Prime Minister (PM) James Marape addressed a vibrant crowd last night at the Jubilee Reset Gospel Concert, delivering a powerful and emotionally charged speech calling for moral revival, national unity, and a return to Christian values as the country approaches its 50th year of independence. Speaking to a packed venue of young people and families, PM Marape celebrated the country’s cultural diversity while urging unity under one flag, one Constitution, and one faith in God. “Since 1975, one people, one nation, one country has been born by God’s grace.” PM Marape’s speech echoed the Christian foundations laid by Papua New Guinea’s founding father, the late Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare. Recalling a pivotal moment in 2008, Marape described how he stood beside Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare during the launch of the first-ever National Repentance Day. “If Sir Michael, in the final chapter of his public life, said that God, worship, and repentance are important, then we must listen.” “His generation gave us our Constitution. Today, we must carry forward the spiritual vision he left for us.” The Prime Minister also urged young men to take up their role as protectors of their communities, families, and especially the nation’s women and girls. In addition, noting that the national anthem mentions ‘sons,’ he issued a call for moral responsibility and gender respect. “It is the sons who must rise to protect their sisters, mothers, and the future of our nation.” “The girls in your neighbourhood, your street, your village, they are your sisters. You are your sister’s keeper.” Meanwhile, whilst condemning social ills such as alcohol abuse, drug use, gambling, and nightlife, PM Marape stressed the importance of faith-based living and community responsibility. He encouraged young people to prioritize worship and clean living, regardless of denominational affiliation. “My country needs young men and women who will stand firm in their communities. You are the type of people this country needs.” Citing Matthew 10:26–31, the Prime Minister reassured youth that their lives matter to God, likening their value to the sparrows known and watched over by the Creator. He concluded the evening by leading the crowd in singing the worship song Awesome God, a personal favorite he recalled singing as a teenager. Despite criticism he may face, he affirmed, “I sing for Jesus.” Furthermore, PM Marape’s address comes as the nation prepares to commemorate fifty years of independence in 2025. His message, blending patriotic pride with spiritual conviction, resounded deeply with the audience, drawing applause and renewed energy from Christian youth across denominations. “Together, we will walk into our 50th year and beyond. God will prosper PNG as we go.”

The Catholic faithful of Wabag Diocese recently gathered at Good Shepherd Cathedral in Sangurap for the installation of Most Reverend Justin Ain Soongie as the third Bishop of Wabag. The ceremony, despite ongoing tribal conflicts, was a powerful display of the community’s resilience and faith. Attended by Grand Chief Sir Peter Ipatas, Governor of Enga Province, law enforcement representatives, and civil society groups, the day began with a vibrant procession and a special song in honor of Bishop Soongie. The Rite of Canonical Possession followed, with Bishop Soongie accepting the Apostolic Mandate and being handed the Crozier, marking his new role as spiritual leader. In his homily, Bishop Soongie expressed gratitude to God for the calling to lead the diocese and emphasized unity and peace within the community. He encouraged everyone to become “good shepherds” in their families, schools, and communities, working together to address issues like tribal conflicts and violence. The ceremony concluded with messages of support from His Excellency Maurizio Bravi, Apostolic Nuncio to Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands, His Eminence John Cardinal Ribat MSC, His Lordship Bishop Otto Separy, President of CBC PNGSI, Fr Elyas Ayiako SVD, representing the SVD congregation and Grand Chief Sir Peter Ipatas. Bishop Soongie reaffirmed his commitment to leading the Diocese with compassion and dedication, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the Catholic community in Wabag.

Over 500 nurses at Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) have recently completed life-saving Basic Life Support (BLS) training, marking a significant advancement in the hospital’s commitment to improving patient care. The training, is aimed at reducing preventable hospital deaths and ensuring a quicker, more efficient response in emergency situations. Speaking during the certificate presentation ceremony, PMGH CEO Dr. Paki Molumi emphasized the importance of BLS certification as a global healthcare standard, calling for it to be mandatory for all healthcare workers. “Our goal is for every staff member—from nurses to community health workers—at PMGH to be certified in BLS, with yearly refresher courses to maintain competency.” This initiative aligns with the 2024 Medical Symposium’s Resolution Six, which urges Provincial Health Authorities across Papua New Guinea to adopt BLS training. Unlike general first aid, PMGH’s tailored BLS program prepares healthcare professionals to deliver more accurate, effective resuscitation, addressing specific gaps in patient safety and care. Nurses who perform above 80% in assessments will have the opportunity to pursue further training in Advanced Life Support (ALS). The success of the program is attributed to collaboration between the Nursing Division, the Anaesthetic Society of PNG, and the Emergency Medicine Society, who provided technical expertise and accreditation for the training. Dr. Molumi commended the nurses for their dedication, particularly those who completed the training over weekends, reinforcing the value of the initiative in enhancing overall patient outcomes.

