As Papua New Guinea observes the fourth anniversary of the passing of the Late Grand Chief Sir Michael Thomas Somare, we honour not just the life of one man, but the lasting impact of a leader whose vision led to the nation’s independence, shaped its democracy, and inspired generations. Sir Michael Somare, one of the nation’s founding fathers and its first Prime Minister, played a pivotal role in guiding Papua New Guinea to independence. His unwavering determination, resilience, and deep belief in the potential of his people were the cornerstones of his leadership. His dream of a unified, independent Papua New Guinea became a reality, and his vision changed the course of the nation’s history. As the first Prime Minister, Sir Michael steered the country through its defining moment in 1975—achieving independence and ensuring that the aspirations of the people were reflected in the new political system. His leadership during this crucial time laid the foundations for the future of the nation. However, Sir Michael's influence extended far beyond politics. He was a symbol of unity, humility, and service, always striving to ensure that every Papua New Guinean’s voice was heard. His commitment to peace and progress continues to serve as a source of inspiration today. Sir Michael leaves behind a nation forever transformed by his leadership—one that stands proudly on the world stage as a reflection of his vision and determination. His name will forever be remembered by all Papua New Guineans as the father of the nation—a tireless advocate for independence, peace, and the well-being of his people. In honour of his legacy and to mark the significance of the day, PNG HAUSBUNG took to the streets of Port Moresby, asking the public to share their thoughts on what comes to mind when they hear the name of the late Grand Chief Sir Michael Thomas Somare and which of his many achievements stands out the most to them and here is what many of you had to say... Insert: 4th ANNIVERSARY VOX [audio wav="https://pnghausbung.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/4th-anniversary-VOX.wav"][/audio]

Prime Minister James Marape has today called for immediate global action to tackle illegal fishing and the exploitation of Pacific fisheries, stressing that Pacific nations have been the ocean's stewards for centuries. Speaking at the Honiara Summit on Sustainable Fisheries, he urged major global powers to take responsibility for their role in sea pollution and sea temperature rise and also assist in marine resources management in the Pacific. Under the theme “Iumi Tugeda Delivering on SDG 14.4: Achieving Sustainable Fisheries”, the summit brings together Pacific leaders, global experts, and representatives from 24 – 27 February 2025 to discuss sustainable fisheries management in the region. PM Marape reaffirmed that Pacific Island nations have always practised sustainable fisheries, long before the introduction of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14 in 2015. He challenged industrial nations to acknowledge their responsibility in driving overfishing and environmental degradation. “No one needs to lecture us on fish sustainability—it is our lifestyle." "This lecture should be taken to the big industrial polluters who continue to pollute our oceans,” he stated. He called upon major partner nations to Pacific Island nations including the United States, China, Japan, India, and the European Union, to assist fight and stop illegal fishing activities in the Pacific. “If there is any sense of morality left in you, take this message back to your countries." "The ocean is a global asset, a carbon sink, a supermarket, and a superhighway for all your ships and submarines. It needs protection.” Prime Minister Marape declared that Papua New Guinea would take stronger enforcement measures to combat illegal fishing, including sinking unauthorised vessels found in its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). “If I catch illegal fishing in my country, I will sink all the boats." "I have signed defence cooperation agreements with the United States, to assist in stopping illegal fishing in our waters,” he warned. He also called on the United Nations to advocate for a global crackdown on illegal fishing, which disproportionately affects Pacific nations while benefiting wealthier economies. Despite having some of the largest EEZs in the world, Pacific nations receive little economic benefit from their fisheries. Prime Minister Marape questioned why nations such as Kiribati, with a vast ocean area of 3.5 million square kilometres, remain among the lowest in GDP per capita. “Why are we amongst the poorest in the world when we hold some of the richest fisheries resources?" "We are not just Small Island Developing States—we are a Big Ocean Nation. We must rise and fight for our resources.” He further announced that Papua New Guinea will soon introduce a policy prohibiting the export of unprocessed fish, ensuring that all catches are landed and processed within the country. “From 16 September this year, no fish caught in Papua New Guinea’s waters will leave without being processed locally." "This is the way forward for ensuring economic benefits remain in our region.” Prime Minister Marape urged Pacific nations to strengthen cooperation in fisheries management and climate action, given that tuna and other fish species migrate across national borders. “We are in this together. Fish do not belong to one country—they migrate." "This is why we must work as one Pacific,” he emphasised. Concluding his address, he reiterated the need for technological support, stronger enforcement against illegal fishing, and global commitment to addressing climate change, which threatens fish stocks and Pacific livelihoods. “Let us not be lectured on sustainability—we are practitioners of it." "It is time for the world to recognise our role and support our efforts.” With the Honiara Summit set to shape future regional fisheries policies, Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed Papua New Guinea’s commitment to safeguarding the Pacific’s resources for future generations.

