Former PNG LNG Kumuls and SP PNG Hunters Coach and now Governor for East new Britain province, Michael Marum, has welcomed the signing of four-time premiership-winning five-eighth Jarome Luai with the PNG Chiefs.He said the country needs such key players like Luai to build the foundation of this new franchise going forward in the NRL competition. “Of course, we need a marquee player like himself to come on board and support our people here.” Governor Marum said, Jerome Luai and Alex Johnston are both talented players in their ways and are a good fit for the team. With no official statement from the Chiefs regarding AJ’s signing, the Governor stated that it would be an honour to watch him play for the PNG Chiefs as he heads towards the back end of his career. “Yeah, AJ, for him to, you know, he's getting towards the back end of his career, so it would be an honour for him to finish off playing at home with the home team too.” “And if he's signed or if he's yet to sign and if he's on the radar, it would be really good for us. He's a quality player, both of them.” Governor Marum also stressed that having signed key marquee players like Jerome and AJ (still in talks), it’s a good space for marketing to get top NRL players on board to lead the team come 2028. “And of course, they're going to attract more of those marquee key players to come on board. With the Chiefs coming on board in 2028, recruiting top players is key to boost the teams' performances.” Meanwhile, Luai is contracted for seasons 2028 and 2029 and has an option to remain at the club in 2030.

A new community-driven initiative is set to take center stage in May, as the We Are One (WOW) Foundation prepares to host its first-ever Mother’s Day Charity Music Festival, aimed at raising funds and awareness for women’s health.Foundation Manager Izabell Druma said the organization, established in November 2025, grew out of earlier community-focused initiatives led by Islands Petroleum. What began as a corporate social responsibility activity through the Color Run has since evolved into a broader foundation focusing on health and education programs. “Our focus is on community delivery through education and health,” she said. “This festival is about bringing people together while supporting a very important cause.” The event will raise funds to build a cervical screening centre at Port Moresby General Hospital, addressing a critical gap in early detection services for women and young girls. Organizers say awareness is a key objective of the festival, particularly around early screening for cervical cancer. According to Isabel, a significant proportion of Papua New Guinea’s population is affected by the human papillomavirus (HPV), making early detection and intervention essential. “This is about educating people on the importance of screening and good health,” she said. “If we can raise awareness and encourage people to get tested early, then we’ve already made an impact.” Beyond fundraising, the initiative promotes a broader message of community ownership, encouraging individuals and organizations to contribute in any way they can—whether through attending the event, volunteering time, or spreading awareness. “We are one is what we’re all about—bringing the community together, collaborating, and creating harmony,” Isabel said. “Everyone can contribute, no matter how small.” The festival will feature performances from a range of Papua New Guinean musicians, including Kali D, Mal Meninga Kuri, Marianne Masani, Isaiah Manoa, Boys from 9-1-1, Jessie, G-Fan, and Justin Wellington. Organizers say the response from performers has been overwhelmingly positive, with many artists volunteering their time and talent to support the cause. The family-friendly event will also include food stalls, children’s activities such as bouncy castles, and a fireworks display to close the evening. All proceeds from the festival will go towards establishing the cervical screening facility and supporting ongoing health initiatives. Organizers are also encouraging corporate participation through bulk ticket purchases, which can be distributed to employees or donated to mothers in schools and communities. “We want this to be a shared effort,” Isabel said. “Whether you attend, support financially, or simply spread the message, you’re a part of something that can help save lives.”

