The 2025 Santos Cup pre-season officially began this week with the inaugural Santos Cup Football Conference, held from 3–5 June in Port Moresby. This milestone event brings together key personnel involved in the competition, including coaches, team managers, referees, medical trainers, and physiotherapists, for capacity-building workshops ahead of the season. Santos has retained the naming rights sponsors for 2025 Season and the Santos Cup competition is set to begin on 02nd of August to the 14th of September. Club Franchises participating in the 2025 season include Bintangor Goroka Lahanis, Gas Resource Central Dabaris, Lae Snax Tigers, Moni Plus Port Moresby Vipers, Wamp Nga Mt Hagen Eagles and ENB Agmark Gurias women’s team. The Santos Cup Football Conference was officially launched by Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Stanley Hondina, alongside Santos's representatives: Leon Buskens (Country Chair, PNG), Wayne Kasou (Senior Vice President, PNG Stakeholder Management), and Celestine Ove (Senior Communications Manager and Chairlady of the Santos PNG Orchids). Mr. Hondina expressed his gratitude to Santos for its continued support of rugby league in PNG, with particular acknowledgment of its commitment to the development of women’s rugby league. “On behalf of PNGRFL and the board I’d like to thank Santos for the continued support for the development of PNG Rugby league and women’s rugby league. Santos and everyone involved, you’re apart of PNG history of rugby league and breaking barriers to allow our women’s team to have a national competition that provides a pathway to represent PNG in the International arena.” Mr. Hondina further emphasized that the Santos Cup’s pre-competition recruitment and capacity-building initiatives align with PNGRFL’s vision of "Better People, Better Sports, Better Nation." He encouraged participants to take the knowledge and training gained from the conference back to their respective communities and organizations, promoting the same vision and level of professionalism across PNG. “This is our contribution to nation building; PNG Rugby league was not at the point it was 50 years ago. Just some years ago we weren’t able to play rugby league without people jumping high fences with barbwires and families weren’t able to attend to watch a game." "Today we have first class facilities and a safe environment. It is all about mindset and attitude change, if your able to come here and see the level of professionalism that needs to be maintained in the competition and pass that on into your communities we will see the Better People, Better Sports and a Better Nation," said Mr. Hondina. Santos Country Chair, PNG Mr. Leon Buskens congratulated PNGRFL and PNG National Rugby League Competition on the Inaugural Santos Cup Football Competition. “This is the first ever national women’s competition football conference, and I must say, when I walked in, I expected to see all women but there is an equal number of men and want to say that it is all about partnership and equal opportunity.” “I’m encouraged by these words in our vision to be better people – better sport – better nation, our values, believe, empower, trust, together, and excellence. These are really empowering words and so, I ask that you take a step back and reflect on what these words mean for you as an individual here today. "For us at Santos we share the same values and that shows through our sponsorship. We’ve been here from the beginning with the construction of Santos National Football Stadium at K260 million through the tax credit scheme and our naming rights of the Stadium, is valued at K17 million." "We have also invested another K12 million in the Santos PNG Orchids and Santos Cup. But it goes beyond branding and today you are all a part of the journey of changing mindsets and building a better future.” The Santos Cup will have 7 Rounds in which round 6 and 7 will be Semi-Finals and Grand Finals. The Santos Cup allows a pathway for the women who participate in the Affiliated League competition, that is run by PNRFL Community Rugby league, to play national and onwards to the Santos PNG Orchids.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) is one of only ten countries globally-and the only one in the Pacific region-that has yet to eliminate Maternal and Neonatal Tetanus (MNT), a deadly but vaccine preventable disease. With efforts to begin to eliminate this deadly disease through immunization and vaccination, the National Department of Health (NDoH) and the National Capital District (NCD) Provincial Health Authority (PHA) in partnership with UNICEF, World Health Organization (WHO) and key stakeholders, launched the first phase of the Maternal and Neonatal Tetanus Elimination (MNTE) Campaign today, Wednesday 4th June 2025. NDoH Acting Deputy Secretary Dr. Penial Boas when officially launching the campaign, encouraged everyone that in order to eliminate tetanus and other disease, everyone is responsible to get themselves and their young ones immunized and vaccinated. Tetanus can be effectively prevented through timely immunization, quality antenatal care, and safe, supervised birth deliveries. This nationwide initiative will also provide