Nawaeb MP Theo Pelgen recently committed Nawaeb District to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the UPNG Medical Faculty. The MoU to be drafted later would capture arrangement for more medical students to actively participate across all health facilities in Nawaeb. Mr Pelgen made this assurance whilst attending the completion of several medical students at Situm Health Centre. The students were on medical practicum for the last 4 weeks at Situm Health Centre and have contributed immensely to the functions of the center by providing additional manpower and resources to center to serve the people better. The twenty-three students were from the Midwifery, Nursing and Intensive Care Unit faculties. “I take this time for your efforts to come and help serve the people of Labuta and Nabak at Situm Health Centre.” “I would love to see more of you coming to serve our district in this term of me in office.” Pelgen stated that health is a very important sector of the district and the sector is covered holistically in the Nawaeb District Five (5) Year Development Plan. “On behalf of the people of Nawaeb, I'm thankful for you students to for taking initiative to construct a proper floor for the patients to utilize at Situm." "By doing this, you have shown the true humanitarian spirit and leadership in your line of work.” The MP further presented medical work kits to the medical trainees that include stethoscopes and basic tools for the trainees to work with later in their career. He added the medical kits presented were a token of appreciation for the practicum students that had come to serve the district. Meanwhile, Pelgen upon inspecting the idle Situm Health Centre Ambulance enforced the movement of the vehicle to be towed to Boroko Motors immediately for service. The ambulance had mechanical failure and was left in operational for the last two months at Situm Health Centre. “The vehicle will be moved today to Boroko Motors for a full repair, because it is the only ambulance serving Labuta, Nabak and Ahi LLGs of Nawaeb District.”

A group of 15 lead cocoa farmers, including two women, from 10 districts of the Sepik Region participated in a week-long study tour to the Autonomous Region of Bougainville (AROB). The study tour was facilitated by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) under the European Union-funded STREIT PNG Programme. AROB was chosen as the destination because it is known for its high-quality cocoa beans and well-managed cocoa blocks. The main objective of the study tour was to expose the Sepik farmers to different aspects of the cocoa value chain in Bougainville and to enable them to learn from successful cocoa producers, businesses, and entrepreneurs. The Sepik farmers had the opportunity to visit various cocoa farms, cooperatives, processing facilities, and markets in Bougainville. They met with thriving cocoa producers, business owners and entrepreneurs who shared their experiences and advice on cocoa block management, cocoa business development, and farm business diversification beyond cocoa farming by venturing into other businesses such as tourism, poultry, and fishing. The Sepik farmers also gained knowledge on cocoa quality assessment, semi-processing, processing, and marketing. They saw how some cooperatives aggregate their cocoa beans efficiently and supply them to exporters or domestic food manufacturers. They also learned about the importance of producing consistent quality cocoa beans to access premium markets. The study tour coincided with the Bougainville Chocolate Festival 2023, which was held on Buka Island. The study tour was an eye-opening and inspirational experience for the Sepik farmers, who interacted with various stakeholders in the cocoa value chain in Bougainville. “For me, treating cocoa farming as a serious business is something I’ve learned.” “Also, the population here in general have the right mindset and attitude and these are some valuable lessons to take back from this exposure visit,” said Sussie Noguru of the Bogumatai Women Cooperative Society of East Sepik Province.