Papua New Guinea officially joined the global community in observing World Immunization Week 2026, as it launched Round Three (3) of Supplementary Immunization Activities (SIA) of the Polio Campaign, that began in 2025, at the Metoreia Urban Health Centre in Port Moresby yesterday.Speaking at the event, Acting CEO for NCD Provincial Health Authority (PHA), Mr. Gilbert Ori highlighted the city’s health authority’s commitment to providing support to crucial public health programs such as the immunization program. “Immunization remains one of the most cost-effective strategies in disease prevention,” he stated. The immunization program includes providing accessible immunization services at the health facilities in NCD, including private clinics and hospital and conducting regular mobile and outreach immunization services to reach unimmunized children especially in squatter settlements. Also present at the event was Dr. Masahiro Zakoji, the country representative for the World Health Organization. In his remarks, he noted that over the past 50 years, vaccines have saved more than 150 million lives from diseases such as Measles, Polio, Ebola, HPV, Malaria and other diseases. He went on to say this week is an opportunity to celebrate what science and teamwork have achieved. At the same time, it should remind us about the goals yet to be reached through immunization. He congratulated the leadership of the National Department of Health for its effort in managing the Polio outbreak that began in May 2025. Dr. Zakoji also extended his appreciation for campaign partners including the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (Gavi) and the governments of Australia and Japan for their continued support. “Following expert advice from the Technical Advisory Group, this third Round of immunization will focus on 4 provinces- NCD, Central, Enga and Morobe - with the aim to vaccinate 90 % of children under 5 in each province, and this is the only way to stop the outbreak,” he further stated. In closing, he thanked the community leaders, healthcare workers and partners, describing their efforts as the engine with which the country can move forward.

International partners have reaffirmed their commitment to Papua New Guinea’s immunisation efforts, as the country launched its 2026 vaccination campaign alongside the third round of its polio outbreak response.Representatives from Japan, Australia, and global health organizations joined national health officials at Metoreia Urban Health Centre in Port Moresby city to mark World Immunization Week and the rollout of the OPV2 Round 3 vaccination campaign. A representative from the Embassy of Japan highlighted the country’s ongoing support for global health initiatives, describing vaccines as “one of humanity’s most effective tools to protect lives and strengthen communities.” Japan recently signed a major agreement with the Government of Papua New Guinea and the World Health Organization to fund polio eradication efforts. The project, valued at 663 million Japanese Yen (approximately K18 million), will support outbreak response measures, expand surveillance, and strengthen laboratory capacity nationwide. “The fight against polio is a shared global responsibility,” the representative said. “Every child must be reached, and every missed opportunity must be addressed.” The Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (Gavi), the Vaccine Alliance also commended PNG for its progress, noting that vaccination campaigns launched in 2025 reached more than 2.3 million children and achieved coverage of around 80 per cent. However, Gavi representatives stressed the need for further improvement, particularly in routine immunization coverage, which remains below target in many provinces. “We want more,” the representative said. “We need to reach missed children, strengthen outreach services, and ensure vaccines are accessible to every community.” Australia, through its Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, reaffirmed its longstanding partnership with Papua New Guinea. Country representative Madeline Moss acknowledged the efforts of frontline health workers, many of whom have travelled long distances to deliver vaccines in remote areas. “It is your health workers who have walked for hours, climbed mountains, and crossed rivers to reach communities,” she said. “Because of these efforts, we have reason for cautious optimism that transmission has been interrupted.” Australia has committed more than K20 million to support the response, particularly targeting hard-to-reach populations. Deputy Secretary for Public Health, Ken Wai, emphasized that immunization remains the country’s strongest defence against preventable diseases, but acknowledged that coverage rates—currently between 40 and 50 per cent—are still too low. “Our target is above 95 per cent, but we are not there yet,” he said. “We must go house to house to ensure every child is vaccinated.” Meanwhile, UNICEF warned that gaps in routine immunization continue to leave children vulnerable, despite progress in halting the outbreak. Country Representative Dr. Veera Mendonca noted that while no new polio cases have been recorded since late 2025, environmental samples indicate the virus may still be circulating. “As long as there is risk anywhere, all children remain at risk,” she said. “This is our opportunity not only to end polio, but to strengthen routine immunization so no child is missed.” Health officials and partners say the third round of vaccinations will focus on high-risk provinces, aiming to close immunity gaps and ensure at least 95 per cent coverage. The campaign is being delivered through a coordinated effort involving the government, international partners, and local communities, with a shared goal of achieving a polio-free Papua New Guinea. “Together, we have the vaccines, the partnerships, and the experience,” Dr. Mendonca said. “What matters now is execution—reaching every child and building a stronger health system for the future.”

