The SP PNG Hunters recently announced that prop Koso Bandi has sustained an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, ruling him out for an extended period. This setback is a significant blow to both Koso and the team, as he had been regaining his form and contributing strongly to the squad. Head Coach Paul Aiton expressed his disappointment. "It's really unfortunate. Koso was beginning to get back into his groove and playing some quality football. To do his ACL at this stage — it's a real shame. We’ve got a few long-term injuries piling up now, which is tough on the group." Despite the setback, Coach Paul also acknowledged the opportunity this presents for others in the squad: "Injuries are never what you want, but they do open the door for some of the younger boys to step up and show us what they can do. It’s a chance for new talent to rise to the occasion." Koso will get the best medical care and rehab program available for him in PNG and Australia. "We wish Koso a smooth and strong recovery and will continue to support him through his rehab process."

The Papua New Guinea National Rugby League Competition (PNG NRLC) has announced a change in venue for the Round 4 match of the 2025 Digicel ExxonMobil Cup this weekend. The fixture between the KMHL Enga Mioks and the Kroton Hela Wigmen, initially scheduled to take place in Wabag, Enga Province, will now be held at the Jonah Amban Oval in Minj, Jiwaka Province. "The venue change from Aipus Oval in Wabag to Jonah Amban Oval in Minj is due to continuous rain causing the field conditions to deteriorate, hence not suitable to host the match," stated the PNG NRLC. The PNGNRLC Management has worked very closely with the host club, KMHL Enga Mioks, to arrive at this decision to change the venue in the best interest of the safety of all the players, as well as the game and to allow field conditions to improve at Aipus Oval. This is a short-term measure and PNG NRLC is confident matches will return to Aipus Oval, as we are working closely with KMHL Enga Mioks to assess and improve the conditions of the field. The venue change has now provided a double headers match on Saturday at Jonah Amban Oval in Minj where the visiting clubs, KMHL Enga Mioks vs. Kroton Hela Wigmen, will go head-to-head in the first game followed by the home team and reigning premiers the Wamp Nga Mt. Hagen Eagles look to continue their win at home against the red-hot Gas Resource Central Dabaris.

Through the Department of Defense, the United States has signed a contract worth approximately $400 million (K1.6 billion) to construct a large-scale fuel storage facility near Port Moresby Harbor. When completed, the facility will store more than 1.6 million barrels (264 million liters) of fuel. This investment in Papua New Guinea comes at the request of the Government of PNG. The project will support fuel storage needs and has the potential to increase the diversity of fuel available for the PNG market. “This investment reflects the importance we place in our bilateral relationship, and the results of continued discussion and collaboration,” said Ann Marie Yastishock, U.S. Ambassador to Papua New Guinea. On April 25, 2025, Commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, Admiral Paparo, personally called Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso and Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko to inform them of the almost half billion U.S. dollar award and to discuss the project. Throughout the construction process, the U.S. Embassy is committed to maintaining careful and transparent communication with the Government of PNG on its progress. The contract implementer, DGCI Corporation, a United States company, has a successful history of constructing and operating large scale fuel facilities in Africa, South America, the Middle East, and Central Asia. DGCI offers mission-critical and innovative solutions by fostering enduring partnerships with the countries and communities they work in founded on mutual trust and respect, with a focus on advancing economic development. This award comes in the year leading up to PNG’s 50th Anniversary of Independence and the 50th Anniversary of U.S. and PNG formal diplomatic relations. It reaffirms our nations’ close partnership as we support a Pacific region that is peaceful, secure, prosperous, and resilient. The Defense Cooperation Agreement, signed and entered into force in 2023, forms the foundational framework for our nations’ security cooperation. Since 2023, the United States has been delivering on our promises by providing training courses, engaging in bilateral exercises and continued engagement with the PNGDF. The relationship between the United States and PNG is built to last, grounded in shared history, shared values, and a shared future.

The University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) commenced its weeklong 2025 70th graduation ceremony with a total of 184 students from the school of Natural and Physical Sciences obtaining their science bachelor's and bachelor of sustainable development. In his opening remarks, aligned with the theme "50 years on UPNG'S Contribution to the development of Papua New Guinea", Prime Minister James Marape encouraged the first graduating class to never give up and to keep working hard. He commended the students for their hard work and tireless nights that brought them this far. "Look out to the world with optimism and positivity with science, research and statistics that drive innovation, economy and saves the future." He said, UPNG has produced many leaders and work men and women who have contributed to the development of what the country is today. He stated, " You are the right graduating class of the school of Natural Physical and Sciences. This school in my view gives you a greater perspective on life and you are now ready to go out there and face the world." He encouraged them to find their space and believe that they can do it in the world.