Trent Hodkinson still remembers when Owen Craigie came to Westfields Sports High to talk about the ins and outs of life as an NRL player. At the time, a young Hodkinson could feel his NRL dream slipping away, having missed selection in several representative teams, but the words of Craigie stuck with him and reignited his rugby league dream. Now an NRL Ambassador, Hodkinson is hoping to have the same impact on the next generation of stars, sharing the skills and lessons he learnt throughout his playing career to send positive messages throughout the wider rugby league community. “I was talking about that [Craigie's visit] for months,” Hodkinson told NRL.com. “I’ve been an NRL Ambassador now for a few years and there's no better feeling now than giving back and making someone else’s day. “Since finishing footy, I have been lucky enough to have travelled all around Australia with these programs and although it's about going out to the communities and helping kids and teenagers get through tough times, I’ve learnt a lot about myself as well. “You go through a lot in rugby league, it's not about just putting on boots and playing and on the weekends. There’s a lot of things you can relate back to people in everyday life and it’s special that we're in a position where we can do that.” As far west as Dubbo, north as Cairns and south as Adelaide, the former New South Wales halfback – alongside the NRL Community team – has been working hard to deliver programs to schools and rugby league clubs across Australia. For Hodkinson, there’s still no better feeling than connecting with a student and knowing his story and advice could have a lasting impact on someone’s life. “I recently did a trip out to Armidale. They had trials coming up for the rep team out there and I gave this kid a bit of advice,” Hodkinson said. “He messaged me after to tell me he didn't make it and we kept talking and his mindset has now changed and he knows he’s got to work hard. [caption id="attachment_47037" align="aligncenter" width="791"] Trent Hodkinson catches up with fellow NRL Ambassadors at Rugby League Central.©NRL Photos[/caption] “I was never one to make all those rep sides going through school as I told him. "But I eventually just worked hard, stuck with it and I made the NRL and that's the advice gave to him. “And this boy texts me now and tells me he's working hard on a weekly basis now, which is pretty special that you're able to have that impact on people.” Leading the NRL Ambassadors is Program Deliverer Alan Tongue, who has been educating and inspiring schools and sporting clubs across Australia since 2012. The former Raiders lock has been the face of the NRL Community team for the past 10 years, sharing important messages and promoting positive change through various programs such as Voice against Violence and League Stars Inspire. “This ambassador program is really important to me personally. I retired in 2011 and I wasn't 100 per cent sure what I wanted to do after footy,” Tongue told NRL.com. “But in 2012 I was asked if I wanted to be an NRL Ambassador, so I joined the program and it completely change what I thought I was going to do. “I thought I would go back into coaching and that would be it. But after I was showcased into the community programs, I started doing some stuff on my own and now I can't imagine doing anything else. “So I'm hoping that the Ambassador Program has the same impact on all these other guys and women too and we just want to build on that.” Source: NRL.Com

Fijian winger Sunia Turuva is set to miss Sunday's Pacific Bowl final against Papua New Guinea with an ongoing calf injury. Turuva suffered the injury in the process of scoring a try against the Cook Islands in Week 2 of the Pacific Championships. Super League speedster Jason Qareqare comes in on the wing as he did last weekend while Dragons winger Mikaele Ravalawa shifts to the centres. In better news for the Bati, Kitione Kautoga has been named on the bench to return from a back injury after also missing last week's game against PNG. The Kumuls, meanwhile, have centre Rodrick Tai back on deck from a knee injury but Mesake Ravonu (head knock) and Mackenzie Yei (knee) will miss the Bowl final. Source: NRL.com

An urgent action needs to be taken on preventative measures after the Port Moresby General Hospital reported an increase in the number of deaths due to the known non-communicable disease, Stroke. Dr. Willie Toua, Chairperson of the Stroke Committee, sounded the alarm during a recent stroke awareness and screening program held at the National and Supreme Court House. Dr. Toua expressed deep concern over the surge in stroke cases, prompting the establishment of the Stroke Committee to address this growing health concern. "Over the past couple of years, we've witnessed an alarming increase in stroke cases," he stated. "What's most alarming is that we're now seeing patients as young as 30 years old suffering from strokes. Furthermore, the hospital records an average of 2 to 3 stroke patients daily, making it an urgent public health concern." The awareness session, led by Senior Physiotherapist Ms. Debbie Meko, focused on stroke prevention and outlined primary and secondary prevention measures, including dietary plans. Ms. Meko also highlighted the risk factors and emphasized the importance of recognizing stroke symptoms using the 'BE FAST' approach. "To be aware of the risk factors. It's essential to consult a medical professional to assess your risk of stroke. Understanding your current risk level, whether it's above or below 50%, is crucial. Complying with prescribed medications is a prevention step, as non-compliance may lead to another stroke episode, potentially fatal or causing complete paralysis,” she said. Ms. Meko further stressed the significance of maintaining a proper diet, specifically tailored for stroke patients and those dealing with high blood pressure and diabetes. The hospital provides strict dietary plans to control these conditions while patients are on medication. Additionally, patients receive exercise routines prescribed by a physiotherapist to aid in the recovery of affected brain cells. This approach aims to enhance the chances of recovery and prevent recurrent strokes. The urgent call for prevention and awareness signifies the hospital's dedication to combating the growing threat of stroke. The collaboration between medical professionals and the community, as seen in the participation of judges and staff from the National and Supreme Court House, illustrates the collective effort to address this pressing health issue.