Papua New Guinea has officially launched its 2026 immunization campaign, marking the start of World Immunization Week coinciding with the rollout of the third round of Polio Supplementary Immunization Activities (SIA R3). The launch was led by Secretary for Health, Pascoe Kase, who highlighted the importance of vaccines under this year’s theme, “For every generation, vaccines work.” Kase said the ongoing campaign builds on progress made since the country declared a polio outbreak in 2025. He noted that more than 2.3 million children were reached during the first and second rounds of vaccinations. “This campaign is very critical, especially for children under the age of five,” he said, urging Provincial Health Authorities to ensure effective implementation across all provinces. In addition to the polio campaign, health authorities are also administering a second round of tetanus vaccinations for women of childbearing age, expanding protection efforts for both children and mothers. The annual immunization week, observed globally from April 24th to 30th , serves as a reminder of the role vaccines play in preventing disease and strengthening health systems. Health officials say vaccines have saved more than 150 million lives worldwide over the past 50 years, protecting against illnesses such as polio, measles and rotavirus. PNG’s latest vaccination drive follows the detection of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 in several provinces last year. The outbreak resulted in a small number of confirmed cases, but large-scale immunization efforts helped halt widespread transmission. The last reported human case was recorded in September 2025. Despite the progress, authorities say the risk remains, prompting a targeted campaign focusing on approximately 350,000 children under five in high-risk areas, including Central, Morobe, Enga and the National Capital District. He said, “The goal is to achieve at least 95 per cent vaccination coverage to fully contain the virus.” The 20-day campaign will deliver oral polio vaccines and routine immunizations through health facilities and outreach programs nationwide. The initiative is backed by international partners, including the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, the governments of Australia and Japan, as well as the World Health Organization, UNICEF and GAVI. Kase called on parents, community leaders, and health workers to support the effort, stressing the importance of collective action. “We must work together to make this the final chapter of this outbreak,” he said. “Every child vaccinated brings us closer to a polio-free future.” The government reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring no child is left unprotected, as Papua New Guinea continues to strengthen its national immunization and public health systems.

The United States has outlined a new health partnership with Papua New Guinea aimed at improving everyday healthcare services, strengthening hospitals, and helping the communities access faster diagnosis and treatment for life-threatening diseases.United States Chargé d’Affaires Alex Berenberg said the initiative reflects a long-term commitment by the United States to support stronger and more responsive health systems in Papua New Guinea, with a focus on practical outcomes for patients and communities. The agreement includes a new U.S. investment of USD $15 million to strengthen disease prevention and response systems, improve HIV/AIDS treatment outcomes, and enhance early detection of infectious diseases across the country. From the U.S. perspective, the goal is to ensure that health services are better equipped to reach people faster, especially in rural and underserved areas where delays in diagnosis and treatment can have serious consequences. A major focus of the initiative is improving how quickly diseases are detected and treated. The United States is supporting the expansion of laboratory capacity, including the rollout of PCR testing equipment and integrated digital health systems that allow medical teams to track outbreaks in real time. These upgrades are intended to help health workers respond earlier and more effectively to emerging health threats. The U.S. is also investing in critical hospital infrastructure, including liquid oxygen systems designed to ensure reliable supply for treating conditions such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, and complications during childbirth. These improvements are expected to strengthen emergency care and reduce preventable deaths in health facilities across the country. Officials say the partnership is designed to move Papua New Guinea away from fragmented health reporting systems toward a more connected national network. This would allow doctors and health authorities to make faster, data-driven decisions and coordinate responses more efficiently during outbreaks. “The program also supports long-term public health goals, including reducing maternal and child mortality rates and achieving global HIV treatment targets by 2030. From the U.S. standpoint, these benchmarks reflect broader efforts to strengthen health system performance and improve patient outcomes over time.” The United States has previously invested significantly in Papua New Guinea’s health sector, supporting HIV/AIDS programs, disease surveillance systems, and laboratory infrastructure development. Officials say the new agreement builds on this foundation while expanding capacity for early detection and response. Berenberg described the partnership as part of a broader effort to improve regional health security in the Indo-Pacific while ensuring that investments translate into tangible benefits for individuals and families. The initiative is expected to enhance access to timely diagnosis, improve treatment delivery, and strengthen the overall resilience of Papua New Guinea’s health system, particularly in remote and high-need communities.