Senior officials from the National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA) held their second meeting to discuss the draft of the 2025-2030 Strategic Health Service Plan. On Friday, February 21st, 2025, key personnel gathered at the Port Moresby Archdiocese to fine-tune the five-year plan, which will shape the development and delivery of health services in Port Moresby over the next five years. Dr. Robin Oge, Acting CEO of NCDPHA, commended the participants for their efforts in compiling this critical document. "This is a significant milestone for NCDPHA, as it marks the second meeting dedicated to developing our first comprehensive Strategic Health Service Plan since the Authority's establishment," Dr. Oge said. He highlighted the importance of the planning process in shaping the future of health services in the district and acknowledged the collective effort involved in producing the plan. Dr. Michael Dokup, Director of Curative Health, emphasized that the Strategic Health Service Plan will serve as a roadmap to ensure effective and efficient health service delivery. "It will guide our partners, stakeholders, and governing bodies such as the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) and the District Development Authorities (DDA) to collaborate with NCDPHA." In addition to this internal review process, NCDPHA plans to host an external stakeholder meeting in the coming weeks to gather valuable input and insights from key stakeholders. This collaborative engagement will help refine and shape the strategic plan before it is finalized in March 2025. The ongoing development of the Strategic Health Service Plan is a vital step toward improving health service delivery in the National Capital District. As NCDPHA continues to refine the plan and incorporate external feedback, the collective efforts of all involved are essential to ensuring it serves as a strong foundation for the future of healthcare in Port Moresby and beyond.

Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) Chairman, Sandis Tsaka, has confirmed the reappointment of Stanley Hondina as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for another three years. Mr. Hondina was initially appointed CEO in 2021, after serving as the acting CEO for three months following the resignation of former CEO, Reatau Rau. His reappointment marks the beginning of his second term as the head of the organization. “The board of the PNGRFL are pleased with the significant milestones and progress of the organization in the last 3 years, Stanley has served as CEO." "We have seen 3 strategic plans come into effect, as well as the successful PNG NRL Bid, amongst the revival of participation in our sport and affiliations since COVID.” “The CEO has been instrumental in setting up systems and processes at the PNGRFL in his first term, which will see impact beyond his term as the organization head." “Like any organization, Stanley has gone through the appraisal process and had the necessary performance reviews through his tenure” said Tsaka. He added, “We have complete confidence in Stanley as he continues to lead the organization forward and has proven his leadership ability and in his advisory and management roles across the tiers of our game and with his many years of experience behind him as an administrator of our sport.” Hondina’s appointment came into effect 17th February 2025, after the PNGRFL Board’s review and agreement to a term of three (3) years. Mr. Hondina said he was humbled by the appointment and thanked the Board for their confidence. “It is a huge responsibility and I will continue to do my best for the development and growth of the game, its players, officials and the many volunteers within the country." “As part of building the systems and processes, everything we do and will do, will be to build on the vision of BETTER PEOPLE, BETTER SPORT, BETTER NATION and this will only be possible with a workforce driven by our BETTER values." "With that I take this time to thank our executive management team and the hard-working staff of the PNGRFL for their tireless efforts and their commitment to this vision together with me.” Hondina previously held the role of PNG National Rugby League Competition Manager (2017 - 2020), with a background in Accounting, working for our sport he worked as an auditor both in Government and Private sectors (Auditor General’s Office and Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu) for a total of five (5) years.

Kina Bank is making a significant impact by leading efforts to save lives through blood donation for patients at Port Moresby General Hospital. Their initiative is helping to ensure a steady and reliable supply of blood, which is crucial for patients in need of life-saving treatments. Kina Bank staff in Port Moresby volunteered for this worthy cause during a two-day blood donation drive from Wednesday, 19 February to Thursday, 20 February 2025. This initiative followed a series of awareness sessions conducted by the Sir Brian Bell Centre for Transfusion Medicine for Kina Bank staff at the Head Office and branches in NCD. Kina Bank Employee Wellbeing and OHS Advisor Desmond Alesana said 48 bags of blood were collected for the hospital from the staff. “Blood donation is one of our major corporate social responsibility activities." "We are pleased to collaborate with the Sir Brian Bell Centre for Transfusion Medicine and Port Moresby General Hospital to support patient transfusions, which also benefits our staff’s health and wellbeing,” said Mr Alesana. Sir Brian Bell Centre for Transfusion Medicine Assistant Nurse Manager Juliet Ohuesaho, emphasised the importance of donors, stating, “Donors like Kina Bank play a crucial role in ensuring that blood is available where it is needed most.” “The donated blood helps in general surgery, cancer treatments like leukemia, accident and trauma care, general medical conditions like chronic renal disease, bleeding disorders like hemophilia, and obstetric cases such as complicated deliveries and caesarean sections,” Ms Ohuesaho added. Sir Brian Bell Centre for Transfusion Medicine Operations Manager Xenia Peni thanked the staff of Kina Bank. “All donors are heroes, their donation can mean a lifetime for someone in need." "We acknowledge Kina Bank for their commitment to health and for leading the way among the financial institutions in blood donation every year."