Papua New Guinea's oldest public service training institution, the Somare Institute of Leadership and Governance witnessed 406 ambitious public servants, obtain their diploma certificates in their respective courses in SILAG's third graduation. SILAG Board Chairlady and Department of Personnel Management Secretary Ms Taies Sansan said, SILAG has trained many public servants for over 60 years with the aim to up skill public servants to better serve the people of Papua New Guinea. “For 71 years, SILAG has trained a lot of public servants over the years standing as a foundation of governance long before Papua New Guinea gained independence." "Its legacy is one of the dedications, transformation and nation building.” “It is fitting that today’s graduation occurs as PNG commemorates its 50th anniversary, reinforcing the deeply rooted connection between SILAG’s mission and our nation’s progress.” Ms Sansan thanked the Australian government’s support throughout the years for enabling the institute to come to where it is today, as we celebrate the AZAC day today. She urged the graduates that service to the state and people must come first and also to serve with excellence and integrity. “Our focus as public servants must be service to the state. So as public servants, our purpose must be clear from the start of entry into the civil service. And that is to deliver to our people and offering that service to the state which become primary overall matters. We need to lead by example.” She added that, as SILAG continues to advance their leadership programs with a clear purpose, plans are in place to transform SILAG into a public servants University by 2027. “To support the governments vision and the steadfast support of the Public Service Minister and under the leadership of SILAG CEO Mr. Barobe, the institute is breaking new grounds, advancing leadership programs, forming strategic partnerships across PNG and the Pacific, progressing legislative amendments to make public trading mandatory." "In doing so, laying down the foundations for our transformation and transition into a public sector university by 2027.” She reaffirmed that, that is the board's goal, and they are working tirelessly to achieve that goal. Meanwhile, four graduates received four academic excellence awards, which includes; Stewart Sikaras- Advanced diploma in leadership and management, Kaspar Solo Puli - Diploma of Government leadership and Governance, Fits Lualuba - Certificate 4 in Leadership and Management and the leadership award was awarded to Joanne Clarkson - Advanced Diploma in Leadership and Management.

The inaugural MCPNG PNG Media Summit, organized by Women in Media (WiM PNG), will be held on Saturday, May 3rd, 2025, at the Hilton Hotel in Port Moresby. This inaugural event will bring together media professionals, policy makers, and academics to address the most pressing issues in Papua New Guinea’s media landscape in commemoration of World Press Freedom Day 2025. While the Global Theme for World Press Freedom Day this year is ‘Reporting in the Brave New world: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media’, this first PNG Media Summit will discuss Artificial Intelligence, and how to understand it in a media context, with a special focus on the role of women in media and the broader Pacific region’s journalism. Media Council of PNG President, Neville Choi says the Council’s vision is for the PNG Media Summit to be a permanent feature on the Council’s annual calendar of events. “The media has always been criticized for no longer operating to what many critics have referred to as a standard of media reporting from a different time of reporting, with journalists who had different tools at their disposal, and with audiences who had different ways of accessing the media. Yet no one explains what standard they are talking about. “Having an annual gathering of media practitioners, partners and stakeholders is the way forward to have collective agreement on what the industry standard is, and how to not only maintain it, but develop it even further,” Mr. Choi says. The summit’s high-profile keynote speaker is Mary-Louise O'Callaghan, an award-winning Australian journalist renowned for her in-depth coverage of Pacific affairs, and who, until most recently, was leading the Pacific operations of Internews. O'Callaghan will share her expertise on the challenges and opportunities in Pacific journalism, particularly regarding media development in PNG. "This summit is a crucial platform for open dialogue, fostering collaboration and advancing ethical media practices," says Belinda Kora, Lead for the Women In Media Core Team who are leading the organization of the summit. "We are especially thrilled to welcome Mary-Louise O'Callaghan, whose work has significantly impacted regional journalism and media development." The summit will also feature Fred Wesley, Editor-in-Chief of The Fiji Times, who will discuss the state of press freedom in the Pacific and Patrick Matbob, a veteran Journalist now trainer from Divine Word University. The event aims to foster a more vibrant media environment, support women in the industry, and address how AI impacts journalism in PNG. By convening media leaders, policymakers, and influencers, the summit seeks to ensure a future of ethical and inclusive journalism. Ms. Kora also took the opportunity to thank sponsors from the corporate, private and development sector for supporting this inaugural event.

