Papua New Guinea’s top para table tennis player, Haoda Agari, has claimed a silver medal at the inaugural ITTF Oceania Para Table Tennis Championships held in New Zealand over the weekend, marking a proud moment for the country on the international stage.The tournament, hosted for the first time by New Zealand, brought together 19 para-athletes from across the Pacific, with Agari flying the PNG flag as the country’s sole representative. Agari teamed up with Rodney Satini of the Solomon Islands in the doubles event, where the pair delivered a strong performance to finish second and secure the silver medal. In the singles competition, a round-robin format saw Agari face off against top athletes from Australia and New Zealand, both of whom fielded full-strength teams. Despite a valiant effort, Agari narrowly missed out on a podium finish in the singles category. Speaking after the event, Agari described the championship as a major milestone in his sporting journey. “This was a great Oceania Championship for para table tennis,” Agari said. “Powerhouse teams Australia and New Zealand had more than 20 athletes, which really inspires me and gives me the courage to train harder and do better next time.” Agari’s participation was made possible through a collaborative effort led by PacificAus Sports and ITTF-Oceania, who provided financial support to six para-athletes from across the Pacific region, including representatives from Fiji, Tonga, Tuvalu, Solomon Islands, and PNG. While Agari competed without a coach present, he received unexpected and heartfelt support from Anne Motuga, a Samoan journalist based in Auckland, who stepped in to assist during matches. “I did not have a coach with me, but Anne kindly sat in my coach’s chair and supported me—she even gave me water between matches. I am very grateful to Anne, to the International Table Tennis Federation for selecting me for this scholarship, and to PacificAus Sports for making this opportunity possible,” Agari shared. More than just a medal, Agari’s silver represents a step forward for para sports in Papua New Guinea, where athletes often face limited access to coaching, facilities, and competition opportunities. His performance on the international stage is expected to inspire other athletes living with disability to take up sport. While some pacific athletes are staying on in New Zealand for an extended training camp, Agari will return home with a medal, new experience, and a renewed determination to grow para table tennis and inclusive sport back in PNG.

Two Papua New Guinean sign language interpreters have achieved formal certification at the recent 2025 World Association of Sign Language Interpreters Oceania Conference, marking a major step forward for inclusive access to justice for Deaf communities across the nation.The newly certified interpreters, Ms. Anna Thomas and Ms. Francisca Sam, both from PNG’s Department for Community Development and Religion (DfCDR), were part of the first-ever graduation of regional sign language trainees. This certification formally recognizes the vital role of sign language in PNG's justice system and expands access to essential legal and public services. For deaf Papua New Guineans, trained interpreters are crucial in ensuring the right to justice is a reality. They facilitate communication in police stations, courtrooms, and correctional facilities, helping Deaf individuals understand legal processes, participate meaningfully, and advocate for themselves. The certification is a significant milestone for disability inclusion, especially since sign language is now recognized as Papua New Guinea’s fourth official language. Anna Thomas, a Sign Language Coordinator at DfCDR, emphasized the broader impact of the achievement stating that this graduation is about recognition, empowerment and progress. “We are building a future where deaf Papua New Guineans can access information, education, and public services in their own language.” The certification was secured with support from the Australia-PNG Law and Justice Partnership. In addition, the Partnership maintains that effective communication is foundational for an inclusive justice system, viewing interpreter certification as a key step to ensuring deaf citizens can engage with legal institutions with dignity, autonomy, and equal protection under the law. Held in Fiji in late August, the conference brought together deaf leaders, interpreters, and disability advocates from across the Pacific, including representatives from PNG, Tonga, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Australia, and New Zealand. Moving forward, the DfCDR will take the lead in implementing a National Sign Language Implementation Plan (2025–2030). Key actions will include establishing a national registry of certified interpreters and integrating sign language training into mainstream services, particularly within justice sector institutions. Furthermore, the Australia- PNG Law and Justice Partnership confirmed its continued commitment to strengthening inclusive access to justice by supporting initiatives that build a system that is accessible, equitable, and responsive to the needs of all citizens.