The Smart Start Niukick 2025 Southern Region U17 Youth Boys and Girls Schools AFL Competition kicks off Round 3 this Saturday, 23 August, at the Murray Barracks AFL Oval. The Boys competition will see games in two pools throughout the day. Teams in Pool A include Taurama 3BF, Tokarara Secondary, MW Gordons Kokofa Junior, Gerehu Megpies Junior, Taikone Hawks Junior, Waigani Tigers Junior, Defence, and Gerehu Bombers Junior. While teams in Pool B include POMIS, Waigani Christian, Hohola Demonstration, Bavaroko Junior High, La Salle, Wardstrip, Badihagwa Secondary and Eki Vaki. Key matchups include: -11:30 AM: Taurama 3BF vs Tokarara Secondary -12:30 PM: MW Gordons Kokofa Junior vs Gerehu Megpies Junior -1:30 PM: Taikone Hawks Junior vs Waigani Tigers Junior -2:30 PM: Defence vs Gerehu Bombers Junior In Pool B, teams will face off at the following times: -12:00 PM: POMIS vs Waigani Christian -1:00 PM: Hohola Demonstration vs Bavaroko Junior High -2:00 PM: La Salle vs Wardstrip -3:00 PM: Badihagwa Secondary vs Eki Vaki Meanwhile, the Girls competition kicks off early with games starting at 8:30 AM, where teams like Taikone Hawks Junior, Taurama 3BF, La Salle, Gerehu Bombers Junior, POMIS, and Tokarara Secondary will showcase their skills. Schedule for the girls’ games is as follows: -8:30 AM: Taikone Hawks Junior vs Taurama 3BF -9:00 AM: La Salle vs Gerehu Bombers Junior -9:30 AM: POMIS vs Tokarara Secondary -10:00 AM: Gerehu Megpies Junior vs MW Gordons Kokofa Junior All matches will take place at the Murray Barracks AFL Oval, with the first games kicking off at 8:30 AM for the Girls competition, followed by the Boys at 11:30 AM. The event is proudly supported by Paradise Foods and AFL PNG Development.

Air Niugini has revealed its first Airbus A220, The People’s Balus, marking a significant milestone for the airline and Papua New Guinea (PNG). Fresh from the Airbus facility in Mirabel, Canada, the aircraft is painted in the airline’s iconic red, black, and gold, with a special 50th-anniversary logo honouring Air Niugini’s legacy. The A220 is more than a new plane; it’s a symbol of progress and national pride. Designed for efficiency, comfort, and performance, it reflects Air Niugini’s commitment to world-class service while celebrating the country’s unique identity. Inside, the A220 offers modern comfort with spacious seats, ample legroom, and a quiet, smooth cabin. The enhanced lighting system adjusts to different flight phases, and complimentary wi-fi will keep passengers connected throughout the journey. This new aircraft will soon represent the country on regional and international routes, serving as a flying ambassador for the nation's resilience, diversity, and ambition. Full unveiling will take place next week, where more details on the aircraft’s capabilities and the team behind it will be given.

A joint collaboration between Solar Buddy, Airbus, Air Niugini and Paradise College brought about a spectacular assembly of students to construct 750 solar-powered lights, aimed at providing much-needed illumination for children in Daru, Western Province – who lack access to electricity in their communities. The workshop began with an engaging and educational presentation on renewable energy, sparking curiosity in the students. Stephen Forshaw, Airbus Chief Representative, stated that Paradise College will be the first group in the country to construct these Solar Buddy lights. “For some years now, Solar Buddy have been making these lights overseas and bringing them to support communities in Papua New Guinea.” “Today is the first time that we will be building these lights for your local communities.” He encouraged the students saying that their young minds are an asset in assembling the lights faster. Meanwhile, Paradise College alumnus, Christopher Odorry, explained the benefits that communities will receive from the students’ contribution. "The biggest challenge the children face is the inability to read their books at night when it's time to study or complete homework.” “These lights we're building will play a crucial role in overcoming that obstacle, helping to provide access to light so children can read, learn, and continue their studies long after the sun sets.” Later, the students got to work building mini-solar lights in their classrooms.