integrated health services to women and children, with the first phase targeting seven provinces: National Capital District (NCD), Central, Milne Bay, West New Britain, Southern Highlands, East Sepik and Manus, while the remaining provinces will be covered in the second phase. The campaign will be implemented in three rounds in each province. During the campaign, all girls and women aged 15-44 years, including pregnant and breastfeeding women, will receive three doses of tetanus vaccine in three campaign rounds, regardless of their previous immunization status. Timely vaccination for adolescent girls is especially important for long-term and maximum protection. The vaccine used in this campaign is the same SAFE and EFFECTIVE Tetanus vaccine that is already included in PNG's national routine immunization program, commonly administered during pregnancy and childbirth. While many women may have received this vaccine in the past, immunity decreases over time, making repeat doses is essential for lasting protection. All eligible girls and women must receive all THREE DOSES during the three campaign rounds to ensure full immunity. Free services offered during the campaign include: Girls and Women (15-44 years): Free Tetanus vaccination during three campaign rounds.  Pregnant Women: Free distribution of Mama Books, Iron and Folic Acid tablets, and vital information on antenatal care and safe birth deliveries. Children under 2 years: Routine immunization against 10 vaccine-preventable diseases, including Tetanus, polio, measles, rubella, TB, Diphtheria, Pertussis, Pneumonia etc. ALL GIRLS and WOMEN (15-44 years) in the target age group are strongly encouraged to visit their nearest health facility, outreach team, or mobile team site in their communities to receive their Free Tetanus immunization during the campaign. The department is calling on all husbands, partners, parents, caregivers, and community leaders to play a supportive role in ensuring every Girl and Women are fully immunized against Tetanus.

As of Monday 2nd June, 2025, all motor vehicle registrations and driver’s license services in the National Capital District (NCD) will be handled by the Road Traffic Authority (RTA). This change is part of the Marape-Rosso Government’s reforms to align with the Road Traffic Act 2014 and the Motor Vehicles (Third Party Insurance) Act 1974. According to John Avira, Acting CEO of RTA, this shift will simplify the process for motorists and clarify where to access key services. “This reform will enable the RTA to focus on our core functions for the public, and Motor Vehicle Insurance Limited’s (MVIL) will focus solely on providing Compulsory Third-Party motor vehicle insurance,” Mr. Avira said. “We all want to ensure that motorists know where to go for the services they need and make life easier in complying with legal requirements. MVIL has done a great job in administering these responsibilities since 1996.” RTA is stepping up and taking up these important licensing and registration functions. “The transition begins in the National Capital District and will expand around the Nation.” As of 2nd June 2025, the RTA is the sole authority for: New and renewed vehicle registrations; Issuance of number plates and changes to ownership, colour, engine or chassis; Licensing of all vehicle classes, including PMVs and taxis; Driver’s license issuance, upgrades, renewals, and reprints; Provision of registration-related consumables (e.g., handbooks, special plates) All driver licenses and vehicle registration certificates previously issued by MVIL will remain valid until their current expiry date. After that, renewals must be completed through the RTA. Before registering or re-registering a vehicle with the RTA, owners must first obtain Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance from MVIL. This legal requirement remains unchanged. Please note: CTP insurance only becomes active once vehicle registration is successfully completed. At this stage, the transition applies only to the National Capital District (NCD). In other provinces, MVIL will continue to manage registrations and licenses in partnership with provincial governments, except in areas where the function has already been transferred to local authorities, such as Morobe, Milne Bay, and West New Britain.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) officially launched the inaugural Pacific Women Leaders Program (PWLP) this morning in Port Moresby city, with the week-long program running until Friday 6th June. Supported by ADB, the initiative aims to address the significant gap in women’s leadership across the Pacific region, including in Papua New Guinea (PNG). It is specifically designed for women in senior roles or those aspiring to take on leadership positions that can influence public finance, policy making, and service delivery in their respective countries. “Promoting gender equality and empowering women is a strategic priority for ADB,” said Said Zaidansyah, the Country Director of ADB’s Papua New Guinea Resident Mission. “Through the capacity development offered by the Pacific Women Leaders Program, we aim to support participants in PNG to become transformative leaders. Our goal is