St John Ambulance received a timely donation from Kina Bank worth K10, 000 from an organized company-wide raffle draw and was handed over to the SJA team on Tuesday 24th October 2023. The cheque was presented in an event where the St John Ambulance CEO Matt Cannon shared with the Kina Bank team about the ambulance service mission and the role it plays in the community. St John Ambulance is a non-profit charity organization dedicated to providing emergency medical services in the country. “We are deeply grateful to Kina Bank for their support." Mr. Cannon said, the funds received will be channeled towards enhancing their ambulance services, training programs, and overall capacity to respond to emergencies effectively including helping equip more volunteer first responders in the community. "This donation will help us continue our mission of saving lives, reducing suffering, and improving the health and well-being of the communities we serve. " Kina Bank’s Executive General Manager Business Banking Rayeleene Elston, spoke passionately about the importance of supporting local organizations like St John Ambulance PNG. "At Kina Bank, we recognize the vital role that St John Ambulance PNG plays in our society." "They provide critical assistance when people need it most, and their impact is immeasurable." "We are proud to stand by them and support their mission." The Kina Bank raffle, which made this generous donation possible, showcased the collective effort of employees who purchased tickets and the bank's commitment to community involvement and corporate social responsibility.

Security is on high alert at the Modilon General Hospital after a big fight erupted on Wednesday over the death of a police officer. Modilon Accident and Emergency Department, Doctor Michael Kuri told PNG HAUSBUNG that since that afternoon up until today, they have not received reports of casualties, and no one has gone to the hospital to seek medical attention as yet. This is due to the town being on lockdown after the police officer’s death. “The whole Madang town is on shutdown at the moment.” “The hospital was quiet whole morning up until now and we have security forces on standby at the entrance if things get rowdy.” Dr. Kuri said, due to the escalating situation, most of the hospital staff have not come in to work today but they have an emergency plan and are getting all supplies of gauze and bandages ready on standby. “Most of the staff did not come in to work because the town is on shutdown and no transport as well.” “But we are preparing ourselves for the night in case a good number of casualties come in.”

Member for Kikori and Minister for Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs Hon. Soroi Eoe has been appointed by the National Executive Council (NEC) as Acting Governor General in the absence of Governor General Sir Bob Dadae and Speaker Job Pomat. Minister Eoe stepped in immediately as Acting Governor General to welcome Her Excellency Ms. Katalin Novák, President of Hungary and her delegation to Papua New Guinea at the Government State House. Acting Governor General Eoe said the visit by President Novák is significant as it is the first ever State Visit by a Hungarian President to Papua New Guinea since PNG’s establishment of its diplomatic relations on the 18th of January, 1997. “While we still have a lot to do in terms of our relationship which I am sure will gain momentum, we have already been connected through our Christian faith which PNG is very grateful for." “Hungary’s contribution to our Christian faith and development through the early missionaries in the likes of late Ms. Maria Molnar, who dedicated her life to serving the people of Manus Province during the early civilization period is very much valued." “Your visit Excellency, to the Province will surely enhance and strengthen that people-topeople connection that was established then by late Ms. Molnar." Acting Governor General Eoe assured President Novák and her 25 delegates that the people of Manus will as they always give a warm traditional welcome upon arrival with the beat of the slit drum 'garamut'. President Novák and her delegates travelled to Manus today and will leave PNG shores on Friday, 27th October 2023.

“If you feel or see any signs that is not normal to you, talk to someone." "And to all the young girls, seek doctors’ advice and always go for regular checkups to avoid the late stages.” This is the call from Stage 2 Breast Cancer survivor Mrs. Deslyn Daniel. She said, having a positive mind set and trusting in God is the key to fast and effective recovery. In the early days of January 2019, Mrs. Daniel realized she had a lump on the right side of her breast and went straight to seek advice from a friend who works as a nurse. She immediately confirmed that it was indeed a lump and needed to go in for a check-up. “I went to Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) to get a mammogram (an X-ray picture of the breast) but the machine was down." "And that was sad for me because I was then referred back to PMGH Cancer Clinic around April and by then, the lump kept on growing.” She said, after she underwent a biopsy examination, the doctors confirmed that she had stage 2 breast cancer. “They told me that the type of cancer I have is an aggressive one and is called Dato." "I walked out and cried and informed my family and church members as well who were also sad to hear the news.” She said, she always stayed positive after going for chemotherapy treatment and getting all the much needed medication because she needed to stay strong for her son and husband & family and friends who were always there by her side. During her down time, all her financial expenses were taken care of by her husband, family and friends and the school she worked at which is the Port Moresby International School. She said, the school and church she attended supported her through fundraiser events which enabled her to get her treatments done here at PMGH. "The struggle is real and pain is real but one has to have faith in God and always have a positive mindset to keep striving not only for yourself but for your love ones as well." “God is good all the time." "I just went to get my last full scan and then the doctors will let me go." "But as of this year, I am cancer free after 5 years of taking medications and examinations and I truly am thankful to God for that.”

