PNG Haus Bung

Young athletes were encouraged to embrace discipline, respect and personal growth as part of their sporting journey, as the National Youth Development Authority (NYDA) lent its voice to the NGCB–Kickboxing Last Man Standing tournament, held at the Taurama Aquatic Centre on Sunday.NYDA says platforms like this are central to its efforts to reach and engage disengaged youths nationwide.The event, contested as Semi-Final Heat #4 of the tournament and run from 9:00am to 5:00pm, was presented by the PNG Kickboxing Federation (PNGKBF), a partner of NYDA, and brought together athletes, coaches and supporters in a competitive environment that organisers say is as much about character as it is about competition.In the absence of NYDA Director General Mr. Joe Itaki, Principal Legal Officer, Ms. Joyce Mai addressed athletes and officials at the venue, underscoring the role sport can play in engaging and developing Papua New Guinean youths.Drawing on the teaching of self-control and discipline found in 1 Corinthians 9, Ms. Mai's opening remarks reminded competitors that the same restraint and focus required in the ring carry over into everyday life.Athletes were encouraged to compete with their heart, give their best, and show respect for their opponents.The message reinforced that sporting achievement is measured by more than winning — it is also about building character, discipline, resilience, confidence and respect, qualities NYDA says help young people become positive contributors to their families, communities and the nation.NYDA's presence at the tournament reflects the Authority's implementation of the National Youth Engagement Strategy (NYES) 2025–2029, which provides a national framework for engaging disengaged youths and connecting them with opportunities that support their personal, social and economic development.Sport also sits squarely within the National Youth Policy 2020–2030, which identifies Health, Sports and Culture as one of its four key result areas, alongside Education and Employment, Community and Environment, and Governance and Institutional Development.For NYDA, platforms such as the NGCB–Kickboxing Last Man Standing tournament offer a practical, ground-level way to engage disengaged youths, encourage positive participation and strengthen the wider youth development agenda across Papua New Guinea.

His Excellency Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae, Governor-General of Papua New Guinea and representative of His Majesty King Charles III, presented the 50th Anniversary King’s Medal to Nasfund Chief Executive Officer Mr. Rajeev Sharma at the Government House.In his remarks during the presentation ceremony, His Excellency acknowledged Mr. Sharma's contribution to Papua New Guinea and thanked him for the important role he continues to play in advancing retirement security and strengthening confidence in the country's superannuation industry.Mr. Sharma received the King's Medal in recognition of his outstanding service in finance, accounting and corporate leadership in Papua New Guinea over the past 25 years.Accepting the award, Mr. Sharma expressed his gratitude to the people of Papua New Guinea and dedicated the recognition to his family and the staff of Nasfund."I want to say thank you to the people of Papua New Guinea for accepting us in PNG.I am very honoured and humbled to receive this award on behalf of my wife and children. This award is not only for me but for all the Nasfund staff who work tirelessly with me. I really appreciate this," Mr. Sharma said.The commemorative medal was approved by His Majesty King Charles III, King of Papua New Guinea, as part of Papua New Guinea's 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations. The King's Medal recognises Papua New Guineans and others who have made significant contributions to the nation's development over the past five decades.Following the presentation, National Superannuation Fund (Nasfund) Chairman Christopher Elphick extended his congratulations to Mr Sharma on receiving the distinguished national honour."It is a proud moment for Nasfund to see our CEO receive such a distinguished national honor through the Governor-General, His Excellency Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae, on behalf of His Majesty King Charles III," Mr. Elphick said."Rajeev's commitment to strengthening Papua New Guinea's superannuation sector, promoting sound governance, and delivering long-term value for our members has made a lasting impact. This recognition reflects not only his professional achievements, but also his unwavering dedication to serving the people of Papua New Guinea and the wider Pacific region."Mr. Elphick said Mr. Sharma's leadership has helped position Nasfund as one of the country's most respected and trusted financial institutions. On behalf of the Board, management, and staff, Mr. Elphick thanked Mr. Sharma for his exemplary leadership, dedication, and service.

The Deputy Commissioner of Police, Samson Kua, has been arrested and charged by the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC).Kua was arrested and charged yesterday with one count of Abuse of Office and nine counts of Misappropriation, following an investigation into the alleged misuse of the Royal Papua New Guinea travel account funds.The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) has arrested and charged Deputy Commissioner of Police, Samson Kua yesterday, with one count of Abuse of Office and nine counts of misappropriation, following an investigation into the alleged misuse of RPNGC account funds. It was alleged that between September 2024 and March 2025, Mr. Kua used RPNGC Travel accounts for his family’s personal domestic travel, amounting to approximately K14, 692.50.The matter was referred to ICAC by the Police Commissioner, as required under section 45 of the Organic Law on the Independent Commission Against Corruption (OLICAC).Mr. Kua was produced before the Waigani Magistrates Court on the afternoon of 3rd September 2026 and was released on a K3, 000 bail, with two sureties of K500 each. The matter has been adjourned for mention on the 11th of September 2026.ICAC acknowledges the cooperation of the Office of the Police Commissioner and the RPNGC throughout the investigation.