to build their capabilities, inspire them, and enhance their ability to motivate and empower other women to step into leadership roles.” The PWLP is part of ADB’s flagship Asia Women Leaders Program, which, over the past decade (2014–2024), has trained nearly 300 women leaders from 31 countries across Asia and the Pacific. This regional initiative focuses on strengthening women's leadership by offering capacity-building in areas such as the links between gender equality and inclusive growth, communication and negotiation skills, and peer networking. The 2024 cohort in PNG includes 24 women from state-owned enterprises (SOEs) and the private sector. In recent years, PNG has seen progress in women’s representation within SOEs. Between 2021 and 2024, female board membership increased from 6% to 18%. However, women still occupy only 7% of board chair roles and 9% of CEO positions—both figures below the regional average. Despite these challenges, efforts to improve women’s participation in SOE leadership are gaining momentum, according to the report PNG: Leadership Matters (2024). Additionally, women in PNG play a crucial role in the informal economy. According to Women’s Economic Empowerment in the Pacific Region (2023), nearly 90% of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in PNG's informal sector are owned by women. ADB is a leading multilateral development bank supporting sustainable, inclusive, and resilient growth across Asia and the Pacific. Working with its members and partners to solve complex challenges together, ADB harnesses innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard the planet. Founded in 1966, ADB is owned by 69 members-49 from the region.

In a milestone move toward greater accountability and transparency, the Jiwaka Provincial Administration has submitted its first-ever Comprehensive Section 119 Reports. This submission, made recently, fulfills a key legislative requirement under the Organic Law on Provincial and Local Level Governments. The reports, covering the 2023 to 2024 fiscal period, were officially handed over to the Department of Provincial and Local-level Government Affairs (DPLGA) by Jiwaka Provincial Administrator, Mr. Rick Kogen. The reports were received on behalf of Secretary Philip Leo by Mr. James Agigo, Deputy Secretary for the Provincial and Local Level Services Monitoring Authority (PLLSMA). In his remarks, Mr. Kogen acknowledged the collaborative efforts of technical officers from both the Jiwaka Provincial Administration and the Department of Provincial and Local Government Affairs (DPLGA), who worked diligently to compile the reports in compliance with Section 119. He emphasized that this submission represents a significant milestone for the province since its establishment in 2012. “From 2012 to 2022, no Section 119 reports were submitted to the DPLGA or the Minister. Under the current government and administration, we have produced and submitted our first comprehensive report for the 2023 to 2024 fiscal years. This is a proud moment for Jiwaka,” Mr. Kogen said. He affirmed the province’s commitment to strengthening governance systems and advancing infrastructure development across key sectors such as education, health, law and justice, transport, and economic development. These efforts are aligned with the 21 Strategic Areas, 12 Specific Areas, and 71 Deliberate Intervention Programs outlined in Papua New Guinea’s Medium Term Development Plan IV (MTDP IV) 2023–2027. “We have made notable progress over the last two years, and I am proud to report our achievements. This report is not just a compliance measure—it is a reflection of our service delivery and commitment to the people of Jiwaka,” Mr. Kogen added. Deputy Secretary Agigo reiterated the importance of timely submissions, emphasizing that June 30th is the annual deadline for all Provincial Governments to submit their Annual Provincial Government Performance Reports (APGPR). “These reports must reflect performance across six key Minimum Priority Areas: Education, Health, Transport and Works, Primary Industry, Law and Justice, and Governance. They provide crucial insights into how provincial administrations are delivering essential services,” Mr. Agigo said. He commended Jiwaka’s leadership and urged other provinces to follow its example. During the recent May Parliamentary sitting, DPLGA Minister Soroi Eoe tabled a consolidated Annual Provincial Government Performance Report (APGPR) covering the years 2018–2022, drawing attention to widespread non-compliance with Sections 114 and 119 of the Organic Law. He stressed that these reports are not mere formalities, but vital instruments for measuring the effectiveness of government interventions, particularly in rural and underserved communities. “For far too long, many provinces have neglected this responsibility. This has contributed to the ongoing lack of vital services like health clinics, functioning schools, and safe roads in remote communities. We must do better,” said Minister Eoe. Jiwaka’s submission sets a new benchmark for provincial accountability and underscores the vital role of reporting in promoting inclusive and sustainable development throughout Papua New Guinea.