A new culinary docuseries titled Kin and Kai has officially launched, offering viewers a rich, sensory journey through Papua New Guinea’s diverse food culture in celebration of the country’s 50th anniversary of independence.This five-part mini-series, produced as part of the Australian High Commission’s Yumi Stap Wantaim (We Stand Together) campaign, is co-hosted by Papua New Guinean Chef Julz and Australian actor and producer Aaron Fa’Aoso, a proud Torres Strait Islander. The series is now streaming online at yumistapwantaim.com, with new episodes released weekly via the Australian High Commission’s Facebook page. Blending the warmth of home cooking with deep storytelling, Kin and Kai goes beyond the plate to explore themes of identity, memory, and connection. Through shared meals and ancestral recipes, Chef Julz and Fa’Aoso highlight the cultural bonds that unite Papua New Guinea and the Torres Strait Islands, emphasizing traditions that span generations and borders. “Food is the thread that connects culture, memory and legacy,” said Chef Julz. “It’s how we honour our past and nourish our future. Kin and Kai is a celebration of identity. It’s about bringing our cultures together.” Each episode showcases authentic PNG kaikai, with Chef Julz drawing on his family’s recipes and personal history. Fa’Aoso contributes his own heritage and curiosity, deepening the series' exploration of cultural overlap and shared roots. “The connections between the Torres Strait and PNG stretch back over 65,000 years,” Fa’Aoso said. “These historical, familial, and cultural connections have woven a fabric that still binds us together today. Kin and Kai is a chance to listen, to learn, and to walk together through our shared past, as we walk side by side into the next 50 years.” Kin and Kai serves as both a tribute to 50 years of Papua New Guinea’s independence and a powerful reminder of the enduring ties between communities across the region—offering stories that are as nourishing as the food itself.

The Enga Provincial Government (EPG) is commemorating 50 years of the province’s journey with a three-day celebration from today Wednesday October 1st to Friday 3rd October, placing God at the center of the milestone event.The inaugural Enga Day celebrations begin with a day dedicated to honoring the churches and missionaries who first brought the Gospel to the province—recognizing their spiritual, social, and developmental contributions across Enga's six districts. Acting Director of the EPG’s Community Development Division and event organizer, Dorethy Kukum, said that 16 churches will be officially acknowledged for their long-standing partnership in shaping the province’s moral and social fabric. “The Enga Provincial Government is grateful to these churches and their early missionaries for being partners in the province’s development,” Ms. Kukum said. On Day One, pastors from across Enga will join with district officials and local congregations to offer prayers of thanksgiving and dedication to God. Due to the current State of Emergency (SOE) in Enga, Ms. Kukum advised that all celebrations and services be held in safe locations, such as churches or district stations. In Wabag, the capital, the day will also include a special welcome for Resident Judge Justice Ellis, followed by a Law-and-Order Summit in the evening with Enga's key leaders. Under the theme “Celebrating Enga’s Past, Present, and Future,” the remaining two days of Enga Day will showcase the province’s progress over five decades. Planned highlights include: Local exhibitions from institutions, businesses, and community organizations The first-ever Miss Enga Pageant at the Innovative University of Enga A music festival featuring local and national artists at Aipas Oval The event will conclude with a grand fireworks display The EPG is encouraging all citizens of Enga, both in the province and living elsewhere, to take part in this historic celebration.

The 14th Chinese Medical Team, led by cardiologist Dr. Chen Zijun, has donated a vital consignment of specialized medical consumables to Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH), aiming to boost life-saving procedures and reduce delays in the hospital’s Catheterization Laboratory (Cath Lab).The donation included high-demand items such as Extension Catheters, Atrial Septal Defect Occluders, Drug-coated PTCA Balloon Dilatation Catheters, Intravascular Ultrasound Diagnostic Catheters, Rotational Guidewires and Catheters with Advancers, Radiation-protection glasses, Femoral artery sheaths, Ultrasound coupling gel, and Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) Occluders. Receiving the donation, Interventional Cardiologist Dr. Wesong Boko expressed heartfelt thanks to Dr. Chen and his team, highlighting the urgent need for such supplies. “These are the everyday essentials we rely on to perform procedures in the Cath Lab,” said Dr. Boko. “Unfortunately, these are also items we sometimes lack, causing delays and long waits for patients. This timely support from the Chinese team will go a long way in helping us deliver critical care to those who need it most.” Dr. Kone Sobi, speaking on behalf of PMGH’s Senior Executive Management, acknowledged the continued contributions of the Chinese Medical Teams over the years across various hospital departments. “China Medical Teams have consistently provided specialist support—from cardiologists and pediatricians to obstetricians and surgeons,” said Dr. Sobi. “By working closely with our local teams, they understand our specific needs. Dr. Chen’s collaboration with our Cath Lab is a perfect example of this. Ultimately, the biggest winners are our patients.” Dr. Chen expressed hope that the donated supplies would help shorten waiting times and save more lives in Papua New Guinea. The 14th Chinese Medical Team’s donation is the latest in a long-standing partnership between China and Papua New Guinea in advancing healthcare delivery and capacity-building at PMGH.