Former Chief Justice Sir Arnold Amet has been appointed as Papua New Guinea's new Ambassador to the United States, with his base in Washington, DC. This marks an important milestone in his career, as he transitions from the judiciary to diplomacy. With his extensive legal and leadership experience, Sir Arnold Amet is poised to play a key role in strengthening the relationship between Papua New Guinea and the United States. Foreign Affairs Minister Hon. Justin Tkatchenko MP has announced at Sir Arnold's commissioning that all processes were completed, and he was now officially appointed. "Today sets a fresh start for our relationship with the United States of America." "The position of Ambassador had been vacant for a long time and I'm pleased that King Charles Ill and the President of United States, Donald Trump have signed off on the appointment of our choice and highly recommended Sir Arnold." "We have now got a fabulous new Ambassador appointment, of true honour and dignity in the likes of former Chief Justice, Governor of Madang, Member of Parliament and a senior statesman." "For him to be finally be appointed as Ambassador of US is no mistake." "Everything was done through fit and proper process at the highest level and we can finally have our ambassador for the United States." "Our relationship with the US has been quite an interesting one." "As the US now takes an independent role to PNG and has a direct line of contact with PNG not like before." "We have a lot of work to do under the new Trump Administration for the good of both our countries and the region as a whole." Sir Arnold who was appointed in 2019 was relieved to finally be commissioned to take up the post with concurrent accreditation to Canada and Mexico." He graduated at the University of Papua New Guinea in 1975 and had since held important posts in the National Judiciary Services and in the National Parliament. "I journeyed with our independence so this year is special for me." "I thank the government for the confidence in this appointment and for their perseverance in me." "It's a great honour being bestowed upon me and my wife especially at the dawn of golden jubilee of the nation's anniversary." "We all have a lot of work to do promoting our nation's achievements at our postings."

Showing appreciation and simple acts of kindness can have a significant impact. Recently, the UNPNG NGI Alumni Inc. Association met with the dedicated NCDC City Wardens to recognize their hard work in maintaining safety in various parts of the city. The gathering aimed to foster stronger collaboration in promoting health awareness and ensuring law and order within the communities. UPNG NGI Alumni Inc. Association Marketing Officer, George Brown, shared with PNG HAUSBUNG that the meeting with the NCDC City Wardens provided an opportunity for the alumni to identify how they can contribute to the city wardens' programs and play a part in helping to keep the city safe. “We had about 30 of the city wardens partake in the meeting where we got to encourage and appreciate the work they do.” Brown said that the short meet and greet session with the wardens gave the alumni’s the opportunity to thank and encourage them for the work they’ve been carrying out, especially at Gordons and Boroko, where the city wardens are stationed. Brown added the presence of the city wardens has cut down the crime rates at these two hubs making it safe for the public, especially for women and girls. “Theres a cut down of petty crimes in these areas." "Like theft, pickpocketing and bag snatching." "They have opened up our eyes about the work they do and it's more than that." "How they organize themselves, down to being able to handle the situations and have control measures in terms of how they manage themselves on the ground.” He said, the city warden initiative is an effective one and should have wardens on ground in other hot spot areas in the city, but due to funding issues they only have two stations. They are hoping to expand their services to other parts of the city soon to curb crime rates. Brown further stated, one of the concerns they raised during the meeting was little recognition for the work they do, where the alumni gave motivational speeches and encouraged the team to continue to keep the city safe as their efforts go a long way.