The Pacific International Hospital (PIH) and the Pacific Adventist University (PAU) have partnered to provide vital on the job training and practical experience for trainee nurses from PAU at the PIH facility at 3mile in Port Moresby. PIH Chief Operating officer Mr. Gaurav Anand said, this collaboration aims to enhance skills and knowledge of future healthcare professionals, ensuring they are well-prepared to meet the healthcare needs of PNG. PAU Vice Chancellor Professor Teatulohi Matainaho expressed excitement as this is the first time, they have partnered with the hospital which will provide great opportunity for the students who will be engaged in the 12 weeks of training during the course of the year. “We have a program where the nursing students come up and spend at least 4 weeks during the course of their study. Its significant because they really have a good exposer to be in the hospital training. We want our students to ensure that they really understand the know how to apply their knowledge and work with qualified doctors and nurses in the real hospital settings,” said Pro. Matainaho. PAU Dean School of Health Science Dr. Isaac Joshua said, their biggest number of students is the nursing students with more than 80 students this year and as part of their curriculum, students have to accomplish 50% clinical and 50% theory work. “By working alongside experienced professionals, trainees will be better equipped to enter the workforce and contribute to the healthcare sector in Papua New Guinea.” Meanwhile, PIH Medical Director Dr. Aamir Siddiqui stated that the modern state of the art facility is equipped with advanced technology, providing an ideal environment for hands-on training. “PIH's team of highly skilled and experienced healthcare professionals will mentor and guide trainee nurses, offering invaluable insights and expertise.” “The comprehensive healthcare services offer a wide range of medical services, from primary care to specialized treatments, allowing trainees to gain diverse clinical experience.” The program will focus on developing critical clinical skills, including patient care, medical procedures, and teamwork. The trainee nurses will gain hands-on experience in a real-world clinical setting, bridging the gap between classroom learning and professional practice.

In typically forthright and uncomplicated fashion, Raiders legend Jason Croker declared ‘records are made to be broken’ as he prepares to pass the baton to Josh Papalii as the Green Machine's most capped player. Big Papa joined Croker on 318 games when the Raiders beat the Roosters 20-18 on Sunday night and will take sole ownership this weekend, fittingly on home soil at GIO Stadium. With the accolade set to be passed on in Round 14 when the Raiders host the Rabbitohs at GIO Stadium, the Canberra 1994 premiership-winner said while bittersweet, he’s proud to step down to one of the game’s all-time enforcers. “I’ve known him since 2010 when he first came to the club and he still hasn’t changed one bit,” Croker told NRL.com. “Back in 2010 I ran a labour hire company and he arrived in Canberra and asked for work when he was about 17, he didn’t end up working for us, but I just remember him being quietly spoken like he still is today. “He’s a really good fella, he’s been playing great footy so, he really deserves this at the end of the day.” Remembered as the ultimate utility, the Raiders Hall of Fame Inductee - also known in the rugby league world as 'Toots' - began his career on the wing in 1991, and 318 games later, had appeared at centre, lock, five eighth and second row. While he never got the opportunity to play with the Test and Origin forward after retiring from the NRL in 2006, Croker said Papalii’s tenure is all the more significant given his service up front. “Obviously I started on the wing and when I got a bit older I got a bit slower and moved towards the middle, but Josh has been in the forwards his whole career so that certainly makes it even more significant I think,” he said. “I remember early in his career particularly, he was a bit of a bowling ball, a bit like an Alan Cann of my days.” The former NSW Blues and Kangaroos representative said he had previously accepted his record was likely to be broken by fellow Crookwell local Jarrod Croker who also took the club’s all-time top try scorer accolade from his namesake in 2019. Croker, who continues to run a labour hire and recruitment business in Canberra today, said he is still a regular at the Raiders home games and is enjoying the atmosphere in the Nation’s Capital on the back of the team's recent run of form. [caption id="attachment_66326" align="aligncenter" width="840"] Josh Papalii with Jarrod Croker - the namesake who Jason Croker previously thought was going to break his appearance record for the Raiders. ©NRL Photosz`[/caption] “Obviously Jarrod was on track to smash the record earlier in his career but had a few injuries and setbacks,” he said. "So the record actually stood for a bit longer than I expected but I'm just as proud to see Josh get it because he's another really proud club member. “Records are made to be broken, and I know that I had a pretty good career and am happy with what I’ve done and grateful for my time at the club. “And it’s very special what’s happening around the club this year and all of Canberra wants to talk about the Raiders. "It's great at the moment when you go to the gym and people bail you up and want to have a chat about the club and how they're going, which makes you feel good and like you’re still a part of it.” Source: NRL.com