The new health partnership between Papua New Guinea and the United States is expected to deliver major benefits for the country’s people by strengthening HIV prevention and treatment, improving early disease detection, and expanding access to life-saving healthcare services—particularly for mothers and children.Papua New Guinea is set to strengthen its healthcare system and improve health outcomes for thousands of citizens following the signing of a major health partnership with the United States, according to Health Minister Elias Kapavore. Speaking at the official signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in Port Moresby this week, Minister Kapavore said the agreement represents a significant step forward in addressing some of the country’s most urgent health challenges, including HIV, disease surveillance, and access to essential health services. The partnership includes approximately USD $15 million (about 63 million kina) in funding over the next four years, aimed at strengthening prevention, testing, and treatment programs while also improving the overall health system. A key focus of the agreement is tackling HIV, which remains a major public health concern in Papua New Guinea. The country is currently estimated to have around 120,000 people living with HIV, with approximately 11,000 new infections recorded each year. Minister Kapavore highlighted mother-to-child transmission as an urgent priority, noting that around 2,700 babies are born with HIV annually—cases he described as largely preventable. “Every year, approximately 2,700 babies are born with HIV. These are preventable cases,” he said. “If we strengthen testing and treatment for mothers during pregnancy, we can significantly reduce these numbers and give children a healthier start to life.” Health experts support this approach, noting that early diagnosis, consistent treatment, and improved antenatal care can dramatically reduce transmission rates, making it one of the most impactful areas for investment in maternal and child health. Beyond HIV, the partnership will also strengthen Papua New Guinea’s ability to detect and respond to disease outbreaks. Investments will go into improving disease surveillance systems, laboratory capacity, data platforms, and diagnostic equipment such as PCR machines, along with training for health workers. These improvements are expected to allow faster detection of outbreaks and better use of resources across the health system. “This is about building a system that can respond quickly and effectively,” Minister Kapavore said. “Stronger data and better technology will allow us to plan smarter and protect our people.” The agreement also places strong emphasis on innovation and technology, particularly given Papua New Guinea’s challenging geography and the difficulty of reaching remote communities. Digital health systems and improved data networks are expected to expand access to healthcare services in rural areas where delivery has traditionally been limited. The initiative aligns with Papua New Guinea’s National Health Plan 2021–2030, which prioritizes partnerships and health system strengthening. Officials say the collaboration will not only address immediate health needs but also build long-term resilience in the system. The government has also increased its own investment in health, with the 2026 national budget allocating a record 3.2 billion kina to the sector. Minister Kapavore said the combined funding from both governments would translate into better access to care, stronger disease prevention, and improved health infrastructure across the country. The United States has previously supported health programs in Papua New Guinea, including HIV response initiatives, oxygen supply infrastructure, and laboratory upgrades. The new MOU builds on these efforts, aiming for long-term and sustainable impact. “This partnership is about improving lives,” Minister Kapavore said. “It ensures our people receive the care they need, when they need it, and strengthens our ability to respond to future health challenges.” Implementation of the agreement will be carried out through national and provincial health authorities in collaboration with U.S. partners, with the government expecting measurable improvements in health outcomes in the coming years—especially for mothers and children.

Papua New Guinea’s National Department of Health has welcomed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed with the United States, describing it as a significant step toward strengthening the country’s health system and improving nationwide service delivery.Minister for Health Elias Kapavore said the agreement marks the first of its kind between Papua New Guinea and the United States Department of State in the health sector, and reflects years of cooperation that began with earlier U.S. initiatives such as the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). He acknowledged the presence and contributions of key stakeholders involved in the agreement process, including officials from the U.S. Embassy, the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Department of Information and Communication Technology, and the Office of the State Solicitor. He said their coordination and legal oversight were essential in ensuring the agreement aligned with national frameworks and requirements. According to the Health Minister, discussions on the new arrangement began in November 2025 and have progressed over the past six to seven months.He noted that the updated partnership represents a shift in approach from disease-specific, or “vertical,” programs toward a broader, integrated “horizontal” health systems model. Kapavore said, “In the past, support for HIV programs was largely verticalized. This MOU reflects a new direction where we are working to strengthen the entire health system across all 22 provinces.” He added that the previous model of assistance had been largely concentrated in specific areas, whereas the new framework aims to expand health system strengthening nationwide. Kapavore said the agreement builds on decades of cooperation with the United States, evolving from earlier targeted HIV interventions into a more comprehensive partnership designed to improve health service delivery across Papua New Guinea. The Minister described the MOU as a timely and strategic development, aligning both countries’ efforts to enhance health outcomes and build long-term system resilience.