Islands Mobile Hire Cars has reaffirmed its dedication to the welfare of communities in Papua New Guinea by officially handing over a fully kitted ambulance to St John Ambulance PNG. This generous contribution is set to boost the medical emergency response in the National Capital District (NCD) and Central Province, allowing SJA to continue its lifesaving mission. The brand new Land-Cruiser, valued at around K170,000 was delivered to St John Ambulance on 4 June and the vehicle has been meticulously kitted and prepared for the task of responding to medical emergencies. Island Mobile Hire Cars Executive Officer to the Managing Director Malcolm Mamatta said “Islands Mobile Hire Cars recognises the vital role that St John Ambulance plays in delivering emergency medical services to NCD and Central Province communities." "We are proud to be a part of their mission and are delighted to contribute this fully kitted ambulance to enhance their capacity to save lives." "SJA is renowned for its unwavering commitment to providing rapid medical assistance in times of crisis." "The addition of this new ambulance to their fleet will enable them to continue responding promptly to accidents, injuries, and other medical emergencies, ensuring that residents in the targeted regions receive the care they need." St John Ambulance PNG CEO Matt Cannon added, “We are immensely grateful to Island Mobile Hire Carsfor their generosity and support." "This ambulance is a much-needed asset that will greatly enhance our ability to serve the people of NCD and Central Province effectively." "The fully kitted vehicle is equipped with essential medical equipment and supplies, and it will play a crucial role in saving lives." The official handover ceremony, attended by representatives from Islands Mobile Hire Cars and SJA, marked the commencement of a collaborative effort to ensure better, healthcare access during emergencies.

A smashing performance by the PNG Orchids this afternoon resulted in a thrilling 28-20 victory over the Cook Islands Moana in the second week of the 2023 Pacific Championships at the Santos National Football Stadium (NFS) in Port Moresby. As both teams battled it out under the steaming heat, the Orchids made two remarkable moves by removing the Cooks out of their field of play from scoring. The Orchids displayed smashing defence play with fast meetups to take down the Cooks and with much sweat lost during the first half of the game, Orchids Roswita Kapo broke free of the Cooks defence wall and successfully put the first try for the home team followed by a successful conversion by Emily Veivers. Coming from behind, Cook Islands’ Chelsea Makira dashed through and set the score board to a tie with a successful conversion. With no doubt, the Orchid's Gloria Kaupa secured their second try after her first attempt was called off by the referee. While the crowd cheered the home team as the time ticked down to the last seconds on the clock, Orchids Leila Kerowa closed of the score board with 20 points and the Cooks trailing with 10 points. Running back to make the last 40 minutes a meaningful one, Latoniya Norris opens up the game with another try followed by Lyianna Allan scoring her second try for the afternoon. Meanwhile, the Cooks made good with two consecutive tries but were still trailing with an 8 points deference. The Player of the Match Award was awarded to Orchids Centre, Belinda Gwasamun.

The countdown for the PNG Orchids against Vaine Moana match this afternoon is on with the Orchids vowing to compete with or without the ball. Coach Ben Jefferies stated that the message circulating among the girls right now is to compete and that is what they will be focused on. Playing on home soil, Jefferies stated that they obviously want to get the win for the crowd. At the Moment, Jefferies said they have a few injuries that they need to work on to see if they can play, but overall, he’s happy with the selection. “We’re not here to risk players for the long term. We want longevity out of our players and the majority of this group are young.” He said due to this, there is a long future ahead of them and will be looking to make sure they do not risk any injuries. Elsie Albert was initially feared to have had an injury earlier this week, but according to coach Jeffries, she was cleared to play and will be lining up in the front row along with Rosewita Kapo and Gloria Kaupa.