A journalist says people in Papua New Guinea want action to violence - not just the usual condemnation from leaders. Another gruesome video is circulating social media from Enga Province, which has a recent history of tribal conflict. RNZ Pacific correspondent Scott Waide said people are calling on their leaders to act. "A lot of them are asking why we keep having this kind of violence in the province and being recorded on social media," he said. "Some people have been questioning why we've introduced anti-terror laws and yet it's being slow to be implemented in the district." He said the video came from Kompiam-Ambun, the electorate of former speaker Sir John Pundari. "There's been no political responses yet, the police have indicated that there are looking into it but the responses, as usual, will come a few days later. "They don't want [just] the usual condemnation; they want condemnation and action arrests." Waide said police have found it difficult to go into heavily armed villages and make the arrests. "We had an incident last week where a PNG Defence Force unit had to fight its way out of an ambush. "The total number of police killed so far since 2017, and I've counted this myself, is between 20 and 25 officers killed, either shot or stabbed or ambushed." He said the legislation is there to tackle the outbreaks of conflict. "They've increased the penalties for gun possession, illegal possession of firearms; they've increased the penalties for drugs. "It's not just the implementation; it's the resourcing that will allow for the implementation to happen, for the enforcement to happen. "It's a complex area that government is trying to deal with, but the results will take a few years." Source: RNZ.CO.NZ

The National St John Ambulance Council today marked a major milestone with the official opening of the new Lae Ambulance Station, made possible through the PNG–Australia Policing Partnership (PNG-APP). Construction began on 1st November 2024 and was formally handed over on the 7th of March 2025. The new station addressed long-standing infrastructure challenges by replacing outdated facilities with modern modular buildings tailored to support emergency ambulance services in Morobe Province. The upgraded station features enhanced utilities, improved security, and a combination of new and renovated infrastructure. The ambulance service is proud to be co-located with the National Fire Service at three stations across the country, reflecting their strong collaborative relationship and shared commitment to community safety. NStJA management extended their appreciation to the Papua New Guinea Fire Service for their valued partnership. The Lae Ambulance Station was established in 2022 following a request from the Morobe Provincial Health Authority and with support from the Lae City Authority. It provides services to Lae and the surrounding districts, including Nawaeb, Huon Gulf, and Markham. Since opening, the station has assisted over 20,000 people. In its first year, it responded to 2,823 emergencies. This increased to 6,624 in 2023, and to 10,681 in 2024. The upward trend in emergency cases reflects the increasing reliance of prehospital care in the province and highlights the importance of maintaining the station’s capacity to meet ongoing needs. Chief Executive, Matthew Cannon says, “The Lae Ambulance Station is the second busiest within the National St John Ambulance Service network, playing a vital role in emergency response for Lae and surrounding districts in Morobe Province.” The newly upgraded facility enhances crew safety, operational readiness, and the quality of care delivered to the community. Excellence in Emergency Care, Respect, Service. “This project represents a major step forward in our efforts to enhance ambulance services across Papua New Guinea. We are immensely grateful to the Australian Government through the PNG-Australia Policing Partnership for their continued partnership and support in strengthening emergency medical systems for the people of Morobe.” Morobe Provincial Health Authority Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr Kipas Binga expressed his gratitude to NStJA for being a valued partner in delivering health services in Lae and the surrounding districts of Morobe Province. He stated that he looks forward to continued collaboration to strengthen health systems. He also acknowledged the tripartite Memorandum of Agreement with the Lae City Authority, supported by Lae MP John Rosso, as well as the ongoing financial commitment to annual operations. PNG-Australia Policing Partnership Assistant Commissioner Jamie Strauss acknowledged the work NStJA is doing in Lae adding that he was pleased that through this partnership they are able to support initiatives that directly benefit communities. The successful completion of this project highlights the value of collaborative partnerships in addressing infrastructure needs and advancing public health and safety outcomes in Papua New Guinea.