For the next five years, through to 2030, the Independent Consumer and Competition Commission (ICCC) will regulate its mandate according to its newly launched Cooperate Plan, which was officially launched by Minister for Rural and Economic Joseph Lelang, at the APEC Haus on August 28th.Alongside the launch was the unveiling of the refreshed logo identity and the upgraded website in setting out its strategic direction for strengthening consumer protection, promoting fair competition and supporting a more competitive, productive and efficient economy in the country.The cooperate plan explains clearly what the ICCC wants for the next five years with its mandate and vision.ICCC Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Roy Daggy said the Corporate Plan would guide the commission’s work over the next five years by setting out what it aims to achieve, how it will deliver its mandate and why its work matters to Papua New Guineans.The ICCC’s mandate includes protecting consumers, ensuring markets are fair and competitive, and regulating industries where necessary.Mr. Daggy said the commission’s responsibilities affect families, businesses and communities across the country, adding that the Corporate Plan would guide the ICCC in using its values of independence, expertise and integrity to deliver outcomes for consumers and the wider economy.The commission’s vision is to promote the welfare of Papua New Guineans by ensuring competitive markets, protecting consumers, and regulating industries fairly and efficiently.Its mission is linked to key national development priorities, including the Medium-Term Development Plan IV 2024-2027, the Development Strategic Plan 2020-2030, and PNG Vision 2050.The Corporate Plan is built around four main goals.The first is to protect consumers’ rights by expanding enforcement, improving complaint handling, and ensuring product safety.The second is to ensure markets remain competitive by reviewing mergers, tackling cartel behaviour and addressing the abuse of market power.The third is to regulate industries and prices where necessary to ensure essential goods and services remain affordable and reliable.The fourth is to strengthen the ICCC as an independent and expert regulator while maintaining high levels of integrity, transparency and accountability and building trust among stakeholders.Mr. Daggy said the four goals are supported by specific strategies and action plans intended to translate the commission’s priorities into practical activities.One of the strategies is to expand the ICCC’s presence across all provinces through partnerships with provincial governments.Mr. Daggy said the commission is also seeking to strengthen prosecutions against unfair traders and develop stronger competition law expertise.Furthermore, the commission will also modernize its systems, improve transparency and strengthen inclusivity, particularly for women, disadvantaged groups and rural communities.Mr. Daggy said the Corporate Plan was not simply a policy document, but a strategy focused on improving the welfare of consumers and supporting the wider economy.He added that the ICCC would make decisions based on evidence, research and data rather than pressure, while assuring that the commission would consider the views of stakeholders in its decision making and ensure consumers’ welfare remains a priority.The Corporate Plan is supported by technical assistance from the Private Sector Development Initiative through the Asian Development Bank, with backing from the Australian Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and the New Zealand Government through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT).

The District Court dismissed all criminal charges against former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA), Dr. Steven Yennie, on August 31, 2026, bringing an end to proceedings that lasted approximately two years.Dr. Yennie had faced one count of Abuse of Public Office, one count of Official Corruption, two counts of Misappropriation, and one count of Money Laundering.In delivering its decision, the District Court ruled that the police file and witness statements contained insufficient evidence to commit Dr. Yennie to the National Court for trial.Addressing the two Misappropriation counts, the Magistrate observed that while one charge could have been brought on the allegations, laying two separate counts based on the exact same set of facts was unfair and constituted an abuse of process.Consequently, the Court dismissed all charges, lawfully discharged Dr. Yennie, and ordered an immediate refund of his bail money.The criminal proceedings trace back to August 2024, when Dr. Yennie was suspended and subsequently removed as CEO of NCDPHA before the allegations against him had been tested in court.Although he was later reinstated by the Public Services Commission and received official clearances from the Ombudsman Commission, the Office of the Public Prosecutor, and other relevant authorities, police investigations persisted, leading to formal charges.While the legal proceedings remained unresolved, a replacement CEO was appointed to the NCDPHA.Welcoming the court’s ruling, Dr. Yennie expressed relief over the resolution of the case.“I am relieved that after almost two years, the court has finally determined this matter.”“I have always maintained my confidence in the judicial process, and I am grateful that the allegations have now been properly tested before an independent court.”Reflecting on the impact of the multi-year ordeal, Dr. Yennie emphasized that his case underscores the critical need for due process and procedural fairness when dealing with allegations against public servants.“Accountability in public office is essential, but it must always be exercised fairly and in accordance with due process.”“An allegation is not a finding of guilt. People should not suffer irreversible professional and reputational consequences before allegations against them have been properly tested through the judicial process.”Following his discharge, Dr. Yennie expressed gratitude to his legal counsel, Mr. Edward Sasingian of Sasingian Lawyers, as well as his family and supporters for standing by him throughout the proceedings.With the legal matter now fully concluded, Dr. Yennie stated that his focus is on moving forward and continuing his service to the people of Papua New Guinea.

