them and keep their attention on something positive.” Khapa explained that many youth-related challenges can be reduced when young people are occupied with organized activities that promote discipline and teamwork. “When youths are involved in sport, they are busy, focused, and learning to work together. This helps steer them away from negative influences,” he said. He said football also supports community policing by breaking down barriers between law enforcement and young people, creating space for dialogue and guidance. “On the field, we are players first,” Khapa said. “It opens the door to conversations, mentorship, and encouragement. Winning matters but shaping good attitudes matters more.” Khapa noted that across many districts, sport continues to play a key role in fostering unity, respect, and peaceful communities. “Keeping young people engaged in sport helps them stay on the right path and contributes to harmony within the community,” he said. Despite the difficulties involved in organizing sporting events, Khapa said the positive influence on youth behaviour makes the effort worthwhile, as football continues to inspire young people and strengthen community ties.

Improved weather conditions are expected to allow Friday’s round of OFC Pro League matches to proceed as scheduled at North Harbour Stadium, following a complete washout on Tuesday.South Island United will head into their afternoon clash refreshed, after their midweek fixture against Fiji’s Bula FC was postponed due to poor weather. They are set to face Vanuatu United FC at 3.00pm, with both sides looking to build momentum in the competition. Vanuatu United forward Jordy Tasip, who found the back of the net in his team’s 3–1 loss to Auckland FC on Tuesday night, will come up against several familiar faces. Tasip previously played alongside a number of South Island United players during his stint with Christchurch United in last season’s New Zealand National League. “They're good friends to me, so tomorrow is a special game for me,” Tasip said, as he prepares to reunite with Steven van Dijk, Ollie van Rijssel, Riley Grover, Charlie Beale, and injured forward Josh Rogerson. South Island United vice-captain Ollie van Rijssel welcomed the reunion, praising his former teammate. “He's a legend, isn’t he,” van Rijssel said. “I think he enjoyed his time with us, apart from the cold weather maybe. He’s a worker and he’ll just get stuck in.” Vanuatu United head coach Lars Hopp indicated he is likely to rotate his squad, with Friday’s match marking the team’s third game in six days. In the evening fixture, Auckland FC will aim to maintain their perfect start to the tournament when they take on Bula FC at 7.00pm. Luke Casserly’s side has recorded two wins from two matches so far. “We’re really looking forward to the game,” Casserly said. “We’re two from two, so there’s a good feeling within the group, and the players are excited to be running out again on Friday night. “Everyone wants to play, which is a great position to be in as a coach, but we also need to respect the situation. Bula FC will be well rested after their midweek match was called off, and they looked dangerous against Vanuatu.” Bula FC head coach Stephane Auvray said his team is ready for a strong contest. “We will have some good players with fresh legs, and hopefully the result will be ours,” Auvray said. Friday’s fixtures are expected to play a key role in shaping the early standings of the OFC Pro League as teams take advantage of improved conditions to resume competition.                         

The National Department of Health is closely observing an increase in the number of respiratory flu cases across the country. The virus has been identified as Influenza A, Subtype H3N2, (Flu A) according to the PNG Institute of Medical Research after testing at the Goroka Laboratory.Despite the virus being confirmed as seasonal, the NDoH is sending a word of caution to the public, advising them to take preventative measures such as, keeping away from large gatherings, washing hands, increasing ventilation and wearing a face mask when necessary. “This virus is seasonal influenza similar to Flu waves in the country.” “There is insufficient evidence to declare an outbreak, however, we are carefully monitoring case numbers and community members are advised to take this seriously to protect themselves and their families.” The Flu Strain (H3N2) is also affecting other countries globally and can have more severe effects than previous flu strains particularly towards communities with low prior immunity. According to the NDoH, people most at risk include: Elderly (50 years and above) and young children (infants under 5 years being the most vulnerable) Individuals living with other medical conditions that weaken their immune system (Diabetes, HIV, TB, Cancer and other Chronic illnesses) Pregnant women Updates will be provided as the NDoH closely monitors the situation.

The Nawaeb District Development Authority (DDA) has officially launched the Finongan–Gafang–Bungki–Wawin Ring Road Project, a major initiative to improve access and development in Upper Erap in the Morobe province.The launch took place at Finongan Village on 6th January 2026. Fully funded by the DDA and contracted under Port, the project aims to connect remote communities and boost socio-economic growth. Local villagers actively led the opening ceremony, showing strong community ownership and partnership. The project is led by Nawaeb Open MP Theo Pelgen, whose vision is to “reach and connect the unreached.” The Ring Road will improve access to markets, health services, schools, and government services, while creating new economic opportunities for rural households. Mr. Pelgen said, “This road is more than just infrastructure, it is a lifeline that will connect our people, reduce isolation, and open doors for development across Upper Erap.” The DDA will continue working with communities, contractors, and stakeholders to ensure the road benefits the people in the long term.