Students at Pirtop Elementary and Primary School now have a better place to learn, thanks to the opening of a new 4-in-1 classroom building, marking a big step forward for education in this remote island community. The project, led by Pamili Ministry Inc. and supported through funding from the Puma Energy Foundation, will benefit more than 180 students from Pirtop and four nearby villages. For many families, the new classroom means their children can attend school in a safer, more comfortable setting—without having to travel long distances. “This facility is a game-changer for children in the area,” said Licks Ramani, Technical Officer at Pamili Ministry Inc. “It’s more than just a building—it’s an opportunity for a brighter future.” The journey to completion began in August 2024, when four staff members from Puma Energy’s Port Moresby office formed a Charity Committee—a volunteer group supported by the Puma Energy Foundation. Their first mission: to support the construction of a much-needed classroom for the children of Duke of York Island. Despite challenges—such as transporting building materials by sea and sourcing timber all the way from New Ireland Province—the team pushed forward. Thanks to the strong collaboration between local volunteers, suppliers, and community leaders, the classroom was completed and officially handed over in April 2025. The Puma Energy Foundation and Pamili Ministry Inc. extended heartfelt thanks to the Duke of York Local Level Government, local hardware suppliers, and especially the hardworking youth from the area who helped make the project a success. Now standing proudly in the heart of Pirtop, the new classroom is more than just walls and a roof—it’s a symbol of what’s possible when communities and partners come together to invest in education and the next generation.

Tucked deep in the rugged terrain of West Sepik Province, the Maka community once faced steep challenges—low agricultural productivity, poor market access, and a lack of basic services where families struggled to afford education, healthcare, and even food, and for many, hope felt like a distant dream. Basic amenities like education, healthcare, and transportation were often out of reach which left local families to face constant hardship. Generations grew up with these challenges, with little hope of unlocking their community’s potential. Joseph, the Chairman of the Fugumi Cocoa Business Group, recalls those difficult times. “We wanted to start a business but had less opportunity to sell our produce,” which was of low volume and quality. Referring to challenge they face due to lack of income, he adds, “finding school fees was difficult [for us], and even [nutritious, protein-rich] food was hard to afford.” That future began to change with the arrival of the EU-STREIT PNG Programme, a European Union-funded initiative implemented by FAO, ILO, ITU, UNCDF, and UNDP. Designed to boost key rural value chains—cocoa, vanilla, and fisheries—the programme brought much-needed technical training, farming equipment, and market infrastructure to Maka. Farmers like Joseph received pest-tolerant cocoa seedlings, nursery tools, and training in sustainable, climate-smart techniques. Over 4,000 new seedlings were planted by 40 local farmers, breathing life into once-depleted cocoa blocks. “When I saw the new tools and materials, I was very happy,” Joseph remembers. But the support went beyond cocoa. In 2024, the Programme helped Joseph and Damia begin freshwater fish farming. With 400 fingerlings stocked in their first pond, the family soon expanded to three ponds, producing enough fish to feed their household and support other villagers. A major turning point came with the construction of the Cocoa Trade and Depot Facility in Vanimo, linking remote farmers to buyers for the first time. Regular truck trips now connect Maka with the provincial capital, enabling reliable cocoa sales and delivering essential supplies. “The trucks help us sell our cocoa,” says Damia. “I am happy.” Farmers have since built a local cocoa fermentary with Programme backing, allowing them to process beans locally and earn higher prices. The ripple effects are clear—improved incomes, better nutrition, and renewed community spirit. Damia, who now tends to their fishponds daily, captures the spirit of resilience that drives Maka forward. “Only my husband and I manage this work,” she says. “But we do it because we want a better future for our children.” To ensure this progress lasts, the Cocoa Board of Papua New Guinea has taken over nursery operations, while West Sepik Investment Ltd, the business arm of the provincial government, now manages the trade facility. These transitions are part of the Programme’s strategy for long-term sustainability—empowering local institutions to carry the work forward. As part of the EU’s Global Gateway Strategy, EU-STREIT PNG is pioneering rural transformation in Papua New Guinea through climate-resilient farming, improved transport, and digital tools for real-time farming advice and weather alerts. These innovations are helping farmers reduce costs, boost productivity, and build more secure futures. Looking back, Damia is filled with gratitude. “Thank you for the fish and cocoa you brought,” she says. “We are very happy now.” From hardship to hope, Maka is rewriting its story—one harvest, one fishpond, and one child’s education at a time.