Badili Police officers, along with other support units, swiftly intervened to stop a group of men who had dragged a woman from the Two-Mile Hill bus stop into the settlement and were about to severely assault her. According to police units, it was alleged that one of the suspects that was identified is from Goilala in Central Province, who resides at Rabiagini Settlement. Police confirmed that they were notified by the public through the phone that a woman was dragged into the settlement by a group of men. The duty police officers then broadcast that on the police radio, to which other police units responded, but the suspects escaped into the settlement. The woman was rescued by the police officers. It had been confirmed by the police officers that one of the suspects who they identified is known, and they had advised his parents to bring him forward for questioning. Commander NCD and Central Provinces Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police Benjamin Turi, who was pleased with the response from the Badili police officers, also thanked the people who reported it to the police. Commander Turi said it's best the public must have contact for police officers who are stationed where they reside. He said that since the police radio communication is effective, the public can report it to the police who will then forward it to duty police officers or broadcast it on police radio for other duty police units to respond. He said the suspect in this matter will be identified soon but will need community support that will lead to their apprehension. He said the first person whom they identified will be apprehended soon. "Our mothers, daughters, and girls had been victims of such, and I am calling on everyone to help report such if they see it happening." "If we don't report it, we will later regret it when the victim got raped or killed. It's best to report it when the incident is about to happen." "On that, I want to once again thank those who were involved in saving the female this morning at Two Mile Hill, Commander Turi said. Commander Turi also thanked the Koki Community Policing members who assisted the Badili units. He said they had been very supportive in their area of operation. He further added that the settlement will be demolished if they continue to do that. He added that police will wait for the authorities to help assist in demolishing the settlement because the police have more reports about people living in that settlement committing crimes in the city.

After defeating Lae City Dwellers FC and claiming the Women’s Conference Soccer League title recently, Hekari United FC Coach said the ladies will regroup after a three-week break to prepare for the OFC Women's Champions League in Tahiti in May. Hekari United FC Coach Erickson Komeng said, preparation wise is something the team needs to work on after the match they had with the Dwellers. He added that they have not had any leadup matches and hope to play the Dwellers again to prepare the ladies in red for their trip to Tahiti. “We are asking any club if they can give us a good game as lead up matches, would be much appreciated.” Komeng thanked Mrs. Vonnie Kapi Nato for always backing the ladies and also acknowledged the ladies for giving their best on the field to book their spot for Tahiti. Komeng further stated that, they have a quality team and do not plan on recruiting any potential player. “We have quality team. I think we have a fit team to challenge the Auckland, Vanuatu & Fiji teams." "We have a good team. We just need to train hard and train well and preparation is a better key to the team.”

Prime Minister James Marape has emphasized the strong and lasting bond between Papua New Guinea and Australia following a series of productive meetings in Sydney on Friday. Prime Minister Marape made a courtesy visit to the Australian Governor-General, Her Excellency Ms. Sam Mostyn AC, where they discussed the long-standing historical connections and the shared future of their nations. “I affirmed that our relationship with Australia is a valued and foundational one, dating back to Papua Newpaula Guinea’s sovereignty in 1975." "Since then, Australia has stood with us every step of the way, contributing significantly to our progress over the past 49 years as we approach our 50th anniversary of independence,” Prime Minister Marape stated. Prime Minister Marape acknowledged that Australia’s ties with Papua New Guinea extend far beyond 1975, with strong historical, economic, and security cooperation dating back to the colonial era. He emphasised that Australia has been a key partner in PNG’s development long before independence and remains committed to its progress today. During the meeting, the Prime Minister also highlighted ongoing bilateral cooperation and discussed ways to strengthen PNG-Australia relations across key areas, including trade, investment, governance, and security. A key highlight of the discussion was Prime Minister Marape’s invitation to the Governor-General to attend a special 50th-anniversary event in Papua New Guinea dedicated to honouring women and girls. This landmark event, scheduled within PNG’s 50th-anniversary celebrations (September 16, 2025 – September 15, 2026), will call upon all men and boys in the country to formally recognise and celebrate the contributions of women in Papua New Guinea. “The Governor-General is a strong advocate for women’s rights, with a distinguished background as a businesswoman and community leader, and she has graciously accepted our invitation." "She commended PNG on its progress and reiterated Australia’s continued commitment to supporting our development and aspirations,” Prime Minister Marape added. The discussions also reinforced Australia’s long-standing support for PNG’s development, spanning infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic growth. Prime Minister Marape acknowledged the critical role Australia has played—not just during his tenure as Prime Minister, but over the past five decades—in shaping PNG’s growth and transformation. Furthermore, Prime Minister Marape highlighted PNG’s commitment to fostering a favourable environment for Australian investors, ensuring that trade and commerce between the two nations continue to expand and flourish. “Australia remains PNG’s largest trading partner, and our people-to-people ties continue to grow." "Our government-to-government relationships, institutional partnerships, and economic cooperation have never been stronger." A notable milestone in this deepening partnership is the NRL’s official acceptance of Papua New Guinea as the 18th team in the National Rugby League from 2028. Prime Minister Marape described this as a powerful symbol of the strength of PNG-Australia relations at every level—from government and business to sports and culture. “This is yet another step forward in our long-standing relationship, a sign of our growing integration and mutual progress,” he concluded. Prime Minister Marape will continue his engagements in Australia before travelling to the Solomon Islands for bilateral discussions and a major fisheries conference.