Community support in the nation’s capital has intensified following the launch of a coordinated relief campaign for victims of Cyclone Maila, with organisers reporting overwhelming participation in the first major donation drive.The initiative, led by the Milne Bay Community Association Inc. (MBCA) in partnership with the Louisiade Peoples Foundation Inc. (LPF), combines donation drives and fundraising events aimed at delivering urgent aid to communities across Milne Bay Province. President of MBCA, Jimmy Segodi, expressed gratitude for the strong public response, describing it as a powerful show of unity. “It was a truly moving day. Seeing citizens from all walks of life come together to support our people was deeply inspiring,” Segodi said. The first “Kapole Jam Session” donation drive, held on April 18th at the Vision City Amphitheater, resulted in eight truckloads of essential supplies, including food, water, medical kits, and bedding. The donations, totaling more than three tones, were transported to a warehouse at Motukea Wharf for sorting and storage. Logistical operations were supported by Post Logistics, with assistance from its chief operating officer Ben Davis. Volunteers are currently processing the donated items in preparation for shipment to affected areas. While the campaign initially focused on in-kind donations, organisers also received more than K3, 000 in cash contributions, which will be allocated transparently toward relief efforts. Segodi acknowledged a wide range of contributors, including 2 Fast Motors PNG, whose CEO Billy Lin personally delivered 200 cartons of water and 100 cartons of biscuits. The Vision City Mega Mall provided its venue free of charge and contributed food items, while Post PNG and Post Logistics facilitated storage and transportation. Additional support came from Misima Minerals Limited, which has been approached to assist with sea freight to outer islands, and local music groups including wONEm Direction and Extracts of Alotau, who provided free entertainment during the drive. Youth volunteers from the Milne Bay community in Port Moresby also played a key role in organising and packing donations. Segodi also acknowledged the recent visit by Prime Minister James Marape to affected island communities, saying it brought hope to residents impacted by the disaster. Initially focused on the Samarai-Murua islands, relief efforts have since expanded following reports that cyclone damage extends across much of Milne Bay, including mainland coastal areas. The first shipment of aid is expected to be sent to Misima Island as a central distribution hub, with further deliveries coordinated through provincial disaster authorities and local government teams. The campaign is set to continue with a series of upcoming events aimed at sustaining momentum. A second donation drive will be held on April 25th at the National Museum and Art Gallery, followed by a third on May 2nd at Vision City. Fundraising efforts will also run alongside the donation drives. A “Ae Kapore Funk-Rock Night” will take place at The Cosmopolitan, featuring local performers, while a community fundraising dance organised by the Milne Bay Provincial Women’s Office is scheduled at the Crystal Lounge. Another major fundraiser is planned for May 9th, with further details yet to be announced. “This is a community-led recovery. While we continue to provide immediate relief, we urge the government to prioritise long-term disaster mitigation and resilient infrastructure to protect our islands from future natural disasters,” he said.