The final leg of Papua New Guinea’s regional consultations on the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) concluded today in Buka, marking a major step in the country’s efforts to fulfil its international human rights reporting obligations. The two-day workshop, held from September 25 to 26, brought together representatives from the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG), national government agencies, people with disabilities, and members of civil society, including churches and non-government organizations.The consultations are supported by the Building Community Engagement Program (BCEP) and aim to prepare PNG’s combined initial and periodic report to the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities—a key requirement following the country’s ratification of the CRPD. Speaking on behalf of the Secretary of the Department for Community Development and Religion (DFCDR), Mr. Jerry Ubase, Deputy Secretary Karen Haive opened the event and emphasized the government’s ongoing commitment to disability inclusion.“As a government, our approach to supporting people with disabilities is guided by key national policy frameworks that promote the message: ‘Remove Barriers, Make Rights Real,’” said Ms. Haive.She noted that PNG has ratified six of the nine core United Nations human rights treaties, with DFCDR leading the implementation of three—including the CRPD.Representing the Autonomous Bougainville Government, Mr. Donovan Tami, Manager for Mandatory and Social Services, welcomed participants and outlined key objectives within Bougainville’s Disability Policy, reinforcing the region’s support for inclusive development.During the workshop, participants engaged in open dialogue and completed structured questionnaires assessing how services such as education, health, infrastructure, and transport are being made accessible to persons with disabilities.The feedback gathered is critical in assessing PNG’s progress in implementing the CRPD and will directly feed into the drafting of the national report.With all four regional consultations now completed, attention shifts to consultations with national agencies, followed by three report drafting workshops and a final validation session.The process is led by a Technical Working Group (TWG) comprised of representatives from:· Department for Community Development and Religion (DFCDR)· Department of Justice and Attorney General (DJAG)· Department of Prime Minister and NEC (PM&NEC)· National Statistical Office (NSO)· Department of Health· Department of Treasury· Department of Foreign Affairs· State Solicitor’s Office, among other key departments.Once completed, the final report will be submitted to the United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, fulfilling PNG’s reporting requirement and contributing to global efforts toward disability inclusion.

In a vibrant celebration of unity and community spirit, the 2025 Island Petroleum Charity Colour Run raised over K1 million across Port Moresby, Lae, and Kokopo—an extraordinary achievement aimed at strengthening health and education services throughout Papua New Guinea.Held under the theme “We Are One”, the event drew more than 10,000 participants nationwide, all rallying behind a shared cause: to directly support critical healthcare institutions and schools in their respective regions.Speaking at the official cheque presentation in Port Moresby, Douglas Avusi, CA Rep of Islands Petroleum Limited, confirmed that the K1 million in total funds is being distributed among six beneficiary institutions, spanning three provinces:🔹 Port Moresby· Port Moresby General Hospital – Accident & Emergency (A&E)-K87, 318.70· And Obstetrics & Gynecology (O&G) departments. -K87, 319🔹 Lae· Milford Haven Primary School· Milford Haven Urban Clinic🔹 Kokopo (East New Britain)· St. Mary’s Vunapope Hospital· Nonga General Hospital“Although we refer to five institutions, Port Moresby General Hospital has two critical departments receiving dedicated support, making it six divisions overall,” Avusi explained.Island Petroleum has taken full responsibility for managing the funds transparently, ensuring that all contributions from sponsors and public participants—especially from t-shirt sales—are used strictly to fulfill the project needs submitted by the beneficiary institutions.“We procure directly the equipment, materials, and resources requested by each school or hospital,” Avusi said. “Every kina raised is accounted for and goes toward these targeted improvements.”A total of K174,637.70 was officially presented to Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) to support two of its most vital and heavily burdened departments:· Accidents & Emergency (A&E)· Obstetrics & Gynecology (O&G)Dr. Sobe, Director of Medical Services at PMGH, expressed deep gratitude, noting that these departments serve tens of thousands of patients annually, including up to 30,000 emergency cases and over 16,000 births per year.“This support from Island Petroleum and the broader community is remarkable,” said Dr. Sobe. “With Port Moresby’s population exceeding one million, every bit of help makes a huge difference.”Lloyd Trusty, Retail Manager at Island Petroleum, delivered a powerful keynote reflecting the company’s broader mission:“We’re not just in the business of fuel—we’re in the business of community. This year’s theme, ‘We Are One’, captures our belief that unity can drive real, lasting change.”Trusty also announced the 2026 Charity Colour Run will expand to seven locations, adding Madang, Kimbe, Kavieng, and Alotau to the existing three.A newly proposed Islands Petroleum Foundation will oversee long-term impact initiatives in health and education.The event was brought to life by strong participation and wide community involvement:Over 10,000 t-shirts distributed across the country: 3,000+ in Port Moresby, 2,500 in Lae and 2,000 in Kokopo“These aren’t just numbers or t-shirts,” said Trusty. “They represent the heart of our community, coming together to make a difference.”The success of the 2025 Colour Run wouldn’t have been possible without its diverse range of sponsors and supporters, including:· Mobile Oil New Guinea· Dulux PNG· Boroko Motors· ZENAG, AGMARC, Vuelux Group, Deep Boy Investments· PNGFM, Daytech, NEA, Tropicana· Number One Super· Range View Plaza, and many more“It was a fabulous day,” said Helen from Dulux Group PNG. “We’re proud to be part of something that brings joy and impact—and yes, we’ll be back in 2026 with more jellybeans!”“This is only the beginning,” said Avusi. “Our commitment to health and education goes far beyond this event.“We are one – in challenge, in change, and in community,” said the event’s closing speaker. “And that’s something truly worth celebrating.”