As the ANZAC round nears, the SP PNG Hunters are gearing up for a meaningful clash against the Burleigh Bears this Saturday, 26 April, at Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby city. This will mark the Hunters' first ANZAC round at home since joining the Queensland Cup, and the occasion holds special meaning for both Australia and Papua New Guinea (PNG). To commemorate the round and pay tribute to the brave soldiers who served in World War I and World War II, the Hunters team visited Bomana War Cemetery out side Port Moresby. The players and staff were warmly welcomed by the cemetery's staff , who shared insights into Papua New Guinea’s pivotal role in wartime history. A highlight of the tour was viewing the commemoration of the Australian soldier Private George C. “Dick” Whittington who was injured during the Battle of Buna. The players will wear a special one-off commemorative jersey that features this iconic image of Whittington. He was being helped along a track through the kunai grass towards a field hospital at Dobodura. The Papua New Guinean assisting him was Raphael Oimbari. Whittington was with the 2/10th battalion at the time and had been wounded the previous day in the battle for Buna airstrip. He recovered from his wounds but unfortunately passed away from scrub typus in Port Moresby, 12 February 1943. He is commemorated and buried alongside over three thousand fallen at the Bomana War Cemetery. “It was a humbling experience for all of us,” said team captain Ila Alu. “We are grateful for the tour and the opportunity to learn about the sacrifices made by our ancestors. The staff were incredibly kind and informative, and we are honoured to carry this knowledge with us into ANZAC Round.” Rowan Foster of the Office of Australian War Graves said, “It was especially poignant for our war cemetery team, sharing history between Papua New Guinea and Australia. It was a powerful reminder that the freedoms enjoyed today were hard-won through unity, sacrifice, and the enduring bonds between our nations. For the PNG Hunter players, young men are navigating their own paths of discipline, teamwork, and service and this experience serves as a reminder that greatness is not only measured on the field, but also in respect for history, legacy, and those who came before us.” This year’s ANZAC Round serves not only as a competitive fixture but as a heartfelt reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom. The SP PNG Hunters are proud to stand in remembrance, unity, and respect as they take to the field. There will be a ceremony held at Santos NFS before the match begins on Saturday, 26th April.

Prime Minister James Marape has issued a directive for the immediate finalization of the Community Development Agreement (CDA) for the Porgera Mine in Enga province, urging all stakeholders to bring the process to a swift and collaborative conclusion. The CDA forms the final component of the Porgera Project Commencement Agreements, and the Prime Minister has instructed the Minister for Mining, Rainbo Paita, to lead its completion in close coordination with the Enga Provincial Government, the Mineral Resources Authority (MRA), and affected landowner groups. “Our landowners have waited long enough,” said Prime Minister Marape. “With gold prices now over US$3,400 per ounce — up from US$1,536 when we signed the new Porgera deal— we must conclude the CDA and protect the mine so benefits reach our people faster.” Under the new agreement, landowners and Enga Province will receive a 15% equity share (up from 5%) and 3% royalty (up from 2%), with no deductions. Taxes will be paid upfront, ensuring immediate returns. According to the Prime Minister, these changes represent a 300% increase in direct benefits compared to the previous mining arrangement. “This is the most beneficial benefit-sharing agreement we’ve ever secured as a country since 1975,” he said. “If we protect and preserve the mine, all stakeholders will begin receiving the full benefits—including equity—much sooner than expected.” To safeguard the project, the Government will begin National Identification (NID) registration of all landowners, enforce a zero-tolerance policy for illegal mining, and implement a comprehensive resettlement plan. New law enforcement infrastructure will include a holding facility in Porgera and the development of Mukumanda Jail, while early investments in roads, law, and justice services are also planned. “Everyone living or operating in Porgera must do so lawfully. There will be no room for illegal activities around the mine,” the Prime Minister warned. "Trespass will carry serious consequences.” Prime Minister Marape also commended landowner factions for halting conflicts and encouraged continued unity. “I commend those who’ve chosen peace over conflict. Let’s complete this CDA together—transparently and fairly—for the benefit of all.” He also acknowledged Barrick Gold and CEO Mark Bristow for honouring the agreement, noting that PNG did not pay any upfront capital to restart the mine, and now holds four board seats in the joint venture company. “We’ve taken back control. Barrick has supported our equity model with a total of 51% equity for PNG beneficiaries, including the 15% referenced earlier, and the mine is now producing. Now, we must finish the final leg.” On the Wafi-Golpu project, the Prime Minister said the Government is awaiting formal feedback from Harmony Gold and Newmont Corporation on PNG’s final position. Once confirmed, he will brief stakeholders and landowners accordingly. “We want to deliver the SML at the earliest.” As Papua New Guinea approaches 50 years of Independence, Prime Minister Marape said these new resource agreements reflect the Take Back PNG agenda in action. “This is how we define PNG at 50—by securing fairer and better project agreements that put our people first. The future of our nation depends on it. Our nation has a history of project agreements skewed towards investors, and the major policy differences between my coalition and those opposing me are centred on my drive to get more for PNG.”