The Papua New Guinea University of Technology celebrated its 58th graduation ceremony with a compelling keynote address from ICT Secretary Steven Matainaho, who challenged the Class of 2026 to look beyond qualifications and commit to solving real-world problems. Returning to his section two decades after graduating, Matainaho shared a deeply personal account of his journey—from an applied physics student to Secretary of the Department of Information and Communications Technology. He credited the university for instilling in him discipline, critical thinking, and a strong foundation in problem-solving. In a speech that blended humor, reflection, and practical advice, Matainaho emphasized that success is not defined by a straight career path. He recounted how his own journey included diverse experiences across media, academia, and public service, underscoring that each stage played a role in shaping his leadership. “Life is not linear,” he told graduates. “Every step you take, no matter how small or unexpected, can prepare you for something greater.” Matainaho urged graduates to anchor their ambitions in purpose rather than prestige or financial gain. He encouraged them to identify challenges within their communities and industries, and to take initiative in developing solutions. Highlighting his work in government, he pointed to key digital transformation initiatives, including the development of the national online university selection system and the rollout of digital ID and service platforms. These innovations, he said, are aimed at improving transparency, efficiency, and access to services across Papua New Guinea. “Entrepreneurship is not just about starting a business,” he said. “It’s about seeing a problem and deciding to fix it.” He concluded with a message of resilience and optimism, reminding graduates not to be discouraged by uncertainty or delays in their careers. The ceremony brought together faculty, families, and dignitaries in a celebration of achievement and new beginnings, as graduates prepare to enter a fast-changing, digitally driven world.

The Member for Hiri-Koiari, Keith Iduhu, has urged the government to take straightforward and lawful action to resolve ongoing issues within the Papua New Guinea Defence Force.The member said there is growing concern and loss of confidence in the leadership of the Defence Force, especially following recent problems linked to recruitment. He repeated the opposition’s call for Prime Minister James Marape to remove Defence Minister Dr. Billy Joseph. According to MP Iduhu, the minister cannot simply “step aside,” as this is not recognized under the Constitution. “The law is clear,” he said. “A minister must either resign properly, be dismissed, or face a vote of no confidence.” Iduhu also called for the Defence Force commander to be suspended, saying this would help restore trust among soldiers and the public. He pointed to recent actions by soldiers as a sign that confidence in leadership has broken down. He questioned how a fair investigation can take place if those in charge remain in their positions, saying it does not make sense to investigate a situation without first removing those involved. The MP also raised concerns about whistleblowers, saying they should be protected rather than punished, especially if they are exposing possible wrongdoing. Iduhu stressed that the country must follow the rule of law and respect proper processes, particularly when dealing with important institutions like the Defence Force. He warned that delaying action or avoiding proper procedures will only make the situation worse. “We need clear leadership and real action,” Iduhu said. “That is how we restore trust and move forward.”

The Member for Wabag, Dr. Lino Tom, has delivered a strong rebuke of the government’s handling of a recent defense force controversy, calling for urgent and decisive action to combat corruption at the highest levels.Speaking at a recent media conference, Dr. Tom acknowledged senior leaders present before addressing what he described as a “defense force fiasco,” an issue he said highlighted deeper governance failures. While noting that earlier speakers had outlined details of the incident, he focused on what it reveals about the government’s broader approach. Dr. Tom criticized the use of commissions of inquiry, describing them as ineffective and performative measures that fail to deliver real accountability. He argued that corruption remains widespread and is being inadequately addressed by national leadership. “If the prime minister is truly concerned about the plight of this nation, he must address corruption,” Dr. Tom said, warning that it represents the country’s “biggest existential crisis.” He also raised concerns about the treatment of defense force personnel believed to have exposed wrongdoing, urging the government to protect whistleblowers rather than threaten them for procedural breaches. Dr. Tom argued that the country’s development is being undermined by entrenched corruption, dismissing reliance on foreign models, or external solutions. “The answers are not in the U.S., not in Europe, not in Australia,” he said, insisting reform must come from within. Using a metaphor, he compared the nation to a leaking ship, stating that increasing funding alone would not resolve systemic issues. “There are holes created by corruption. We have to plug those holes,” he said, calling for reforms to begin within parliament and the cabinet. The Wabag MP also questioned the leadership of the prime minister, noting his years in office and contrasting them with what he described as more decisive reforms under a previous administration. He accused the government of protecting corrupt ministers and prioritizing political survival over national interest. Dr. Tom further called for immediate and visible action against corruption, including holding senior officials accountable. “The only way this country will progress, is if we address corruption.”