Digicel PNG has once again reaffirmed its commitment to support PNG’s national rugby league teams, the PNG Kumuls (men’s) and the PNG Orchids (women’s) for the next three years from 2025 to 2027. Tarik Boudiaf, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Digicel PNG said, Digicel PNG has long been a passionate supporter of Rugby League in the region. For over 12 years, the company has backed the sport at all levels from grassroots tournaments to the prestigious Digicel-ExxonMobil Cup. Digicel PNG values its ongoing partnership with the PNG Rugby Football League (PNGRFL), working together to drive development and excellence in the sport. “We are proud to stand behind our national teams—the PNG Kumuls and PNG Orchids. These sponsorships are more than a business decision; it’s an investment in empowerment, growth, and opportunity. We believe in supporting athletes who can inspire communities, pave the way for emerging talent, and raise the PNG flag across nations.” “This is not just a renewal sponsorship, it’s a new big step. We are providing an equal sponsorship to both teams because we believe in equal opportunity, equal exposer and equal support for all support athletes, regardless of gender,” said Boudiaf. Digicel PNG’s Senior Vice President Lorna McPherson said they have renewed their sponsorship of K6million for both teams. Each team is said to equally benefit K1million each for a year, for the next three (3) years. “One million a year for the next three years. So, the Kumuls and the Orchids will get equal because we want to make sure that men and women are equal, because that’s what it’s about and also, driving the women’s competition as well.” She said being sponsors of the national rugby teams is very important because as the leading telecommunications and mobile financial services provider, they believe in connecting people and bridging the gap where needed. She added that, rugby league is not just a game in PNG, but a symbol of unity where people come together and also creating that pathway for opportunities for Papua New Guineans across the country. “Just like our network that reaches the most remote parts of the country, our support for rugby league is about ensuring that nobody is left behind. From the highlands to islands, we are committed to covering all of PNG not just with connectivity but with opportunities, inspiration and hope.” This equal sponsorship will help to ensure that the women’s team has access to the same high-quality training facilities and increased visibility, helping to elevate the women’s game and inspire future generations of female athletes. Meanwhile, PNG Rugby Football League CEO Stanley Hondina acknowledged Digicel PNG for the support throughout the 15 years sponsorship. He said, among other corporate support sponsors that they get, Digicel has been and is still a big partner in their game. “They are the biggest investor, and they have support for rugby league from the grassroots level and up. There are schools and leagues and affiliates across the country which Digicel supports. Digicel is a proud partner and platinum sponsor of that partnership that we did for the first three years, and it came to an end last year and this is a new one.” He added that this sponsorship is special because it will take the teams into the world cup next year. Santos PNG Orchids Chairlady Celestine Ove said when the idea of a national women’s team came about, there was very limited support, with Santos-formally Oil Search, was the only primary financial partner for the team, but with a giant in the telecommunications industry invest in the women’s game since 2022 has been a boost to help, support and prepare the national women’s team for international games. “It gives me such great joy in seeing a giant in telecommunications company-Digicel, invest in the women’s game in the way it has since 2022 and more so, seeing equality been driven through the partnership and as they support both the PNG Kumuls and orchids. And their support not only supports the elite teams but the pathways as well.”