In a major boost to connectivity across the country, Digicel PNG has launched its new ‘One Nation Connected’ campaign, offering customers up to 33 times more data at no extra cost. The campaign aims to simplify communication for Papua New Guineans, allowing users to call anyone nationwide without needing multiple SIM cards to access on-net services. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Digicel PNG Tarik Boudiaf, said that this campaign is about giving their customers more, more data, more freedom and more value without any additional cost. “We are making it simpler for people to connect and easier for families and businesses to stay in touch.” Timed to coincide with PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary, the campaign is also a celebration of the country’s digital progress and a commitment to future development. Digicel PNG says the initiative is part of its continued investment in expanding network coverage, enhancing internet speeds, and improving the customer experience, reaffirming its role as PNG’s leading digital operator. “This is not just a celebration of the past; it is a commitment to the future.” “We remain dedicated to connecting communities and supporting digital and financial inclusion under One Nation Connected.” Looking forward, Digicel PNG plans to continue empowering local communities through accessible, affordable, and reliable digital services. Customers can find more information about the campaign by calling 123 or visiting www.digicelpacific.com

Women in East New Britain (ENB) province will no longer need to travel to New Ireland for cervical cancer testing, thanks to the commissioning of a state-of-the-art Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) laboratory at Nonga Provincial Hospital. Health Minister Elias Kapavore officially opened the PCR lab along with a new medical waste incinerator during a ceremony held on the eve of Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence celebrations. The milestone project is part of a World Bank-funded initiative, implemented by the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) in collaboration with the National Department of Health (NDoH). “This is a major step forward in improving our healthcare services.” “We now have the capacity to deliver same-day test results without needing to send samples to Port Moresby. This is vital for timely diagnosis and treatment.” The PCR lab is equipped to test for a wide range of diseases, including COVID-19, influenza, HIV, hepatitis, tuberculosis, cervical cancer (HPV), and even genetic disorders and forensic analysis, making it the most advanced and only fully operational PCR lab in the country. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ENB Provincial Health Authority (PHA) Dr. Ako Yap, described the lab as a “game-changer” for both clinical and public health services in the New Guinea Islands region. “It is a one-stop shop for diagnostics. We can now manage testing locally and reduce delays that previously risked patient outcomes.” The upgraded incinerator, replacing an outdated eight-year-old model, doubles the medical waste disposal capacity, from 20kg to 30kg per hour, improving infection prevention and control at the facility. The commissioning was attended by senior government officials, including Member for Rabaul Dr. Allan Marat, Fisheries Minister Jelta Wong, representatives from UNOPS, the World Bank, and local community leaders. Meanwhile, UNOPS Country Manager Sirpa Jarvenpaa, said the infrastructure reflects a strong partnership between the PNG government, the World Bank, and implementing agencies. On the other hand, World Bank Acting Division Director Stephen N. Ndegwa, expressed their support towards sustainable health services that improve care and build resilience across PNG. The laboratory and incinerator are part of the broader COVID-19 extension project, which continues to address critical gaps in health infrastructure and disease preparedness nationwide.