The National Capital District (NCD) Provincial Health Authority (PHA) is now promoting lifestyle medicine and stronger primary health care to address the rising burden of non-communicable diseases in Port Moresby.NCDPHA Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Robin Oge made the call during the Lifestyle Medicine Symposium hosted by Pacific Adventist University under the theme, “Habits That Heal: Transforming Health Through Lifestyle Medicine.”The symposium brought together health professionals and academics to highlight the role of nutrition, physical activity, stress management, and preventive care in reducing non-communicable diseases.“Lifestyle medicine is a powerful tool in our fight against preventable diseases.”He said promoting healthier habits and equipping communities with knowledge could improve health outcomes across Port Moresby and Papua New Guinea.“This symposium is a timely reminder that prevention is not only possible but essential.”Dr. Oge said NCDPHA was confronting what he described as a triple burden of disease in the Nation's Capital, including communicable diseases, non-communicable diseases, trauma, and injuries.He said 830 tuberculosis cases were recorded in 2025, while diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and other metabolic disorders were also increasing.According to figures cited by Dr. Oge, about 8.5% of Papua New Guineans are living with diabetes, while nearly 30% of men and women had raised blood pressure, increasing their risk of stroke and heart disease.He also said more than 1, 600 women die annually from cervical cancer nationwide.To address cervical cancer, NCDPHA plans to launch an HPV vaccination program in September targeting girls aged 9 to 14.Dr. Oge also highlighted rapid urbanization and changing lifestyles as factors affecting health outcomes in the city.He said more than 50% of National Capital District residents live in settlements, where dietary changes from traditional and organic foods to processed foods which has contributed to poorer health outcomes.NCDPHA is also working to address infrastructure, workforce, financial and data challenges through partnerships with academic institutions.The authority has partnered with the University of New South Wales and the George Institute to strengthen health data and research.NCDPHA’s plans include developing Moresby South District Hospital as a center for prevention and lifestyle medicine and recruiting 500 Village Health Assistants across the three districts.In terms of recruitment, 30 Village Health Assistants have already been recruited and are serving communities.The authority also plans to expand community awareness on healthy eating, physical activity and mental well-being, while strengthening health workers’ capacity in early screening, counselling, and treatment.Furthermore, Dr. Oge emphasized that stronger partnerships with academic institutions and non-governmental organizations would also support research and new approaches to preventing and treating non-communicable diseases.NCDPHA stated that strengthening lifestyle medicine and primary health care would support healthier communities across Port Moresby and the Motu Koita communities.

The National St John Ambulance (NStJA) Service has welcomed 18 new volunteers after they completed its Batch 9 volunteer training program.The volunteers completed three days of Advanced First Aid training from July 1 to 3 alongside four existing full-time staff members, bringing the total number of participants to 22.The graduates received their Advanced First Aid certificates during a ceremony at the National St John Ambulance headquarters in Port Moresby on August 28.Since completing their training, the volunteers have begun supporting various areas of the organization, including administrative teams, the National Ambulance Operations Centre, and community and public events.Some volunteers are also completing the onboarding process to support the Fleet and Logistics team as drivers, while others have expressed interest in pursuing careers as ambulance officers.National St John Ambulance Commissioner and Chief Executive Kai Tane congratulated the graduates and thanked them for choosing to serve their communities.“By choosing to volunteer, you have made a commitment to give your time, energy and skills to help others.”“Volunteering with an ambulance service requires compassion, discipline, courage and a willingness to learn. It means being prepared to step forward when help is needed and serving others with professionalism and respect.”Tane encouraged the volunteers to uphold the organization’s values of People, Learning, Unity and Service as they continue their journey with St John.“Every person within our organization, whether a full-time staff member or a volunteer, contributes to our mission to deliver trusted pre-hospital care and strengthen community health through partnership, training and culturally appropriate, evidence-based practice.”“Your contribution matters, and we are grateful that you have chosen to serve alongside us.”“To our new volunteers: welcome to the Green Angel family. Serve with compassion, remain humble, support your team and take pride in the positive difference you can make in the lives of others.”Meanwhile, Tane also acknowledged the Event Health Services team, instructors, mentors, and staff who supported the volunteers throughout their training and onboarding.The National St John Ambulance volunteer program provides Papua New Guineans with opportunities to develop practical skills, support ambulance service activities and contribute to their communities.