An epic three days of competition held at the Taurama Aquatic Center saw over 50 corporate companies join together to form teams to take part in the long Easter weekend Port Moresby Corporate Volleyball Competition (POM CVC) "Super League Challenge". POM CVC Chairman, Nuga Dick said the competition started off on a high note on Friday with the open division matches with a total of six (6) teams taking part. Each of the six teams has 8 divisions with 2 men's and 2 women's teams. These teams are Soaring Kingfisher, Fearsome Sharks, Mighty Whalers, Slithering Eels, Electric Stingrays and Graceful Dolphins. As of this morning, the quarter finals started and are currently on with the semis and finals set for this afternoon. "All our semifinals will be played today for the open division. All the women's finals will be played in court number one, court number two will be the men's grand final and in court number three, the boys under-19 will play their finals." He said this the second of its kind where the first took place in 2019, but due to COVID-19, the super league challenge was put on hold. "This is the second of its kind, 2019 was the first one. This is much bigger because we got the booths set up and 13 new companies joined this year and a total of 78 teams taking part in the normal weekend games." "We got pool A, premier division, Division 1, 2 and 3 are for all the new teams. And we have around 60 plus games happening here every weekend." He added that apart from the super league challenge, the U-19 boys will play the quarter finals next weekend (Saturday) while the corporate teams will still play their round robin matches. He stated that this is the first time POM CVC brought in the U-19's were the winners from here will represent POM CVC in the National Championships next year.

The race is on — and time is running out! The Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA) Competition Department is calling on all prospective Premier Soccer League (PSL) clubs to act quickly, with less than 14 days remaining to submit their Expression of Interest (EOI) and secure a coveted place in the 2025 PSL season. The affiliation fee for PSL involvement stands at K77,000, alongside a player registration fee of K100 per player. Lead Competition Coordinator Leo Jakanduo emphasized that each club's total payment amounts to K100,000, which must be finalized before the competition kicks off. “With an increasing wave of interest flooding in, your commitment will be determined by the fees paid to register your participation.” He highlighted that completed EOI forms and the corresponding EOI fee payment receipts must be submitted by the close of business (COB) at 5:00 PM on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. Additionally, the deadline for the full affiliation fee payment of K77,000, along with the total player registration fee (for example, K3,000 for 30 players), is Friday, May 30, 2025. “Only ten spots are available for the exhilarating 2025 PSL season, and late submissions will not be accepted.” Jakanduo reiterated that all intending clubs must submit completed EOI forms along with their EOI fee payment receipt. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity—secure your team's future in the PSL today!