A landmark pilot training program for Village Court Officers was recently launched at the Dr. John Momis Hall, Somare Institute of Leadership and Governance (SILAG), marking a new chapter in the development of Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) local justice system. The "Introductory Course for Village Court Officers" is the result of a partnership between the Department of Justice and Attorney General (DJAG) and SILAG. The two-week program is designed to build the capacity of village court officials by enhancing their knowledge of PNG’s government and justice systems. The opening ceremony was attended by key stakeholders including DJAG Secretary Dr. Eric Kwa, Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) Counsellor for PNG Law and Justice Tessa Plueckhahn, the SILAG management team, and the first cohort of twenty participants from Central Province. Staff from both partner organizations were also present to witness the commencement of this significant initiative. Dr. Kwa highlighted the critical role of village courts in the country’s justice framework, describing them as “the heartbeat of the rule of law in this country.” “When villagers face legal problems, their first point of contact is the village court, not the police, not the higher courts. The village court is the foundation of justice in Papua New Guinea.” He also emphasized the need for accurate data and better-trained officers, citing past challenges in data collection and capacity building. “If we appoint the right people from the community, they will become true agents of the law and justice process. But if we fail to do so, the entire system is weakened.” The course also serves as an educational pathway for Grade 12 school leavers involved in the village court system, offering them a chance to contribute to crime prevention and peacebuilding while advancing their careers. “This training is more than just about performing court duties; it is about opening doors.” “Through this partnership with SILAG, we are creating a pathway for young people to not only serve in the village courts but also continue their education and potentially enter university.” He urged the participants to treat the training as a “golden opportunity,” noting that this is just the first step in a broader effort to professionalize the village court system across the country. The program is expected to be expanded to reach 7, 000 village court officers nationwide. Dr. Kwa congratulated the twenty inaugural participants and reaffirmed the Marape-Rosso government’s commitment to strengthening the grassroots justice system through education and leadership development.

The Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA) has officially concluded the WorldCoaches Program, celebrating the certification of 21 newly trained coaches following a week-long training course focused on football, leadership, and life skills. The program wrapped up with a vibrant football festival for children, followed by a closing ceremony attended by PNGFA President John Kapi Natto, as well as the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Australia, H.E. Ardi Stoios-Braken, and Second Secretary Siobhan Kuin. Their presence highlighted the strength of international collaboration in promoting social development through sport. Developed by the Royal Netherlands Football Association (KNVB), the WorldCoaches initiative is designed to empower local coaches not only with technical football knowledge, but also with tools to serve as community leaders and role models. Throughout the training, participants received instruction in coaching techniques, life skills education, and strategies for engaging with young people in meaningful, positive ways. “The dedication shown by these 21 participants reflects a strong commitment to the future of football and to the betterment of our communities,” said PNGFA President John Kapi Natto. “We are grateful to the Netherlands Embassy for their continued partnership in making programs like this possible.” President Kapi Natto emphasized that the newly certified coaches will play a vital role in grassroots football development and will help foster unity, discipline, and opportunity for young people across the country. Moreover, the WorldCoaches certification marks a key milestone for PNGFA in its broader mission to harness football as a tool for education, health, and social change, echoing the global vision that sport can be a powerful catalyst for community development.

Pacific International Hospital (PIH) has expanded its healthcare services by launching visa medical examinations at its Medical Centre in Goroka, providing a much-needed local option for residents of the Eastern Highlands and surrounding regions. The new service eliminates the need for patients to travel to Lae or Port Moresby for visa medicals, significantly reducing travel and accommodation costs. With same-day appointments, rapid processing, and a single-window clearance system, the Goroka facility promises a seamless experience for individuals seeking medical clearances for overseas travel, work, or study. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of PIH Colonel Sandeep Shaligram, said the expansion reflects the hospital's ongoing commitment to accessible and advanced healthcare services across Papua New Guinea (PNG). “Bringing visa medical services to Goroka demonstrates our commitment to making advanced healthcare more accessible across Papua New Guinea.” “We are particularly pleased that this will be a great boon for labour mobility workers, providing them with the medical clearances they need quickly and conveniently.” Key Features of the PIH Visa Medical Service in Goroka: · Elimination of travel and accommodation costs to Lae or Port Moresby · Same-day appointments · Fast and efficient processing · Single-window clearance system · Tailored support for labour mobility and corporate workers With the addition of Goroka, PIH now offers visa medical services in four key locations including, Port Moresby, Mt. Hagen, Kokopo, and Goroka, strengthening its nationwide network and support for workforce mobility and development. Furthermore, the initiative is part of PIH’s broader mission to provide world-class healthcare and specialized services to communities throughout PNG. For bookings or further information, contact PIH Medical Centre Goroka at pihmcgoroka@pihpng.com or call 7201 1011.