The PNG Chiefs are strengthening their foundation for the 2028 National Rugby League (NRL) debut by investing in local talent through a prestigious professional development initiative.Urith Toa, the club’s Community Officer, has been selected as a participant in the U.S. Government’s International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), focusing on Sports Management and Youth Leadership.During the trip to the United States, Toa will engage with American sports leaders to gain insights into best practices in youth athletics and safety, including athlete protection, injury prevention, and drug-free leadership.The program also focuses on inclusive development by examining models that center women and young people in sport, as well as organizational strategies for integrating sport into school curricula and community programs.Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of PNG Chiefs Lorna McPherson emphasized that this initiative is part of a broader strategy to build long-term organizational capability.“This is about much more than one professional development opportunity – it is about building the long-term capability of our organization. We want Papua New Guineans to be at the heart of the PNG Chiefs well into the future,” McPherson stated.The club has outlined several key priorities to support this vision. These include local capacity building, which aims to create meaningful career pathways for Papua New Guineans across all departments, from football operations to commercial and communications roles.Additionally, the Chiefs are committed to women’s empowerment by actively supporting female staff to build careers in leadership and operational positions.The organization also plans to leverage the knowledge gained from this program to enhance player development pathways and expand the reach of sport within schools and local communities.Urith Toa noted that the program offers a unique platform to forge connections with U.S. sports leaders and bring back practical strategies to strengthen the club’s infrastructure before its historic entry into the NRL in 2028.This marks the first of several planned initiatives aimed at developing technical capacity and ensuring the sustainable growth of rugby league in Papua New Guinea.

The Australian Government will provide about K50 million (AUD15.6 million) over four years to support the next generation of Pacific athletes as they work towards competing at major international sporting events, including the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.The funding will support athletes and officials from 13 Pacific countries to access high-performance training, development and qualification opportunities.The program will be delivered in partnership with the Australian Olympic Committee, Paralympics Australia, Commonwealth Games Australia and regional sporting organizations.Support will target Pacific participation in the Tahiti 2027 Pacific Games, Los Angeles 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Rarotonga 2029 Pacific Mini Games, as well as other international sporting events.Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the Pacific is home to significant sporting talent, and the partnership would help develop the next generation of successful athletes.“The Pacific is home to incredible sporting talent. This new partnership will contribute to producing the next generation of successful athletes.”He said Australia looked forward to welcoming Pacific athletes to Brisbane for the 2032 Games.“As we move forward in planning for Brisbane 2032 Australia looks forward to welcoming the best of the best sporting talent from the Pacific and supporting them to go for gold.”Australian Minister for Pacific Island Affairs Pat Conroy said sport had an important role beyond competition, including bringing communities together and supporting healthy lifestyles, gender equity and youth leadership.“This is an investment in the development of athletes across the Pacific.”He said he looked forward to seeing Pacific athletes compete successfully at the upcoming Paralympic, Commonwealth and Olympic Games.

The Marape-Rosso Government says the 2026 Supplementary Budget is designed to provide greater support to Papua New Guineans facing increasing fuel prices, challenging weather conditions (El Nino), and rising living costs.Prime Minister James Marape welcomed Parliament's passage of the Supplementary Budget, describing the K1.33 billion net increase as a targeted response to the economic pressures affecting families and communities across the country.The Supplementary Budget, presented by Treasurer Ian Ling-Stuckey, increases forecast revenue and expenditure by approximately K1.33 billion, lifting total Government expenditure for 2026 to a record K32.245 billion while maintaining the forecast deficit at K1.608 billion, or one per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP).Prime Minister Marape said the Government's priority is to ensure Papua New Guineans receive support during a period of high fuel costs, adverse weather impacts, and increased household expenses."We are very disciplined, trying our very best to tighten our belts," Mr. Marape told Parliament during debate on the Budget this week.He said the Government has redirected funding from areas where allocations have not been fully utilised to more urgent national priorities that directly impact citizens. The measures include reducing non-essential recurrent expenditure, travel and allowances, while deferring selected projects where necessary.According to the Prime Minister, the approach allows the Government to maintain fiscal discipline while ensuring resources are available to address the immediate needs of Papua New Guineans and support economic stability during difficult times.Members of both Government and Opposition contributed to the parliamentary debate before the Supplementary Budget and associated legislative amendments were passed.