Papua New Guinea is now the 18th NRL team, following the launch and official signing ceremony between the PNG Government and Australia, on Wednesday at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium. A bond uniting two countries was made stronger last night, after Prime Minister James Marape, Australia High Commissioner to PNG John Feakes and the PNGNRL BID CEO officially sealed the deal. PM Marape highlighted the significances of the event, recalling the challenges and triumphs of the nations journey. He said, when the Somare generation conceived this nation in the late 60's and 70's, they knew that years will roll onto the future but they really never fully understood what 2025 will be. "The struggles, the ups and downs, the tears and joys we have experienced." "We've had our many moments of pain, sorrows, struggles as are emerging developing nation but lited in those moments of pain, are also moments of joy." "Sports has contributed to some of those moments of joy to our nation's 49 year history." "I want to acknowledge all the sports women and men of our country, who have brought joy to our country in the midst of challenges of a developing nation were needs are bound and resources are to fill." PM Marape also made a special acknowledgement of the NRL legend, Cameron Smith who travelled from Australia to witness and be part of this momentous occasion. "It is said that the fact that many PNG people love the Melbourne Storm is because the NRL team continues to be hospitable to many PNG greats, including Marcus Bai Justin Olam and more." Mr. Marape als stated that, they will work alongside NCD to make Port Moresby a much safe, secure and more organised city come 2028. He also added that, road access to the highlands region and other parts of the country should be linked and connected by then to allow for the people to travel freely and watch the live NRL games. Marape also spoke to the young people present and encouraged them to pursue their dreams and envision a bright future for themselves and the country.

Preparations for Papua New Guinea's entry into the National Rugby League in 2028 have received a significant boost, with former Australian rugby legend Cameron Smith visiting the country to attend a historic dinner celebrating the arrival of the new NRL franchise in Port Moresby. Smith, whose decorated career included over 400 NRL games for the Melbourne Storm, in addition to 42 State of Origin matches and 56 Tests for Australia, will spend part of his trip meeting with rugby league officials to offer advice on best practice preparations as the nation gears up for 2028. The idea for the visit came from PNG NRL Bid CEO Andrew Hill, who is looking to bring the very best in rugby league expertise to Papua New Guinea to help create a world’s best franchise. Smith’s visit follows hot on the heels of Panthers’ CEO Matthew Cameron, who visited Port Moresby in recent weeks to offer advice on the creation of a High-Performance Centre that will be based on the state-of-the-art facility that the Panthers built in Penrith. Cameron met with the Prime Minister James Marape along with leading PNG officials during his time in Port Moresby to offer advice on creating the world’s best practice across all areas of a rugby league club. One of the highlights of Smith’s visit will be a special event held in Port Moresby to celebrate the NRL team being based in the city. Prime Minister James Marape will provide the keynote address at the dinner, which will also be attended by PNGRL CEO Stanley Hondina, NRL Bid Chairman Wapu Sonk and NRL Bid CEO Andrew Hill. Hill was delighted to be able to call on Smith’s support at such an important time: “When you are looking to create a world class franchise in any sport you need to be able to seek advice from the best rugby league brains in the game.” “We were recently able to host Panthers CEO Matthew Cameron here in Port Moresby and he was tremendous in terms of offering advice in a number of areas that are crucial when it comes to creating a top-class club, both on and off the field.” “In particular, it was great to be able to seek Matt’s advice on building our state-of-the-art High-Performance Centre, as it will be one of the major projects that we are about to embark upon, alongside the NRL Village that will serve as home to our players and their families come 2028. It is important that we leave no stone unturned in making sure that we create the best possible environment to allow our players to succeed.” Cameron Smith was also excited about what the future held for rugby league in PNG: “Every experience I have ever had with rugby league and PNG has been a good one, so when Hilly invited me to come over to be part of such an important celebration I jumped at the chance.” “I have seen first-hand what the game of rugby league has done for the people of Queensland and how it brings our community together.” “The game unites everyone and inspires the next generation, and I know that will happen here in PNG,” said Smith.