Papua New Guinea has taken a huge step in its digital development journey with the release of the country’s first-ever Fifth Generation (5G) mobile spectrum. Acting Minister for Information and Communications Technology, Peter Tsiamalili Jnr, announced today (Wed Aug 20, 2025) that the government has released the 2600 MHz band for 5G services for PNG’s telecommunications sector. “This release marks the first time in PNG’s history that radio frequency spectrum will be assigned using a market-based approach and reflects the Marape/Rosso Government’s commitment to modernizing digital infrastructure and aligning with global best practices." The new spectrum allocation is expected to unlock opportunities for innovation, investment, and inclusive growth, while also enhancing access to fast and reliable internet and mobile services. “Access to fast and reliable internet and mobile services is essential." "The release of the 5G spectrum will support better connectivity and introduce the latest wireless technologies." "This will in turn promote innovation and boost productivity by supporting services such as digital government, business applications, private networks, as well as education and health services." Mr. Tsiamalili commended the National Information and Communications Technology Authority (NICTA) for its leadership and extensive consultation with stakeholders leading up to the decision. He noted that NICTA’s approval in July 2025 under Section 164(a) of the NICT Act 2009 paved the way for this release, ensuring the efficient allocation of spectrum for the greater public benefit. According to Minister Tsiamalili, 5G services will initially be rolled out in urban areas to improve and enhance mobile data services. “While 4G has already significantly improved connectivity across PNG, the shift to 5G represents a leap forward in capability and opportunity to further drive digital transformation." The assignment of spectrum will be conducted through an open and transparent process, with commercial and business 5G services expected to launch in the second quarter of 2026. Tsiamalili also extended his appreciation to the incumbent ICT Minister, Timothy Masiu, who is currently on sick leave, for his role in ensuring that NICTA undertook careful consultation and technical studies prior to the decision. The announcement comes as PNG has approximately 28 days left until it's 50th independence celebrations. The Acting Minister urged citizens to embrace the new technology but also remain mindful of potential risks associated with high-speed internet. “Our Department of ICT and NICTA are working together to put in place appropriate and necessary policies to safeguard our country from the harmful effects of the internet and to strengthen cyber security protection."

More than 500 students from Paradise College in Port Moresby are participating in a week-long, hands-on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) program, aimed at tackling energy poverty, with support from Airbus and Air Niugini. The initiative, led by global impact organization, SolarBuddy, will see students learn about renewable energy and solar technology before assembling their own solar-powered study lights. These lights will be given to school children in Western Province communities without access to electricity, enabling them to study safely at night. Airbus and Air Niugini are also delivering aviation workshops, encouraging students to consider careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Airbus Chief Representative for Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific, Stephen Forshaw, said the program combines education with practical impact. “Energy in all its forms powers progress and doing it sustainably helps our planet.” “Giving students the chance to study with these lights will help them achieve more for their communities.” Chief Executive Officer of Air Niugini, Gary Seddon, said the program is about inspiring the next generation. “Education is the runway to opportunity, and STEM is at the heart of building a brighter, more connected future for Papua New Guinea.” Former student of Paradise College and guest speaker, Christopher Odorry, will return to his former school to share his journey and speak on the importance of STEM education. The distribution of assembled solar lights after the STEM workshop will be carried out by Christopher to students in the Western Province. The initiative forms part of SolarBuddy’s wider mission to combat global energy poverty, with a focus on the 660 million people worldwide who still live without access to light.