The Commissioner of Police David Manning, has confirmed a major investigation is underway into the holdup and theft of a shipment of gold bullion and cash that was being transported by a private security company during the early hours of this morning in Port Moresby.Commissioner Manning confirmed that at around 4:30 AM this morning, two private security vehicles were intercepted by unknown vehicles in Port Moresby.“Ten-armed assailants held the security crews at gunpoint and proceeded to steal a quantity of gold and cash, as well as firearms.”He said that investigation is under the direction of Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) Deputy Commissioner of Specialist Operations, Donald Yamasombi.“The gold and cash were being carried by a private security firm, and police had not been alerted to the movement prior to it taking place.”Commissioner Manning clearly stated that police are not privy to the standard operating procedures of private security businesses that are contracted to carry commercial valuables.“There are a number of witnesses that are being interviewed, including the private security crews, as well as management and workers from the firm.”“This is a very serious incident. Early indications are that the movement of these valuables by the security company leaves a lot to be desired in terms of how the private operation was conducted.”The RPNGC and the clients of these security companies expect the highest professional conduct by their management and personnel.Meanwhile, Commissioner Manning said that investigations are well underway into all aspects of this incident, including the operating procedures of the security company.“The priority for investigators is the timely identification of those involved and recovery of stolen goods.”Further information will be provided at an appropriate time.

Prime Minister James Marape has declared that the suspension of 70 departmental and agency heads is a strict enforcement of long-standing accountability laws, dismissing claims that it stems from a new government policy.The Prime Minister clarified that the mass suspensions target public officials who failed to meet statutory duties requiring State entities to transparently report and account for public funds and resources.Prime Minister Marape made these remarks in Parliament on Tuesday, August 01st, 2026, in response to questions raised by Dei MP Desmond Kipa regarding the current status and legality of the administrative suspensions.The Prime Minister emphasized that the Constitution and various Acts of Parliament dictate clear, mandatory reporting timelines for public administrators.“These are not optional matters but requirements of the law,” Prime Minister Marape stated. “If you are responsible for public money, you must report.”To anchor the legality of the State’s intervention, the Prime Minister cited an extensive framework of existing legislation:The Constitution (including Section 187): Establishes explicit reporting obligations regarding public administration and judicial operations.The Organic Law on Provincial and Local-Level Governments: Mandates stringent, regular reporting from all provincial administrations.The Prime Minister’s Act: Outlines executive mechanisms to monitor government line departments through the Chief Secretary.The Public Finances (Management) Act & Public Services (Management) Act: Demands that comprehensive annual performance and financial statements be compiled and submitted on time.Prime Minister Marape expressed strong sentiments against successive governments for tolerating substandard reporting practices, noting that several suspended agency heads are repeat offenders who have neglected their reporting duties for multiple consecutive years.He questioned how agencies receiving millions of Kina in public funding could justify withholding performance data until the annual budget cycle.“As we mark our 50th year of Independence, it is time to break away from the bad habits of the past and get these fundamental principles right.”Issuing a stern ultimatum to senior bureaucrats, he warned that high academic qualifications and decades of experience mean nothing if basic compliance is ignored.“If you are not doing the job you are paid to do- particularly reporting on public finances and human resource matters- then please, do the country, your family, and yourself a favour and vacate the office.”Parliament was informed that the Office of the Chief Secretary and the Department of Personnel Management have formally initiated disciplinary and suspension proceedings against the 70 affected heads.Regarding the Right to Reply, affected officers have been formally served notices and must show cause to the Chief Secretary detailing why they failed their statutory duties.To maintain Interim Leadership, relevant line ministers have been instructed to immediately identify internal deputies to step up as acting heads, ensuring zero disruption to state services.For Further Updates, the Chief Secretary will release precise administrative details as the independent investigation progresses.Responding to further queries about why departmental heads are being penalized while ministers are not, Prime Minister Marape drew the line between elected leaders and career public servants.“Ministers are elected by the people. Public servants are appointed through established processes,” he explained.“Ministers can come and go, but administrative heads remain permanently, responsible for ensuring public funds are properly administered.”“I am paving the way for whoever becomes Prime Minister after 2027. We are taking the bull by the horn to ensure there is transparency and accountability.”The Prime Minister cautioned the suspended departmental heads to stop using politicians as political lobbyists to bypass the legal process or protect their positions.