The International Rugby League (IRL) Board has officially named Papua New Guinea, France, and Wales as its priority nations, with a fourth country in Africa to be selected later this year. These nations will receive targeted investment and support through bespoke national strategies co-developed with their respective federations. By narrowing the focus to just four countries, the IRL aims to concentrate its resources for maximum impact. Other strategically significant or high-potential nations may be added to the initiative in the future. France, Papua New Guinea, and Wales were selected due to their historic importance to the sport, established participation bases, elite development pathways, and deep-rooted rugby league cultures. France remains the most advanced of the tier-two nations in Europe, with a strong professional and semi-professional club infrastructure operating in one of the continent’s largest sports markets. Mr. Stanley Hondina, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL), emphasized the country’s unmatched passion for the game. “Papua New Guinea, the only nation where rugby league is the national sport, continues to shine as a global example of dedication and excellence,” he said. He highlighted PNG’s six regional development pathways and academy programs, linked to the 12 clubs in the Digicel ExxonMobil semi-professional competition, as crucial building blocks for future stars. Strategic appointments—such as Tony Archer, Joe Grima, and Stanley Gene—have strengthened PNGRFL’s pathway and performance systems. Hondina also pointed to recent standout performances by the Junior Kumuls and Junior Orchids as evidence of PNG’s rising potential. “As we approach our 50th year of independence, rugby league is more than a sport—it’s a symbol of national unity and pride,” he said. He also marked December 12, 2024, as a historic milestone: PNG was granted an NRL license, laying the groundwork for a Port Moresby-based team to join the NRL in 2028. This move is expected to boost grassroots development and deepen ties with Australia. The PNGRFL’s 10th AGM, held in Port Moresby on March 29, further demonstrated the organization's maturity, with audited financials presented by Ernst & Young—highlighting strong governance and transparency. Wales Rugby League (WRL) was also honored by the IRL Board, with Chairman James Davies welcoming the recognition. “It’s a real honour for Wales Rugby League to be recognized as a priority nation for growth,” Davies said. “We’ve got a proud legacy—starting with our first international win over New Zealand in 1908—and a bold vision for the future.” He noted that WRL’s development pathways are expanding each year, with more than 40 players now linked to Super League clubs. Wales’ junior, women, and wheelchair teams are all gaining momentum, with the latter two already qualified for the 2026 World Cup. Davies praised the new leadership under CEO Richard Hibbard—former Wales and British & Irish Lions international—who brings elite sporting experience and business acumen to the role. “Our community game is the bedrock of everything we do,” Davies said, “and that’s where our future lies.” The IRL sees competitive French and Welsh teams as essential to creating a commercially viable northern hemisphere international calendar, giving England alternatives to frequent matches against southern hemisphere teams. In a major boost for PNG, the Australian Government will provide significant investment in rugby league development, aligned with the new Port Moresby-based NRL team’s entry in 2028. Meanwhile, the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) has introduced a policy allowing NRL clubs to sign up to two PNG Pathway Players—defined as athletes who participated in PNG’s junior competitions—outside of the salary cap. This move is designed to fast-track elite talent into the professional ranks. Recognizing the growing interest in Africa, the IRL Board will select one priority nation from the continent following consultations with national governments. The region is seen as a long-term growth area for the sport. The Las Vegas IRL Board meeting also laid out steps for a refreshed global strategy, including a Chair-led strategy committee. This work builds on the commercialized international calendar first outlined at the IRL Board’s mid-2023 meeting in Singapore. World Cup hosts for 2028 (Women’s), 2029 (Wheelchair), and 2030 (Men’s) will soon be confirmed. Once set, full qualification pathways and tournament formats will be finalized, with planning for the 2028 Women’s World Cup already well advanced. Revenues from future World Cups and major tournaments are expected to fund participation programs, capacity building, and other initiatives designed to grow the game globally. In addition to backing the four focus nations, the IRL’s broader vision includes expanding global player participation and strengthening international rugby league at all levels.

Datec PNG Learning Centers saw a total of 255 students graduate today in Port Moresby city from its six (6) programs offered. These programs, with the aim of providing job-oriented and industry skills-focused courses, include Information Technology, Server & Network Administration, Data Analysis & Data Science, Project Management, Data Analysis & Business Intelligence, Project Management and Cyber Security. The General Manager-Training & Education Mr. Ravichandran. C said, to date, over 1400 students have graduated from their programs, with 60-70% of them successfully securing employment. "Looking ahead, we plan to focus on more AI programs in the coming year as we anticipate that these skills will be in high demand both locally and globally in the near future. We are committed to providing our students with the necessary tools and knowledge to succeed in the ever-evolving job market," he said A total of 77 students got their diplomas in Advanced Professional in Information Technology, 52 students in Advanced Diploma in Server & Network, 44 students in Advanced Professional Diploma in Data Analysis & Data Science, 3 students in Advanced Professional Diploma in IT Distance Mode, 51 students in Diploma in Project Management, 22 students in Diploma in Data Analysis & Business Intelligence and 6 students in Diploma in Cyber Security.