Jerilai Pujari Field Services Limited (JPFSL) has donated portable water bucket filter systems to Jerilai Pujari Holdings Limited (JPHL), representing landowners of the Papua LNG Project (PRL 15). This is to help address the ongoing challenge of clean water access in Poroi 1 village. The handover took place at Herd Base, where JPFSL Camp Manager Mr. Lazarus Muyeu formally presented the systems to JPHL Chairman Mr. Jomu Peniai and Director Mr. Trevor Birney, with local community members in attendance. Poroi 1 villagers have long relied on river water, often untreated and unsafe. The donated Sawyer Clean Water Bucket Filters can remove up to 99.94% of harmful bacteria and impurities, offering a low-cost and high-impact solution to unsafe water. JPHL Camp Manager Mr. Muyeu acknowledged the importance of clean drinking water and hoped that these systems make a real difference in the community. Meanwhile, JPHL Chairman Mr. Peniai welcomed the donation, calling it a ‘timely and thoughtful gesture’ that will improve health outcomes in rural areas. “Access to clean water remains a challenge in many rural areas, and these portable filter systems are a practical solution that could bring meaningful change.” In addition, Madfox Pawa Managing Director Mr. Gary Litx, whose company distributes the filters in Papua New Guinea, noted increasing demand for the product in remote areas. This rollout will serve as a trial phase, with Poroi 1 villagers testing the systems over the coming weeks. JPFSL may expand the initiative to nearby communities based on feedback.

In a recent Facebook post, BARU Piksa Studio announced the Goroka Film Festival Short Film Competition, inviting filmmakers across Papua New Guinea to showcase their artistry in film under the theme “Celebrating Papua New Guinea – Past, Present, Future.” The competition is open to short films in the categories of Drama and Documentary, with entries limited to five minutes or less. Films must be in English, or in Tok Pisin with English subtitles. The Festival is offering K4,000 in cash prizes, with K1,500 for first place, K1,000 for second, K700 for third, K500 for an Audience Choice award, and K300 for a Sponsor’s Choice award. Registration is set at K50, and interested participants are encouraged to register early. The deadline for submissions is September 5, 2025. For more information, participants can contact BARU Piksa Studios via WhatsApp (71042228) or email barupiksa@gmail.com.

The 65th Hagen Cultural Show drew thousands from August 15–17, 2025, highlighting Papua New Guinea’s cultural diversity while passing knowledge from elders to youth. First staged in the 1960s to promote peace among Highlands tribes, the Show has grown into one of the country’s most iconic festivals and a crucial platform for preserving tradition. This year’s opening featured various individuals from the government, government departments and international partners including, Member for Vanimo-Green and Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Belden Norman Namah, Western Highlands Governor Wai Rapa, Member for Mul-Baiyer, Jacob Maki, National Cultural Commission Executive Director Steven Enomb Kilanda, and US Ambassador Marie Yastishock, reflecting the event’s national and international importance. Performances by tribes in traditional regalia of feathers, shells, face paint and woven materials were more than spectacle, they were lessons. Songs, dances and rituals provided opportunities for elders to pass on cultural knowledge, ensuring young people carry forward their identity. Organizers stressed the event’s role in promoting unity and safeguarding heritage in the face of modern influences, making it both a tourist attraction and a living classroom for PNG’s youth.

The construction of the Ependa School of Evangelism Building Complex located approximately ten kilometers (km) outside Mendi in Southern Highlands Province, is progressing steadily, with significant milestones being reached throughout 2024 and 2025. The ground-breaking ceremony for the ambitious project took place on May 11th, 2024, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the Ependa School of Evangelism. The building complex is set to have essential facilities for students, including a lecture hall, dining hall, dormitories, and self-contained units, all within one location. The first day of construction began on June 24, 2024, with the team focusing on preparing the foundation and laying the groundwork for the multi-purpose building. In November 2024, work on the building’s foundation was completed, and concrete was poured on November 7th. By November 12th cement mixing and pouring had begun after weeks of preparation, marking a major step in the construction process. By January 6, 2025, the first batch of bricks arrived, allowing work to progress on the first of three floors. Pastor Paki mentioned that approximately 3,000 bricks would be needed to complete the entire building. The project reached another critical milestone in July 2025 when carpenters began working on the third floor of the complex. Pastor David Paki, the project's overseer, has now called for prayers and support from the community to help complete this vital project. In addition, he also shared that within two weeks, the team would be preparing to work on the roofing, marking the final stages of the building’s framework. On August 12, 2025, Pastor Paki provided an update, revealing that partitioning was completed this week. The next focus now will shift to the trusses, in which a call for assistance has been made in acquiring iron roofing materials. For those wishing to support the project, donations can be made with Pastor Paki who can be contacted directly also via phone or WhatsApp, +67579331828.